Western Digital WDG2T15000N MyBook Premium II 1.5 TB Hard Drive Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)This review covers the family of My Book Pro II/Premium II drives from Western Digital, since the primary differences between the 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0Tb dual-drive models involve the size of the drive pair only, as far as I can tell. I own the My Book Pro II 1.5Tb drive and have only configured it for the factory-default Raid 0 mode, since I wanted as much non-redundant storage as possible.
Anyone not familiar with external USB or Firewire drives may be surprised at the significantly slower data transfer; the USB or Firewire interface is the bottleneck, not the drive itself. For bulk storage at still-reasonable transfer rates and for the purchase price per byte, these large capacity drives can't be beat - as long as they are reliable and the user observes all the rules about making sure the drives are safe to physically disconnect from the computer (I won't cover the rules here; the operating system has its own Help section that can assist the user who is unsure of how to physically disconnect their drive without turning off the computer itself).
OK, back to the Western Digital My Book II drive... when the drive is received, the Raid Manager software package should be installed before plugging in the drive. After I did this and plugged in the drive, I had one problem after another with the drive disappearing in Windows, the fan going very loud when there was no heat issue to make it do so, then the drive would act like it over-heated and shut down. Twice I received replacement drives and both replacement drives acted the same way.
I figured the problem wasn't the drive, so I tried the second replacement on a second PC running Vista; same problems. I next moved the drive to a PC running Windows XP; no problem - the drive ran quietly and reliably.
It turns out there is currently (12/22/07) a problem with Windows Vista and the way it stores driver information. The fix is found in their technical bulletin 1708 (go to www.wdc.com, support, frequently asked questions and enter "1708" in the "Search by Keyword" field. This has solved all my problems with my drive and I can now recommend this drive without reservations, however Vista is due for its first significant "patch", SP1, in the first half of 2008 and these sorts of patches have sometimes provoked new problems. I do think the solution presented in technical bulletin 1708 would still be helpful if the SP1 patch caused further problems, however.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Western Digital WDG2T15000N MyBook Premium II 1.5 TB Hard Drive

Designed for creative Professionals and small offices with big storage needs, WD's My Book Premium Edition II dual-drive external storage system combines 1.5 TB of storage, versatile RAID capability, backup and system recovery software, tripe-interface, and user-serviceability to make it the preeminent storage system in its class. Use it to archive vast photo libraries or edit and exchange massive audio/video projectors. Edit multiple streams of video without dropping frames in RAID striped mode, or dedicate half the capacity for mirroring and automatically and instantaneously back up data every time you save it.

Click here for more information about Western Digital WDG2T15000N MyBook Premium II 1.5 TB Hard Drive

Read More...

Samsung UN40C6500 40-Inch 1080p 120 Hz LED HDTV (Black) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)PRO:
The clarity of this TV is astounding. With this TV, I can honestly say that I feel like I'm just peering through a window when watching HD content. There are times, three weeks into our purchase, that my wife and I exclaim "it's so clear!" while watching shows on 1080i. This is a big deal to me because we have a 65" Pioneer Kuro PRO-151FD in the living room, but now I prefer watching on this unit.
Blu-ray at 1080p is just beautiful and jaw-dropping. I played Ratatouille using a PS3, and the hairs on the mice and blades of grass are so detailed. I also noticed that the SD commercials seems clearer, and on some of them, someone with an untrained eye might mistake for HD if the pillars were not present.
I haven't hooked it up with a receiver yet, but the sound of the unit is more than adequate for our bedroom. We only go to "8" on the sound, which is animated as a blue circle on the lower left as opposed to a bar at the bottom of the screen. The "8" setting corresponds to about 1 o'clock, so you can go really loud if you wish.
I connected a PC to the unit and it can go up to 1920x1080 pixels at 60Hz, which is the max for my graphics card on that particular computer. Although it can display all those pixels, you can notice shadowing on the images and text. Not enough to give you a headache, but just enough to be noticed. If you do not plan on hooking a computer to this TV, then this is not a big deal. Actually, it's really minor considering you can watch Netflix and it does DLNA (accessing media files you share on your network).
I have this connected to my router via Ethernet, and even Netflix came out clear. I saw Dead LiKe Me and it still had that peering through a window effect. We watched Food, Inc. and was pleasantly surprised that Netflix serves that up in HD.
CON:
All HDMI inputs are located on the side. Although it's a good idea for game consoles and on the fly connectivity, I believe it would have been better to have one in the back and three on the side. This would give the users the option to use the rear connection for wall-mounting.
SUMMARY:
This is a great TV for around 8-10 feet of viewing. There are a lot of extras that you may not even touch, but if your main concern is clarity, you can't go wrong with this unit.
--
Technical stuff:
Dish Network Vip 722 HD DVR connected via HDMI1
Playstation 3 connected via HDMI2
PC connected via VGA Cable + Stereo cable via PC Input

Click Here to see more reviews about: Samsung UN40C6500 40-Inch 1080p 120 Hz LED HDTV (Black)

Samsung LED HDTVs combine breakthrough picture quality and advanced connectivity options that will keep you entertained 24/7. This UN40C6500 LED HDTV also makes it easy to be green, and will save you some green, by being ENERGY STAR compliant.

Click here for more information about Samsung UN40C6500 40-Inch 1080p 120 Hz LED HDTV (Black)

Read More...

QNAP TS-419P+ Turbo NAS - NAS - 0 GB - Serial ATA-300 - RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, JBOD, 5 hot spare - Gigabit Ethernet - iSCSI Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I researched reviews, tech specs, drives for the last two years before I settled on this product.
QNAP has one of the best reputations in the industry for quality and workmanship. This has an extremely low power draw and I've acheived write speeds of 65 MB a second over gigabit ethernet which is far greater than USB 2.0 (roughly 25 MB a second).
This product is half the price of a TS-459 Pro+ ($900 before tax).
I bought all enterprise drives for additional reliability (WD RE4) I'm currently upgrading to Hitachi Ultrastar 3 TB drives. The new firmware (3.4) from QNAP provides support 3 TB drives. So max would be 6 TB for Raid-1, 12 TB for (JBOD, RAID 0), and somewhere inbetween for Raid 5.
Good luck and don't forget to get a UPS to protect your data in case of a power outage!

Click Here to see more reviews about: QNAP TS-419P+ Turbo NAS - NAS - 0 GB - Serial ATA-300 - RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, JBOD, 5 hot spare - Gigabit Ethernet - iSCSI

QNAP TS-419P+ Turbo NAS is the 4-bay, 2.5-inch and 3.5-inch SATA HDD network-attached storage server with iSCSI applications dedicated to SMB, SOHO and home users. As a storage centre for mass data backup, management and sharing, the TS-419P Turbo NAS supports excellent hardware design, outstanding performance, high system reliability, and numerous powerful software applications. HDD 4 x 3.5" or 2.5? SATA I/II HDD NOTE:1.The system is shipped without HDD.

Click here for more information about QNAP TS-419P+ Turbo NAS - NAS - 0 GB - Serial ATA-300 - RAID 0, 1, 5, 6, JBOD, 5 hot spare - Gigabit Ethernet - iSCSI

Read More...

Microtek ScanMaker 9800XL Scanner with Transparent Media Adapter Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have a Microtek scanner and just downloaded the latest drivers. It turns out Microtek wants a program called Scan Finder to load at every start-up, and there is no way to disable this. The product works satisfactorily, but for my money, I will purchase something else. Something that doesn't create such a nuisance, and isn't so invasive.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Microtek ScanMaker 9800XL Scanner with Transparent Media Adapter

With 48-bit color and an amazing 3,200 x 1,600 dpi optical resolution, the tabloid-size ScanMaker 9800XL brings high-performance scanning to the corporate user, graphic designer, or medical professional. The large 12-by-17-inch reflective bed easily accommodates A3 scans, and attaching the included Transparent Media Adapter (TMA 1600) lets you scan transparencies up to 12 by 16 inches--including X-rays.
Other great features include 3.7 maximum optical density with multiple sampling to reduce random image noise. A triple interface with FireWire, USB, and SCSI-2 provides maximum connectivity; and newly designed templates accommodate a wide variety of film. Microtek includes a one-year warranty that covers parts and service.

Click here for more information about Microtek ScanMaker 9800XL Scanner with Transparent Media Adapter

Read More...

42" Led LCD High Definition Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought a 42 inch JVC TV (LT-42E910). A bit pricey, but wow, what a difference in LED! Get a JVC LED for sure (If you want an LED). Crisp picture, vibrant colors, and great sound. No, you don't have to buy a separate theater surround sound with the 42 inch JVC. I never liked the idea of having to buy a whole new theater sound system for a new television. The 32 inch JVC LED LT-32E710 is around $500 to $600, but don't know if the sound matches the 42 inch JVC LED. Simple set-up and picture controls that make sense, Not like the overkill of picture settings on some LCD/LED sets. The 2011 JVC LEDs seem to have it down better, and JVC is a brand that is under the radar. The only negative I have seen so far is some slight ghosting on some channels of the JVC, but nothing too distracting. Watched a DVD, and it was better than being in a theater! Time will tell, and hopefully this JVC will last a long time.

Click Here to see more reviews about: 42" Led LCD High Definition

JVC LT-42E910 42" LCD TV LT-42E910 LCD Flat Panel TVs

Get 15% OFF

Click here for more information about 42" Led LCD High Definition

Read More...

Canon EF-S 17-55 f/2.8 IS USM Lens Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bought this lens with the idea of using it in a wedding, along with a Canon 7D. The lighting was mostly indoors tungsten and some fluorescent. The lens did a great job of capturing images with little need for a flash. I also have the 50 mm f1.4, which is also a very good lens, but I found it less useful due to the need to zoom out. The 50 mm acts more like an 80 mm with the 7D.
The negative to be aware of is to do with the nature of low light photography with a wide aperture lens: you have to watch and make sure your depth of field is adequate, or some people in a group may end up being out of focus, if they are not at he same distance from the camera.
Overall, a great lens.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Canon EF-S 17-55 f/2.8 IS USM Lens

To meet user demands for a fast EF-S zoom lens, Canon has specially designed a new lens with a large aperture of f/2.8 for select Canon Digital SLR cameras. The large circular aperture produces a shallow depth-of-field, creating background blur that draws attention to the photographic subject. The lens construction includes UD and aspherical elements, which deliver impressive image quality throughout the entire zoom range. Image Stabilizer lens groups shift to compensate for camera movement so that the image appears steady on the image plane, ensuring clear, crisp images, even in dim light. With a Ring-type USM, inner focusing and new AF algorithms, this lens achieves autofocus quickly and quietly, and with full-time mechanical manual focusing, manually adjusting the focus is possible even in AF mode.

Click here for more information about Canon EF-S 17-55 f/2.8 IS USM Lens

Read More...

HP EliteBook 2730p - Core 2 Duo SL9400 / 1.86 GHz LV - Centrino 2 with vPro - RAM 2 GB - HDD 120 GB - GMA 4500MHD - Gigabit Ethernet - WLAN : 802.11 a/b/g/n (draft) - TPM - fingerprint reader - Vista Business - 12.1" Widescreen TFT 1280 x 800 ( WXGA ) - Microsoft Office Ready Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Excellent tablet! I'm running Windows 7 RC on mine, and it's got the horsepower to do it right. I added 4GB of RAM and a 16GB solid state drive in the expresscard slot for ReadyBoost, and the difference is notable, although I haven't run any benchmarks to back up my perception. There are plenty of video reviews as well as reviews of the features under Windows XP and Windows Vista out there on the internetz; like everyone else - I can't get the panel display to auto-rotate in tablet mode under Windows 7, nor does the rotate "hot key" button work, but I found iRotate at [...] to mange my display, and it works like a charm. I bought mine from HP Direct on a scratch 'n dent sale for some serious savings, but it's worth every penny of the list price!

Click Here to see more reviews about: HP EliteBook 2730p - Core 2 Duo SL9400 / 1.86 GHz LV - Centrino 2 with vPro - RAM 2 GB - HDD 120 GB - GMA 4500MHD - Gigabit Ethernet - WLAN : 802.11 a/b/g/n (draft) - TPM - fingerprint reader - Vista Business - 12.1" Widescreen TFT 1280 x 800 ( WXGA ) - Microsoft Office Ready

Productivity with a twist. The HP EliteBook 2730p Tablet PC offers you the functionality of an ultra-light notebook plus the flexibility of an ultra-slim tablet. In tablet mode, it converts your digitally handwritten notes to text or sends them as they a

Click here for more information about HP EliteBook 2730p - Core 2 Duo SL9400 / 1.86 GHz LV - Centrino 2 with vPro - RAM 2 GB - HDD 120 GB - GMA 4500MHD - Gigabit Ethernet - WLAN : 802.11 a/b/g/n (draft) - TPM - fingerprint reader - Vista Business - 12.1" Widescreen TFT 1280 x 800 ( WXGA ) - Microsoft Office Ready

Read More...

DIGISTOR 5.25" Blu-ray Burner Slot-Load SATA Drive Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)If you search for slot-load blu-ray burner solutions for your desktop, there are very few options out there.
Fortunately, I found DIGISTOR's solution. It's actually a Panasonic slot-load blu-ray burner designed for laptops, but the 5.25 casing and circuitry solution is all DIGISTOR.
It work's like a charm when I replaced my aging DVD burner -- I transplanted that off an old system when I built my new Intel i7 quad core PC. Now my new system is sporting a super sleek slot-loading Blu-ray burner courtesy of DIGISTOR.
Been using it for 4 months now, on a Windows 7 OS. No issues, no bad burns so far.
I also use DIGISTOR 25GB BD-R Media, Silver Surface Disc (25 pack) for my back up needs.
This one was definitely a good buy.

Click Here to see more reviews about: DIGISTOR 5.25" Blu-ray Burner Slot-Load SATA Drive

The world's only 5.25" Slot-load Blu-ray Burner Solution for desktop computers and server enclosures.The DIGISTOR DIG-68100 is a complete Blu-ray burner solution for integrating (1) slot-load Blu-ray Burner into (1) single 5.25" drive bay. This Blu-ray drive is a unique product offered only by DIGISTOR - now you can easily integrate a slot-load optical drive into your 5.25" drive bay .The power of a Blu-ray burner comes the next generation of data storage technology. Able to burn 25GB on a single layer Blu-ray disc and up to 50GB on a double layer Blu-ray disc.This Blu-ray contains the Panasonic UJ-235 which has created a future for high density and secure computer and data storage including backup, high definition movies, photos and anything else you can imagine.Arcsoft TotalMediaExtreme 2 Blu-ray suite included ($129.98 value)!

Click here for more information about DIGISTOR 5.25" Blu-ray Burner Slot-Load SATA Drive

Read More...

Black w/Green Suede Trim Nunzia Design Tuscany Laptop Bag Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I really like this product. It is nice leather and a good value for the leather. The only complaint is that it would have been nice to have just a little extra room for cable, etc. My computer fits great and it is nice that it is in a sleeve of it's own. I can also fit in a couple of magazines and files, but then there is not much room for power supplies, etc. I would highly recommend it for anyone who doesn't need to have to carry too many documents or extra supplies.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Black w/Green Suede Trim Nunzia Design Tuscany Laptop Bag

Stay in style with the classic look and functional design of this leather laptop tote from Nunzia. For work, school and everything in between, it's an ideal solution for your busy schedule. Made from durable black leather with suede accents, this tuscany bag has a gorgeous green suede trim. This green Tuscany designer bag will hold your notebook computer, laptop, pen tablet, or one really large PDA, along with all of your makeup and accessories. It's a fashion handbag that is part briefcase - part purse, carrying your business documents as well as your cosmetics.

Click here for more information about Black w/Green Suede Trim Nunzia Design Tuscany Laptop Bag

Read More...

Meade ETX90EC Telescope w/Electronic Controller Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am truly an amateur astronomer. My childhood was peppered with dime-store telescopes that showed me a new blurry world. When I got the EXT-90EC I expected little more than a brighter blur. To my surprise and delight I was wrong. Out of the box, in bad lighting conditions, surrounded by trees, I saw some of the most breath-taking images of the moon. In fact, I spent the next six hours observing the moon. I saw craters in detail. I even saw some craters within craters. I did venture to a bright star I saw in the sky. It turned out to be Jupiter. It was a highly recognizable Jupiter. Not another dot in the sky. I could see three of Jupiter's moons in orbit. I couldn't even make out Jupiter's moons with the naked eye.
I tried the telescope during the day for terrestrial viewing. Once again I was pleasantly surprised! The local river area came alive with wildlife. The photographic possibilities are endless!
I purchased the #883 Deluxe field tripod, #932 45 Degree Erecting Prism, #497 Autostar controller, and the #774 hard case with the telescope. I highly recommend you do the same. They all add to the total experience. The tripod is a must for both astrological and terrestrial viewing. The 45 Degree Erecting Prism is needed for terrestrial viewing. If you don't use it, your images will be inverted. The autostar, once aligned, will position the telescope to any viewable object, and then continue to track it. The case is a convenience and insurance policy.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Meade ETX90EC Telescope w/Electronic Controller

Meade finally brings a serious telescope into thecasual-consumer price range. The ETX-90EC Astro offers extraordinaryoptics at an affordable price. It combines a high-resolution opticaldesign and diffraction-limited imaging with microprocessor-controlled,precise celestial-object tracking, all in a nicely styled, highlyportable package.
Improvements to this model include a new forkmount with dual-axis drive system. The ETX-90EC also includes hightorque DC motors on both telescope axes, permitting electronicoperation from the hand-held controller. This push-button electroniccontroller has four dual-axis drive speeds: slow, 8x for imagecentering at high power; medium, 32x for image centering at lowerpower or for pushbutton tracking in altazimuth mode; moderate, 0.75degrees per second for image centering in the viewfinder or forterrestrial tracking; and fast, 5 degrees per second for fast scanningacross the sky.
The Meade ETX-90EC is specially designed to beportable and used in the field. It offers cordless operation, allowingyou to use the telescope's dual-axis drive system for more than 40hours on eight AA batteries. At approximately 8 pounds and 15 inchesin length, it packs a lot of power into a compact unit.
TheETX-90EC uses a 90mm Maksutov-Cassegrain optical design, and Meadeactually warranties the optics of the ETX-90EC "to equal or exceed theoptical performance and resolution of any Maksutov optics of similaraperture ever manufactured at any price." The ETX-Series optics offersuperb contrast, image brightness, and resolution; Meade claims thetelescope consistently outperforms many instruments of largerapertures. Meade also uses EMC super multicoatings on all opticalsurfaces to maximize light transmission through the corrector lens andreflectance from the primary and secondary mirrors. The flip-mirrorsystem allows for 90-degree observation of land and sky objects,straight-through observation using the optional #932 45-degreeErecting Prism, or photo-ready imaging using the optional #64T-Adapter and your own 35mm camera.
Overall, the Meade ETX-90EC isa fine piece of craftsmanship at a surprisingly affordable price. Forthose of us who spent our childhood peering through old-style consumertelescopes, using the ETX-90EC is like getting time in the PalomarObservatory. From shifting cloud belts on Saturn to the glowingfilaments of the Orion Nebula, this instrument lets you observe theheavens in extraordinary detail.

Click here for more information about Meade ETX90EC Telescope w/Electronic Controller

Read More...

Olevia 537H 37-Inch LCD HDTV Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased the Olevia 537h LCD flat panel TV for my mother, as she entered an assisted living community. I wanted her to have the best picture quality. She loves baseball, and has fairly good eyesight.
I had spent some time looking at the Olevia 537h, but had only seen it showing a poor quality documentary. Still, I could see that the picture was excellent. When I installed my unit (which by the way was delivered sooner than expected, and in perfect condition), and first played a DVD, I was more than satisfied with the results (the Platinum edition of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was almost too good. You could see the artists' every brush stroke). The DVD player was one which Up-converted to HD 1080i quality, and the Olevia was up to the task. The picture was sharp, and the color was pure.
As has been stated, the on-screen display menu system Syntax is so proud of takes some getting used to, and I had to print out the manual from disc to have a reference in front of me. Some things are still not clear (manual-wise, that is) I almost have it fully programmed, but will probably have to find a simpler remote for my mother's use. I'm using it with an HD antenna, but will probably have to arrange for cable input, as some local stations just don't come in well. This I know is not the fault of the unit.
Overall it is a gem. The picture looks great in even bright room light. No glare from the screen. The colors are pure. And the price from Amazon is the best I had found.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Olevia 537H 37-Inch LCD HDTV

The Olevia 5 Series LCD HDTVs, engineered to provide exceptional video and audio, will impresseven the toughest critics. Powered by MTKs state-of-the-art MDDI video processor technology,the Olevia 5 Series HDTVs display exceptionally crisp, rich and vibrant images with unsurpassedclarity for viewing high definition digital programs as well as standard analog TV channels. Withhigh contrast ratios and fast response times, rapid-action viewing such as sporting events oradventure films is displayed with super clarity and truly come alive. With a super-wide 178-degreeviewing angle, images look spectacular wherever you are seated. These LCD HDTVs are perfectfor home or office viewing and can double as a computer display with support for TV resolutionsup to 1080i, and PC resolutions up to 1360 x 768 through HDMI and VGA. To further enhance yourexperience, Olevias surround sound audio processor creates an awesome listening environmentwhile watching TV, movies or playing games. RS-232 control enables you to connect your OleviaHDTV to a home entertainment system. Once you see the new Olevia, you will agree that you have neverseen HDTV like this.

Get 49% OFF

Click here for more information about Olevia 537H 37-Inch LCD HDTV

Read More...

USB 2 Channel PC Oscilloscope Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I have really started to like my scope. At first it took a little getting used to since the controls are a bit different from a hardware scope -- but now it is my scope of choice on the bench except where I need the wide bandwidth of an analog scope. The hardware is supurb -- it is accurate and the triggering is excellent. The best feature, of course, is its ability to show what happened BEFORE THE TRIGGER which is great for catching the glitches that caused the trigger event.
The spectrum analyzer is OK once you understand that there is not low pass filter so that signals that are above the high frequency cutoff alias into the inband display. It could have log displays etc, but for the dollar it's a great value.
The transient recorder looks good and is a unique feature that I haven't had occasion to try yet.
The scope installed quickly and ran the first time on my windows XP and VISTA machines. The two probes that are supplied are great quality and very similar to the TEK/HP probes we are all used to.
My only criticism is that while the software user interface is quite usable, it's a bit clumsy and was probably written some time ago and never updated to act like more current interfaces. The online documentation is a bit weak and could use some improvement and the hard copy is very basic. But, as I said, the scope is quite functional after you get used to the interface.
While it isn't quite as good as a $5000 TEK digital scope it sure gives plenty of bang for the buck.
I'd buy it again in a minute.

Click Here to see more reviews about: USB 2 Channel PC Oscilloscope

This versatile and powerful 'scope harnesses the power of your pc or laptop to drive its software, eliminating the need for bulky stand-alone oscilloscopes, analyzers, and transient recorders! Just attach it to your laptop for easy troubleshooting readings in the field, or set it up on your workbench at home or the office.Powerful software is included, along with a DLL giving you the ability to create customized applications to meet any additional needs! Its high sensitive display resolution, down to 0.15mV, combined with a high bandwidth and a sampling frequency of up to 1GHz are giving this unit all the power you need. The USB connection makes this unit a snap to set-up, no external power required! In the field measurements using a lap-top computer have never been this easy. And the readings are automatically stored for your future analysis and comparison.There are many advantages to using a PC based oscilloscope, including custom software, larger/high resolution/color display, lower cost, easy data export, and networking/storage functions. Take advantage of your PC and the convenience of this feature-packed multifunction scope. Includes two 60MHz professional scope probes, USB cable, software and comprehensive manual. Requires Win98SE or newer that supports USB. Compatible with USB1.1 or USB2.0.GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS: Inputs: 2 channels, 1 trigger input Input impedance: 1Mohm, 30pF Bandwidth: DC to 60MHz ±3dB Max input: 30V AC or DC Input coupling: DC, AC, and ground Power supply: USB power, 500mA PC compatibility: Win98SE or newer 800x600 minimum resolution, 1024x768 recommended USB port: USB 1.1 or 2.0 Includes: Scope, two 60MHz scope probes, USB cable, software CD, manual

Click here for more information about USB 2 Channel PC Oscilloscope

Read More...

HIS ATI Radeon HD5870 1 GB DDR5 2DVI/HDMI/DisplayPort PCI-Express Video Card H587FN1GD Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I bough this video card as a replacement to the Xfx hd 4890, and I say it was a good choice as FPS increased drastically and temperature decreased a little as well, iddle desktop temps are about 32-36 ºC and playing 50ºC, It can handle 1080p smoothly.

Click Here to see more reviews about: HIS ATI Radeon HD5870 1 GB DDR5 2DVI/HDMI/DisplayPort PCI-Express Video Card H587FN1GD

HIS ATI Radeon HD5870 1GB DDR5 2DVI/HDMI/DisplayPort PCI-Express Video Card

Click here for more information about HIS ATI Radeon HD5870 1 GB DDR5 2DVI/HDMI/DisplayPort PCI-Express Video Card H587FN1GD

Read More...

Epson PowerLite S5 3LCD Projector by Epson Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I got this yesterday because I needed something small for the living room in our apartment. I set it up on the book shelf to shoot over the fireplace and it's impressive. The wall is flat white paint and I didn't want to hang a screen being in apartment and the picture looks great. It's brand new so I hope it will do well in the long run but for now I would recommend it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Epson PowerLite S5 3LCD Projector by Epson

Click here for more information about Epson PowerLite S5 3LCD Projector by Epson

Read More...

HP tm2-1070us TouchSmart Core 2 Duo Notebook PC (WA808UA#ABA) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The affordable tablet PC hits its stride with HP's TM2. It's no iPad killer since it's heavier and more expensive. But if you want a real computer underneath a bright, responsive tablet touch screen - and for a reasonable price - this is it. Good processor, long-lasting battery, comfortable keyboard, generous storage, and all the basic ports - it make for a nice combination of utility and fun.

Click Here to see more reviews about: HP tm2-1070us TouchSmart Core 2 Duo Notebook PC (WA808UA#ABA)

HP TouchSmart tm2-1070us Notebook PC. Intel Core 2 Duo Processor SU7300; 1.30GHz; 3MB L2 Cache; 800MHz FSB; 4GB DDR3 System Memory (2 DIMM) Max supported = 8192MB; 2 Accessible Memory Slots; Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit; Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 4500MHD (shared) with up to 1695MB total available Graphics Memory; 320GB (7200RPM) Hard Drive (SATA); Brushed aluminum with the riptide design in argento blush, HP Webcam with integrated digital microphone & integrated fingerprint r

Click here for more information about HP tm2-1070us TouchSmart Core 2 Duo Notebook PC (WA808UA#ABA)

Read More...

Olympus E Digital 18-180mm f3.5 Zoom Lens Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)The 18 - 180 mm Zuiko lens appears to work better than the two lenses that came with the E-510 Olympus camera when I purchased it. The pictures appear consistently significantly sharper (better focus?) than most photos I've taken with the other lenses. I've had no problems with brightness working at the zoom / wide angle extremes (18 mm & 180 mm) as I think I read in one or two of the other reviews. I doubt I will use the original two lenses that came with the camera much anymore (if at all) because this lens adequately covers their combined zoom ranges (14 mm to 150 mm) -- at least for my use.
This lens is a bit on the heavy side, however, compared to my old Rollei 120 tlr, it is still light.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Olympus E Digital 18-180mm f3.5 Zoom Lens

This lensis lightweight andcompact with a great 10x standard zoom lens covered to the range of distinct telephoto effect. It is equivalent to 36-360mm on a 35mm camera. The almighty lens can cover most of shooting scene. The closest focusing distance is down to 45cm in entire zoom area, and 0.23x (equivalent to 0.46x on a 35mm camera) of magnification allows you close-up shots. Two ED lenses and two aspherical lenses compensate each aberration to give the high-performance in entire zoom area. Specifications Focal Length: 18mm - 180mm ( 35mm equivalent focal length 36mm - 360mm ) Lens construction: 15 Elements in 13 Groups, including 2 ED lenses and 2 Aspherical lenses Angle of View: 62 to 6.9 Degree Closest Focusing Distance: 0.45m Maximum Image Magnification: 0.23x (35mm equivalent Maximum Image Magnification 0.46x) Minimum Field Size: 75 x 55 mm Number of Blades: 7 Maximum Aperture: f 3.5(18mm) - f 6.3(180mm) Minimum Aperture: f 22 Filter Size: 62 mm Dimension Diameter: 78 x 84.5mm Weight: 435g Tele Converter EC-14: Yes(manual focusing) Extension Tube EX-25: Yes Lens Hood: LH-65 Lens Cap: LC-62B (62mm)

Click here for more information about Olympus E Digital 18-180mm f3.5 Zoom Lens

Read More...

NuForce Icon (Integrated Desktop Audio Amplifier, Black Color). Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I've been using my NuForce Icon for over a month now and I am very impressed. The sound is fantastic. The USB input worked perfect for me when connected to a Windows XP Home SP3 computer or to a PC running Ubuntu. I have the Icon paired up with my Polk TSi 100 home stereo speakers (rated at 89db) and am happier with this setup than I was with my 10-year old Adcom amp/Boston Acoustics speakers combo. Using the Icon's rear 3.5mm line-out, I connected a Polk PSW111 sub and now have a small 2-channel system that I am very happy with.
To be fair though, I do think there are some cons that should be discussed:
1) The popping sound at turn-on. It is annoying and it shouldn't be there. It should have been fixed during the design of this integrated amp. Somewhere along the line someone made the decision to leave it, probably to save money.
2) The speaker sensitivity recommendations. This is a low-power amp, 12 watts per channel, so having fairly efficient speakers is a must. NuForce recommend a speaker sensitivity rating of at least 87db. But they also has the following caution on it's Icon website: "Caution: If you have high efficiency speakers with sensitivity > 92db, you might hear high frequency switching noise." So, your speakers should have a sensitivity rating of at least 87db so they will play at a decent volume, but less than 92db or you might here "switching noise". Again, I would have liked to see the high speaker sensitivity/switching noise fixed prior to the models release.
3) There is a note in the user's manual that says "IMPORTANT! If you intend to employ the Icon as a preamp without speakers having been connected, use the Headphone Output on the front panel instead of Line Out on the back panel. Using Line Out without speaker connection could damage an internal filter." Using the line-out on the back panel would be common sense if you wanted to use the Icon as a preamp. But doing that could damage the unit? That is poor design and it shouldn't be that way. Nothing should get damaged if you make a wrong signal-level connection.
With that said, I am still very happy with my Icon. If I had the choice to buy something else or get another Icon, I would get the Icon again. I can live with the popping at turn-on because there isn't anything I can do about it. My speakers fit in the recommended 87-92db range so that doesn't bother me. And I bought the Icon to use as an integrated amp, not a preamp, so that line-out warning doesn't bother me. But none of those three cons should be there. They should have been identified and fixed prior to the Icon being released. Based on sound quality, ease of use, and features for the price, it's a 5-star rating, but I lowered it to a 4-star when you factor in the cons.
---
Update - 12 Jun 2010,
Just an update to my original review of the Nuforce Icon. After using it for four months I unfortunately have a couple more "cons" to add.
4) If you have the USB input connected to a computer, the computer will automatically select the Nuforce Icon as the default sound device whenever the Icon is turned on - regardless of whether the USB input (Input 3) is selected on the Icon. In my case I am using the Icon as a small integrated amp for my home stereo. I have an MP3 player connected to Input 1, my TV connected to Input 2, and my PC connected to Input 3 via USB. If I turn on the Icon and select Input 2 to listed to my TV through my home stereo speakers, my computer's sound device will automatically change from the built-in sound card to the Nuforce Icon. When it does that I don't get any audio from my built-in sound card/computer speakers even though I don't have the Input 3/USB selected on the Icon. It seems like the computer should only "see" the Icon when the Input 3/USB is selected, not anytime the Icon is powered on. (I'm using WinXP SP3 Home).
5) I watch some HD television programs using my Samsung LCD TV's built-in HD tuner and over-the-air HD reception. On a few of my stations, I clearly get better television reception when my Icon is powered off. For example, today I was trying to tune in HD channel 4.1 and could only get "1 bar" on my TV's signal strength meter no matter how much I messed with the antenna. For my TV, anything below 2-3 bars results in the picture randomly dropping out and looking pixelated. After turning off the Icon, my signal strength instantly went to 4 bars and I had solid reception. Turning the Icon on and off definitely affects my TV reception on some stations. (My Icon is located on the shelf directly below my TV, approximately 8-9 inches away.)
Some good news: I have heard of some USB devices not working very good over long USB cables. I'm happy to say that I have connected my Icon to my PC using 3 USB cables daisy-chained together - about 15 feet - and the Icon is always recogized and plays PC audio perfectly.


Click Here to see more reviews about: NuForce Icon (Integrated Desktop Audio Amplifier, Black Color).

The NuForce Icon is an audiophile-grade Integrated Desktop Audio Amplifier featuring two 12-watt outputs, a 3.5-mm stereo input for connection to an iPod or other portable device, a USB cable for operation with a PC or Mac, and standard RCA inputs for employing the Icon as the heart of a conventional audio system. For the headphone enthusiast, the Icon also offers a high-performance headphone output. Of particular interest to the computer user, the Icon's line-out functions as a PC or Mac USB-to-analog audio converter or can also be used as a connection to a subwoofer. With the same patented technology that has won a string of prestigious awards, the tiny Icon brings NuForce's celebrated sound quality to the music lover's desktop. Applications: 1) As the core of a desktop audio system, the Icon connects to an Ipod, CD player, PC or Mac. 2) Via the best, jitter-free USB technology, the Icon operates as a USB DAC for converting a PC or Mac's audio signal to high-quality analog sound. 3) For optimal headphone performance, the Icon includes a discrete, high-performance headphone amplifier. 4) For operation as an audiophile-grade preamplifier, the Icon's linestage can be connected to a power amp or active speakers. 5) As a high-quality auxiliary power amp in a surround-sound setup, the Icon can be used to drive tweeters or rear-channel speakers.

Get 10% OFF

Click here for more information about NuForce Icon (Integrated Desktop Audio Amplifier, Black Color).

Read More...