Lenovo ThinkPad X300

If there is one thing that history has taught us, it's that those who finish second are destined to be forgotten. Unfortunately for Lenovo, it's a sentiment that they can probably relate to now, given that for all their efforts on its super thin 'Kodachi' notebook, Apple's MacBook Air is likely to take all the credit for being the first 'super thin' notebook, all thanks to its successful marketing machinery and most importantly, an earlier launch date.Those in the know (or at least a passing interest in upcoming ultra-portables) will have heard of the Lenovo ThinkPad X300 (aka Kodachi) and its long and eventful gestation. A slim notebook that almost matches that of the Air, but with slightly more functions and features, this new ThinkPad is aimed squarely at its core group of users - executives of the well-heeled variety. As the first ThinkPad to bear the Lenovo logo, the X300 spent one and a half long years in development and was originally conceived as a 10-inch notebook, though things didn't quite work out when the engineering team started to put parts together. While it could be done, the consensus by the Lenovo team then was that a 13.3-inch screen was better for watching movies and as such, prototypes were then manufactured accordingly. Despite that, one characteristic that stayed unchanged was the portability of the X300. When Apple revealed the Air at MacWorld 2008, the Lenovo team had a brief scare initially, though a quick test assured them that the X300 prototype could easily pass the same envelope test.Our previous review of the MacBook Air showed that the Air, despite its slim form factor and gorgeous appeal, lacked features that would have made it the product of choice for those hankering for a ultra-portable. So naturally, our eyes turned to the X300, which seemed to have covered all the bases that the Air missed out on, like a ultra-light DVD drive and having more than the Air's single, measly USB port. The X300 also has more connectivity options compared to the Air in the form of a LAN port with native WiMax available in the later part of 2008 and HSDPA support via USB dongle.\

Source: http://www.hardwarezone.com/articles/view.php?cid=14&id=2532 (for more info on the specs of thinkpad x300 pls view it at the above site)

AMD's New Phenom X4 9000 Series

Second Chance: The Fixed Phenoms (B3-Stepping)It's an odd relation that underdogs often seem to garner stronger public support than the leaders when the very reason the latter group is at its position because of their better performance/capabilities. Of course, the converse is equally true that underdogs require more cheerleading to keep them going in an effort that they would one day succeed the leader. Sounds rather familiar, doesn't it? That's because the tale of AMD and Intel go way back to the early days of the 286 and 386 days when AMD's clone processors offered a great alternative to Intel and so this race/competition has remained ever since. Fast forward to current times, we see AMD still in the same situation of trying to offer more value, but it has unfortunately not been successful. Unable to replicate the fast technological push that Intel has achieved and a quicker cycle of product refreshes from its Silicon Cadence (also known as the Tick-Tock effect), plus the fact that AMD has been unable to keep-up with demand and still saddled by its hopeful acquisition of ATI, this has left AMD between a rock and a hard place - both in its position and its financial books.

Despite this drawbacks and repeated delays, the highly anticipated AMD Barcelona processor using their K10 architecture finally made its way to the workstation and server space late last year. Though boasting several enhancements over the last iteration of the K8 architecture, it fell short of expectations by a large degree. In fact, in our own detailed Showdown article of Barcelona versus Clovertown versus. Harpertown processors , we found clock speeds of the Barcelona far lower than shown in past tech demos, as well as inferior performance and power efficiency when compared to the equivalent Intel platform. The differences were by no means small and that's what aggravated the situation.That wasn't all of Barcelona's woes. A TLB bug was later found and that further had implications on the Barcelona's system stability in certain scenarios - unless when patched with a BIOS fix that further hindered its overall performance. These issues also echoed on the consumer equivalent chip, the Phenom. After more months of waiting, frustration and beating around the bug, just two weeks ago AMD officially launched an updated Phenom processor series that utilizes the new B3 stepping which fixes the TLB bug for good and restoring a little performance back. To differentiate the original Phenom processors with the new set launched recently, there's been a slight update in the product model numbering. The added "50" to the processor model numbers denote processors using the bug-free core and the below table illustrates the renewed lineup.

Updated price points for these new chips too look to try and peck at Intel's offerings, but the narrow pricing delta would mean that it would make more sense for prospective buyers to top up a little more to grab the better edition. Perhaps the pricing differential would mean more to the developing countries where the differences in currency value might make for a better proposition. The Phenom X4 9850 'Black Edition', as per naming tradition, denotes that this SKU is multiplier unlocked and should be an attractive target for tweakers, while the 9650 model is currently slated for an OEM-only market, but you'll also likely find these as 'tray-edition' processors in time to come. The retail market still sells the equivalent 9600 model with the B2 core stepping, which should exit the market as stock depletes. That about sums up our introduction with the new Phenom X4 processors so take the next hop to get into our detailed performance analysis and see if AMD's second coming has any hot air left in it.

For AMD X4 processor line up comparison pls refer to source : http://www.hardwarezone.com/articles/view.php?cid=2&id=2537

Nikon COOLPIX S52c - Unwired Freedom

World without WiresDigital compact cameras with integrated wireless connectivity, though not a novelty in recent times, is still a rare feature found on selected cameras. While camera manufacturers constantly introduce better and smarter features for their top-of-the-line products, Nikon brought Wi-Fi capability to the list of features found on the Nikon COOLPIX S51c, and continues the tradition with its successor, the Nikon COOLPIX S52c. Do note that the S52c that landed in our labs is a pre-production model, hence our tests on the said device will be reflected as such, with possible differences with the mass production units.

Nikon COOLPIX S52c
Nikon COOLPIX S52c Specifications -->
Effective pixels
9.0 Megapixels
Image sensor
1/2.5-in. CCD; total pixels: approx. 9.30 million
Lens
3x Zoom-Nikkor; 6.3-18.9mm (35mm [135] format picture angle: 38-114mm); f/3.3-4.2; 12 elements in 9 groups
Digital zoom
Up to 4x (35mm [135] format picture angle: 456mm)
Focus range (from lens)
1 ft (30cm) to infinity, Macro close-up mode: 1.6 in (4cm) to infinity
Monitor
3.0-in., 230,000-dot, wide viewing angle TFT LCD with anti-reflection coating
Memory
Internal memory (approx. 38 MB), SD/SDHC memory card compatible
Image size (pixels)
3456 x 2592 (High: 3456/Normal: 3456)
3200 x 1800 (16:9)
2592 x 1944 (Normal: 2592)
2048 x 1536 (Normal: 2048)
1024 x 768 (PC: 1024)
640 x 480 (TV: 640)
Vibration reduction (VR)
Optical VR image stabilization
ISO sensitivity
100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, Auto
Power sources
EN-EL8 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery (supplied), EH-63 AC Adapter (supplied)
Interface
Hi-Speed USB, IEEE 802.11b/g
Battery life
Approx. 200 shots with EN-EL8 battery (based on CIPA standard)
Dimensions
97.5 x 59 x 21mm
Weight
125g

source from : http://www.hardwarezone.com/articles/view.php?cid=15&id=2533

Sony Launches New Range of Cyber-shot Cameras

Sony Electronics Asia Pacific expands its line of Cyber-shot cameras with the introduction of 10 new models from the W, T, H and S-Series. Featuring a new range of intelligent functions and digital imaging innovations by Sony, the latest additions to the Cyber-shot family deliver enhanced imaging performance with crisp, rich image capture and convenient photo viewing and sharing.
Implemented for the first time, Sony’s advanced face detection technology allows users to select either a child or adult as the focal point of the photo, automatically customizing exposure, focus and skin tone of the subject’s face for natural, evenly-exposed images. The enhanced Intelligent Scene Recognition technology also senses ambient conditions and automatically selects the optimal setting from up to 5 different scenes, giving users a wider range of customization options for more natural and accurate image reproduction.
“Sony continues to lead the digital consumer camera market by combining our unique Sony style with advanced, sophisticated functions. With innovative features such as the face detection technology with child and adult recognition, and advanced Intelligent Scene Recognition, our new range of Cyber-shot cameras sets the standard for consumer cameras in the market today,” says Mr. Tatsuo Takahashi, General Manager and Head of Digital Imaging Marketing Division, Sony Electronics Asia Pacific.
Integrated with other proven features such as Sony’s unique Smile Shutter function which allows the camera to shoot automatically when a smiling face is detected, other imaging innovations include the popular, body-integrated Super SteadyShot image stabilization system that eliminates blurring caused by camera shake and ensures sharp, vivid images, as well as high-definition (HD) viewing that allows photo viewing in HD quality, available in the new W and T-Series cameras.
Cyber-shot W-Series: DSC-W170, DSC-W150, DSC-W130, DSC-W120 & DSC-W110
Leading the latest line-up are the feature-packed DSC-W170 and DSC-W150 that deliver up to 8.1 mega-pixel resolution. Incorporating Sony’s latest range of digital imaging innovations, such as advanced face detection technology with child/adult recognition, Intelligent Scene Recognition mode and the Smile Shutter function, both models also integrate 5x optical zoom with their wide angle lens, offering convenient photo capture of distant objects, greater image depth enhancement and larger, sweeping perspectives.
Available in a wide range of colours, the DSC-W130, DSC-W120 and DSC-W110 offer value for money with their strong feature set. Slim and compact, these mid-range W-Series models offer advanced face detection technology with child/adult recognition, the BIONZ image processing engine and Carl-Zeiss lenses. The DSC-W130 and DSC-W120 also have the popular body-integrated Super SteadyShot image stabilization system.
Cyber-shot T-Series: DSC-T300
Weighing at approximately 149 grams , the stylish and slim 10 mega-pixel DSC-T300 camera features the Intelligent Scene Recognition mode and popular Smile Shutter function. In addition to a unique cover design that protects the camera lens and prevents dust build-up, its wide 16:9 aspect ratio LCD screen implements a 230,000 dot high resolution touch screen interface, allowing for convenient operation. The large 3.5-inch screen is also layered with an anti-reflective AR coating to achieve high visibility even under strong sunlight.
Cyber-shot S-Series: DSC-S780, DSC-S750 & DSC-S730
Powered by rechargeable Lithium-ion instead of AA alkaline batteries used in previous models, the new 7 mega-pixel DSC-S780 and DSC-S750 cameras feature an improved design, slimmer casing and face detection technology. Leveraging the BIONZ image processing engine, all 3 models (including the DSC-S730) deliver high speed and accuracy with various camera controls, such as focus and exposure.
Cyber-shot H-Series: DSC-H10
The successor model to the Cyber-shot H3, the DSC-H10 features a larger 3-inch LCD screen, powerful 10x optical zoom and 8 mega-pixel image capture in a sleek, compact casing. The camera’s high sensitivity of ISO3200 and Super SteadyShot image stabilization system also enables objects in dim lighting conditions to be photographed in clear, crisp quality without the use of the flash.

For pictures of the camera pls view the source of this article at : http://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/news/view.php?id=9812&cid=7

Acer lappy

Acer brings you your gateway to high-definition media enjoyment with the Acer Aspire 7720. With an expansive 17" WXGA+/WUXGA Acer CrystalBrite display and Dolby Home Theater audio enhancement, Aspire 7720 is a notebook with amazing multimedia enjoyment. It dons the cool new Aspire notebook design of Acer, and it features pure digital DVI-D connectivity with HDCP support, instant-on Acer Arcade Deluxe functionality, and wealth of premium features, including the convenient Acer Video Conference solution. The dual-core power of the latest Intel Centrino Duo mobile platform and a cutting-edge graphics engine make the Aspire 7720 the hallmark of sheer digital media entertainment.Acer Empowering Technology consolidates access to useful management tools, providing you with more control over your computer. One or two large Serial ATA hard disks offer generous storage for content creation, boots up the system faster, and loads multimedia applications in a flash. Acer eAudio Management provides centralized control over notebook audio, and offers specialized audio modes for movies, music and games. Media control keys enable convenient media management while easy-launch buttons facilitate access to often-used applications.Aspire 7720 has a one-click Acer Video Conference solution that integrates real-time video and voice over the Internet for face-to-face instant communication to keep you in touch with worldwide contacts. Acer Video Conference comprises of the Acer Crystal Eye webcam, supporting Acer PrimaLite technology for enhanced performance in low-light environments and the optional Acer Xpress VOIP phone, which communicates with Bluetooth-enabled devices for clear, hands-free VoIP calls.

source : http://www.hardwarezone.com.sg/news/view.php?id=9829&cid=9

The Golden Compass

Recently i saw the preview of the movie "The Golden Compass"

This is its description:-

In an epic trilogy that transcends genre, author Philip Pullman invents a world parallel to ours, but with fantastic dimensions all its own. Pulse-pounding action is paired with gorgeous imagery to create a touching story in a world where demons and winged creatures live among ordinary humans, and an elusive entity called Dust has the power to unite the universes. The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass are magical tools used in the battle of good against evil in an imaginative yet utterly original reworking the Garden of Eden and the Fall of Man. (source from golden village)

The most wonderful and cunning "effect" in THE GOLDEN COMPASS is Lyra (Dakota Blue Richards). A 12-year-old girl surrounded by digitized creatures, spires, and sailing ships, Richards' Lyra is a singular delight, at once curious and stubborn, thoughtful and impetuous. Though she faces a series of daunting challenges that take her far from home, she remains brave, moral-minded, and smart -- a little girl much like the little girls who might be watching her on screen. That likeness in itself makes Lyra special.
The fact that Lyra lives in a world that's like ours but also different makes her situations both strange and familiar. Based on the first book in Philip Pullman's "HisDark Materials" trilogy, the movie opens in this alternate world's version of Oxford, where Lyra lives at Jordan College with her uncle, Lord Asriel (Daniel Craig). In Lyra's world, everyone has a "daemon," an animal embodiment of his or her personality and soul. While adult daemons are "settled" (Asriel's is a very dignified leopard), children's are in flux. Lyra's daemon, Pantalaimon (voiced by Freddie Highmore), shifts from ferret to bird to mouse, depending on mood or need. As children mature, their daemons become fixed -- just as their futures begin to seem set.
The initial trouble for Lyra is that her friends are disappearing before they can mature, apparently kidnapped by dark thuggish sorts called "Gobblers." She and her uncle worry about this phenomenon, which is enhanced by the threat posed by the Magisterium, a forbidding institution populated by men in black who believe in order and obedience rather than self-determination. "There will always be free thinkers and heretics," warns the Magisterial Emissary (Derek Jacobi) -- and he doesn't think that's a good thing.
He and other members of the Council see Lyra as a particular threat, believing she is the girl foretold in a prophecy about the Golden Compass, a complex device that can answer any question truthfully -- but can only be read instinctively by one person. And, indeed, when Lyra gets the Compass, she can read it, which puts her at risk from the Council's primary agent, Marisa Coulter (Nicole Kidman). Though Mrs. Coulter briefly distracts Lyra by taking her on a trip to the cold North, the child soon intuits her would-be mentor's sinister intent and escapes.
From here the film launches into multiple subplots -- not surprising, given that it's the first installment of a proposed trilogy. As Lyra seeks her missing best friend Roger (Ben Walker), as well as Asriel -- who has journeyed to the North in search of evidence of "other words" -- she assembles her own sort of "fellowship," including a band of Gyptians (led by Tom Courtenay), adventurous Texan Lee Scoresby (Sam Elliot), and flying witch Serafina Pekkala (Eva Green). But surely her most magnificent new friend is armored polar bear Iorek Byrnison (voiced by Ian McKellen), a onetime king now reduced to performing tricks at a dingy pub.
With the others at their backs, Lyra and Iorek head out into the snowy wilderness, determined to recover Lyra's friends and restore Iorek to his royal birthright -- a feat that eventually leads to battle with the current bear king (source http://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/Golden-Compass.html )

I personally think its a good movie not to be missed and look forward to a sequel. How little lyra outwits her enemies and how the story unfolds.

Wowtv in sg

Singapore’s latest broadband entertainment services provider, WOWtv, announced the official launch of its service, which offers viewers a personalized, unique media experience through a wide range of broadband streaming channels that can be accessed via 4 different platforms: web, set-top box, portable media player and 3G. WOWtv is “on-demand entertainment” powered by a secure and efficient broadband platform that enables a premium interactive entertainment experience anytime, anywhere. Viewers get an all access pass to a host of movies and entertainment programs which they can watch whenever they want and as many times as they want. This innovation allows all WOWtv users the convenience of sharing their viewing experience with their family and friends, without the limitations of preprogrammed schedules. Viewers will also be able to view advertisements that are targeted specifically to their needs. "This marks the start of an exciting era for WOWtv and Singapore – WOWtv is more than just a provider of entertainment; it serves as a lifestyle companion to all our viewers. With WOWtv, viewers are given the choice and flexibility to bring entertainment out of the living room to wherever they go," said Michael Toh, Chief Operating Officer of WOWtv. WOWtv features over 50 channels of programming across all genres, including: movie blockbusters, Asian dramas and variety shows, travel, lifestyle, fashion, edutainment, sports and more. Aside from programming, online games and e-commerce services are also available. All subscribers to WOWtv have instant access to over 25 channels of entertainment across genres on the FREE tier. Premium programming is also available to subscribers in 2 different membership tiers: the BASIC tier, which allows members to access an additional 16 channels at S$40 a year and VALUE tier, which consists of a host of a la carte channels and current premium pay-per-view movies. These premium pay-per-view movies are competitively priced at S$1 to S$2 per movie. Added Mr Toh: “Today’s consumer is spoilt for choice in the world of multi-platform entertainment. With this in mind, we have taken great care in choosing content that will cater to a wide range of audiences from different age groups, providing them with a variety of programs spanning across multiple genres that can be viewed across our 4 different platforms.” WOWtv has established licensed content agreements with major content providers, including Sony Pictures Television International, Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) and Videofashion Network. It is also set to achieve a milestone in broadband entertainment by unveiling Singapore’s first-ever Web Jockey, who will introduce viewers to the latest movies and series shown on WOWtv. The service can be accessed via web, set-top box, portable media player and 3G with any broadband Internet connection, offering quality streaming content to viewers. To date, WOWtv has more than 20,000 registered subscribers, achieved over an 8-week soft launch period. From now till 31 January 2008, all new members to WOWtv’s BASIC tier qualify for a lucky draw where they will stand a chance to win a host of attractive prizes, including the grand prize of a Peugeot 107. More information can be found on WOWtv’s website at www.wowtv.com.

Source : http://www.hardwarezone.com/news/view.php?cid=5&id=9017

Personally, i do not think too well of this newcomer into the current market. Time shall tell. In the current market, there's Starhub cable tv and Singtel's Mio tv, both are big players and relatively well known for their other services such as being handphone service provider. Singapore is after all this big and population is limited. One does wonder how much of the market is WOWtv gonna have a share of. Subscribers are indeed spoilt for choices, it used to be a monopoly field whereby only starhub is providing the service of cable tv but from what i had heard and find out from nearby friends, so far no one i knew had Mio tv, but most have subscribed to starhub cable tv.
I shall wait to see who shall have a bigger slice of the cake, is it Starhub, Singtel or is it WOWtv.