Handy Gadgets

ThinkComputers have published a review of the Boogie Bug Besace Wii Bag. 'From an external view the Besace Wii Bag looks just like any other over the shoulder bag. Black in color with a nylon finish and composed of a quality material it's hard to tell that it's actually a carrying case for your Wii. The flip cover is attached to the base of the case by Velcro strips. Flipping up the cover over reveals a zippered pocket, viewable only from the inside, which is meant to hold your games or any other thinly made Wii accessories.'

Read: Boogie Bug Besace Wii Bag Review - ThinkComputers.org

Posted by Admin at 10:56 AM | Permalink

Press Release

New ST filters pass more audio and less noise than discrete or integrated alternatives

Geneva - More than 75% of cellular handsets will ship with MP3 capability in 2010, making audio performance a focus area for designers. New handset designs will demand improvements in noise reduction that can be enabled by the new EMIF02-SPK02F2 filter, today announced by STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a world leader in analog ICs.

The EMIF02-SPK02F2 occupies only 0.89 x 1.26mm of valuable handset pc-board space, and provides filtering for the handset’s built-in speaker or a stereo headset output. A single EMIF02-SPK02F2 can also be connected to the microphone input to isolate the handset from external sources of noise, such as other cellphones.

As a member of ST’s audio IPAD family, which delivers miniaturized filters for various handheld and mobile-audio applications, the EMIF02-SPK02F2 also delivers performance benefits in notebook and desktop PCs, car audio systems and personal MP3 players.

With high attenuation and low series resistance, the new filters achieve greater noise reduction while preserving audio signal strength better than any other approach. Filters built using discrete components, for example, are difficult to design for tri-band handsets and typically occupy around 72% more board space than the EMIF02-SPK02F2. Alternatively, single-chip passive filters can be as much as 11% larger, and also permit several times more noise at the frequencies used in standards such as GSM. These include signals at 900MHz and 1800MHz, which can be picked up by the handset’s audio circuitry, creating audible interference, the so-called ‘TDMA’ noise.

The EMIF02-SPK02F2 also provides better ESD protection than any existing solution. This performance is necessary, because the level of ESD protection built into chips such as audio ICs is being reduced as ESD-safe manufacturing environments have improved. The implication for product designers is that devices used specifically to meet product-level ESD standards such as IEC EN 61000-4-2 must provide greater protection. To achieve this, the EMIF02-SPK02F2 has a double-clamping structure able to clamp an ESD spike to just 12V compared to the 300V permitted by some ESD protection devices.

The EMIF02-SPK02F2 is in full production, and is available at $0.16 each for orders over 10,000 pieces.

About STMicroelectronics
STMicroelectronics is a global leader in developing and delivering semiconductor solutions across the spectrum of microelectronics applications. An unrivalled combination of silicon and system expertise, manufacturing strength, Intellectual Property (IP) portfolio and strategic partners positions the Company at the forefront of System-on-Chip (SoC) technology and its products play a key role in enabling today's convergence markets. The Company's shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on Euronext Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange. In 2007, the Company's net revenues were $10.0 billion. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.

Posted by Admin at 11:12 PM | Permalink

A review of the Western Digital HD TV Media Player has been posted over at Notebook Review. 'Combined with a Western Digital My Passport portable drive (sold separately), the WD TV ($129.99 MSRP) is an extremely convenient way to play HD movies or home videos, listen to digital music and show high-resolution slideshows of your family photos on your HDTV. The WD TV is essentially a tiny Home Theater PC with an easy-to-use interface. Even if you don't have a My Passport drive, the WD TV works with any USB flash drive or USB external drive. Not only that, but you can connect the WD TV with any digital camera, camcorder, or portable media player that can be recognized as a mass storage device with a USB cable.

Read: WD TV HD Media Player Review - Notebook Review

Posted by Admin at 12:27 PM | Permalink

Pocket-Lint have published their review of the Vertical Racer RC car. 'The lightweight 1:42 scale of a full sized sports car, the Vertical Racer comes in blue, black or red, features working headlights and rearlights and measures 11.5 x 5.5 x 3cm. It isn't your average racing car as once you've got it out of the packaging you soon realise it can go up walls thanks to a big noisy fan on the back that creates a vortex that sticks it to any flat vertical surface so you can drive it around unfettered by furniture. Power comes from plugging the car into the remote control and, although fiddly, means that the car can be a lot lighter than it would otherwise be.'

Read: Vertical Racer RC car - Pocket-Lint.co.uk/

Posted by Admin at 11:05 PM | Permalink

Trusted Reviews have published a review of the Epson Stylus SX100 All-In-One multifunction printer. 'This is a small all-in-one, following a very conventional design. Paper feeds from a fold-up paper tray at the rear, through to a fold-down paper tray at the front. A Contact Image Sensor (CIS) scanner handles documents up to A4 and there's a simple but adequate control panel down the left-hand side. This includes separate buttons for black and colour text copies and one for a colour photo copy. There are no facilities for connecting a PictBridge camera and the only connection is a USB 2.0 socket at the rear, but at least you don't have a power adapter block kicking around under your desk, as Epson has always built its power units inside its printers.'

Read: Epson Stylus SX100 All-In-One Inkjet - Trusted Reviews

Posted by Admin at 11:23 PM | Permalink

The Gadgeteer have published a review of the PicooZ Remote Controlled Rechargeable Micro RC Helicopter from Brando.com/bk. 'The helicopter is well packaged and a little difficult to remove from its packaging. You have to be careful so you do not break it before you even crash it for the first time :). The main body of this helicopter is made of a hard styrofoam. Its dual rotors add stability to both liftoff and flight. While fragile in many ways, the toy is surprisingly tough during the ‘learning how to control it’ part of flight training.'

Read: PicooZ Remote Controlled Rechargeable Micro RC Helicopter Review - The Gadgeteer

Posted by Admin at 3:03 PM | Permalink

A review of the Apple LED Cinema Display (24-inch) has been posted over at CNET. 'While other displays, such as the Dell UltraSharp 2408WFP, use cold-cathode florescent tube-based backlights, the Apple LED Cinema Display uses a light-emitting diode backlight. So instead of having several florescent tubes stretched horizontally across the screen, there are many individual LEDs all over the screen that can each be turned off or on. This gives LED displays more precise control over the amount of light coming through the screen. Other advantages include better energy efficiency, more accurate and precise color reproduction, a potentially thinner panel design, and a higher potential brightness level..'

Read: Apple LED Cinema Display (24-inch) - CNET

Posted by Admin at 11:16 PM | Permalink

A review of the Slappa Ballistix Aura Pro-Tour Backpack has been posted over at Notebook Review. 'The Slappa Pro-Tour backpack comes in just one size at the time of this writing, a 17" x 12.5" x 9.5" backpack designed to hold an entry-level or mid-grade DSLR and a laptop with up to a 15.4-inch screen. The Pro-Tour Backpack is one of the more unique laptop/camera bags because it uses a removable camera compartment ... so people who aren't interested in photography can still get a lot of use out of this bag. The backpack is available in either black/gray or brown/tan and features a traditional "rucksack" style profile, with the laptop storage inside a top-loading pocket behind protective flap on the front of the backpack and the camera compartment located inside a massive top-loading compartment protected by heavy-duty zippers and a "Cush-Pad" retractable handle.'

Read: Slappa Ballistix Aura Pro-Tour Backpack Review - Notebook Review

Posted by Admin at 3:36 PM | Permalink

PC Advisor have published a review of the Aiptek Pocket Cinema V10 mobile media player/mini-projector. 'The Aiptek Pocket Cinema V10 sits on a matching tabletop tripod stand which can be angled as required using a ball-joint clamp - or set to point directly upwards for projecting on the ceiling. Having such a small projector might seem to defy the laws of physics - why else is every traditional projector more sized like a briefcase, rather than small enough to drop into your shirt pocket? Well, most regular video projectors specify their brightness level in thousands of lumens, and a typical spec might read 2000 lumens. The Aiptek Pocket Cinema V10 is listed at 10 lumens,'

Read: Aiptek Pocket Cinema V10 review - PC Avisor

Posted by Admin at 11:35 PM | Permalink

The Register Hardware have published a review of the Western Digital WD TV HDD-to-HDTV adaptor. 'Setting up the WD TV is extremely straightforward. It’s a compact little black box measuring 12.5 x 10 x 4cm so it will sit neatly beside your TV. The WD TV doesn’t have any built-in storage at all, just two USB ports, which allow you to connect your hard drive or memory stick. You can use both USB ports at the same time, so you could have a permanent library of music and video files stored on a big fat hard drive connected to one port, while using the second port to plug in a friend’s memory stick to check out their holiday photos or home movies.'

Read: Western Digital WD TV HDD-to-HDTV adaptor - Register Hardware

Posted by Admin at 12:32 PM | Permalink

Press Release

BEAVER FALLS, PA, December 17 — The ever increasing popularity of its selection of LED products has led Pegasus Associates Lighting to introduce four new LED lights to its e-commerce web site today. This caps off a months-long introduction of new LED fixtures on the company’s web site. Three new battery operated LED products and a new LED Recessed Mini Bullet Light join a wide assortment of quality LED fixtures for the home, office, and outdoors.

The new battery operated LED products include an LED Closet Light, LED Step Light, and LED Spotlight. Each product is easy to install, can mount anywhere, require no wiring, and is motion sensor activated. The LED Closet Light is a great addition to closets, wardrobes, pantries, cabinets, and small storage rooms. The LED Step Light, in addition to being motion sensor activated, has a low-glow mode that is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use on stairways, hallways, decks, or as a night light. The LED Spotlight, also suitable for indoor and outdoor use, can be used for lighting driveways, decks, yards, garages, basements, storage rooms, and as safety and security lighting.

The fourth new LED light is an LED Recessed Mini Bullet Light. This product is offered in three finishes, produces minimal heat, and is energy-efficient using only 1.25 watts of electricity. It is a great product for lighting cabinets, niches, display cases, retail environments, entertainment centers, and art galleries. Dr. Thomas E. Farin, President and founder of Pegasus Associates Lighting said, “As the quality of LED products continues to get better we continue to offer more and more energy-efficient, long-lasting, LED lights to our customers. I especially like our newly added battery operated LED lights because they can be used in many different applications and are so easy to install and use. These are just great examples of fantastic LED lighting.”

About Pegasus Associates Lighting
Founded in 1993, Pegasus Associates Lighting is a lighting distributor with a strong internet presence selling "unique lighting products for your special needs." The company, based near Pittsburgh in Beaver Falls, PA, attracts both individual and corporate shoppers who value a learning experience in lighting, competitive pricing and an easy-to-use, intuitive web site.

For more information, visit www.PegasusAssociates.com.

Posted by Admin at 7:36 PM | Permalink

Amazon.com has reduced the Aluratek AIRMM01 Internet Radio Alarm Clock with built-in WiFi (Black) to $121.99. 'Choose between more than 11,000 radio stations worldwide via built-in vTuner with no monthly cost Compatible with universal Plug-n-Play audio servers such as: Microsoft Media Player 11 (WMP11), Microsoft Media Connect, MusicMatch Jukebox Wireless access WIFI 802.11 b and g, Ethernet and USB 2.0 (host only) connectivity Access music fi les (MP3, WMA, WAV) stored on a USB 2.0 flash drive, MP3 player or Hard drive through the unit¿s USB port Alarm clock function with 2 programmable alarms wakes you up to internet radio, FM radio, digital music, or choice of several alarm tones.' This item is sold with free standard shipping to the continental USA.

Source: Amazon

Posted by Admin at 11:12 PM | Permalink

The Register Hardware have published a review of the Roberts RDK-2 DAB FM kitchen radio. 'The radio has four main operating modes: DAB, FM, playlist mode and auxiliary input. There's also an SD card slot for recording radio programmes in MP2 or playing back MP3 files made elsewhere. This function is accessed by selecting the playlist mode. Repeatedly pressing the Band button toggles the unit between its main functions, though the auxiliary input is automatically selected if an external devices is connected to the RDK-2's 3.5mm jack.'

Read; Roberts RDK-2 kitchen radio - Register Hardware

Posted by Admin at 7:56 AM | Permalink

CNET have published a review of the Richard Solo 1800 Backup Battery. 'Like its predecessors, the Solo 1800 is more of a secondary battery for your iPhone, rather than an emergency charger. That means you'll need to charge it before it can deliver the needed juice to your handset. That may sound inconvenient, but we think that it is a workable arrangement. The Solo 1800 measures 4.41 inches by 2 inches by 0.51 inch and weighs just 2.3 ounces. That makes it compact and portable by all accounts; we had no trouble stashing it in a bag or pocket. The casing is plastic, but it feels sturdy in the hand.'

Read: Richard Solo 1800 Backup Battery - CNET

Posted by Admin at 11:18 PM | Permalink

Press Release

Steel Web Stopper® is ideal for protecting smoke detectors

STI's heavy-duty 9-gauge steel wire guard with corrosion resistant polyester coating helps protect smoke detectors where abuse is severe. It is called Steel Web Stopper because it incorporates a patented web-like octagon shape that simulates a spider's web for added strength.

This easy to install Stopper allows the L.E.D. indicator on the protected smoke detector to remain clearly visible. For added protection against abuse, tamper-resistant hardware is available.

STI guarantees the guard for a lifetime against breakage in normal use. A variety of wire guards are available for motion detectors, emergency lights, clocks, etc.

For more information on STI Stainless Steel Web Stopper (STI-9601), or the entire Stopper® Line, call 800-888-4784, fax 248-673-1246 or write STI, 2306 Airport Road, Waterford, MI 48327-1209. The email address is: info@sti-usa.com and website is: www.sti-usa.com.

Posted by Admin at 11:53 AM | Permalink

C.Crane.com has the CC Observer wind-up emergency radio on offer for $49.95 plus shipping. 'The CC Observer is a wind-up emergency radio that makes no bones about outperforming a distant cousin. You might notice that we did a few things differently. For one thing, we tinkered with the AM for better reception, and then we put the LED flashlight on the side of the radio instead of the front. That way, when you turn it on the light doesn’t shine in your face, and when you carry it, you can use the flashlight to light your way while holding it in a more natural position. You can run the CC Observer off the built-in rechargeable batteries or you can go with 3 "AA" alkaline batteries (not included) if you prefer. Of course, if you don't have alkaline batteries around, just wind-up the radio and keep it running as long as you need. You can even use it to charge a cell phone. In case you're wondering, along with good AM reception, you also get FM and the Weather band — which comes in really handy if you're using the radio during a power failure. There's also a stereo headphone jack for private listening. Weight: 1 lb. Size: 7.25" W x 5.5" H x 2" D.

Source: C.Crane

Posted by Admin at 11:15 PM | Permalink

Press Release

18-year life, 80% energy savings & wide beam coverage that reduces fixture needs deliver clear benefits for wall illumination.

SAN JOSE, CA — Guth Lighting’s just-released SUNDOWNER LED family of wall pack fixtures leverages LUXEON Rebel LED technology to provide a never-before-possible 60-degree beam spread in a dark sky housing, improving visibility while also reducing the number of fixtures needed to cover a given wall expanse. Guth’s new LUXEON-based wall packs also extend luminaire life up to seven times, slash energy needs by 80%, support ‘green’ initiatives, and significantly lower the total cost of ownership.

The new line consists of five models containing from 4 to 40 LEDs for scenarios ranging from doorway lighting to 20-foot-high mounting applications. Instead of only illuminating the ground like conventional wall packs, the fixtures take advantage of the LUXEON LED’s physical and optical properties to distribute light uniformly over a 60-degree field for partial wall coverage. Benefits include:

• A 30% reduction in fixturing needs because a single wall pack can light a wider area.
• Better visibility at wall level, increasing comfort and safety for passersby.
• Increased efficiency due to use of light traditionally blocked by the dark sky housing.

A detailed case study about the LUXEON-based Guth Lighting SUNDOWNER LED is now available at www.philipslumileds.com/pdfs/CS22.pdf.

About Philips Lumileds
Philips Lumileds is the world's leading provider of power LEDs for everyday lighting applications. The company's recent records for light output, efficacy and thermal management are direct results of the ongoing commitment to advancing solid-state lighting technology and enabling lighting solutions that are more environmentally friendly, help reduce CO2 emissions and reduce the need for power plant expansion. Philips Lumileds' LUXEON LEDs are enabling never before possible applications in the general lighting, automotive, digital imaging, display, and signage markets.

About Royal Philips Electronics
Royal Philips Electronics of the Netherlands (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHI) is a diversified Health and Well-being company, focused on improving people’s lives through timely innovations. As a world leader in healthcare, lifestyle and lighting, Philips integrates technologies and design into people-centric solutions, based on fundamental customer insights and the brand promise of “sense and simplicity”. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips employs approximately 128,000 employees in more than 60 countries worldwide. With sales of EUR 27 billion in 2007, the company is a market leader in cardiac care, acute care and home healthcare, energy efficient lighting solutions and new lighting applications, as well as lifestyle products for personal well-being and pleasure with strong leadership positions in flat TV, male shaving and grooming, portable entertainment and oral healthcare. News from Philips is located at www.philips.com/newscenter.

Posted by Admin at 12:58 PM | Permalink

Trusted Reviews have published a review of the Panasonic Viera TX-26LXD80 26in LCD TV. 'If there's been one thing about Panasonic's latest TV range that I've consistently been underwhelmed by, it's their aesthetics. And sadly the 26LXD80 continues that theme, looking really quite drab in its bland black frame. A little arc of silver along the bottom edge helps alleviate the boredom a little, but it's not enough. Still, you don't have to be cute to be good at what you do (um, unless you're a model, I guess), so let's swiftly move on to something more practical: the 26LXD80's connections.'

Read: Panasonic Viera TX-26LXD80 26in LCD TV - Trusted Reviews

Posted by Admin at 11:29 PM | Permalink

Press Release

The Fusion III is the latest expansion to Chloride’s solid state lighting family. With the slim ceiling recessed profile and numerous available finishes, Fusion III will enhance any architectural space with no design compromises. The Fusion III luminaire has a dedicated utility input for normally-on illumination and allows for local switch controlling. High-output, long-lasting, energy-efficient, white LEDs with a custom reflector, allows for optimum and even light output.

The housing is constructed of durable die-cast aluminum with a polycarbonate lens. All Fusion III models carry a UL damp location listing standard and meet or exceed the requirements for egress lighting as defined in the International Building Code (IBC), Life Safety Code (NFPA 101) and the National Electrical Code (NEC).

Optional emergency platforms are also available. A 120/277 dual voltage input with surge protection and Intelli-Charge for self-diagnostics allows Fusion III to serve as an emergency lighting unit with the most reliable charging system available on the market. Standard Intelli-Charge self-diagnostics continuously monitors all critical functions of Fusion III and the optional self-testing feature satisfies the monthly periodic testing requirements in NFPA 101 and the IBC. A maintenance-free, sealed nickel metal hydride battery allows for 90 minutes of emergency power.

Chloride is a leading manufacturer of commercial and industrial emergency lighting, solid state lighting, exit signs, AC systems, and accessories. Chloride is a Philips group brand and distributes its products worldwide and is on the web at www.chloridesys.com.

For more information, please visit www.chloridesys.com.

Posted by Admin at 11:52 AM | Permalink

Press Release

WORLD'S FIRST ARCHITECTURAL 'EDGE-LIT" DESIGN PHOTOLUMINESCENT EXIT SIGN

Murray, Utah - Active Safety Corporation has introduced the world's first architectural grade 'edge-lit' design photoluminescent 'glow-in-the-dark' exit sign - The Eco-Clear 2003. The Eco-Clear 2003 is a new generation of exit signs that combines the elegance of clear and mirrored acrylic with the advanced safety, value and sustainability of photoluminescent operation.

Exit signs are some of the most important life safety equipment when a fire or other emergency occurs. Photoluminescent exit signs are a relatively new technology that use an environmentally friendly formulation of strontium aluminate crystals as the "power source" instead of electricity or radioactivity. Photoluminescent exit signs work by absorbing ambient light during normal operations and then using this stored energy to glow brightly and designate exit routes in an emergency.

Photoluminescent exits signs have been protecting buildings throughout the United States since the 1990s and mandatory in New York City following 9/11. Innovation awards by Buildings Magazine and Flex Your Power have led progressive architects and engineers to recognize photoluminescent exit signs as a safer, less expensive and far more sustainable exit sign technology than LED and radioactive exit signs. As a result, an increasing number of LEED and "Green" focused projects are choosing Active Safety photoluminescent exit signs which can help secure LEED credits in multiple categories.

"Architects and engineers have always appreciated the safety, cost and environmental benefits of photoluminescent exit signs but traditional photoluminescent exit sign designs can't match the elegance of an acrylic 'edge-lit' exit sign. However, the Eco-Clear 2003 changes this paradigm". Said Active Safety CEO Scot Gordon. "The Eco-Clear 2003 is a stylish exit sign that will compliment the architecture of contemporary facilities. Additionally, they are less expensive to engineer, install and operate, and the obvious "Green" choice."

Available in all mounting configurations, the Eco-Clear 2003 is listed to UL 924 standard and compliant to IBC, NFPA and UFC building codes.

Specified by more architects and engineers, Active Safety, with offices in Murray, Utah, Carmel, California and San Diego, California, is a leading manufacturer of architectural grade photoluminescent exit signs and exit path marking systems for office, condo, school, retail, military and other facilities. Active Safety photoluminescent exit signs are listed to Underwriter's Laboratories standards, and compliant to all popular building codes. For more information, visit www.activesafety.com or contact a commercial lighting representative agency.

Posted by Admin at 11:14 PM | Permalink

CNET have published a review of the Psyclone TouchCharge Wireless Battery Charging Kit for Nintendo Wii. 'Instead of placing your remote in a charging cradle, the TouchCharge Kit provides you with a magnetic charging pad. You simply place the entire controller--or just the battery itself--anywhere on the surface of the pad and the built in LED light will display the status of the charging process. The TouchCharge Kit is also available for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The latter comes with adapters for the controllers as its batteries are not user-removable. Conveniently enough, you can buy just the batteries or adapters for each console you need them for. Various circular metal contact dots on the bottom of these batteries and adapters allow for the charge to pass, also acting as magnetic placeholder.'

Read: Psyclone TouchCharge Wireless Battery Charging Kit for Nintendo Wii - CNET

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Posted by Admin at 1:21 PM | Permalink

Press Release

New long-range wireless remote control system extends range from 150 feet up to 1 mile

OREM, UT -- ILLUMRA, the largest North American supplier of self-powered, battery-free, wireless lighting control systems, has announced its newest product innovation. The EnOcean + ZigBee long-range remote control system provides users with reliable light control at distances up to a mile away. The new long range hybrid system enables ILLUMRA self-powered wireless light controls to be used in a greater number of applications than was previously possible.

The ILLUMRA hybrid control system combines benefits of ZigBee 802.15.4 Industrial Wireless Relays (IWR) from Ad Hoc Electronics with the benefits of EnOcean compatible ILLUMRA Self-powered Wireless Controls. ILLUMRA wireless systems allow users to control electrical loads 150 feet away; the EnOcean + ZigBee hybrid system extends that range up to 1 mile. The system is made up of two component groups: first, an IWR pair designed to provide simple long-range remote control; and second, ILLUMRA battery-free wireless light switches and sensors, which are designed to provide easy-to-install light control and energy management systems. Together, these products make up the ILLUMRA hybrid system which provides simple, customizable, long range wireless light control, security control, pump station control, electronic sign control, traffic control, factory automation, and more. The hybrid system is especially effective for controlling loads across large open spaces where it would be preferable to not run wire. Examples of such applications include: barns, guest-houses, sports stadiums, tennis courts, boat-houses and garages.

The ILLUMRA hybrid system provides wireless remote control up to 1 mile away without the use of repeaters. The hybrid system uses ILLUMRA battery-free wireless light switches to produce a wireless signal. An ILLUMRA Low Voltage Relay Receiver that is connected to an Industrial Wireless Relay picks up the signal; the IWR then broadcasts the signal up to 1 mile away in all horizontal directions. A separate IWR connected to as many as four external relays, each sized for the load, receives the signal and controls attached electrical loads. The hybrid system may be used in 3-way switch applications by connecting ILLUMRA 5-wire Relay Receivers between the external relays and electrical loads.

ILLUMRA Hybrid System Components
• ILLUMRA Wireless Light Switches
• ILLUMRA Low Voltage Relay Receivers
• Industrial Wireless Relays
• ILLUMRA 5-wire Relay Receivers

Wiring Diagrams
Standard installation
http://www.illumra.com/Downloads/Wiri...

3-way switch installation
http://www.illumra.com/Downloads/Wiri...

ILLUMRA is excited about the opportunities the new hybrid system will open up to its customers. Contractors, specifiers, or other individuals can purchase components to create EnOcean + ZigBee long range remote control systems through ILLUMRA manufacturer’s sales representatives or from ILLUMRA distributors. To find the representative or distributor nearest you, please contact the ILLUMRA sales department at 801-225-2226.

About ILLUMRA
ILLUMRA is the largest supplier in North America, of self-powered, battery-free, wireless lighting control and energy management systems, and a member of the EnOcean Alliance. All ILLUMRA products operate using the EnOcean protocol, the de facto standard for energy-harvesting wireless controls. EnOcean technology allows energy harvesting ILLUMRA transmitters to operate indefinitely without the use of batteries. The motion of a switch actuation, light on a solar cell, or other ambient energy in the environment provides power to ILLUMRA transmitters, providing zero-maintenance wireless devices. The ILLUMRA product line includes multiple products which operate in the uncrowded 315 MHz band offering greater transmission range than other wireless technologies and minimal competitive traffic.

For more information, please explore www.ILLUMRA.com, email info@ILLUMRA.com, or call 801-225-2226.

Posted by Admin at 11:15 PM | Permalink

Pocket-Lint have published a review of the Oral-B Professional Care 8500 electric toothbrush. 'Like other electric toothbrushes from the Oral-B, the 8500 comes with a plastic handle featuring rubberised sections to ensure you have a good, comfortable and secure grip on the body of the brush. The rear and thumb section does mean that you can precisely move the head to the area of your mouth you are cleaning. You will also find a battery indicator on the lower section of the body, which is an advantage over the Vitality line, as there is nothing more annoying than putting your toothbrush onto a charger that is not plugged in, or setting off on holiday with a flat battery.'

Read: Oral-B Professional Care 8500 electric toothbrush - Pocket-Lint

Posted by Admin at 1:07 PM | Permalink

A review of the MiBook e-book reader has been posted over at the WashintonPost.com. 'Mindful of the dominance of paper, devices for reading electronic books so far have focused on providing an experience that's as close to traditional books as possible. But there is one that takes a completely different tack, so different that it brings into question the definition of "book." This is the MiBook (pronounced "my book"), a book-sized white slab with a 7-inch color screen. Its "books" are memory chips with instructional videos. There are books available on cooking, home projects, gardening and child care.'

Read: Review: MiBook is cheap, colorful e-book reader - WashintonPost.com

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Posted by Admin at 11:40 PM | Permalink

A review of the Flip minoHD camcorder has been posted over at Freep.com. 'The new minoHD is, like previous models, a beauty in simplicity. There are minimal controls, all flat and recessed. A big red record button, a play/stop button to watch your videos, touch-sensitive forward and backward arrows for rewind or fast forward, a delete button, and plus and minus buttons for operating the 2X digital zoom. There is no tape. All is recorded on flash memory. You can record up to an hour of HD video and audio on the minoHD. Make it as one very long movie or break it up into as many clips as you want. When you’re done with it or have transferred the video to your computer or burned to a DVD or e-mailed it to friends, hit the touch-sensitive trash icon and it deletes the clip.'

Read: Gadget of the year: The Flip minoHD - Freep.com

Posted by Admin at 11:14 PM | Permalink

Press Release

Innovative Powerline Devices Offer Consumers 200 Mbps Speeds with Broad Options in Technical Design

SAN JOSE, Calif. – NETGEAR®, Inc. (NASDAQGM: NTGR), a worldwide provider of technologically innovative, branded networking solutions, today announced the general availability of its latest powerline adapters for turning electrical power outlets into high-speed Internet and home network connections. Fast enough to stream high-definition video, the award-winning Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapter Kit (HDXB111) and Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter Kit (XAVB101) provide reliable, high-speed network connections up to 200 Mbps to the home network and Internet over existing electrical wires to devices such as digital media receivers, set-top boxes, game consoles, personal computers, and networked attached storage.

NETGEAR offers a broad portfolio of networking products so consumers can choose the option that best meets their needs. NETGEAR’s powerline technology products distribute high-speed, high-performance, affordable broadband throughout the home, without the need to run any cabling between rooms. Both the Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter Kit, which is based on the HomePlug® AV standard, and the UPA-based Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapter Kit, provide integrated Quality of Service (QoS), to enable hours of glitch-free connectivity for high-definition video streaming, online gaming and uninterrupted Voice over IP (VoIP) phone calls. The easy operation of both products is based on a plug-in design and push-button data encryption that provides privacy and security for a trouble-free set-up. In addition, the Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapter Kit features built-in power sockets to save power outlet space.

“The increasing demand for consistent high-speed Internet connectivity throughout the entire home compels networking providers to engineer products that are not only fast and reliable, but also simple to install for the average consumer,” stated Chris Geiser, NETGEAR’s product line manager for Powerline devices. “Powerline’s ability to use existing wiring supports the distribution of high-quality broadband connection to all areas of the home, even wireless problem areas, enabling customers to enjoy bandwidth intensive applications such as online gaming, audio distribution and HD video streaming, in any room of the house.”

About the NETGEAR Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapter Kit (HDXB111)
By simply plugging one stylish UPA-certified Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapter into an AC outlet near a modem, gateway, or router and another near any Ethernet-ready device, consumers can instantly enjoy speeds up to 200 Mbps and access to reliable HD streaming throughout the house. Furthermore, with outlet space limited in many homes, the kit is NETGEAR’s first Powerline networking device to offer innovative pass-through outlet capabilities by incorporating a built-in, noise-filtered AC plug.

As testament to its innovative design and engineering qualities, the Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapter Kit won the prestigious Best of Innovations award in the home networking category of the Innovations Design and Engineering Awards Program at the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show. In addition to its unique pass-through functionality, the subtle, natural shade of the Powerline kit is designed to blend into its environment and minimize the appearance of clutter.

NETGEAR’s plug-and-play Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapter Kit (HDXB111) is now available in North America through leading retailers, e-commerce sites and value-added resellers. It is backed by a one-year warranty and 24/7 technical support. The Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapter Kit, containing two Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapters, an Ethernet cable, an installation guide and a set-up CD, has an MSRP in the U.S. of $169.99. NETGEAR’s Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter (HDX101) and Powerline HD Ethernet Adapter Kit (HDXB101) are compatible with the Powerline HD Plus Ethernet Adapter kit (HDXB111).

Photos and other product information can be found on the NETGEAR web site at http://www.netgear.com/Products/PowerlineNetworking/PowerlineEthernetAdapters/HDXB111.aspx.

About the NETGEAR Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter Kit (XAVB101)
Based on the HomePlug AV standard and compatible with both wired and wireless routers and gateways, consumers can simply plug one Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter into their router and another into any Ethernet-ready device to turn any electrical power outlet into a high speed Internet and home network connection. Securing a Powerline AV network is made simple with the push of a button as the kit features a 128-bit AES data encryption to ensure privacy and security.

As evidence of its reliability and user-friendly characteristics, the Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter Kit was an Editor’s Choice in PC Magazine on October 21, 2008, awarded four out of five stars. Reviewer Mario Morejon wrote, “… the NETGEAR Powerline can't be beat. This is a must-have product if you need a fast and secure network for your small business and can’t afford remodeling for the sake of obtaining faster network speed.”

NETGEAR’s Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter Kit (XAVB101) is now available worldwide through leading retailers, e-commerce sites and value-added resellers. It is backed by a one-year warranty and 24/7 technical support. The Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter Kit, containing two Powerline AV Ethernet Adapters, an Ethernet cable, an installation guide and a set-up CD, has an MSRP in the U.S. of $149.99. NETGEAR’s Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter (XAV101) is compatible with the Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter Kit (XAVB101), and can be purchased as a single unit.

Photos and other product information can be found on the NETGEAR web site at http://www.netgear.com/Products/PowerlineNetworking/PowerlineEthernetAdapters/XAVB101.aspx

“With today’s ever-advancing technology, the production of innovative, fast, reliable, and easy-to-use networking solutions is key to providing consumers with the ability to connect to a wide-range of Ethernet-enabled applications, from personal computers to digital media adapters and gaming consoles,” said Michael Cai, director of digital media and gaming with Parks Associates, which specializes in research and analysis for digital living technologies. “High-speed Powerline devices are able to support this growing bandwidth demand while also transmitting high-quality broadband Internet to the wireless problem areas of the home.”

About NETGEAR, Inc.
NETGEAR (NASDAQGM: NTGR) designs innovative, branded technology solutions that address the specific networking, storage, and security needs of small- to medium-sized businesses and home users. The company offers an end-to-end networking product portfolio to enable users to share Internet access, peripherals, files, multimedia content, and applications among multiple computers and other Internet-enabled devices. Products are built on a variety of proven technologies such as wireless, Ethernet and powerline, with a focus on reliability and ease of use. NETGEAR products are sold in over 29,000 retail locations around the globe, and via more than 41,000 value-added resellers. The company’s headquarters are in San Jose, Calif., with additional offices in 19 countries. NETGEAR is an ENERGY STAR® partner. More information is available by visiting www.netgear.com or calling (408) 907-8000.

©2008 NETGEAR, Inc. NETGEAR and the NETGEAR logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of NETGEAR, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other brand and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Information is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved.

Note: Actual data throughput will vary from maximum signal rates stipulated. Network conditions and environmental factors, including volume of network traffic, building materials and construction, and network overhead, lower actual data throughput rate.

Posted by Admin at 10:43 PM | Permalink

Press Release

DDPs' pilot light is ideal for industrial plants and utilities...

El Segundo,CA - DDP, a leader in engineered LED solutions, has developed a 16mm pilot light and LED lamp to retrofit and replace common GE ET-16 sockets. Designated PowerLine PL16 Pilot light, the LED light includes a solid-state bayonet-based LED lamp and rugged Lexan lens that resists high impact for reliable performance in most environments. The PL16 is designed to mount in a 16mm (5/8") hole and features a thin, compact, insulating polyester housing for added protection in tight fitting spaces. Available in 24V, 48V or 120V designs, the PL16 features premium-engineered thermoplastics that keep the light units running cool while providing a high light intensity.

"DDPs' LEDs have an operational lifetime of up to 100,000 hours with an extreme intensity light output that provides superior visibility from all angles," said Tony Toniolo, DDP President. "In addition, we designed a shunt resistor into the LED lamp to eliminate transient current and prevent a false positive indication by the LED."

The PowerLine PL16 is an ideal solid-state lighting alternative for industrial plants and utilities and is available in a variety of color options including red, amber, blue, green, cool white and warm white. These lights are UL listed for Type 1, 2, 3, 3R, 4/4X, 12 and 13.

Pricing is $29.00 a piece in quantities of 100. Delivery time is 3 weeks.

For more information, or to talk to one of DDP's LED engineering experts, contact DDP at 445 South Douglas Street, El Segundo, California 90245-4630; e-mail techsupport@ddpleds.com; call (800) 421-6815; or go to www.ddpleds.com.

About DDP
Established in 1970, DDP provides unmatched service and attention to customers in the form of engineering, innovative designs, LED prototypes, test and evaluation, and tailored LED solutions for specific indication and illumination applications. Located in El Segundo, Calif., DDP's 45,000-square-foot manufacturing facility includes a flexible production line, a dedicated quality assurance department, surface-mount assembly equipment, a machine shop for prototyping and development, and an engineering lab for new product design and qualification. DDP is ISO 9001 certified, demonstrating its commitment to continuous improvement of products, processes, and responsiveness to the needs of customers.

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Posted by Admin at 3:07 PM | Permalink

A review of the Foldable Multi Notebook Stand has been posted over at ThinkComputers. 'The Multi Notebook Stand is a nice accessory, especially if you use your laptop a lot. It was nice not having to sit the laptop in my lap while lying in bed. It definitely makes you more productive and is a lot more comfortable using it. It is simple and easy to setup too. It does everything it is supposed to do, but is it really worth the $49.99 price tag? I really don't think so; I could see it going for around $29.99 but not much more than that.'

Read: Foldable Multi Notebook Stand Review - ThinkComputers

Posted by Admin at 10:45 PM | Permalink

Press Release

Crestron Antenna Solutions Simplify Satellite Radio Installation and Distribution

ROCKLEIGH, NJ, Crestron introduces versatile antenna packages that simplify installation and distribution of multi-room satellite radio. Just one Crestron outdoor antenna can feed up to 16 Crestron XM or SIRIUS® satellite radio tuners, and these new satellite antenna solutions enable the distribution of satellite radio channels to multiple receivers throughout the home and office using standard RG-6 cable.

The high-performance Crestron antenna features a considerably narrower beam as compared to standard consumer antennas, achieving a significantly higher signal-to-noise ratio. Additional front-end filtering blocks interference from nearby out-of-band RF signal sources such as Wi-Fi, cellular and cordless telephones.

For easy ordering and installing Crestron offers the following four satellite radio antenna packaged solutions:

SRD-ANT-1-PAK supports a single tuner; range up to 200 feet

SRD-ANT-4-PAK supports up to four independent tuners; range of up to 200 feet each

SRD-ANT-1LD-PAK includes one tuner and high-gain line amplifier; range of up to 350 feet

SRD-ANT-8-PAK (includes two 4-way amplified splitters) supports up to eight tuners: signal range up to 300 feet. An additional 3-way couple can split the antenna signal to each of the two amplified splitters, allowing easy expansion up to a total of 16 satellite radio tuners.

The basic kit for each package includes a wall mount bracket, pole mount hardware, F-to SMB adapter cable(s), and weatherproof boot. The 4-PAK features the 4-way splitter and attenuator, and the 8-PAK adds a line amplifier, 4-way coupler, (2) 4-way amplified splitters, and attenuators.

For more information about Crestron Satellite Radio Antennas go to www.crestron.com. For high-resolutions photos go to www.crestron.com/pressroom

Posted by Admin at 12:44 PM | Permalink