April 2004 archive

All-Wheel-Steer Riding Lawn Mower

Murray, Inc. has introducted the most maneuverable lawn tractor in its class. Murray’s 22.0 hp YardKing will be rolling into stores this spring so save up about $2300 for this new mower and be the talk of your block. The All-wheel steering gives the tractor the ability to turn on a tighter radius than conventional lawn tractors, which means reduced mowing times, fewer missed patches, and more precise trimming around trees and landscaping.

And the Fastest Throughput for 802.11g is…

In the May 18, 2004 issue of PC Magazine. D-Link Xtreme absolutely blew away all competition in both performance and distance tests, more than doubling the throughput speeds of all competing 802.11g solutions, posting an incredible 73.8 Megabits per second data throughput. The testing criteria for both 802.11g and 802.11ag products were measured in many categories, where D-Link hammered the competition in performance, distance and value. Below are test results excerpted from the PC Magazine review:

802.11g Performance @ 1 foot (throughput)*

D-Link	73.8Mbps
Apple	N/A**
Belkin	25.3Mbps
Buffalo	28.5Mbps
Dell	21.1Mbps
Gateway	22.6Mbps
GigaFast	21.7Mbps
Hawking	21.7Mbps
IOGear	20.8Mbps
Linksys	33.5Mbps
Microsoft	21.2Mbps
Netgear	35.0Mbps
SMC	24.3Mbps
US Robotics	25.1Mbps
Zyxel	23.1Mbps

Sony DRU-700A Dual Layer Burner

Any day now, stores will be stocking Sony’s 5th generation dual format DVD burner, the DRU-700A (internal) and DRX-700UL (external). These new drives can record on the new DVD+R DL (Double Layer) disc, bringing the total burning capacity to 8.5GB vs. the current 4.7GB. Don’t expect 8x DL burning speeds yet, these drives can burn DL at 2.4x, 8x for DVD+R/-R, 4x for DVD+RW/-RW, and 40x CD-R/24x CD-RW. The internal model will cost about $200 and the external about $290 (street prices).

MailDefender

First off, did you know that there is a mail conference and it’s called Mailcom? Today, at that very conference, the BioDefense Corporation unveiled its 2-door MailDefender System. The system utilizes proven disinfection technologies such as ultraviolet, microwave, and a proprietary antimicrobial compound to stop biological pathogens like anthrax before they invade a workplace environment; protecting people and property from terrorist’s attacks and threats (also a great tool for furthering your Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). It effectively decontaminates deadly and harmful bio-contaminants and certain chemicals, including ricin, smallpox, plague, e-Coli, influenza, HIV and botulism. (In some tests, mail was decontaminated at a level nearly 1,000% more effective than the U.S. Army’s standard of safety.) If you’ve been looking for a system to dryclean your incoming mail and have about $60k to spend, contact BioDefense directly to place an order.

New Talking, Winking and Blinking Urinals

WizMark has patented interactive urinal communicators which creates a whole new dimension, literally, to the idea of interactive marketing. Lets say you need to take a pit stop, walk up to the urinal and your attention is immediately attracted to a promotional ad message contained inside an angled waterproof display located within the urinal, with flashing lights that are activated either by someone’s physical presence or by urination onto the screen. The screen also emits a pre-recorded audible message of up to 16 seconds upon activation. Even before activation, the auto-animated winking of alternating images on the 3.5-inch lenticular display of the device is sure to catch the eye of any man seeing this novel ad vehicle for the first time. If anything, this little device might help people aim better, and that’s good for everyone.

Weblink II Now Supports Ethernet Port

I don’t know how this one slipped passed me… but a few weeks ago, Home Automation Inc (HAI), makers of the OmniPro home automation controllers, released an update to Weblink II which enables the built-in ethernet port. Weblink II is a software program that runs on any Windows machine and connects via RS232, RS485 and now ethernet to the OmniPro line of controllers, allowing you access to your home via any IP enabled device. Version 2.01.4082 also adds support for sending emails without specifying an SMTP server, Windows Server 2003, and enhanced SmartPhone pages. The update is free.

Videographic Memory

This is pretty cool gadget, I don’t know if I’d use it daily, but it would be fun to have one to mess with. Image taking your Sony DVD or DV camera with you on a trip or hike, but also attaching the VMS-X and a GPS receiver… get the point? The VMS-X is a spatial video collection solution that integrates a GPS receiver (1) with Sony digital video cameras (2) equipped with an intelligent accessory shoe. The VMS-X (3) attaches to the top of the camera and enables the recording of video, audio, and location data to tape or DVD. After data collection, you can process the data for rapid playback in Red Hen’s multimedia mapping application, MediaMapper, or ESRI’s ArcGIS environment. Now, you’ll know exactly where you were when you shot that great video of the ground.

8X DVD/CD Writer From Pioneer

If you’re like me and still have an old 2x DVD burner, you’ll love to hear that Pioneer is coming out with a 8X external DVD/CD writer. The DVR-S706 can be connected to an existing computer through a firewire or USB port making the upgrade a cinch. The coolest part is that you can burn a full 4.7gb disc in about 15 minutes! And with Pioneer’s advanced precision recording technology, you can be assured optimum recording performance, even if the blank disc is slightly irregular (why do they produce irregular discs anyways?). Additionally, new quiet drive technology reduces operating noise and vibration, making the burning process practically silent. They go on sale in May for about $260… I might wait for the dual layer burners.

FIA On3 Digital Media Player and Library

Today, First Intelligent Array, announced general availability of their FIA On3 Digital Media Player and Library. It’s an easy-to-use home entertainment device that lets users view videos and photos on the TV, and listen to MP3 music on personal stereos. The FIA On3 offers playback, remote access, an abundant storage library, and easy installation for a low starting price of $449. A PC is not required to view and listen to your digital media and you can choose from 80GB or 120GB storage. The FIA On3 supports analog and digital 5:1 audio connections as well as Component, Composite, and S-Video video connections. Up to four of these can be tethered together so you can enjoy your media in every room of the house. The FIA On3 can be purchased through online merchants PC Connection, Tiger Direct, and Zones, and direct from FIA.

Wireless Bluetooth GPS Receiver

Navman announced today the latest addition to its line of GPS products. The Navman GPS 4410 is designed for use with Bluetooth-enabled Pocket PCs. This upgraded version of Navman’s popular GPS 4400 leverages the power of their advanced navigation software and the latest in wireless technology. It comes bundled with the latest version of Navman’s award-winning navigation software, SmartST V2. Exciting new software capabilities include Microsoft Outlook integration for advanced address-to-contact routing, a time-saving zip code search tool, the ability to pre-select areas to avoid, a handy town to town routing function, complete route summary, enhanced zooming functionality and a 3D map display option. Other standard features include address-to-address routing, selectable map views, automatic and manual zoom for map detail control, Back-on-Track rerouting when off-course, day and night screen modes and an extensive points-of-interest library. The fully automated software provides voice guidance, in addition to visual driving instructions and, large display icons and easy-to-read maps provide an operator-friendly, touch-screen interface for added safety while driving. The complete solution contains detailed street-level mapping for the 48 contiguous states, Hawaii, Alaska and Canada. The Navman GPS 4410 and GPS 4100 are competitively priced at $319.95 and $219.95.

McDonald’s ESPN25 Happy Meal Games

Between April 30, 2004 - May 27, 2004, at participating restaurants, while supplies last, McDonald’s will be offering six ESPN25 inspired mini-handheld sports action video games. McDonald’s will offer games in each Happy Meal and Mighty Kids Meal featuring basketball great Vince Carter, soccer star Mia Hamm, skateboarding legend Tony Hawk, car racing champion Tony Stewart, football star Michael Vick, and tennis champions Serena and Venus Williams. If someone gets one or six, please post your comments.

Polaroid Photo Bracelet

Just when I thought Polaroid was done, they come out with something that might just be a hit with teenager girls. Now they can use the Polaroid izone camera system to create beaded photo bracelets. I’m not going any further with this one… so if you want more info, Google it.

EVAC-U8

I stumbled across a product by DU PONT that everyone should own, especially in these crazy times. It’s called EVAC-U8, this device is a personal emergancy escape smoke hood which can provide 15 minutes of breathable air and eye protection. Don’t expect these to become a new fashion trend (they look a little scary), but they are small enough to have in your desk at work or at home. They cost about $75 and can only be used once.

A Less Paper Office

Do you ever sit there and wonder why we still have tons of paper in our filing cabinets at home? Invoices, statements, receipts, manuals… the list goes on and on. None of these are easily accessible or searchable, even if you have everything filed under the appropriate subjects. A good friend of mine has been on a mission to give his traditional filing system an extreme makeover. He bought a new scanner and has been scanning all his documents into searchable PDFs. To read up on his adventures in OCR and scanning, check out Reece’s Blog.

Parasound Halo C1

If I were going to design an A/V Processor it would probably look something like the Parasound Halo C1. It is THX Ultra2-certified and that can also be software upgradeable (supports Dolby Pro-LogicIIx via a firmware update). I love the little 5” front panel TFT display which can display the main or zone video and the setup menu, great if you locate your components away from your main display. The Halo C1 has a load of input and outputs which will motivate you to buy more devices to plug into it. The use of BNC connectors for the component inputs and outputs is nice to see, that way you can use your true 75ohm cables. The C1 isn’t perfect, it doesn’t have any 1394 IEEE, HDMI or DVI inputs or outputs, but don’t let that stop you from checking out this beautiful unit. It will set you back about six grand but it does come with an unprecedented 10 years parts, 5 years labor warranty which should give you carefree use for many years.

Treat Your Mom Like A Star, Get Her A TiVo!

It really bugs me when people call their DVR a TiVo when it’s really not. In a recent article over at Wired, they discuss this exact issue. Now Tivo is trying to get your mom to use the real TiVo by using Sex And The City Star, Sarah Jessica Parker and The Practice’s Camryn Manheim. They both agree that TiVo has make their lives easier. Your mom does deserve the real thing… so treat her like a star and get her a TiVo!

READ PRESS RELEASE

Comcast to Trial HD DVR Using Digeo Moxi

I was wondering when we were going to start seeing Digeo’s Moxi Media Center in the mass market. Today, Comcast and Digeo announced a planned commercial trial of Motorola Broadband Media Centers (BMC) with Moxi. Deployment of approximately 40,000 integrated dual-tuner DVR and HDTV is slated to begin later this year. The Motorola BMC with Moxi platform will offer a high-definition DVR that provides a unique user interface and is designed specifically to support cable’s expanding menu of content and services. It sports a powerful processor, internal hard drive, and built-in cable modem allowing the Moxi Menu viewers instant access to current and future program listings whether they originate from live broadcasts, on-demand programming or their own DVR recordings. Comcast Digital Cable might just have a new customer…

Sony Ships First 23GB Blue Laser Media

Well, Sony has done it once again… they have released yet another format for us to adopt. Today, Sony Electronics has started shipping Professional Disc for DATA(TM) media that uses blue lasers instead of standard red lasers to write more data onto a disc. This release is aimed at the professional industry first… featuring a huge 23.3GB storage capacity per single-sided disc, Professional Disc for DATA media provides enough storage for data such as medical imaging, broadcast, audio/video editing, graphic design and enterprise content management. The new format will be available in both write-once and rewritable versions with reading speeds of about 11MB/second and 9MB/second write speeds. The discs retail for $45 each.

LoJack Leads To Bust

I wonder what the results would have been like if my friend had the LoJack system installed in his 1965 refurbished Mustang when it was stolen, found four days later after being taken for a joyride, crashed into a rock, shot at, and then exploded. This happened almost 10 years ago when there was no LoJack systems available. This morning I was reading our local news and saw that the LoJack system helped catch an illegal chop shop in Tacoma, WA. The Lojack system works by you first reporting your car is missing and then the Police systems pick up the silent radio signal emitting from your car. The amazing part is that LoJack says over 90% of cars equipped with LoJack are recovered… they didn’t say what shape though. [ via KOMO NEWS]

Full Story

AT&T Wireless Self-Destructs

CIO.com has a great story on how and why AT&T Wireless is falling apart. Being a former AT&T Wireless customer for over 10 years, a couple months ago I decided to end my contract because of the long wait times, poor customer service, and terrible GSM coverage in my area. If you were or still are an AT&T Wireless customer, you need to read this article. It made feel sorry for AT&T Wireless.

[Direct Link To CIO AT&T Wireless Self-Destructs Story]
[Thanks Peter!]

Goldfish Aquarium

Some things should be kept a secret and I thought about keeping this one close to me, but decided that there must be others that are looking for a replacement to the played out Marine Aquarium by Prolific Publishing. Goldfish Aquarium is their latest release and you can tell they took what they know about 3D programming and applied it to this application. It looks more realistic than the Marine Aquarium, I would even venture to say almost lifelike. You can choose from 12 different types of Goldfish and cycle thru different tanks and views… one of my favorites is the top view, which reminds me of the old flying toaster screensaver by Berkleysoft. Did I already mention the graphics are unbelievable; the fish really act and look real. This is a great screensaver for your home theater or to just have displayed on your DIY inwall touchscreen. The best part is you don’t need to feed or maintain anything making the $20 price tag a non-issue. It’s currently only available on the PC, a OSX version will be released soon.

A iTunes Clone for Lindows

I really don’t know how Lindows is allowed to release a clone of iTunes. But now users of Lindows can enjoy some of the features that makes iTunes the best music organizer and playback program in the world on their very own system. Named LSongs, it not only shares a similar look, it lets you import, organize using playlists, and listen to streaming audio. Sorry, no Lsongs Music Store. I personally don’t think it’s worth the $19.95 or switching over to Lindows for it, but there must be some that would… anyone?

The Perfect Toaster

The first electric toaster was invented in 1893 in Great Britain by Crompton and Co and re-invented in 1909 in the United States. Since then we have had to deal with burnt and over done toast… why? Paul Brown, the inventor of the Perfect Toaster may put and end to this saga. The Perfect Toaster is the world’s first toaster technology to be able to sense the browness of toast by monitoring caramelisation effects, guaranteeing perfect toast every time without burning. And you ask how this is all done… with a ionising particle sensor. If you work for a major appliance or toaster manufacturer, please contact Paul over at Magnetic Design so we all can enjoy perfect toast. [via Gizmo]

Leisure Suit Larry Is Back!

WOW, this brings back memories… I remember playing Leisure Suit Larry, The Land of the Lounge Lizards back in 1987 on my IBM XT in 16 color CGA graphics (here are some screen shots). Vivendi Universal Games announced today that Leisure Suit Larry: Magna Cum Laude is scheduled for release this Fall on PC, PlayStation 2 and the Xbox. Don’t expect to see our friend Larry Laffer, the series’ original lovable loser, in this installment we’ll be rooting for Larry Lovage, his nephew. In Magna Cum Laude, Lovage starts as a sixth-year-senior enrolled at the local community college, and spends most of his time in his dorm room or on campus striking out with women. After hearing about a reality TV dating show visiting his college campus, Larry resolves to revitalize his life and get on the show. Over the course of the game, Larry sets out on an epic search for love (or its equivalent) and finds that things don’t always go as planned. This game will be packed with mini-games like Tapper, Trampoline, and Wet T-shirt Contents. I don’t know if the reason why I liked the original was because I was younger or if it really was an entertaining game… guess I’ll just have to wait and see.

Carnegie Mellon offers eSuds Service

This confirms that we are living in a connected society… a society that feels the need to monitor the washing and drying of their clothing. I think this is a great service for the college student, gone are the days of arriving to the laundrymat and all machines are being used, or trying to find enough change to feed the machine. Carnegie Mellon will be the first university to go live with eSuds, giving its 4,000 campus residents the ability to use the eSuds online laundry services to do their laundry. Check out the eSuds.net website for realtime status on washer/dryer availablity and how much time is remaining. Very cool… I wonder if I can rig my washer/dry to do this.

The HandyMark

If you have ever hung drywall you know how much of a pain it is to mark and cut outlet and switch boxes. I stumbled across the HandyMark and thought to myself, why didn’t I think of that. The HandyMark is a very simple jig that is made out of ABS plastic with six stainless steel pins. When placed on top of a standard single gang box it makes marking drywall a piece of cake. This $9.95 item can save you hundreds in the long run.

Meridian 861

No, that’s not the address to the finest club in town, it’s the latest preamp model from Meridian. I’ve always loved Meridian’s slick and clean looking components, but have never had the pleasure of owning one. To give you an idea as to why, the Meridian 861 preamp retails for $16k and can cost up to $20k fully loaded (fruit not included). So, if you love to dream or you can actually afford one of the finest audio-video components in the world, then point your browser over to Revolution Home Theater where they have a full review. After reading the review, I’ve decided to start a Meridian 861 fund. I’ve got $5.00 allocated already… wish me luck.

EyeHome Digital Media Player

I’ve been looking for something like this for a while, a home digital media player that uses Apple’s Rendezvous technology to find media stored on my Mac. Elgato has released the EyeHome digital media player that puts your iLife on TV. EyeHome accesses your existing iPhoto, iTunes, Movies and even EyeTV content (FYI: EyeTV is a TiVo like PVR for your Mac). I was starting to wonder when I’d see this kind of technology for my Mac… phew! It’s a steal at $249.

My Favorite Home Automation Controller

If you are looking for the ultimate home automation solution, you need to check out what HAI has to offer. I’m currently installing a OmniPro II in my new home and there is nothing my house won’t be able to do. Imagine coming home at 10 o’clock at night, the system knows the time, when you open the garage door the system turns on certain lights to guide you to your bedroom. After the system notices no movement in the home, via motion sensors, the lights turn off. This is just one example of how a properly designed and integrated home automation system can work. The OmniPro can control your HVAC, Lighting, Security, and almost anything else you throw at it. If you are in the market for a home automation system, you need to look at HAI very seriously. Contact me directly if you have any questions, since I am a user and a big fan.

Gucci iPod

If you own Gucci socks, shoes, underwear, pants, shirts, hats, and a custom Ferrari with Gucci interior (as seen on MTV Cribs), then you must complete your Gucci wardrobe with this styling Gucci iPod case. It only costs $195… I’ll take two! Riiiiiight… I’d wait for the Swapmeet Gucci.

Coca-Cola C2

No, it’s nothing computerized… but many of us drink a can or two a day, so it’s worthy of being talked about… The Coca-Cola Company today announced it will introduce Coca-Cola C2 in Japan first and then hit the U.S. this summer. They have been working on the C2 formula for over a year, trying to get the right taste we all have grown to love. The newest product to bear the trademark of the world’s best-selling soft drink will have half the sugar, carbohydrates and calories of regular colas. Does this make “Supersizing” right again?

Hello My Name Is… GEEK?

If you are the ultimate geek or are planning the ultimate geek fest, you need to purchase a few of these Scrolling LCD Badges from Think Geek. Not only is this badge fully programmable, it can be changed on the fly by using the IR remote control. The badge can store up to 4 messages, scroll at 7 different speeds, and can be programmed or changed via a serial cable. It sure beats the old school “Hello My Name Is” badges! Though, don’t expect to pay 15¢ for this badge… the whole kit runs $70.

DVD Producer - WMV HD Edition

Microsoft is trying to be the first at getting HD discs into peoples hands and homes… successful they have been. I was lucky to see WMV HD when it was being developed and was blown away then. The beauty of WMV HD is that it doesn’t need blue laser based technology to fit a two hour movie on a disc, WMV HD makes it possible to fit a full movie on a standard DVD. Microsoft and Sonic Solutions, known for their Sonic DVD line, have unveiled DVD Producer - WMV HD Edition, a special version of Sonic’s professional authoring application that supports the production of DVD titles using Microsoft Windows Media Video High-Definition (WMV HD). Traditionally, Sonics UI’s are not as elegant as Apples iDVD, but if you want to be the first one on your block to author a HD DVD, then it’s as good as it gets. DVD Producer - WMV HD Edition is still in Beta, if you’d like to join the beta team, email: hdbeta@sonic.com. The only catch is that you really need HD material to take advantage of this authoring tool.

Silicone Enhanced iPod Mini

Personally, I think iSkin Inc. has the best iPod cases around. They are made from durable form-fitting silicone and provide protection against damages and scratches, and we know how badly those pretty little pods get scratched. You’ll have a hard time picking one out since they come in many colors and glow-in-the-dark variations. Some of the selling points, incase you need them… Rear pores to promote heat dissipation, Easy access to iPod’s Controls and Hold Switch, Side “goose bumps” for increased anti-slip grip, Compatible with iPod accessories that connect to the top of the iPod such as iTrip, Integrated dock connector port cover… need I say more? You’ll have to pony up 25 bones for these skins.

HomePod

Macsense HomePod is an ultra compact and portable digital stereo component that plays MP3 and Internet Radio streams from any wireless (802.11b) or wired network. Designed for use with iTunes, it also works with MusicMatch Jukebox, Nullsoft WinAmp, or any networked computer running OSX, Windows, Linux, BSC and Solaris. The HomePod includes a 2.5” back-lit LCD, IR remote, Jog-shuttle dial for quick content navigation, built-in stereo speakers, a headphone jack, RCA stereo and optical outputs and a FM tuner. Might be the perfect little gadget for a bathroom, kitchen area or even outside on the patio… Retail price for the HomePod is $249.