Gadgets Technologies

The QNAP NVR-1012 Network Surveillance Kit targets both home and office use, featuring professional grade live video recording and real-time remote monitoring/playback service. It relies on the Linux OS as the base where performance is a proven thing, and is extremely easy to set up even for the uninitiated. The entire system configuration and recording/monitoring functions of the NVR can be performed via Internet Explorer with no need for complicated software installations. Besides the built-in Ethernet connection the cameras also provide a great alternative for home users to connect wirelessly. The state-of-the-art 2-way communication system supports synchronized video and audio monitoring and recording. (Read the full post about ‘QNAP NVR-1012 Network Surveillance Kit’…)

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LG has launched a new line of Plasma TV called Xcanvas BoBos in Korea. Little is known about the specifications, but from the photos, the speakers are well hidden in the back. Of course, all three models are Full-HD (1080p) capable. 42-inch 42PG61RD 50-inch 50PG61RD 60-inch 60PG70FHD Don’t bother searching in a local store, we bet that this model won’t be exported anytime soon to the U.S. (Read the full post about ‘LG Xcanvas BoBos 60-inch Plasma HDTV’…)

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While most iphone users are happy with their (personal) email setup, wouldn’t it be nice to have a native mobile iChat? Sure, Apple demonstrated an AIM client with their SDK but this patented IM client has a predictive text that proposes several choices as you type, potentially shortening the number of strokes needed to type a phrase. The good news is that it is “choices” – not an auto-replace. This means that the phone is not trying to be smarter that you are, it just tries to help. (Read the full post about ‘Apple iPhone Instant Messaging Patent. Mobile iChat?’…)

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Only days after the announcement of the NFC-enabled Nokia 6212 Classic, there is already an NFC-compatible accessory that goes with it. The Parrot PARTY Black Edition, according to its makers, is the first in the world to commercialize Near Field Communications Technology or NFC. What this means is that not only is it small and portable, but it will be very easy to pair up with compatible devices and pump up the volume. It’s not just easy, it’s ridiculously easy. Think knocking the two devices against each other and you get the picture. Other than being NFC-enabled, this baby also comes with a built-in Class-D amplifier, two drivers that collectively pump out 6 watts of power, Stereo Widening, and a so-called Virtual SuperBass technology.

(Read the full post about ‘Parrot rolls out world’s first NFC-enabled speaker’…)

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With today being Earth Day 2008 here in the United States, I thought it would be good to highlight some eco-friendly gadgets for all the gadget lovers out there who want to do their part for the environment. Doing something good for the environment doesn’t involve having to live in a mud hut, sustaining yourself off wheat grass and tofu and wearing only hemp clothing. You can be on the cutting edge of technology and still be green. Who doesn’t own a cell phone or an mp3 player? Even my grandparents have cell phones. But these items need to be recharged on a regular basis otherwise they just turn into expensive paperweights or something you use to hold a door open. (See? (Read the full post about ‘Earth Day Gadgets: Universal Solar Cell Phone/iPod Charger’…)

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I remember hearing this advice that said if you’re going to leave your dog at home, put a ticking clock in his or her bed. Apparently, the ticking reminds your pooch of his or her mother’s heart, and he or she will be comforted. I saw a similar situation on MacGyver where he was taking care of a baby (yeah, he took on all kinds of missions). Mac ended up putting a small clock into a Teddy Bear, and Mac claimed that the ticking would help the baby feel less lonely for his mother. Obviously, there is some sort of science in listening to a heartbeat for comfort. This is the theory behind My Beating Heart, a huggable heart pillow designed to simulate the sound of a human heartbeat. (Read the full post about ‘My Beating Heart Won’t Make You Blue’…)

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The current economic conditions have begun to take its toll on US companies. Among them is AT&T, which is in the process of cutting 1.5-percent of their workforce. This news was revealed by a ruling filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. AT&T employees who will be hit by the layoffs are those who have no direct contact with AT&T customers and are said to include those in management. The plans for the layoff’s are part of AT&T’s ongoing streamlining of operational activity. Despite laying off a big chunk of their employees, AT&T is expecting to get a pre-tax charge of $374 million as a result of this layoffs. (Read the full post about ‘AT&T to cut 1.5% of workforce in effort to streamline operations’…)

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So you’re part of the remnant on this earth that still owns video tapes but have run out of players to play them. Why not digitize these video tapes instead? At least you will be able to loop them infinitely on your PC, and best of all is there is no need to rewind those tapes once you’re done as everything can be done at the click of a button. ION Audio has just released its VCR 2 PC device that connects to your PC via USB 2.0, with an adjacent composite connection for camcorders, while RCA output is located on the back to playback previews on a TV. In the PAL version, you will find the SCART output as well.

(Read the full post about ‘ION VCR 2 PC digitizes old memories’…)

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You knew the Eee PC 900 was coming soon, but not even the most audacious rumormonger thought it would be this soon. We have received confirmation from ASUS that the next version of everyone’s favorite ultra portable notebook will come out on May 12th of this year.  The new Eee will launch in the US with versions of the Windows XP and Linux operating systems, each for $550. That is about $100 less than the current price in Europe, but $150 more than the first Eee PC. People in the blogosphere are already declaring that this particular sticker price is out of the bounds of the gadget’s original appeal: tiny, powerful, but also relatively affordable. (Read the full post about ‘Update: The Eee PC 900 Launches on May 12 in U.S., Early $550 Price Deemed Too Pricey’…)

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Microsoft has recently launched a private beta test of its subscription version of Office and security software targeted at consumers. The launch package, called Albany, includes Office Live and OneCare, which is a form of anti-virus + general security product. In addition, there is an online storage and collaboration add-on called Workspace. It allows you to upload your documents and share and collaborate on them with other people. Sounds great doesn’t it? Well, not if you look under the hood.

A subscription-based service means it will work as long as you keep shelling out money.

(Read the full post about ‘Opinion: The dangers of subscription software’…)

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