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by Published on February 2nd, 2011 21:18- Categories:
- PC News
via PCR Online
Google unveiled the results of a sting operation which shows that Microsoft have been capturing Google search results and placing them into the competing Bing search engine.
The issue relates to Microsoft's Internet Explorer and the Bing Toolbar which apparently passes search queries and visited web pages to Microsoft servers which are then later used to generate results in the Bing search engine.
According to a Search Engine Land report, red flags were raised in October of last year when the firm noticed a increase in overlap of Google's top 10 search results with those of Microsoft's Bing.
"I've spent my career in pursuit of a good search engine," said Google search ranking fellow Amit Singhal. "I've got no problem with a competitor developing an innovative algorithm. But copying is not innovation, in my book."
To confirm the suspicions, Google set up an elaborate sting operation where it for the first time ever manipulated search ranking for around 100 'synthetic' searches of nonsense terms. The terms were chosen because they returned no matches on Bing or Google.
Google then placed a honey pot page to show up in top position for the synthetic search and then on the 17th of December Google engineers ran the test queries from laptops at home running Internet Explorer with Suggested Sites and the Bing Toolbar enabled.
By the 31st of December the search results began to appear on Bing.
Microsoft was unrepentant, calling the sting a "spy-novelesque stunt".
While Search Engine Land's Danny Sullivan pointed out that the install options for IE and the Bing Toolbar clearly mention the use of the user's search queries, he nevertheless concluded: "I've got some sympathy for Google’s view that Bing is doing something it shouldn't." ...
"We use over 1,000 different signals and features in our ranking algorithm," said Microsoft Bing veep Harry Shum in a blog post.
"A small piece of that is clickstream data we get from some of our customers, who opt-in to sharing anonymous data as they navigate the web in order to help us improve the experience for all users."allegedby Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:43- Categories:
- PS3 News,
- PC News,
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Razer Arctosa USB Gaming Keyboard
Manufacturer: Razer
Site: Buy from Amazon (Silver) / Buy from Amazon (Black) / Buy from Razer
Price: $49.99
Overview : Engineered with industry- leading gaming technology from Razer, the Razer Arctosa comes with outstanding features like fully-programmable Hyperesponse™ keys with macro capabilities, customizable software profiles with on-the-fly switching and 1000Hz Ultrapolling™, giving you the competitive edge to perform faster and better in-game.
Say goodbye to amateur hour; your gaming abilities can be brought to the next level now.
Slim Keycap Structure with Hyperesponse™ Technology
The Hyperesponse™ keys of the Razer Arctosa reduce key latency and maximize response for critical actions during competitive gameplay ensuring fast, accurate and consistent actuation response in the intense frenzy of competitive gameplay.
Selective anti-ghosting capability around WASD gaming cluster
The Razer Arctosa addresses "ghosting" signal failure that occurs when you press multiple keys simultaneously on traditional keyboards. Selective anti-ghosting around the WASD gaming cluster on the Razer Arctosa allows more commands to be entered at any one time without the "ghosting" signal failure.
Fully-programmable keys with macro capabilities
Too many keystrokes to enter and too little keys? Sometimes we wish we had more fingers (or maybe an additional arm for that can of soda or beer while we're in the middle of a raid.) The next best thing would be fully programmable keys with macro capabilities that enable instantaneous, multiple commands with a single keystroke. Buy armor and weapons or execute complex manoeuvres with a single key with the Razer Arctosa. Some things are better than extra fingers (or arms).
Specs:
- Fully-programmable keys with macro capabilities
- Selective anti-ghosting for WASD gaming cluster
- Slim keycap structure with Hyperesponse™ technology
- Easy access media keys
- Gaming mode option for deactivation of the Windows key
- 10 customizable software profiles with on-the-fly switching
- 1000Hz Ultrapolling™ / 1ms response time
- Detachable wrist rest
- Approximate size:
- 470mm (length) x 165mm (width) x 20mm (height) - without wrist rest
- 470mm (length) x 222mm (width) x 20mm (height) - with wrist rest
System Requirements:
- PC with built-in USB
- Windows® XP / x64 / Vista / Vista64
- CD-ROM drive
- Internet connection (for driver installation)
- 35MB of free hard disk space
Quality/Usability : Although this keyboard is mainly for PC and PC gaming use, this review mainly revolves around console gaming with the use of XFPS 4.0 Force for PS3 and Speed for Xbox 360. This can also be used with XFPS Rateup for PS3 and XFPS Sniper Plus for Xbox 360.
The Razer Arctosa came in a very nice packaging. The keyboard was packed in black cardboard box with a black sleeve case in the middle of the box that holds the manual, software CD on the back of manual, stickers and inserts. You can install the software on the CD (which the program connects to the internet and downloads the latest software) or download from Razer's support website. I personally prefer to download from the support website since it usually contains the latest updates. I'll discuss a little further about the software below. The keyboard is well built and excellent quality. The keyboard is black as well as the lettering on the keys. Black on black looks nice on cars but not so good on this keyboard. It makes the letters difficult to see in low light conditions. Holding the keyboard at a certain angle, you can see the letters and numbers since it shines. Since I have a desk lamp on top of my computer desk and my keyboard on a keyboard draw on my desk, its hard to see since the top of the desk overshadows the keyboard and blocks the light from the desk lamp.
The Arctosa is a very sleek looking keyboard with a nice profile. On the bottom top of the keyboard are feets/stands that flip out to provide some height. The palm rest can be removed by loosening a few screws. I wonder why the used screws to hold it in place rather than clips.
On the top right corner of the keybard are three (3) LED indicators for Caps, Number and Scroll lock. These LEDs are really bright and can be blinding when looked at. Beneath these indicators are eight (8) media buttons. At first glance these buttons are not raised or protruding and you would think maybe they were touch sensitive but when you press on them, they click. The media buttons consists of play/pause, stop, previous and next on the left side and volume up, down and mute on the right side. There is also a Razer logo in the center of the that acts as a button which is used for switching macro profiles. The buttons work well so as long you're in the right application. When you have the software installed, it provides a menu to tell it what program you use to listen to music or watch movies with such as Windows Media Player, iTunes and Real Player. Using the keyboard for normal tasks such as web browsing, Word document, etc. However, ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:43- Categories:
- Apple News,
- PC News,
- DCEmu Reviews
WaterField SleeveCase Laptop
Manufacturer: WaterField Designs
Site: Buy from SFBags
Price: $39.00-100.00
Overview : Over 100 different sizes. Proper protection starts with a proper fit. Our San Francisco sewing shop churns out a dizzying array of sleeve sizes in 1/2" increments to ensure a custom fit for your specific laptop.
Cushioned with high-grade neoprene and wrapped in a ballistic nylon shell, our SleeveCases function as a stylish stand-alone laptop case or can be inserted into another bag. And no need to take your laptop out of its snug compartment when going through airport security—it's TSA Checkpoint Friendly. We've got your fit. It's a slam dunk.
Quality/Usability : So ever since owning my 13" Macbook, I have been carrying it around with the iSkin SOHO Macbook Sleeve Case. Although it has served its purpose, there was no pockets to hold paperwork or CDs and no strap. I had to hold it in my hand. Having reviewed many Waterfield Designs products, why not give another product of theirs a shot as well as a review.
Like most of WaterField Designs cases, its made of a durable nylon shell with a checkered board type bottom. The inside is lined with high grade neoprene so you dont have to worry about your laptop being scratched or anything. The fitment of the case to the laptop is perfect. Not too tight and not too loose. Another thing I noticed is that all cases have a strap or loop. This allows you to put 1 finger through the loop to help anchor the case while you slide/pull out the device.
The back pocket allows you to insert papers, CDs, cables or anything you might need. However, depending on the size of your mouse and power supply brick/cable, the pocket may hold it. Inserting letter sized papers (8.5"x11") into the pocket will stick out allowing you to grab them easily but also fold the edges or crease them. Since this review is based on a 13" Apple Macbook (Black), the size of the case is 12.78" (l) x 8.92" (h) x 1.08" (d) which is big enough to hold letter sized paper. If you have a netbook which is smaller, the case will be smaller and will have paper sticking out or you would have to fold the paper in half.
The strap is very durable as well. The hooks are made of metal and not cheap plastic or aluminum. The padding on the strap has two different textures on each side. One side has a leather texture while the other side has a dotted rubber material similar to that of a basketball. There is no specific side but more of your preference. Of course, if the leather side is on your shoulder, it will be sliding where as the rubber texture wouldnt.
Price of the SleeveCase starts off at $39. As you get bigger in bag size, so does the price which can go as high as $59. You can choose your case to be inserted horizontal or vertical but there is no additional charge to this.
If you want to add a flap, it will cost an additional $15.
You can also add straps which ranges from $12 (regular strap), $18 (padded strap) or just D-Rings for $5, if you want to use your own straps. You can view different straps here.
Now, if the small pocket on the side does not hold your power cable, mouse or any other accessory, you have the option of purchasing a "Piggback". This will cost you $25 and the pouch clips onto the D-Rings. You can also purchase the Piggback separate by going to this link.
Conclusion : Overall, the WaterField SleeveCase Laptop is another great product by SFBags. There is nothing to complain or anything negative...well, maybe except for trying to keep it clean. Make sure you dont put the cases on any crumbs because with the nylon, there are small crevices and small food particles can get caught inbetween the grooves. $39 is a great price point for such a great product but as you add stuff to it such as flap, shoulder strap, Piggyback, price can get a bit hefty. Prices vary for everyone as some would want a flap, while others dont, some would want strap, while others dont need it. On average, you're looking to spend between $39-$75 based on what options you add.
Whats great about SFBags is that if you dont see your laptop manufacturer, you can submit your laptops info such as manufacturer, brand and dimensions and they would help you find the correct size. Even though it might not be listed, one of the current sizes can fit your laptop.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:43- Categories:
- PC News,
- DCEmu Reviews
XCM XFPS Storm Light Gun (PC)
Review by: TrialSword
Provided by: DCEmu Reviews
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from Divineo China / Buy from Divineo France / Buy from ConsoleSource / Buy from GoldenShop / Buy from Amazon
Price: $99.00
Overview : XFPS Storm Light Gun brings first person shooters to a whole new experience. With the XFPS Storm, you can snipe your foes with precision aiming using this unique light gun. No more keyboard, no more mouse and having to rest your wrist with point and click. Simply point and shoot.
The Storm will support CRT, LCD, Plasma, DLP as well as Projector. It supports every gun shooting game on PC. Storm can be upgraded via software and is compatible with Windows XP, Window vista and Windows 7 operating system. Now you can enjoy gun shooting games with your LCD, Plasma or any other display you have.
Quality/Usability : The XFPS Storm Light Gun peripheral for the PC has one simple goal: to turn your first person shooters into a more interactive, contextual experience. With it, the player can aim, move, fire, and perform other in-game functions using an assortment of shortcut buttons and a very familiar motion tracking mechanic. Is this something to pull the trigger on, or should you check the safety first?
The Storm Light Gun sports a relatively safe design that champions utility over style. The grip is sizable and designed to hold with one hand. Attached to the side is a smaller grip that can be detached and appear very much like a nunchuk for the Wii. Shortcut buttons can be found here and on the gun itself, on both sides. This is aside from the two analog sticks, which can also be pressed in, and the trigger. The material feels sturdy but is a very benign, shiny blue plastic. Liken it to the look and feel of a shiny blue lego. Sleek is hardly the word that comes to mind, but despite the lack of flair I could not say that it is cheaply constructed.
The technology at work here is almost exactly that of the Wii. The Storm Light Gun comes packed with an IR sensor that could easily be mistaken for the same one packed with the Wii. It is intended to rest on top of your monitor, so make sure there's a home for it or that your monitor can accommodate. Both the sensor bar and the gun itself connect via USB, so two free ports are necessary to use the Storm Light Gun.
The good news is that this peripheral is completely plug and play. Once you've plugged it in, the IR tracking serves as a proxy for mouse navigation. The trigger is the left mouse click and the shortcut buttons can be remapped in-game as a regular gamepad would. The gun conveniently transfers the controls to most PC FPS games in an accurate, intuitive way: The analog stick on the nunchuk lets you move your character, the trigger fires, and you can aim your weapons by simply aiming the gun itself. If you have played any FPS on the Wii at all, one can easily gain a sense for what they will be turning their game experience on the PC into.
There are a few snags, of course. The IR sensors can be spotty at times, resulting in the player character reeling their aim into the far corners of the map, but when responding appropriately can provide a surprising degree of control and accuracy. In addition, the sensor bar requires that the player be about 3 feet from the monitor at minimum, which is further than many PC gamers are used to.
I tested the Storm Light Gun with a number of games:
- Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2
- Battlefield: Bad Company 2
- Left 4 Dead 2
- Half-Life 2
For games with relatively simple control schemes, the gun provided a fun, new experience. Half-Life 2 and Left 4 Dead 2 accomodated especially well, requiring few button shortcuts and few opportunities in which you won't be running and gunning. For all the novelty, however, it never really crossed my mind that this could be a legitimate replacement control scheme for the games I was playing. This rings especially true for the more complex games, which require more context-sensitive button presses. Having both hands full with the nunchuk and the gun's grip also makes it somewhat cumbersome to even reach the buttons at times. Chances are, a player will be dead long before they have found the time to navigate to some of these buttons.
Because the gun is essentially a plug and play gamepad with IR tracking, it does not always perform the same for every game encountered. For instance, Modern Warfare 2 requires little in the way of shortcut keys and a simple mechanic for firing/aiming that accommodate the gun very well. Games like Battlefield: Bad Company 2, however, have many contextual button presses that would be hard to map or reliably execute with the gun, such as piloting any vehicles or arming/disarming bombs.
The obvious statement to make here is that anyone attempting to use this gun for multiplayer in lieu of a traditional keyboard and mouse will always be at a disadvantage for virtually every game they'd want to play. I cannot recommend it for any level of competitive play or for any game that will have your character regularly changing control schemes. The plug and play nature of this peripheral is a double edged sword: while it provides a mostly unilateral experience for any FPS, another obvious statement is that every FPS is different, and none are made specifically for this method of control.
Conclusion : Any attempt to alter or simplify controls for the FPS is a battle in itself. No contender has managed to dethrone the classic keyboard and mouse combo, and unfortunately, the XFPS Storm Light Gun does not come close to that vaunted status. Instead, it provides a solid, reliable and effective method of altering the controls in a way engaging enough to facilitate a second or third romp through a personal favorite title or two. It suits the mentality that games are to be played for fun and spectacle, not necessarily as a serious engagement or a competitive grudge match. In this way the Storm Light Gun is much like the games it's meant to play: the experience is entirely what you make of it.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:43- Categories:
- PS3 News,
- PC News,
- Xbox 360 News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Razer Imperator Gaming Mouse Mice
Manufacturer: Razer
Site: Buy from Amazon / Buy from Razer (US) / Buy from Razer (Europe)
Price: $79.99 (US) / €69.99 (EU)
Overview : The Razer Imperator is not just a mere mouse, it is an extension of your hands. Its right-handed ergonomic form factor with a contoured thumb grip delivers comfort and a better fit for gaming, whether you use a palm or fingertip grip. Be empowered to take on foes and fatigue alike - for longer gaming sessions without strain.
When every aspect of your game matters, customize your game play with the unique adjustable side buttons, giving you optimum reach for easier access to mission critical keys and macros.
Ergonomic right-handed form factor with contoured thumb grip
The Razer Imperator’s right-handed ergonomic form factor maximizes comfort during intense and extended gameplay so you can outlast and outfrag the competition. The contoured thumb grip cradles your hand delivering increased control to low sensitivity gamers who often lift and swipe their mouse.
Adjustable side buttons for optimum reach
2 adjustable side buttons delivers optimum reach regardless of palm size or grip style; and for gamers who often lift their mouse or make rapid movements during gaming, the customizable buttons makes mission critical keys and macros accessible at all times.
5600dpi Razer Precision™ 3.5G laser sensor
The 5600dpi Razer Precision 3.5G laser sensor arms you with gaming grade precision and reliable tracking that will keep up with your every movement. Be it a small twitch of your wrist or a long range swipe to take out your foe, the Razer imperator delivers your every instruction with pinpoint accuracy.
Technical Specifications:
- Ergonomic right-handed design
- Adjustable side buttons
- 5600dpi Razer Precision™ 3.5G Laser sensor
- Razer Synapse™ On-board Memory
- Up to 200 inches per second / 50g acceleration
- Seven independently programmable Hyperesponse™ buttons
- 1000Hz Ultrapolling™ / 1ms response rate
- On-The-Fly Sensitivity™ adjustment
- Zero-acoustic Ultraslick™ Teflon® feet
Approx. size in mm: 123(L) x 71(W) x 42(H)
Hardware requirement:
- PC/Mac with USB port
- Windows® 7 / Windows Vista® / Windows® Xp or Mac OS X (v10.4 and above)
- Internet connection (for driver installation)
- At least 35MB of hard disk space
Quality/Usability : Although this mouse is mainly for PC/Mac and PC gaming use, this review mainly revolves around console gaming with the use of XFPS 4.0 Force for PS3 and Speed for Xbox 360. This can also be used with XFPS Rateup for PS3 and XFPS Sniper Plus for Xbox 360.
The Razer Imperator's box has a cover flap and when opened, it shows the mouse behind a clear plastic box/cover. Included with the package are separate instructions for both Mac and PC, pamphlets, as well as a coaster, stickers and a seal of authenticity.
The scroll wheel is fairly big and not small. The left and right buttons have a big clickable surface where your fingers and rest easily. Underneath are two more buttons that are used to adjust sensitivity on-the-fly. On the side are two thumb buttons and can be programmed. These are adjustable for those of you who have very long or very short thumbs. These are the only buttons that are adjustable. On the bottom of the mouse is a switch. As you move this up or down, the thumb buttons also move. Also on the bottom is a button labeled "PROFILE". This button is used for on-the-fly profile switching so you don't need to minimize or ALT+TAB out of your game to open the application. This button is only useful for PC/MAC use. There are some features that will not work on console games.
A cool factor about the mouse is that the logo on the front/top of the mouse pulsates and lights up. It does serve a purpose or anything except for the fact that it lets you know the mouse is powered. The scroll wheel also lights up blue as well. The USB plug has a gold plated USB connector, as well as the 7 foot long braided cord which allows for greater durability. No matter what your setup is, the 7 foot of cord is long enough.
Since the Razer Imperator is connected to the computer, its best that you download the software since you can use it as your new mouse for your computer. I'm not going to go through the whole process of installation and settings as its like any software install and some of the features that is used for PC game does not work for console. If you're interested in knowing more about this mouse for PC gaming, please do a search on this mouse as others have reviewed this witht he focus of using it for PC gaming. However, I will discuss some functions that will work for console game and settings. You can adjust the DPI up to 5600! That insanely high. You can also adjust the acceleration and polling rate (125Hz, 500Hz or 1000Hz), toggle whether you want the light on the logo to be ON or OFF and the same goes for the scroll wheel. The software allows you to check to see if there is any new updates if you feel your mouse is not performing well or if there is a bug. ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:42- Categories:
- PC News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Ultimate 2000 AX VGA-TV Converter
Manufacturer: Vtimage
Site: Buy from Goldenshop
Price: $49.99
Overview : Ultimate 2000 AX is a handed-size universal VGA to TV converter box. It supports resolution up to 1280x1024. Compact size, power from USB port, easy for carry. It is best for PC Game, PC DVD, Internet viewing on TV, Entertainment, Education and Presentation.
Features
- Pure hardware design, just Plug & Display
- No software driver required, compatible with any operation system
- Support 640x48@60/72/75/85Hz, 800x600@60/72/75/85Hz, 1027x768@60/70/75/85Hz, 1280x1024@60Hz display mode
- Switchable NTSC, NTSC-EIAJ (for Japan), PAL, PAL-M, PAL-N, PAL-combination-N and SECAM video system
- Supports Position control and MENU button
- MENU button supports HSIZE, VSIZE, BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, HUE, SATURATION, SHARPNESS, and OSD BACKGROUND color adjustment
- Support overscan and underscan function
- Simultaneous display on VGA monitor and TV
- Power from USB port
- 24bit, true color digitizer
- Supports IBM PC and MAC G4
- Compact form factor: 95mm(L)x55mm(W)x30mm(H)
Package Contents
- Ultimate 2000 AX (PC to TV converter box)
- User's Manual
- S-Video cable
- Video cable
- USB type power cable
- VGA cable for IBM PC & MAC G4
Quality/Usability : My video card on my PC has a VGA OUT I was able to watch movies on my 32" TV rather than my 17" PC monitor. This made viewing a lot easier for when I had company over. But having to my computer (motherboard died on me), I lost the ability to watch movies on my TV even though I am able to see my computer. So I had to look for another alternative.
Ultimate 2000 AX was that alternative solution. I tried the Ultimate 2000 AX both on my desktop as well as my IBM Thinkpad laptop that I got from my college. Installation was simple and basic. Connect a few cables whether it be VGA cables, S-Video cable or Video cable and the USB power cable and you're all set to go. Unfortunately, you'll have to play around with it as the manual that was included isnt really a manual. I had to go by the image that was printed on the back of the box.
On the front of the Ultimate 2000 AX are 6 buttons. LEFT, RIGHT, UP, DOWN, MENU and SIZE. LEFT, RIGHT, UP, DOWN are pretty much self explanatory. MENU brings up HSIZE, VSIZE, BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, HUE, SATURATION, SHARPNESS, and OSD BACKGROUND color adjustment. HSIZE allows you to adjust the height, VSIZE allows you to adjust the width. BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, HUE, SATURATION, SHARPNESS are all self explanatory. OSD Background lets you adjust the color of the text on the MENU selection to either white or black. SIZE allows you to choose various different sizes that will suit your viewing and size of TV.
The back has a VIDEO OUT to connect to TV, S-Video to connect your VCR and VGA OUT to connect to your PC monitor. The left side is VGA IN plug. On the right side of is the DC IN and a switch 1 & 2. Switch 1 & 2 lets you choose your TV standard whether it be NTSC or PAL. For NTSC, switch 1 is down (ON) and switch 2 is up (OFF). For PAL, both switches are down. Remember the "manual"? As mentioned, there was really no manual and I had to figure this out myself as when I first plugged in the Ultimate 2000 AX, I thought I did something wrong or it was broken.
Besides the lack of information in the "manual", I am impressed with the quality that is displayed. The quality is clear, colors are vibrant and the ability to adjust the size of display to fit on your TV is a great plus! This is perfect if you have movies stored on your computer and want to view it on your bigger TV. Its also great for your presentation for either work or school related. Since this only supports video, audio is still coming from your original source whether it be from your laptop or computer speakers.
Conclusion : Overall, the Ultimate 2000 AX VGA-TV Converter does its job great. At first, I was skeptic about the quality of the display coming from a no-name brand device. But after seeing this in action, I am no longer skeptic. It would have been nice if the "manual" was actually a manual rather than a piece of paper that lists product features, introduction, system requirements and package contents. Price is fairly reasonable at $49.99.
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:41- Categories:
- PSP News,
- PS3 News,
- Nintendo DS News,
- Nintendo Wii News,
- PC News,
- DCEmu Reviews
iPorter xSD Memory Card Holder
Manufacturer: ePorter
Site: Buy from ePorter
Price: $9.95/2 pack
Overview : The iPorter xSD fits the SD, MS Duo, MMC, xD and other smaller form cards. The exterior resembles a digital camera image. The interior holds 3 cards. The iPorter xSD is great for the photographer on the go who doesn't have time or equipment immediately available to download on the road until they get back from their excursion or photo shoot.
The ePorter products are perfect for the cards, as they fit easily in your pocket along with your keys. They do not take up a lot of room in your camera bag, yet they are large enough to prevent the cards from getting lost.
The products are also great tools that allow you to cary an extra card for your PDA program or swap the card in your MP3 player to get new music.
Features :
- Holds 3 Memory Cards
- Secure Digital (SD)
- xD Picture Card (xD)
- Memory Stick Duo (MSD)
- Multimedia Card (MMC)
- MMC Reduced Size - Protects cards
- Anti Static Additive to reduce risk of shock and dust collection
- Prevents loss
- Can be used as a mailer to protect media - Holds Cards of different formats or sizes
- Maximum Portability
- Fits on key chain or zipper
- Small form factor - Keeps spare cards accessible
- Low cost
- Great logo / Promotional product idea
Quality/Usability : The item does its job. It protects your memory cards whether its SD, xD, Pro Duo/Duo or MMC. Its made of plastic so its very light and wont add extra weight to your keys. The case flips open pretty much like book or diary where it has that locking mechanism. Upon opening it, you will see three "sleeves". These sleeves are where you place your memory cards. To hold them in place are little "clamps". Pretty much the same thing that holds PS2 and PSP manuals in place in their respective cases.
When you place the memory cards in the "sleeve", it is held pretty well and doesnt move around at all. Even if you shake it, it still in place. You can use this for memory cards such as your Pro Duo/Duo for your PSP or your SD/xD/MMC cards for your digital camera, PDA or cellphone.
iPorter xSD comes in four different colors: Brown, Grey, Green and Blue. Currently they are sold in packs of two. You can either purchase two of the same colors or one of each color.
Conclusion : Overall, this is a great item to have if you have multiple memory cards to carry around. Its light weight and small. My only complaint is that everything is made of plastic. My only fear is that eventually when you keep opening and bending the hinges over and over again, the hinges tend to get weaker and weaker and will break sooner or later (like any other plastic items out there). This can happen to the case itself (hinges), the locking mechanism or the "sleeve" that holds the memory cards.
*UPDATE* - Response from CEO (James Porter)
If you would like to run the case over with your car or SUV to test the strength and durability, feel free to. Just know that ePorter nor DCEmu is held reliable for any damages to your case.As a note, I have tried a couple of things to test the strength. The hinge is called a living hinge, and can withstand thousands of bends. Each sleeve has a hinge as well, that initially is rigid, but softens up apon use. I have tested it to over 1000 openings and closings. I have also stepped on them, with my full weight resting on them. They maintain their shape.
One other test I did was drive over them in both my car and my 4x4 truck (it weighs 3 tons). The hinge did not break in either test. Rather remarkable for plastic.
Thanks,
JP
Images via comments ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:31- Categories:
- PSP News,
- PS3 News,
- Nintendo Wii News,
- PC News,
- Android News,
- DCEmu Reviews
Brando 55-in-1 Card Reader/Writer
Manufacturer: Brando
Site: Buy from Brando
Price: $28.00
Overview : Brando WorkShop 55 in 1 Card Reader works with the most popular cards, even new SDHC / SDHC 2.0 cards. Besides, it is able to read MicroSD/T-Flash, miniSD, Memory Stick Micro (M2) directly WITHOUT any adapters!!
With the new design and advanced chipset, it is capable of TURBO speed access! Like Extreme III CF, it takes only 6 secs to copy 100MB files, whereas other common card readers takes 14 secs.
So, what sort of disadvantages of this card reader? Smart Media Card is uncompatible though. Guess you no longer use Smart Media Card, don't you?
Features :
- Brando Workshop brand new extraordinary designed
- 5 slots 55 in 1 CARD READER
- True plug & play and hot swapping
- USB 2.0 speed - Fast data/files access and transfer rate up to 480Mbps
- MicroSD/T-Flash direct access No adapter required
- MiniSD direct access No adapter required
- M2 direct access No adapter required
- Support NEW high capacity standard SDHC SD card
- Compatible with PC & Mac
- RoHS compliant
Specifications :
- Size: 85x58x12mm (3.15"x2.28"x0.47")
- Weight: 40g (1.41 ounce)
- Interface: USB2.0 (480Mbps), backward compatible with USB 1.0/1.1
- Power Supply: Bus-powered
- System Requirements: Support Windows 2000 SP3/SP4, ME and XP, Support Mac 8.6, 9.x, 10.1.2 and above (Driver is required for Windows 2000, Mac 8.6/9.x)
Supported Memory Cards :
- CF I
- CF II
- CF I WA
- CF I ELITE PRO
- CF PRO
- CF PRO II
- CF Ultra II
- HS CF
- CF Extreme
- CF Extreme III
- CF Extreme IV
- IBM MD
- Hitachi MD
- MAGICSTOR
- MS
- MS MG
- MS PRO
- MS PRO EXTREME
- MS PRO MG
- MS DUO
- MS DUO MG
- MS PRO DUO
- MS PRO DUO ULTRA
- MS PRO DUO MG
- MS PRO ULTRA II
- MS ROM
- MS MEMORY SELECT FUNCTION
- MS DUO HS
- MS PRO EXTREME III
- MS PRO HS
- MS PRO DUO MG HS
- M2
- XD
- XD H Type
- XD M TYPE
- SD
- SD PRO
- SD ELITE PRO
- SD ULTRA
- SD ULTRA II
- SD EXTREME
- SD EXTEREME III
- SD HS 150X
- SDHC 2.0
- MINI SD
- T-Flash
- Micro SD
- MMC
- MMC 4.0
- HS MMC
- RS MMC
- RS MMC 4.0
- HS RS A15MMC
- MMC MOBILE
- MMC PLUS 200X
Package Contents :
- Brando WorkShop 55 in 1 Card Reader
- USB Cable
- Quick Start Guide
Quality/Usability : I have a Sony MSAC-US20 Memory Stick Reader/Writer, SanDisk MobileMate SD+ and various USB cables that connects to my devices inorder for me to transfer data as well as adapters. Thats a lot of stuff on my computer table. With Brando's 55 in 1 Card Reader/Writer, it removes all those and puts them all into one!
Whats great about the 55 in 1 is that not only does it eliminate all those devices, adapters and cables but its works with any Windows and MAC operating systems. Not to mention, NO drivers needed (except for older OS)! The reader/writer is powered by your USB port with no additional power supply and uses USB2.0. It is also backwards compatible with USB1.0/1.1. When the reader is plugged in, I noticed that under MY COMPUTERS, there were three REMOVABLE DRIVES. When you insert a storage card, a green LED is lit up to let you know it is in use.
I tried various cards from a 4GB Hitachi MicroDrive, to a 256MB SD card, to a 1GB Memory Stick/Pro Duo cards and even the new smaller micro cards, microSD and Sony's M2. All work without any problems and all showed up perfectly and without any adapters! I no longer have to mess with cables or adapters in order to transfer data.
Normally, I connect my digital camera to my computer via USB cable. I tried my 4GB Hitachi MicroDrive with the card reader. The 55 in 1 had no problem reading it. Transferring pictures was just as easy and fast. It only took less than a minute to transfer my pictures to my computer. Mind you, these pictures were taken at 10.1MP and the files size are huge.
So I decided to try my 1GB that I use for my Nintendo Wii. Transferring VGA quality images were fast as well. It didnt take long before it was finished. Usually I would use the MobileMate SD+ adapter to transfer files. Transferring files to the Memory Stick and Pro Duo were the same. With the Pro Duo cards, I no longer had to use the adapter in order for me to transfer data. I just slipped it in and the reader had no problem recognizing the card.
My next test was my microSD and M2 that I used for my cellphones. The two newest memory cards to hit the market for the latest devices. I transferred not only pictures but also music. Transferring data was flawless and no adapter was needed at all unlike my other readers.
No matter what sized storage card I threw at the 55 in 1, it had no problem recognizing the card. You must say to yourself, there are other card readers out there that does the same. Yes, you're right BUT they are usually limited to how big in size it will read your card. My Toshiba laptop has a card reader built in. Reading small sized memory cards to 2GB memory cards were not a problem. But when I inserted my 4GB Pro Duo, it didnt read it at all.
Before getting the 55 in ...by Published on February 2nd, 2011 11:31- Categories:
- PC News,
- DCEmu Reviews
55-in-1 Bluetooth Card Reader + Hub
Manufacturer: DTECH
Site: Buy from Brando
Price: $29.00
Overview : It is not only a common card reader, but also a Bluetooth dongle and USB 2.0 hub at the same time. You can interact with Bluetooth devices by its Bluetooth function and its 7 memory card slots which can read and write different memory cards. You can connect any other USB devices with the 2-port hub. You may wonder there are obviously built-in 3 ports in the hub, how come call it 2-port hub? Actually, there are 2 ports for connecting devices with the computer for data transfer, the remaining port provides power for devices. It is good for connecting USB lamps, USB fans, USB Ionizers, etc.
Features :
- 55 in 1 Card Reader/Writer
- Bluetooth dongle
- USB 2.0 Hub
- 2 ports for data transfer
- 1 port for providing power
- USB 2.0 transfer rate up to 480 Mbps, backward compatible with USB 1.1 transfer rate up to 12 Mbps
- Multi moody colours indicate power ON
- Plug and play, hot swapping
- Low power consumption
- Convert Non-Bluetooth PC into Bluetooth enabled
- Wireless connect to Bluetooth devices such as mobile phones, PDAs, etc. for data transfer
- Enable wireless connection to Bluetooth headset
- Bluetooth specification V1.6 compliant
- Interface: USB compliance
- Operation temperature: 0 degree ~ 70 degree
- Receiving/Sending range: 20m
- Support Windows 98/98SE/ME/2000/XP
- Size: 70x85x17mm
- Weight: 73g
Supported Memory Cards :
- CF I
- CF II
- CF I WA
- CF I ELITE PRO
- CF PRO
- CF PRO II
- CF Ultra II
- HS CF
- CF Extreme
- CF Extreme III
- CF Extreme IV
- IBM MD
- Hitachi MD
- MAGICSTOR
- MS
- MS MG
- MS PRO
- MS PRO EXTREME
- MS PRO MG
- MS DUO
- MS DUO MG
- MS PRO DUO
- MS PRO DUO ULTRA
- MS PRO DUO MG
- MS PRO ULTRA II
- MS ROM
- MS MEMORY SELECT FUNCTION
- MS DUO HS
- MS PRO EXTREME III
- MS PRO HS
- MS PRO DUO MG HS
- M2
- XD
- XD H Type
- XD M TYPE
- SD
- SD PRO
- SD ELITE PRO
- SD ULTRA
- SD ULTRA II
- SD EXTREME
- SD EXTEREME III
- SD HS 150X
- SDHC 2.0
- MINI SD
- T-Flash
- Micro SD
- MMC
- MMC 4.0
- HS MMC
- RS MMC
- RS MMC 4.0
- HS RS A15MMC
- MMC MOBILE
- MMC PLUS 200X
Package Contents :
- 55 in 1 Bluetooth Card Reader + Hub
- USB Cable
- Driver CD
Quality/Usability : After reviewing the Brando 55-in-1 Card Reader/Writer, we were impressed by the quality as well as how well the device worked. But thought we wanted to review how well this new 55-in-1 card reader/writer is. Not to mention, it is also a USB 2.0 hub and a Bluetooth dongle.
Whats great about the 55-in-1 is that not only does it eliminate all those devices, adapters and cables but its works with any Windows and MAC operating systems. Not to mention, NO drivers needed (except for bluetooth)! The reader/writer is powered by your USB port with no additional power supply and uses USB 2.0. It is also backwards compatible with USB 1.1. When the reader is plugged in, I noticed that under MY COMPUTERS, there were three REMOVABLE DRIVES. When you insert a storage card, a green LED is lit up to let you know it is in use.
I tried various cards from a 4GB Hitachi MicroDrive, to a 256MB SD card, to a 1GB Memory Stick/Pro Duo cards and even the new smaller micro cards, microSD and Sony's M2. All work without any problems and all showed up perfectly and without any adapters! I no longer have to mess with cables or adapters in order to transfer data.
Normally, I connect my digital camera to my computer via USB cable. I tried my 4GB Hitachi MicroDrive with the card reader. The 55 in 1 had no problem reading it. Transferring pictures was just as easy and fast. It only took less than a minute to transfer my pictures to my computer. Mind you, these pictures were taken at 10.1MP and the files size are huge.
So I decided to try my 1GB that I use for my Nintendo Wii. Transferring VGA quality images were fast as well. It didnt take long before it was finished. Usually I would use the MobileMate SD+ adapter to transfer files. Transferring files to the Memory Stick and Pro Duo were the same. With the Pro Duo cards, I no longer had to use the adapter in order for me to transfer data. I just slipped it in and the reader had no problem recognizing the card.
My next test was my microSD and M2 that I used for my cellphones. The two newest memory cards to hit the market for the latest devices. I transferred not only pictures but also music. Transferring data was flawless and no adapter was needed at all unlike my other readers.
No matter what sized storage card I threw at the 55-in-1, it had no problem recognizing the card. You must say to yourself, there are other card readers out there that does the same. Yes, you're right BUT they are usually limited to how big in size it will read your card. My Toshiba laptop has a card reader built-in. Reading small sized memory cards up to 2GB memory cards were not a problem. But when I inserted my 4GB Pro Duo, it didnt read it at all.
Before getting the 55-in-1, I had contacted companies regarding the limitations of how big the storage card it will read and all said 1GB to 2GB at most. That would do me no good since I have 4GB storage cards.
There are three USB ports on the side. Two are used as hubs while the other is used to power a USB device.
Not only is the 55-in-1 a card reader and a USB hub, it also acted as a bluetooth dongle. Pairing bluetooth devices to the card reader was not a problem. My Sony Ericsson w810i did not have a problem finding the reader and neither did the card reader have problems pairing with the phone. Transfer of files were easy and quick.
Conclusion : Overall, the 55-in-1 Bluetooth Card Reader + Hub is a great all-in-one device. Not only is it compatible with the latest operating systems but it accepts 55 different memory cards. It eliminates the use of USB cables for your devices and adapters. You can also transfer files via bluetooth if you have a bluetooth device. When connecting the card reader to a USB port, make sure it is directly to the computer as connecting it to a USB hub would not supply enough power to the card reader.
Images via commentsby Published on February 2nd, 2011 10:47- Categories:
- Apple News,
- PC News
After the desktop stalwarts of Windows 7 and Mac OS, the world's third most popular platform for web browsing turns out to be Apple's iOS. The software that makes iPhones, iPod touches and iPads tick has been identified by Net Applications as responsible for over two percent of the global traffic data analyzed in the web statistician's latest report -- the first time iOS has crossed that threshold. The UK and Australia had more than five percent each, while the USA clocked in at 3.4 percent. Leaving operating systems aside, Chrome has continued its steady growth on the browser front and now stands at a 10.7 percent share, more than doubling its slice from this time last year. Internet Explorer overall has dipped to its lowest level yet, at 56 percent, however Net Applications indicates IE8 is showing nice growth. So at least it's looking like we're finally ready to bury the zombies known as IE6 and IE7, whatever other browser we choose to migrate to.
http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/02/i...ffic-chrome-r/ ...- Search DCEmu
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