Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter
Manufacturer: Microsoft
Site: Buy from Goldenshop
Price: $79.00


Overview : If you are looking to go wireless on your Xbox, then definitely check out the Xbox Wireless N Adapter. With increased speed, range and wireless security features*, the Xbox 360® Wireless ‘N’ Networking Adapter offers the fastest and most convenient connection to Xbox LIVE. You can seamlessly download or stream HD movies, TV episodes, and games from Xbox LIVE Marketplace in full 1080p and 5.1 surround sound from anywhere in the house.** Compatible with A/B/G/N networks, the compact design clips easily onto the back of your console, a very nice feature to keep things clean and uncluttered around your console, or offers the flexibility of off-board placement.

*Compared to Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter, supports WPA2 security protocol
**Range up to 2x that of A/B/G networks

Designed for versatility and ease, the Xbox 360® Wireless Networking Adapter ‘N’ enhances your Xbox 360 experience in the digital home, seamlessly synchronizing with the Xbox 360 system with the newest Wireless N standard. Wireless N offers increased speed, coverage and reliability and can easily stream media-intensive applications such as ‘Games on Demand’, HD movies, videos and music to your Xbox 360 system from Xbox LIVE® or your Media Center PC.

Features :

• 7x faster than ‘G’ adapters*
• 2x the range of ‘G’ adapters*
• Compatible with 802.11a/b/g/n networks
• Dual band performance
  
  • 5GHz: 1x2 (802.11a & 802.11n)
  • 2.4GHz: 2x2
  • 2(Tx)x 2(Rx)
• Supports WPA2 security protocol
• 2 external antennas and off-board placement capability with USB extension cable (sold separately)
• Powered by Xbox 360

*Performance may vary due to application and environment.

Benefits :
The Xbox 360® Wireless N Networking Adapter is ideal for:

• Streaming media such as movies (downloading HD movies), videos and music from the Xbox LIVE Marketplace
• Simultaneous downloads, voice and music
• Avoiding interference
• Multiplayer gaming
• Larger homes and multiple rooms with increased speed, coverage and reliability
• Congested wireless environments
  
  • Dense housing, multiple wireless networks - The Xbox 360 N Wireless Network Adapter works with existing 802.11g and 802.11b wireless routers and access points (backwards-compatible)
• Multiple HD videos and lag-free network gaming

What is Wireless N?
If you are curious as to what exactly Wireless N Technology is, it is the latest generation in increasingly powerful wireless bandwidth. Incorporating new MIMO (Multiple In, Multiple Out) technology, Wireless N is designed for today’s most powerful bandwidth demands, be it streaming HD movies, hard-core gaming, or multiple networked home computers. Wireless N is also fully compatible with existing 802.11g and 802.11b wireless routers and access points, so you don’t have to reinvent the wireless wheel to upgrade.

Quality/Usability : Not everyone has their Xbox 360 and router/modem in the same room. Even if we do, who likes to run an ethernet cable? Wires get tangled and makes the room look cluttered. Microsoft released the first network adapter back in November 2005 which worked on 802.11a/b/g networks, was encased in gray case with a single black antenna. Forward to 4 years later (November 2009), Microsoft released a new network adapter that not only works on 802.11a/b/g but also 802.11n. This new network adapter has a matte black finish and two gray antennas. The matte black finish is a perfect match to the Xbox 360 Elite. A short USB cord is just long enough to reacht the rear USB port of the Xbox 360 next to the Ethernet port. If you're using the USB port for something else such as the HD-DVD player add-on, the adapter also has a pair of "feet" that swing out from one side that allow the adapter to sit on a flat surface or on top of the Xbox 360.

A quick comparison between 802.11g networking to 802.11n is that N has a longer range, speeds are faster and there are less interference with 2.4GHz frequencies since that is what 802.11g uses while 802.11n sits on 5GHz.

With the wireless adapter plugged in, you should be good to go unless you have been living under a rock and never updated your Xbox 360 over Xbox Live. But don't worry, the Xbox 360 Wireless N Network Adapter also includes an installation disc automatically installs necessary software and drivers, to your Xbox 360 (not the latest update as found on Xbox Live but in order for network adapter to work). You can find the "Wireless" setting under the "Networking" option in the "System Settings" tab. Even if you don't have wireless in your house, you can use your neighbors wireless network (hopefully you have a friendly neighbor and you're not leeching). Setting up is fairly easy by selecting the network and entering any necessary passwords, whether its WEP, WPA or WPA2. Do note that the Xbox 360 will only allow connections via wired or wireless. You can not have both hooked up at the same time. ...

KontrolFreek SpeedFreek Joystick
Manufacturer: KontrolFreek
Site: Buy from KontrolFreek / Buy from Amazon
Price: $9.95 (pack of 2) / $17.50 (pack of 4)


Overview : SpeedFreek allows you to relax your thumb and not worry about sliding off the analog stick. With its unique design, SpeedFreek keeps your thumb on the existing analog stick surface. There is no separation between the natural geometry that you have learned to use. The additional supporting side walls enable quicker and sharper movements, while adding control and precision. As a result, gamers report less stress on their thumbs and quicker lap times.

Quality/Usability : As more and better racing games comes out (both in gameplay and graphics), gamers want that semi-real racing effect. Gamers will pay up to $150 for a steering wheel with force feedback. I have been a big fan of racing games since the days of Rage Racer and Gran Turismo. I got my first steering wheel peripheral when Logitech released the Driving Force Feedback Steering Wheel for Gran Turismo 3 on the PlayStation 2. Luckily, at the time of release, I worked Electronics Boutique and got the steering wheel for free for working on launch and meeting creator of the game, Kazunori Yamauchi.

With the expensive price tag for steering wheel, who can afford them considering games themselves cost $50-60 each. Not to mention, the size of these peripherals and the amount of room they take up. KontrolFreek aims to solve both the cost and size factor by offering SpeedFreek.

SpeedFreek is made of plastic and in the shape of a "U" or a half-pipe. The design is very simple and basic and comes in two colors; white and black. The SpeedFreek attaches to the left analog thumb-stick. There are prongs that attaches to the thumb-stick. The side rails provide extra leverage in racing games. Turning in corners and passing cars was smoother than ever. I no longer had to nudge the joystick in order to make the turn. With a slight move of the thumb-stick, I was able to squeeze into tight spots as opposed to using a regular thumb-stick and bouncing off cars like a pinball machine.

The packaging is eye-catching. As mentioned at the very top, you can purchase a pack of two or four. The SpeedFreek comes packaged in a plastic tube. Inside the plastic tube is the SpeedFreeks are holding instructions rolled up. This also helps the SpeedFreek stay upright and in place.

Conclusion : Overall, the KontrolFreek SpeedFreek Joystick works great for racing games. No more nudging of the thumb-stick. Now I have a can make smooth turns every time and it also improved my lap times. I tried the SpeedFreek with a FPS game such as Gears of War and GRAW2 and although it helped me with my aim and accuracy, it wasnt perfect. Whats great is that it works both on the PS3 and Xbox 360. If you're interested in the FPS version, be sure to order yours here.

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XCM 1080p Mega Cool VGA Box
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from Divineo China / Buy from Divineo France / Buy from ConsoleSource / Buy from Amazon
Price: $79.90-120.00


Overview : Connect any Component Video source to any VGA monitor for the best resolution possible! Supports up to 1080p HDTV resolution! New sleek design.

Features :

• Supports PC video display resolutions up to UXGA (1600 x 1200 @ 75 Hz) or HD TV (up to 1920 x 1080)
• Supports 480i, 480p, 576i, 576p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p
• Display pictures from your console (Game Cube, Playstation 2, Xbox, PSP Slim, Wii , Xbox 360, Playstation 3) on your PC monitor (up to 1600 x 1200) or HDTV (up to 1920 x 1080)
• Supports SDTV, HDTV, XGA, SXGA, and UXGA video formats.
• Works on both PAL & NTSC systems.
• Easy Plug and play installation.
• Connect any compatible YPbPr (component video) device to your VGA monitor via Integrated YPbPr to RGBHV converter.
• Applications: TFT LCD monitor, CRT monitor, Set-top box, Display projector
• Works on LCD TFT monitors
• Video output: VGA
• Automatic video source mode detection (film/graphic)
• Motion-adaptive interfiled de-interlacing
• Uses the power from your USB port, no extra power supply needed!

Quality/Usability : I dont like to have lots of wires dangling or have to constantly plug/unplug cables so I opted to use the XCM Multi-Console Component Cable v3. The XCM 1080p Mega Cool VGA Box is housed in a sturdy chrome casing with component cable input, VGA input and output, stereo speaker input and USB power input. The top of the XCM 1080p Mega Cool VGA Box contains a SOURCE button as well as directional pads. The SOURCE button lights up when in use (blue for component and green for VGA) and allows you to switch between your computer/laptop or consoles. The directional pads allows you to change resolution and frequency on your monitor.

Below is a video of the Mega Cool VGA Box being used with the Multi-Console Component Cable.


I connected my PSP Slim, Wii, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360 and Dell computer to the Mega Cool VGA Box and to my Dell 24" 1080p Widescreen monitor. All worked flawlessly without a problem. Pictures displayed just like it would on a TV/monitor. There were no lags or distortions. I liked that you were able to change the resolution and refresh rate from the VGA box rather than going through all the menus on your monitor/TV. What I dont like however is that it only supports 1 component cable. Luckily, I have the multi-console cable but others might not and this may be an annoyance.

When switching devices, it does not remember the display resolution. So you'll have to go and change it each time. Its not a big problem but would be nice if it remembered the previous setting. I like the fact that it gets it power through the USB. Having multiple consoles, TV, satellite box, computer and other devices plugged in, I am running out of sockets in the surge protector. So using a USB port from either the Xbox 360, Wii, PS3 or PC is a PLUS in my book. If you're not using that device that the VGA box is connected to, it wont be powered. So you'll have to turn it on.

Conclusion : Overall, the XCM 1080p Mega Cool VGA Box works great but as mentioned, it only allows for one component input. So if you have a PS3, Wii and Xbox 360, you can only connect one. If you want to play a different console, you'll have to unplug the cable and insert the other one. If you're like me and want to make your life easier, I suggest looking into XCM Multi-Console Component Cable v3. One cable that has all the connections for all consoles. When you want to use that console, just move the switch to that corresponding console and you're ready to go. No unplugging or plugging needed.

Would be nice if this was extended to incorporate additional component cables and turned into maybe a selector?

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Talismoon HDMI Auto Switch
Manufacturer: Talismoon
Site: Buy from Divineo US / Buy from Divineo China
Price: $29.95


Overview : Tired of Switching? Here is the solution. Talismoon HDMI Auto Switch lets you connect 3 HDMI devices to your screen and switches automatically to the device YOU want! For example, if no device is turned on and you power one on, it will automatically switch to it. Turn a second one on, and it will jump to that new device. Turn it off, it will go back to first one etc. No need to waste time finding the remote and switching back and forth all the time, the HDMI Auto Switch does the job for you.

A small (easy to hide) and smart HDMI 1.3 switch that make old HDMI switches pointless! Excellent performance characteristics allows source devices to be used with HDMI cables up to 15 meters away using AWG 28 HDMI cables at resolutions up to 1080P FULL HD!

This product is confirmed and tested to pass 1080p FULLHD and the new Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio loss-less audio formats found on Blu-ray.

Features :

• Compact in size (only 5cm x 5cm).
• 3 HDMI/DVI-D (hdcp) inputs.
• 1 HDMI/DVI-D (hdcp) output.
• HDCP compliant.
• No IR Remote needed.
• No Power Supply needed in most cases.
• Auto selects any active input signal from the three inputs to the single HDMI output.
• Manual selection button (for manually selecting an input if needed).
• Signaling rates up to 10.2Gbits in support of 1080P Full HD displays.
• Powerful receiver equalization to compensate for 15m HDMI cable losses.
• Pre-emphasis to compensate for PCB losses.
• Each HDMI port supports HDMI or DVI inputs.
• Dust covers provided for unused inputs.
• Smart Function (Auto Selection)
• HDMI signal to the display. As result of this functionality, user could use simple method of power off/on sources to choose the desired HDMI signal. If several sources are powered on, the last powered source will be chosen. This allows the switch to still be used with sources that are always on such as cable TV and satellite receivers.

Quality/Usability : Having my DirecTV, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 all hooked up via HDMI, it sometimes gets annoying and time consuming having to switch my video output between my 3 devices. Each device is connected to a HDMI port on my 32" Samsung. Luckily for me, I have 4 ports while for others, you may have 1 or 2 ports whether it be on your HDTV or computer monitor.

The Talismoon HDMI Auto Switch can help you give you additional HDMI ports and helps you switch between HDMI sources with a press of a button. As of late, I've been watching more TV than playing games so I have my DirecTV receiver plugged into INPUT1. So when a friend calls me up to hop online to play some games, all I would need to do is turn on my console and the HDMI Auto Switch will automatically select that INPUT and my console is now displayed on my HDTV. No need to go to the TV or to pick up the remote to change input. Simply turn on console and thats it. When you turn off your console, the HDMI Auto Switch will automatically switch back to the first device.

Next to the OUTPUT port, there is a small selector button. This allows you to cycle through the INPUTS if you have all 3 devices turned on. So I can have my 360, PS3 and DirecTV all turned on. I can be downloading a movie or an update on one system while playing online with the other. To check the status, I would just press the "SELECTION" button to select the input that I want to display.

The switching between inputs is fairly quick with minimal lag/delay.


Conclusion : Overall, the Talismoon HDMI Auto Switch is a great product if you have less than 2 HDMI ports on your TV or hate having to change the input on your TV. Each input port has a dust cover for when it is not in use. Its great that it automatically switches to the newest input and goes back to its original when the newest input is turned off. Its also nice that they included the ability to select your input if you have more than 1 device turned on.

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Shinobii Console Toolkit
Manufacturer: Shinobii
Site: Buy from Shinobii / Buy from Amazon
Price: €19.99 / $24.99


Overview : This 19-piece toolkit contains everything you need in order to disassemble all the latest consoles such as Wii, DSi, PS3, XBOX 360 and PSP 3000. Of course, we havent forgotten about classic console owners therefore this kit also includes tools for opening up older consoles such as DS, DS LITE, PS2, PS1, XBOX, PSP1000, PSP2000, GAMEBOY, GAMECUBE, PSTWO, N64, SNES as well as Game cartridges and cellphones.

Perhaps you want to replace a defective drive, burnt out laser lens, scratched or cracked screen or any other defective part. Maybe you want to add an internal fan providing less noise and more cooling? No matter what, as most gamers already know, the console makers really give you a hard time when trying to open up their units and it`s a real challenge to find all the right tools to get the job done at least without damaging your console. The solution is the Console Toolkit™ from Shinobii.

All tools are precision machined from heat treated chrome vanadium steel and have chrome finish.

Console Toolkit™ includes: (Tools marked with a * are tamper resistant.)

• T2
• T3
• T6*
• T8*
• T10*
• T15*
• T20*
• PH#0
• PH#00
• PH#000
• PH#1
• Triwing#00
• Triwing#01
• Hex 0.05
• Slotted 7/64
• Linehead Nut Setters #6
• Linehead Nut Setters #8
• 360Tool
• Tweezer
• Anti-slip Rubber Handle
• EasyGuide Plastic card (explaining what tools to use)

Quality/Usability : So the fine folks at Shinobii sent me their newest product, the Console Toolkit™. The tool kit consists of 19 pieces needed to disassemble everything from the Wii, DSi, Xbox 360, PS3 and PSP3000 all the way to old school and semi-old school products like the Xbox, DS, PS2, PS1, GameCube, N64 and even the SNES. The 19 pieces are placed inside a small black plastic case. Underneath the cover are 10 tools and tweezers. The bottom holds a 360 tool and anti-slip rubber handle.

All 10 tools are held in place by a rubber holder that prevents any of the falling out or. On the top of this rubber holder is a loop that allows you to pull the bits out and on this rubber holder are numbers. This lets you identify what tool is what by looking at the EasyGuide card. Incase you forgot where they belong, the numbers are also printed on the pieces themselves as well as Shinobii's company name. All the bits/pieces has two ends of them except for two (Linehead Nut Setters). So the end that is not used will be inserted into the anti-slip rubber handle and the side that is needed, is exposed.

Each piece is about 4½" long. When inserted into the rubber handle, approximately 2¾" is exposed. The rubber handle is just shy of 3½" long and 1" wide. The pieces insert smoothly but may feel a little loose at times but will not fall out unless you heavily shake it out. Each bit is also magnetic so you will be able to pick up screws without having to worry about dropping them or using a second hand to help you hold the screw in place while the other holds the handle. The bottom of the handle has grooves/curves that help assist you in gripping the handle better and tightening or loosening screws.

I'm not the type to go and open up perfectly working consoles unless I really have to but since I had some busted up and non-working electronics laying around, I thought I would give it a try. The handle felt good in the hand and removing screws was very easy and didnt require any effort. I was able to grip onto the handle thanks to the anti-slip rubber. I'm the type that has sweaty hands so this is a plus. I had an old PS1 that stopped working and was going to recycle it in the trash but was too lazy. Once I took the console apart, I didnt want to stop. I tried finding other electronics such as my old handheld TIGER devices, old cellphones that stopped working (fit the screws on the cellphones I had) and eventually, I couldnt find anything else. Now, I'm left with gutted and disassembled electronic casings and chipsets.

Conclusion : Overall, the Shinobii Console Tool Kit is a very nice product. It eliminated some of the bulk but putting a piece on each end rather than have 19 different pieces and makes fairly easy to carry and dropping it in your bag. I love the fact that the handle has grooves for your finger/thumb to allow you to have a better grip for turning and for someone who has sweaty hands, I didnt loose my grip. I also like that each piece is magnetic so the screws cling on to the piece for easy removal and insertion without the need for a second hand. However, I would of probably liked to see the anti-slip rubber handle be slightly bigger. Those with big hands may find the handle a little small for their grips.

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XCM Universal USB Multi-Charger
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from Amazon
Price: $39.99


Overview : Finally a way to charge all your valuable electronics with one device!

Introducing the Multi-Charger from XCM. This unit will charge your iPhone, PSP (all PSP series from 1000-3000 series), Xbox 360 Wireless Controller, PS3 Wireless Controller, NDS (all NDS series, including NDS, NDSL and NDSi) and more.... (all devices using USB 5v input will be supported, such as the Nokia mobile phone series etc) with ease. No more lugging around multiple chargers, this one does it all. Made with the high quality craftsmanship you've grown to expect from the XCM brand, this charger will surely provide the power you need for many years to come!

Features:

• 4 USB ports
• Supports any USB 5v input

Compatible with:

• PSP (1000-2000-3000)
• NDS, NDS Lite, NDSi
• iPhone
• Nokia mobile phones and many more

Includes:

• PSP USB cable
• DS Lite USB cable
• DSi USB Cable
• iPod/iPhone USB Cable
• US AC plug
• EU AC Plug
• Australia AC Plug
• BS AC Plug

Quality/Usability : I must admit, I'm a gadget freak. I have surge protectors daisy chained to each other. There just isnt enough outlets! I'm surprised my house hasnt burned down with all these wires. If I find an open slot in my surge protector, I'll charge my DS, PSP, camera battery, cellphone..thats if I'm lucky to find 1 spot. If I cant, I use my USB port on my computer. Now, my USB ports are starting to become scarce as more portable devices start to use them. Yes, you can purchase a USB hub but majority of the time, they arent powerful enough to charge the device and you get an error message on your computer. Even the ones that come with power plugs gives me an error.

XCM has released a stand alone Universal USB Multi-Charger. No need to plug this charger into a computer or USB port. Choose your AC plug and connect plug it into a socket (AC 100-240V) and the other end into the Multi-Charger. The Multi-Charger has a square glossy white casing with a small LED light that lights up when plugged into outlet and the logo on top. The logo uses a Walt Disney type font. On the front of the Multi-Charger are 4 USB ports. Since it draws its power from the socket, you wont have to worry about overdrawing power or having to wait 5 hours to fully charge a device when it should only take 1 hour or so.

The Multi-Charger measures 5 inches long, 4 inches wide and 1.5 inches thick and comes with four (4) AC plugs (US, EU, UK and Asia). The plugs are short in length so you will not be able to place it on a table or next to your computer. Wires measure about 16 inches long from tip of plug that inserts into XCM Multi-Charger to the base of AC plug (not the prongs). Also included are four (4) USB plugs (PSP, DSL, DSi, iPhone/iPod). You're not limited to using only these devices. I was able to charge my Blackberry device, Bluetooth headset, PS3 controller, Xbox controller, USB battery, pretty much anything I can think of that uses a USB to charge the device. The charge time is about the same time it would take if you use the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) chargers that came with the device.

Conclusion : Overall, the XCM Universal USB Multi-Charger is a great product. I do not have to use all my USB ports nor do I have to leave my PS3, Xbox 360 or computer on just to charge my USB devices. Since some wall chargers are huge and can cover up an empty socket, this also eliminates the amount of wall chargers and bulk. I was able to charge all my devices without a problem. My only complaint is the lack of cord length on the AC plug for the Multi-Charger. I was not able to place the Multi-Charger on a desk. I had to place it on the floor. This is also a drawback for those who need to plug this in the back of a shelf or entertainment center. You can use an extension cord but do you want to go out and buy one or even find one in the house? The price was originally $70 but it was wayyyy to overpriced for a 4-port USB charger. But it seems XCM has lowered the price to a much more affordable price range. However, $40 is still a little pricey. I think $25-30 would be a nice sweet spot.

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DIGG THIS ...

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, ...

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. ...

XCM Multi-Console Component Cable v3
Manufacturer: XCM
Site: Buy from Play-Asia / Buy from Divineo China / Buy from Divineo France
Price: $39.99


Overview : Finally a single cable to connect ALL your consoles to your TV! No more switchbox's needed, this cable can handle it all. Finally you can free up those extra inputs on your TV for other devices!

Features :

• Fully Compatible with Xbox 360™, Wii™, PS3™/PS2™, PSP Slim™, Xbox™ consoles.
• Built in switch prevents interference of other consoles while in use.
• High quality shielded cable.
• Supports Component Signals (Stereo).
• High Quality and High Speed of Transfer Signal.
• Supports Dolby Prologic.
• Supports DTS 5.1 Channel System.
• Supports DOLBY Digital Surround Sound.
• Supports Stereo Sound.
• Supports Optical Signal on Xbox 360™.
• Compatible with Surround Sound Receiver or Integrated Amplifiers.
• Supports CRT, Plasma, LCD or any HDTV System
• Supports D2 (480i/480P); (720i/720P) & D4 (1080i/ 1080P) technology.

Quality/Usability : XCM has released another multi-console component cable but unlike v2, v3 supports not only Xbox360, Wii, PS2, PS3 but now PSP and the original Xbox! This is an all-in-one cable for your whole entire entertainment center.

There are five plugs for your console: PSP, PS2/PS3, Wii, Xbox, and Xbox 360. On the other end are the component cable inputs that connect to your TV. On the "switcher" itself, you have six switches: PSP, PS2/PS3, Wii, Xbox, Xbox 360HD and 360SD. So just switch to the system you are playing with.

The quality of the cable is sturdy and very durable. The visual quality that the cable outputs is on par with that of the stand alone cables. I did not see any ghosting or any lag. The colors were bright and crisp from what I have seen during the testing. Switching between consoles only took a couple of seconds for it to be displayed. However, switching between consoles on the switcher can be a little annoying. Sometimes you'll "overshoot" the switch that you want. So you'll have to slowly push the switch.

In my original review of the Multi-Console Component Cable v2, I mentioned that the cable from system to system is fairly long. Its long enough if your system was near or next to each other. But after upgrading my entertainment center and having my systems in different locations, the cables were not long enough especially if you have them on different shelf heights. The cable from the TV to the switcher has a decent length to it.

Below is a video on how to connect the Multi-Console Component Cable v3:


Conclusion : Overall, the XCM Multi-Console Component Cable v3 works great like its predecessor. Quality and build is sturdy. Visual quality is great as well as the color. However, the length of the cables from system to switcher and to other systems isnt long enough if you have systems in different locations or on different shelves. If you have majority of the systems and they are near each other, you wont have all those cables dangling and it frees up your AV slots. However, if you only have 1 or 2 systems, this is not worth the cost. The price tag of $39.99 is fair but $29.99-$34.99 would be the sweet spot.

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