tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60146160332430409902024-03-14T03:16:19.439+08:00TechDrive PhilippinesPassion for TechnologyUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-75002295810711539682011-11-16T02:32:00.000+08:002012-01-16T02:35:42.606+08:00CyberPress elects officers for 2011-2012<br />
The Information Technology Journalists Association of the Philipppines Inc. (CyberPress) elected its new set of officers in a general assembly held Monday at Jump Experience Center at Megamall, Mandaluyong City.<br />
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Elected to the 20011-2012 board of officers were: Paolo Montecillo of Philippine Daily Inquirer (president), JM Tuazon of TV5/Interaksyon.com (vice president for internal affairs), Jing Garcia of TV5/Interaksyon.com (vice president for external affairs), TJ Dimacali of GMANews.tv (secretary), Verns Joven of Philstar.com (finance committee head), Marlon Magtira of Newsbytes.ph/Techbytes.ph (membership committee head ) and Melvin Calimag of Newsbytes.ph (election and constitutional amendments officer).<br />
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“The new set of officers looks forward to another productive year. In today’s connected world, now more than ever, we take our role as industry watchers more seriously,” Montecillo said.<br />
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“We have slated several activities this year, in line with our goal to bring the awareness about the importance of IT in our daily lives to a national scale,” he added.<br />
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CyberPress was formed in 1996 with an aim to unite IT journalists in bringing technical information more accessible to non-technical readers and educating the general public on issues concerning technological developments and industry. A goal of the organization is also to promote the use of various technologies that are creating an impact to modern Filipino society.<br />
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CyberPress is the pioneering organization of IT writers in the country working together to achieve common goals of promoting responsible journalism in the IT beat and fostering better appreciation for technology while cultivating a harmonious IT ecosystem in the country.<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-1006101268186750922011-09-25T14:33:00.000+08:002012-01-16T02:35:57.355+08:00ABS-CBN: No reason to delay DTV rollout<br />
Lopez-owned broadcasting giant ABS-CBN, which has been undertaking digital terrestrial TV (DTT) test broadcasts since August, said last week that the public is already clamoring for a shift to digital TV and that there’s no reason to further delay its rollout.<br />
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DTT is also known by the term digital TV or DTV.<br />
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ABS-CBN marketing executive Miguel Mercado said in a media briefing in San Fernando, Pampanga that “test broadcasts on DTT have convinced free-TV or non-cable households that digital TV migration will give them clearer and better quality viewing experience.”<br />
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Mercado said the wide channel options enabled by the digital multi-frequency platform, as well as the dramatic improvement of signal quality or reception, is key source of satisfaction for viewers of DTT.<br />
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Ninety percent of the total Philippine viewing public is on non-cable free-TV, according to an ABS-CBN study.<br />
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The TV network began its DTT trial broadcasts in August this year in selected households belonging to D-E sectors in the towns of Mexico in Pampanga, and San Miguel, San Ildefonso, and San Rafael in Bulacan.<br />
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The DTT trial broadcasts were spurred by a National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) memorandum circular in 2010, which picked the Japanese standard ISDB-T (Integrated Services Digital Broadcast-Terrestrial) as the country’s DTT platform.<br />
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In its circular, the NTC noted ISDB-T is much affordable over Europe’s DVB-T or Digital Video Broadcasting-Terrestrial.<br />
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An ABS-CBN report, for instance, quotes an ISDB-T set-top box as 60 percent cheaper than DVB-T at P2,500.<br />
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Other broadcast networks that have undertaken DTT test broadcast in the country include Net-25, GemTV, and government TV station NBN (National Broadcasting Network).<br />
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The NTC decision, however, is still under review by Malacanang as the government is reportedly is keen on giving a second look at DVB-T.<br />
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GMA-7, which has also relayed its intention to migrate to digital TV, is supporting the European standard DVB-T.<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-444692076097782852011-07-02T02:33:00.000+08:002012-01-16T02:36:08.178+08:00IPVG to transfer assets to new private firm<br />
While its subsidiaries are going public, tech conglomerate IPVG is doing the opposite — it is going back to being a private company.<br />
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In a press briefing Friday, the Yuchengco-led firm announced that it will take on a new business plan that will transfer all assets and liabilities of IPVG to a new private holding company, which will retain the same technology conglomerate ownership structure.<br />
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The purpose of the restructuring plan is to increase shareholder value and raise more cash for IPVG, the company said.<br />
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IPVG CEO Enrique Gonzalez justified the move by saying that the current IPVG share price does not reflect the value of the company.<br />
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“We intend to replicate IPVG under a private scheme, so we can properly value based on net asset value method and we can tap private equity. The new plan will position us better to fully unlock and realize our true values at the holding company level,” Gonzales said.<br />
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“Our group has evolved much over the years. In the beginning, we incubated all these start-up businesses under IPVG. It made sense to bulk up and raise money at the parent level during those early years. Now that we have grown into a full-blown tech conglomerate, our subsidiaries are either public or on the way to going public.<br />
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“Our philosophy has changed. We are now focused on taking the operating companies public. This changes the role of our parent or investment holding company quite a bit, hence the new plan,” Gonzalez said.<br />
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IPVG operates 12 subsidiary companies in the country with about 3,000 employees. In the group of 12 companies, 3 are public, and another few are in joint ventures with large organizations including PCCW Teleservices, GMA7, and Kennet Partners (USA), Western Union, Salesforce.com, and Google Enterprise Solutions.<br />
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In the first quarter of 2011, IPVG generated over P300 million in net income, surpassing its 2010 performance of P145 million.<br />
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IPVG acquired Netopia chain of internet cafes in the country, and secured agreements to acquire the CyBr and I.T. log chains. IPVG owns the Station 168 and i-Hooked barnds of i-cafes, bringing its total retail stores to about 200 establishments nationwide with approximately 8,000 seats, which make up almost 10 percent of total seats in the Philippines.<br />
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IPVG’s remittance business under the Western Union brand has reached 407 outlets as of July 2, 2011.<br />
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“When we look at our retail business, we want to become the dominant player in our category. We think in thousands not hundreds over the next three years,” Gonzales said.<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-16570150679670716952011-05-17T02:34:00.000+08:002012-01-16T02:36:17.180+08:00Epson holds 2nd ‘Fusion’ media event<br />
Epson Fusion Media Adventure 2011 brought us to Mabini, Batangas last weekend. One of the highlights of the event was scuba diving at Twin Rocks off Anilao’s coast.<br />
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This years’ “fusion” is the second of Epson Philippines’ annual event intended to sum up the highlights of the company’s marketing and sales efforts in the country (The first “fusion” was held in Bicol last year). The event also provided a glimpse of what’s ahead for Epson in the next few months.<br />
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According to Jay Lavarias, Epson Philippines’ business systems group head, the company posted 14 percent over all sales growth at the end of fiscal year 2010 versus 2009 with the following breakdown: inkjets and laser printers, 17 percent; business systems, 11 percent; visual instruments, 13 percent; and commercial and industrial, 18 percent.<br />
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Lavarias said that Epson product offering will further address lowering of total cost of ownership in 2011 with 13 new models that set to be launched for the corporate market.<br />
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“With focus on the corporate segment, Epson’s first foray into digital label press addressing the labeling and packaging business will be introduced, while expanding our product range of A3+ and roll media for large format papers,” Lavarias said.<br />
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New POS printers designed for other applications outside retail including aviation, healthcare and logistics will also be offered by Epson in 2011.<br />
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New all-in-one models previously designed as passbook printers for banks will be made available for related industries such as bills payment centers and education sectors.<br />
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For visual instruments, Epson is geared to expand beyond traditional use of projectors by enhancing its portfolio of home theater projectors equipped with 3LCD technology. “3LCD is a sophisticated, innovative technology that uses 3 chips to deliver vibrant, true-to-life images for the most demanding business and consumer audiences,” Lavarias said.<br />
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Epson Philippines’ targets 17-percent over-all sales growth for fiscal year 2011 with 73-percent growth for the commercial and industrial group and 47 percent for visual instruments. This is due to expansion of product portfolio for new markets that are expected to bring bigger sales growth. Targets for inkjets and laser printers and business systems are 17 percent and 8 percent respectively.<br />
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Roe Dillera, Epson Philippines’ marketing communications and public relations head provided a sneak preview of the global corporate vision of the company dubbed “SE15 Vision” of Seiko Epson 2015 Vision.<br />
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“We will pursue perfection of our three precision mechatronics-based core technologies – Micro Piezo, 3LCD, and QMEMS technologies) and create products and services that exceed customer expectations in the printing, projection, and sensing domains,” Dillera said.<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-44668103728389540982010-10-08T12:08:00.000+08:002010-10-08T12:08:38.940+08:00Non-voice industry groups make TV promotion<a href="http://technews.com.ph/?p=5860">Non-voice industry groups make TV promotion</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-28583436927399361742009-08-19T16:26:00.003+08:002009-08-19T16:29:46.217+08:00Take the Norton 50K Challenge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://norton50k.ardentph.com"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 471px; height: 610px;" src="http://techtv.ph/images/eflyer.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-45031398668175810502009-08-19T16:10:00.002+08:002009-08-19T16:12:21.427+08:00Green footprint is all over the tech worldGreen is in. The recent noise to make computing efficient and friendly to the environment has pressed the IT sector to hook up on a new paradigm of providing “Green IT.” From enormous equipment in high-tech data centers to consumer products such as mobile PCs and phones, the IT world is abuzz with green initiatives.<br /><br />Encouraging the practice of using technology resources efficiently, reducing the use of hazardous materials, and promoting recyclability or biodegradability of defunct products and factory waste, the green hype has caught up with IT companies to take their share of making this world a healthier place to live in.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Technological innovation thrives with </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">social responsibility and efficient resource use</span><br /><br />Studies show that the energy need of the rest of the world out paces renewable and non-renewable resources. Production of toxic materials thereby heightens while toxic wastes and Greenhouse gas emissions increase.<br /><br />The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a United Nations agency with the task to standardize and regulate international radio and telecommunications, affirmed in a recent conference in Indonesia that information and communication technologies (ICT) can both be a cause and a potential cure for climate change.<br /><br />Perceived as a major part of the problem and a key to the solution, the ITU stated that ICT can play a vital role in combating climate change. They can be used for remote monitoring of climate change and gathering important scientific data like using telemetry or remote sensing by satellite. New smart technologies can also usher in a whole new generation of energy-efficient products, notably in next-generation networks (NGN).<br /><br />The ITU pointed out that the proliferation of ICT products in homes and offices, and their deployment throughout the world, places an increasingly heavy burden on energy consumption. Energy demands caused by high-tech lifestyles in some countries are now being replicated in others.<br /><br />The late night glow in homes and offices emanating from computers, DVD players, TVs and battery chargers is all too familiar. And the move to "always-on" services, like broadband or mobile phones on standby, has greatly increased energy consumption compared with fixed-line telephones, which do not require an independent power source.<br /><br />The ITU underlined an active commitment to promote the use of ICT as a positive force to reduce greenhouse emissions and to find ways to mitigate the effects of climate change. The agency said it will support and facilitate scientific studies aimed at implementation of new measures against the negative effects of climate change.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tech companies tumble in green list</span><br /><br />The latest edition of Greenpeace's Guide to Greener Electronics saw the rankings of the world’s biggest consumer technology companies drop significantly as a new criteria that measures impact on climate change was added. The list was first launched in August 2006 as a challenge to electronic companies to “green” their products, from production to disposal.<br /><br />In the new list, out of the 18 electronics companies evaluated, eight companies including Nokia, Samsung, Sony Ericsson, LG Electronics, Toshiba, Motorola, Philips, and Sharp scored above 5/10. Last year, only two companies, Sony Ericsson and Sony scored above 5/10.<br /><br />Aside from introducing the new criteria, Greenpeace said it also tightened the requirements on electronic waste (e-waste) and toxic chemicals. The newly added energy criteria, the group said, require companies to show their political support for global mandatory cuts in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.<br /><br />In the previous survey, improvements in the take-back programs of mobile phone manufacturers Nokia and Motorola provided a big lift in their standings. The Greenpeace scorecard cited Nokia’s improvements in its take-back program in the Philippines and Thailand.<br /><br />Gaming company Nintendo remained in the cellar, not moving from last place since Greenpeace started the survey. It managed a paltry score of 1 (0.8 in 2008).<br /><br />In a statement recently released to the media, Greenpeace stated, “the information and communications technology (ICT) sector currently accounts for 2 percent of global GHG emissions, equal to the aviation industry. As one of the most innovative and fastest growing industries, Greenpeace expects the sector to take leadership in tackling climate change by reducing both their direct and indirect climate carbon footprint.”<br /><br />Listed below is the score of the 18 technology companies surveyed in Greenpeace's Guide to Greener Electronics:<br /><br />Nokia (7.45 points) – Scores top marks for leading competitors on toxic phase out<br /><br />Samsung (7.1 points) – Holds second position for commitment to reduce absolute emissions<br /><br />Sony Ericsson (6.5 points) – Up two places with better product energy efficiency reporting<br /><br />LG Electronics (5.7 points) – Up two places but needs to eliminate hazardous chemicals from all products<br /><br />Toshiba (5.5 points) – Moves up two places with an extra point for promising to cut GHGs<br /><br />Motorola (5.5 points) – Scores higher and climbs two places because of use of renewable energy<br /><br />Philips (5.3 points) – Falls from 4th to 7th position and needs to put its commitment to responsible recycling policies into practice<br /><br />Sharp (5.3 points) – Rises from 9th to joint 7th place with its energy efficient products<br /><br />Acer (4.9 points) – Put 16 new models of a monitor that are almost free of hazardous chemicals and climbed two places from 11 to 9 but still need to sort out the power cord<br /><br />Panasonic (4.9 points) – Advance from 12th to 10th place for energy efficiency and pvc free product range but still bad on e waste<br /><br />Apple (4.7 points) – Drop one position to 11th with no change in scores but get kudos for their green MacBook<br /><br />Sony (4.5 points) – Plunges from 5th to 12th place for inadequate commitments on eliminating hazardous chemicals, e waste policy and cutting GHGs<br /><br />Dell (3.9 points) – Stays at 13th place because of backtracking on toxics phase out<br /><br />HP (3.5 points) – Is at 14th position and has no products on the market free of toxic substances<br /><br />Microsoft (2.5 points) – Loses a point for a poor recycling policy but stays in 15th position<br /><br />Lenovo (2.5 points) – Down two places with no set timeline for toxics phase out on all products<br /><br />Fujitsu (2.4 points) – Debuts second from last with no products that are free of hazardous chemicals<br /><br />Nintendo (1 point) – Stays put in last position with a glimmer of hope with partially pvc free consolesUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-32525460238410735462008-11-24T20:46:00.005+08:002008-11-27T17:05:30.607+08:00CyberPress: I.T. Journalists Association of the PhilippinesThe Information Technology Journalists Association of the Philippines web site at <a href="http://www.cyberpress.org.ph/">http://www.cyberpress.org.ph/</a> posted a story on Monday about its newly elected officers for 2009.<br /><blockquote><p>BATANGAS CITY, Philippines – CyberPress, the country’s only organization of IT writers, also known as IT Journalists Association of the Philippines (ITJAP), has elected on Saturday its new set of officers for 2008 to 2009.<br /></p><p>The election was held at the Taal Vista Heights resort in this city, right after the press club conducted a Writers Workshop on: “Legal Issues Affecting Online Reporting and Blogging” with Atty. JJ Disini as resource speaker. He is an MA graduate of the Harvard Law School.<br /></p><p>The new CyberPress board members are: Jing Garcia, president (TechTimes Section Editor, The Manila Times, and Editor of Speed Magazine); Red Samar, vice president for external affairs (InfoTech<br />Section Editor, The Manila Bulletin); Melvin Calimag, vice president for internal affairs (reporter, The Manila Bulletin, editor of TechFrontiers Journal, and Contributor of ZDNet Asia); Tom S. Noda, secretary (reporter, Computerworld Philippines); Alma Anonas, membership chairperson (correspondent, BusinessMirror); Vernadette T. Joven, finance officer (reporter, Computerworld Philippines); Marlon Magtira, election and constitutional amendments officer<br />(editor, TechFrontiers Journal, PC Buyer's Guide Philippines/ PC Direct and PC Shopper); Maricel Estavillo, sectoral representative for online (editor, BusinessWorld); and Ed Geronia, Jr., sectoral representative for print (editor-in-chief, T3 Philippines).<br /></p><p>Calimag, the two-time president of CyberPress and now elected vice president for internal affairs, said the induction of the new officers will take place this coming December, coinciding with the organization’s annual Christmas party. The place and time of the event will yet to be announced. </p><p><br />Meanwhile, Garcia, in his acceptance speech, expressed optimism that CyberPress will grow bigger and stronger in 2009. “I hope everybody will do better” the newly elected president said, adding that he plans to encourage more membership in the IT press club.<br /></p><p>“We would reach out to other media companies and organizations in the regions of Visayas and Mindanao,” Garcia announced.<br /></p><p>According to Calimag, 2009 will be a more productive year for CyberPress. “We expect to accomplish more as a group,” Calimag said, as he informed that CyberPress is preparing to do its last workshop activity for this year also in December. The forum will be about Green<br />IT, an advocacy for companies to practice environment-friendly<br />technologies. </p><p><br />Now with a total of 31 members, CyberPress remains to be the only IT press organization in the Philippines. It is the first IT press club established in South East Asia (SEA) in mid-1996.<br /></p><p>The organization’s list of member publications are: BusinessMirror, BusinessWorld, Computer World Philippines, Enterprise, Gadgets Magazine, GMA News, TechFrontiers Journal, The Manila Bulletin, The Manila Times, Manual Magazine, Maxim Philippines, Outrage Magazine, PC Buyer's Guide, PC Direct, PC Shopper, PC World Philippines, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, PsiCom Publishing, Speed Magazine, T3 Philippines, Tech Frontiers Philippines, The Daily Tribune, and ZDNet Asia. </p></blockquote>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-17402455681646701162008-09-24T06:25:00.003+08:002008-09-24T06:45:34.145+08:00New iPhone rival<span style="font-weight:bold;">Google partners with T-Mobile to launch Android-powered smartphone</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div>Google ventures the smartphone market with the introduction of T-Mobile G1, the first phone to feature the Android operating system. Android is a Linux-based software platform designed for mobile devices developed by Google in collaboration with Open Handset Alliance.<br /><br />With features that directly compete with Apple’s iPhone, the Internet-centric G1 smartphone will initially become available in the U.S. and Europe at about US$400.<br /><br />Manufactured by High Tech Computer (HTC), the T-Mobile G1 runs on Qualcomm MSM7201A 528MHz processor with 128MB of RAM. Its main features include a 3” 480x320-resolution touchscreen, a QWERTY keyboard, 1GB flash memory, GPS, a microSD, built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and 3.1MP camera and so on.<br /><br />The T-Mobile G1 comes pre-installed with a host of Google web-based service incluing Search, Maps, Gmail, Calendar, Talk, Amazon MP3, and YouTube. The G1 also features Android Market, which includes a number of applications and mash ups.<br /><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-37078003718159700782008-09-23T04:49:00.004+08:002008-09-23T09:05:10.698+08:00Singapore develops new GPS movie technology based on viewer’s locationI was browsing through the <a href="http://asia.cnet.com/">CNet Asia</a> web site when I stumbled upon Isabella Chen’s <a href="http://asia.cnet.com/blogs/chickclick/">Chick Click</a> blog entry <a href="http://asia.cnet.com/blogs/chickclick/post.htm?id=63006336">“Real spaces, digital memory”</a> about <a href="http://www.gpsfilm.com/">GPS Film</a>, a Singaporean government initiative project for developing a new motion picture technology designed for GPS-enabled handheld devices like PDAs or mobile phones. GPS Film automatically selects clips from an extraordinarily produced movie based on the location of the viewer.<br /><br />Considerably a breakthrough in the movie industry, GPS Film will provide a new opportunity for the viewer to explore the actual environment via digital content. GPS Film’s "picture moving, not a moving picture" catchphrase sets a new type of movie experience where viewers don't just take movies on the road but movies will actually take viewers to the road.<br /><br />According to the GPS Film web site, <div><br /></div><div><blockquote>"GPS Film invents a new form of film-viewing experience by using the place and movement of the viewer to reveal the story.<br /><br />"As the viewer travels by walking, bus, or taxi, the movie unfolds by passing through different areas. </blockquote><blockquote>"By exploring a park, a neighborhood, or even a city or country, GPS Film continually ‘reads’ the location of the viewer and plays scenes that are tied to those places. The more the viewer travels, the more of the film they see."<br /></blockquote><div><br /></div>In her blog, Isabella talks about dead spaces and dead times where people are forced to go through in between productive situations. She wrote,</div><div><br /></div><div><blockquote>“The more time you spend in spaces like these, the more brain dead you become.”<br /></blockquote><br />Well, GPS Film would definitely give life to our dead brains during dead times. And dead spaces will actually take an important role in the process.<br /><a href="http://asia.cnet.com/blogs/chickclick"><br />Click here to go to Isabella Chen's Chick Click blog.</a><br /><a href="http://asia.cnet.com/blogs/chickclick/post.htm?id=63006336">Click here to go to Isabella's "Real space, digital memory" blog entry.</a><br /><a href="http://asia.cnet.com/">Click here to go to CNet Asia.</a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-11259779985913806302008-08-07T01:39:00.002+08:002008-08-07T22:27:50.184+08:00Graphics Card Buying Guide<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/vc.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer;" src="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/vc.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /></div><span style="font-style: italic;">This Buying Guide was published on PC Shopper Philippines magazine (August Issue)</span>.<br /><br />If you intend to use your PC for graphics-intensive applications, the video card is definitely one of the most important components that will make or break your tasks. With the rapid evolution of hardware and software that require constant upgrades, browse through our advices to make sure you will get the right add-on card.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fast Facts</span><br /><ul><li>If you’re running 3D and heavy graphics, your system mostly depends on the graphics card. A weak video card will slow down PC performance even if you have a strong CPU or a massive memory module. Other components may complement, but video output quality is loaded based on the graphics card’s ability to handle the technologies. This is why some high-end video cards are actually more expensive than any other components in the system.</li></ul><ul><li>Graphics cards are usually rolled out between six to twelve months period before a new faster and powerful series than the previous models is introduced to support new technologies. Current mid-range to high-end video cards bring a lot of new highfalutin technologies that are often times blurry for most of us.</li></ul><ul><li>PC Gaming publishers usually release new products every year, giving way to new system requirements, making your head turning to find out why your PC gets outdated quickly. If your PC is more than three years, maybe it's too old to have an upgrade so it’s better to get rid of it. No, don’t throw it away. Sell it and buy a new rig.</li></ul><ul><li>Graphics card upgrade may require upgrading of other components such as CPU, memory, hard drive, and even the power supple depending on the applications and video card type you will use.</li></ul><ul><li>Graphics cards are also called “expansion cards” or “add-on cards” specifically designed for the motherboard’s AGP or PCI-Express slots. They called “expansions” or “add-ons” simply because there are cheaper video solutions that are integrated or built-in on the motherboard with special slots for discreet video cards. Built-in video may run 3D applications and games but this is generally slow and works well on daily office tasks and e-mail access.</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">AGP and PCI Express</span><br />Current motherboards usually have AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port or Advanced Graphics Port) or PCI Express (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express or PCI-E) expansion slots for add-on graphics cards. You should determine the slot type on your motherboard because AGP or PCI Express graphics cards are designed for one slot type only. The big difference between the two is the bandwidth they offer. Manufacturers claim that the higher bandwidth is better.<br /><br />The descendant of PCI parallel-interface video cards, AGP is being slowly driven away by PCI Express. Providing sufficient bandwidth for new applications with 2.1GBps bandwidth, the latest AGP 8x graphics cards and motherboards are still widely available.<br /><br />PCI Express is the latest species in the evolution of video cards following on the component transition from parallel to serial for an increased bandwidth. It theoretically offers 2 – 4 times more bandwidth than AGP. Since all PC components are gearing towards the serial interface, most new graphics cards designed for PCIE. The latest PCIE (x16) 2.0 can run about 8 GBps bandwidth. Most motherboards with multiple PCI Express x16 slots are designed to operate SLI and CrossFire functions.<br /><br />If your PC system is more than two years old, it probably has an AGP slot. Upgrading to PCI Express will be expensive since you'll need to replace the motherboard, CPU, and memory, but if your system is more than two years old, it might just be the right time to upgrade your entire PC anyway. <span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><blockquote></blockquote></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Graphics Card S</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">tuff: What you may not know</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fill Rate – </span>GPU’s speed in drawing pixels depending on the number of ROP (raster operations pipeline) units of the graphics card.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">GART</span> (Graphics Address Remapping Table) – a capability of reading textures directly from memory without the need to copy them to video memory.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">GBps</span> (Gygabyte per second) – bandwidth measured in the number of Gygabytes processed per second.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pixel Pipelines –</span>pixels pass through a GPU unit called “pipelines” which crunch complex vertex and pixel-shader programs for lighting and other effects. The more pipelines, the better. Cheaper cards usually have 4 pipelines while mid-range to high-end 8-16 or more.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pixel Shaders</span> (also called “pixel processors”), Vertex Shaders Units (also called “vertex processors”), and Unified Shaders – Usually used for realism gaming, Pixel and Vertex Shaders are GPU units that execute pixel frequency and control colors that apply an effect on images like shadows and explosions. Unified Shaders combines and executes both Pixel and Vertex Shaders.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">RAMDAC</span> (Random Access Memory Digital-to-Analog Converter) – converters used to store color palette that generate analog signals for the monitor.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">SLI</span> (NVIDIA’s scalable link interface) and <span style="font-weight: bold;">CrossFire </span>(ATI) – New technologies that allow two or graphics cards installation for certain intensive graphics applications.</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">It’s not all about memory</span><br />The most popular error in pronouncing a graphics card’s performance is judging it by its memory size. Well, that was true during PCI video cards heydays. Memory size is important, but the real deal in determining video card speed is the capability of the GPU. Of course, higher memory can provide a certain effect but there are more important considerations to measure performance like the GPU’s memory bus, clock, and pipelines that affect bandwidth. Take a look at pipelines and clock speed specs<br /><br />Current graphics cards use 64 - 512-bit bus witch 400 – 2000MHz clock, so a 512-bit bus with high clock speed can definitely give the card a boost as compared to 64-bit. Current memory types are designed on DDR and GDDR modules ranging from 128 MB to 1024 MB. A few years ago, video cards with 16-32 MB could do well with graphics programs. Today, many games and applications like Adobe CS3 require at least 128 MB to run.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />What’s on the card?</span><br /><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Analog D-Sub </span>(also known as VGA or DB-15F) – 15-pin connector for analog monitors.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">DVI </span>(DVI-Integrated and DVI-Digital) - standard interface used to provide digital video signals to LCD monitors.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">HDMI</span> (High Definition Multimedia Interface) - simultaneously transmitting visual and audio data via the same cable.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">DisplayPort - </span>new digital video interface designed for upcoming multimedia devices.<br /><br /></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">GPU </span>(Graphics Processing Unit) – The brain of the graphics card, GPUs operation is measured in megahertz (millions of information processed per second).</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">nVIDIA or ATi?</span><br />ATi and nVIDIA are the only two consumer graphics card vendors that clashes head to head in the market today (If there are others, please let me know). They have their own price ranges and I can’t say which is better or worst because each has its ups and downs. If you don’t have any budget constraints, grab a high-end solution to get the highest quality images and best performance.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-4756990059474861552008-08-05T01:28:00.017+08:002008-08-07T22:26:08.394+08:00Desktop Processors: Multi-Cores and OverClocking<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/cpu.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/cpu.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Being the so-called “computer’s brain” which executes all applications, the processor is obviously the most vital component of the PC. Distributors highlight the processor on top of the specs sheet because of its impact on the over-all performance of the PC system.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Fast Facts<br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">CPU </span><span>- The PC processor called the CPU (Central Processing Unit). To avoid confusion, the “CPU” term tends to be dropped in the market because it also refers to the CPU package that includes all components inside the case. Current video cards also feature processors which is called a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).<br /><br /></span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Clock Speed </span><span>- Clock speed is a processor rating that measures a certain number of information processed per second. 2.0GHz means 2 billions of data processed per second. Current applications require millions of data to run so the higher clock speed means faster processing. Multi-core processors are just making this impression a lot more complex as we see lower clock speeds compared to single cores. Logically, a dual-core processor with each running at 1.5GHz should be equivalent to a 3.0GHz single-core. This will not work if applications designed for single-cores are executed on multi-cores.<br /><br /></span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">FSB</span><span> - The Front Side Bus (FSB) serves as the processors’ connection to the system memory. FSB data transfer speed allows better the processor performance.<br /><br /></span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">L2 Cache </span><span>- </span><span>The cache enables the processor to speedily access recently used information. Current processors operate on Level 2 (L2) cache which provides faster data transfer between the processor and main system memory. </span></li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Top-of-the-line</span><br />Here are the current most powerful and most also most expensive processors in the market. You might want to grab one of these if you want to get the best performance for your PC.<br /><a href="http://www.google.com.ph/url?sa=t&ct=res&cd=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.intel.com%2Fdesign%2Fcore2quad%2Fdocumentation.htm&ei=0DyXSMunLIaM6gOJ7ZyxCg&usg=AFQjCNGOafnRtkE9l8_10RU3GB6I-o4m-A&sig2=1-AXUn86VGuM4qmzIyAbOA"></a><blockquote><a href="http://www.google.com.ph/url?sa=t&ct=res&cd=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.intel.com%2Fdesign%2Fcore2quad%2Fdocumentation.htm&ei=0DyXSMunLIaM6gOJ7ZyxCg&usg=AFQjCNGOafnRtkE9l8_10RU3GB6I-o4m-A&sig2=1-AXUn86VGuM4qmzIyAbOA"></a></blockquote><ul><li><a href="http://www.google.com.ph/url?sa=t&ct=res&cd=2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.intel.com%2Fdesign%2Fcore2quad%2Fdocumentation.htm&ei=0DyXSMunLIaM6gOJ7ZyxCg&usg=AFQjCNGOafnRtkE9l8_10RU3GB6I-o4m-A&sig2=1-AXUn86VGuM4qmzIyAbOA">Intel Core 2 Extreme Quad-Core Q9000 series</a><br />Processor Numbers: QX9775, QX9770, QX9650<br />Architecture: 45 nanometer technology<br />L2 Cache: 12 MB<br />Clock Speed: 3.20 GHz (QX9775, QX9770), 3 GHz (QX9650)<br />Front Side Bus Speed: 1600 MHz (QX9775, QX9770), 1333 MHz (QX9650)<br />Slot/Socket Type: LGA771- DX5400 (QX9775, QX9770), LGA775 (QX9650)<br /><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com.ph/url?sa=t&ct=res&cd=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amd.com%2Fus-en%2FProcessors%2FProductInformation%2F0%2C%2C30_118_15331_15332%255E15333%2C00.html&ei=8TyXSN69B4-e6gO34ICxCg&usg=AFQjCNHXiifq9SPTLIDNxJZhEX-FrU4QPg&sig2=QW-NLIiM7jqii_B7ogfBIw">AMD Phenom X4 Quad-Core 9000 series</a><br />Model Number: 9950<br />Frequency (MHz): 2600<br />L2 Cache Size (KB): 512<br />Manufacturing Tech (CMOS): 65nm SOI<br />Socket: AM2+<br />System Bus (MHz): 4000<br /><br /></li><li><a href="http://www.google.com.ph/url?sa=t&ct=res&cd=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amd.com%2Fus-en%2FCorporate%2FVirtualPressRoom%2F0%2C%2C51_104_543%7E124455%2C00.html&ei=Az2XSPWACZmw6wOPhdDHCg&usg=AFQjCNHhbiaxW2EaCPUUUcQqg4ei5G484g&sig2=s09tnYVTkhhOGjAWozPE7g">AMD Phenom X3 Triple-Core 8000 series<br /></a>Model Number: 8750<br />Frequency (MHz): 2400<br />L2 Cache Size (KB): 512<br />Socket: AM2+<br />Manufacturing Tech (CMOS): 65nm SOI<br />System Bus (MHz): 3600</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Overclocking</span><br />Overclocking is the term used in pushing a processor (CPU or GPU) to operate higher than what is officially rated by its vendor. It is claimed that overclocking enables the system to extend its capabilities by more than 25%, definitely a high boost to computer performance.<br /><br />It is widely assumed especially by PC gamers who are hungry for more computing power, that out-of-the-factory processors are usually underrated by manufacturers for increased reliability. The processors bit rating determines the largest number of information that a processor can handle depending on the clock speed. A processor clock cycle is measured at 2 to the power of the bit rating so 32-bit can handle up to 232 or about 4.3 billion processed information per cycle. In turn, 64-bit can execute 264 or about 18.4 quintillion. Clock speeds are said to be lower than the maximum number of information that many tech buffs would like to get hold of the extra unrated power of processors without spending more and take the system a further step higher in its class.<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Caveat!</span><br />While there are overclocked processors that can actually take smooth operation, a user should have the necessary technical know-how in forcing the processors to its limits because hitches may result such as increasing heat dissipation, reducing lifespan or completely wrecking the component.</li></ul><span style="font-weight: bold;">Multi-Core Processors</span><br />Initially designed to serve the server market, multi-core processors are now finding its way to personal computing with the new generation of software that require higher speeds and processing power.<br /><br />Multi-core design integrates multiple physical processors on a single chip dividing the applications between the processors to allow the system to function faster by running multiple threads. Multi-tasked applications generate multiple threads or streams of data. A processor can only handle a single thread at a time. This means that the more applications are executed the slower a thread is processed.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>A multi-core processor enables the system to handle more than one thread at a time by switching the threads between the cores to provide faster information processing.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-90435279214474164562008-08-04T15:15:00.001+08:002008-08-07T01:36:03.952+08:00Battle of New UMPCs<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/umpc.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/umpc.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>UMPCs are creating a heap of noise these days. As manufacturers continue innovating to make smaller, stronger and inexpensive PCs, the line between ultra-portables and ultra-mobiles is getting blurred. While some are actually not cheap, road warriors get the juice on the move. Let's take a close look at new UMPCs on the block.<br /><br />UMPCs a.k.a. ultra-mobile personal computers, are small lightweight under a kilogram notebook computers that have about 7-8-inch LCD screen. UMPCs are smaller-than-usual laptops with all the features and functions of a PC.<br /><br />UMPCs' compact design makes it easy to be carried by those who spend more time on the road. With specs and functions that overlap with other handheld devices, UMPCs are also referred to by a variety of notebook categories including subnotebooks, ultraportables, mini-laptops (mini-notebooks), and MID's (mobile internet devices).<br /><br /><img src="http://www.smmoamarketing.com/banners/eeepc.jpg" align="left" /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Asus EeePC 900 </span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SRP: PhP25,000</span><br />ASUS stirred interest on the UMPC category with the introduction of the EeePC last year. The EeePC 900 is the second iteration of this ground-breaking laptop with 16GB drive, a wider 8.9-inch screen, and 1GB RAM.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display: </span>8.9” 1024 x 600<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Casing Color: </span>Pearl White, Black<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CPU: </span>Intel Mobile CPU<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory: </span>1GB DDR2<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display Card: </span>Intel UMA<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Storage: </span>12GB (4SSD+8flash) (XP); 20GB (4SSD+16 flash) (Linux)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Card Reader: </span>SD / MMC (SDHC)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Audio: </span>Built-in mic/speakers<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wireless: </span>Built-in 802.11b/g<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Camera: </span>Built-in 1.3Mp<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Input/Output: </span>3 USB ports, VGA-out (D-Sub, 15pin), earphone /mic/RJ45 Ethernet<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OS: </span>Windows XP/Linux<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions: </span>23 x 17 x 3cm WHD<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weight: </span>0.99 Kg</span><br /><br /><img src="http://www.smmoamarketing.com/banners/hpmininote.jpg" align="left" /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">HP 2133 Mini Note </span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SRP:PhP30,000</span><br />The 2133 offers multiple configurations, bigger keys in an aluminum alloy design. The PhP30K version is fully loaded with a 120GB, 7200rpm hard drive and Windows Vista.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display: </span>8.9” 1280 x 768<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Casing Color: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;">Silver Black<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">CPU: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> VIA C7-M ULV 1.6 GHz<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> 1-2GB DDR2<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display Card: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> VIA Chrome 9<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Storage: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> 120-160GB or 64GB SSD; optional 4GB PATA Flash w/ SuSE Linux<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Card Reader: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> ExpressC/54, SD<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Audio: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> Built-in mic/speakers<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wireless: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> Broadcom 802.11a/b/g,<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Camera: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> Optional<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Input/Output: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> 2 USB ports, RJ45 Ethernet, earphone/mic<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">OS: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> Windows Vista/Linux<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> 1’ (at front) x 10 ’ x 6.5’<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> 1.2 Kg<br /><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/lenovox300.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/lenovox300.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lenovo Thinkpad X300</span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SRP: PhP130,000</span><br />The new X300 is the 0.73'' thinnest ND lightest ThinkPad ever with built-in DVD burner, a slew of 3 USB ports, mic and headphone ports and more.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Display: </span>13.3’ WXGA 1440 x 900<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Casing Color: </span>Silver Black<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CPU: </span>Intel Core 2 Duo 1.2GHz<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory: </span>1-4GB DDR2<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display Card: </span>Intel Graphics X3100<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Storage: </span>64GB SATA SSD, Ultra-thin DVD Burner<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Card Reader: </span>Built-in mic/speakers<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Audio: </span>Bluetooth, GPS (Verizon WWAN), Intel UltraWideBand, Intel WiMax, 802.11n<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wireless: </span>Intel PRO<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Camera: </span>Built-in 1.3Mp<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Input/Output: </span>Fingerprint sensor, 3 USB ports,earphone/mic, RJ45 Ethernet<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OS: </span>Windows Vista Business<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions: </span>12.5” x 9.1” x 0.73” WDH<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weight: </span>1.42kg<br /></span><br /><br /><img src="http://www.smmoamarketing.com/banners/astoneumpc.jpg" align="left" /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Astone UMPC</span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SRP:PhP20,000</span><br />The Astone UMPC has a 7” touchscreen LCD powered by a VIA C7 processor at 1.2 GHz, 1Gb RAM and 60GB hard drive. It comes with a 1.3MP webcam and a Bluetooth VoiP phone.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display: </span></span>7” WVGA Touch Screen<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Casing Color: </span><span>Silver Black</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">CPU: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span> VIA C7-M ULV 1.2Ghz<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory:</span></span> <span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> 1GB DDR2<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display Card:</span></span> <span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> VIA UniChrome Pro II<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Storage: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> 60GB<span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Card Reader:</span></span> 4in1SD/MMC/MS/MS P<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Audio:</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> <span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> Built-in mic/speakers<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wireless:</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span>Wireless LAN Azure Wave IEEE 802.11b/g, Bluetooth<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Camera:</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> Built-in 0.3MP<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Input/Output:</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> 2 USB 2.0 RJ45 Ethernet, earphone/mic, DVI-I, Bluetooth VoIP Phone<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">OS: </span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> Linux Open OS<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions:</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> 23×17x29 cm<br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weight:</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span> 0.97 Kg<br /><br /><br /><img src="http://www.smmoamarketing.com/banners/macbookair.jpg" align="left" /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Apple MacBook Air</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SRP:PhP150,000</span><br />The new MacBook Air is 0.8” ultrathin in a 13”-screen package designed with wireless innovations. This ultra-portable comes with a whopping full-size keyboard and exceptionally large multi-touch trackpad.<br /><img src="file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/dad/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot.jpg" alt="" /><img src="file:///C:/DOCUME%7E1/dad/LOCALS%7E1/Temp/moz-screenshot-1.jpg" alt="" /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display: </span>13.3” WXGA<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Casing Color:</span> Silver, White<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CPU:</span> Intel Core 2 Duo<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory: </span>2GB DDR2<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display Card: </span>Intel GMA X3100<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Storage: </span>80GB, 64GB SSD optional<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Card Reader: </span>None<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Audio: </span>Built-in mic/speakers<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wireless: </span>AirPort Extreme Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11n, Bluetooth<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Camera: </span>Built-in iSight, 640×480<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Input/Output:</span> 1 USB, Micro-DVI, earphone/mic,<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OS:</span> Mac OSX 10.5 Leopard<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions:</span> .76” H x 12.8” W x 9” D<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weight: </span>1.36 Kg<br /><br /><img src="http://www.smmoamarketing.com/banners/everex_cloudbook.jpg" align="left" /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Everex Cloudbook</span></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SRP:Php20,000</span><br />Everex lives up to its commitment to provide customers with high-performance, highly-affordable technology, simple and durable enough to be used in everyday life with the Everex CloudBook, a new Ultra Mobile Portable Computer designed to run Linux or Windows OS that will try to compete with other UMPCs on the market such as the Asus Eee PC, the OLPC and the Intel ClassMate. Just under 1Kg, the CloudBook's dimensions (WxDxH) are only 9.06" x 6.73 x 1.16" .Powered by a VIA C7 ULV 1.2GHz CPU and 512MB of RAM30GB hard drive, the CloudBook is featured with a built-in WiFi, 1.3MP webcam, speakers and 4-in-1 card reader, and Ethernet,DVI and two USB ports.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display: </span>7" WVGA 800 x 480<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Casing Color:</span> Silver, Black<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CPU:</span> VIA C7-M ULV 1.2 GHz<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory: </span>512MB DDR2<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display Card: </span>VIA UniChrome Pro IGP<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Storage: </span>30GB<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Card Reader: </span>4-in1SD, MMC, MSPRO<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Audio: </span>Built-in mic/speakers<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wireless: </span>802.11b/g<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Camera: </span>Built-in 0.3MP<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Input/Output:</span> 2 USB, RJ45 Ethernet, DVI-I, earphone/mic<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OS: </span>Ubuntu, gOS Rocket<br /> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions:</span> 23 × 17 × 3 cm (WHD)<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weight: </span>0.91 Kg<br /> <span style="font-weight: bold;"></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-3304191014707135092008-08-04T13:12:00.001+08:002008-08-04T13:12:37.844+08:00Lenovo Thinkpad X300<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/lenovox300.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/lenovox300.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">SRP: PhP130,000</span><br />The new X300 is the 0.73'' thinnest ND lightest ThinkPad ever with built-in DVD burner, a slew of 3 USB ports, mic and headphone ports and more.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /><br />Display: </span>13.3’ WXGA 1440 x 900<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Casing Color: </span>Silver Black<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CPU: </span>Intel Core 2 Duo 1.2GHz<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory: </span>1-4GB DDR2<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Display Card: </span>Intel Graphics X3100<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Storage: </span>64GB SATA SSD, Ultra-thin DVD Burner<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Card Reader: </span>Built-in mic/speakers<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Audio: </span>Bluetooth, GPS (Verizon WWAN), Intel UltraWideBand, Intel WiMax, 802.11n<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wireless: </span>Intel PRO<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Camera: </span>Built-in 1.3Mp<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Input/Output: </span>Fingerprint sensor, 3 USB ports,earphone/mic, RJ45 Ethernet<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OS: </span>Windows Vista Business<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dimensions: </span>12.5” x 9.1” x 0.73” WDH<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Weight: </span>1.42kg</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-48735003580515552102008-08-04T06:23:00.007+08:002008-08-04T13:16:57.540+08:00CyberPress stages first laser tag tournament for IT firms<img style="width: 471px; height: 250px;" src="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/cyberpress_laser_tag.jpg" /><br />The IT Journalists Association of the Philippines Inc., also known as CyberPress, is staging the first laser tag tournament for local IT companies on Aug. 15, 1 to 6 in the afternoon, at the Lazer Xtreme gaming arena in Market! Market! in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.<br /><br />IT executives from the country’s top technology and BPO firms are expected to slug it out in a friendly competition meant to serve as a continuation of the annual sports tournament organized by the local IT press corps.<br /><br />The tournament, which will employ a knock-out system, will be held in a high-tech and futuristic venue which opened just two months back. Unlike in most war games using high-pressure pellet guns or paint projectiles, Lazer Xtreme provides electronic tag games minus the danger, pain, wardrobes ruined by paint, the need to buy expensive gear, among other concerns, making the game suitable for people of all ages, shapes, and sizes.<br /><br />Moreover, unlike in many simulation-shooting games that rely mostly on marshals to monitor hits and casualties, the state-of–the–art facility uses infrared signals that are fired through the guns and received by the laser tag vest worn by the other player which registers onto a computer.<br /><br />IT and BPO companies, as well as organizations coming from the ICT sector, can participate in the games which is also serving as fund-raising activity of the CyberPress. A participation fee of P5,000 will be charged per team (composed of four members). Food and drinks is included in the fee.<br /><br />To join, contact Melvin Calimag (melvsgc@yahoo.com) or Relly Carpio (anaksapatero@gmail.com).Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-40639223481387376332008-08-03T00:56:00.002+08:002008-08-07T00:59:35.814+08:00New projector technologies take center stageRecent improvements in projector technologies have been huge. While LCD and DLP types steadily gained popularity in the consumer projector segment because of their unique advantages in price and performance, new models with improved internal mechanisms are sprouting to pick up an edge in the market.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DLP (Digital Light Processing)</span><br />A digital display solution that uses Digital Mirror Device chip with thousands of micro mirrors that modulate light from the lamp, DLPs are known to purge “screen door” effects on the projected image usually seen on LCDs. DLPs are considered to have higher quality video output. Recent developments to enhance color management are geared towards improved DLP color reproduction.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)</span><br />LCDs or 3LCDs use three red/green/blue LCD glass panels. The RGB panels modulate light that produces the projected image. LCDs produce brighter images than DLPs and are generally used for presentations even in well-lit rooms. Sharper images from LCDs can actually be unflattering for videos which tend to be pixilated. The trio panels make LCDs a bit bulky than DLPs. New LCD technologies tend to compete with portability and video enhancements of DLPs.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon)</span><br />LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon), the third kid in the major block has become a popular hybrid of LCD and DLP with improved contrast levels over LCDs and crispier images over DLPs. Combining liquid crystals and reflective mirrors make LCoS more expensive than LCD and DLP. LCoS reduces gaps between pixels to produce richer images as compared with the other two.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SXRD (Silicon X-Tal Reflective Display)</span><br />Developed by Sony for its new line of projectors, SXRD technology takes LCoS on the next level with an increased pixel density and improvement in inter-pixel gaps. SXRD solves the grey effect on LCoS projectors and advances a new device that vertically aligns liquid crystal materials to achieve higher optical properties and contrast that are previously unachievable in LCD, DLP or LCoS projectors.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">D-ILA (Direct-Drive Image Light Amplification)</span><br />Optimized for new JVC projectors, D-ILA technology is yet another LCoS innovation with an “image amplifier” design that is able to produce 2048x1536-pixel HDTV performance. D-ILA has its own optical engine to provide full benefits of high-resolution videos from players or PCs while addressing the previous black level issues of LCoS. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">4LCD</span><br />An innovation of conventional three RGB glass panel LCD systems, 4LCD is Sanyo’s latest projector optical engine which includes a new color control device that controls the amount of yellow light in the projected image to produce higher luminosity and improved color accuracy. 4LCD can generate clearer images and videos that was previously impossible even with high brightness 3LCD projectors.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">New generation of 4K projectors on top-of-the-line</span><br />Costing millions of pesos and maximized for a massive 50-foot screen, posted at the current highest-end in the fixed-installed projector block are the latest generation of 4K projectors rated at a whopping 4096x2400 resolution. Wow! That’s more than four folds that the most expensive 1080p HDTV can display. You might wonder how Anne Hathaway will look on this enormous screen.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DLP projectors now use LED technology</span><br />Promising to transform the projector landscape, new Light Emitting Diode (LED) technologies are now integrated in DLP projectors that will eventually do away with replacement lamp maintenance costs. Mainstream DLP projectors that are widely used are built with digital micro mirrors to modulate light and project images through the lens require lamps that die in a matter of time. Previous LCD projectors that use three legacy panels which are still available require replacement lamps as well. LED-based projectors will also consume less power and run cooler than lamp-based types.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The coming of projector widgets</span><br />We are now seeing the dawn of ultra-compact “miniature projectors” that have built-in single-mode RGB lasers to provide LCD-like graphical presentations from a mobile device. These petite gizmos allow users to carry big screens right in their pockets. We might see in the long run not only in mainstream DLP, LCD and LCOS projectors that will hang on to this new technology, but in handheld portable devices as well.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Going Wireless</span><br />With rapid changes in how presentations are created for a specific audience, wireless functionality (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) has become a standard feature on new projectors. Making it easier to switch between multiple sources, wireless projectors also gives more presentation flexibility and mobility for users.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-12586997245678868342008-08-02T22:55:00.003+08:002008-08-07T00:53:25.595+08:00Digital Video Camera FormatsWith a lot of digital video camera types out there, you should be making your choice according to cost and convenience. Although cheaper analogue camcorders are still around, many prefer digital formats for higher resolution recording, more video versatility and compact design. Read on before getting a new digital camcorder.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Digital8</span><br />If you’re on budget, Digital8 format is a great choice to make home movies. Considered to be the first upgrade step from analogue to digital, this format records onto legacy 8mm and Hi8 tapes and can play your old analogue recordings. Digital8 types allow you to produce small video clips compressed for the Internet. Like the MiniDV, the Digital8 produces decent studio-quality video with 500 lines of resolution.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">MiniDV</span><br />Popular among budget buyers and even professional videographers, MiniDV is intended to replace VHS and Hi8. Smaller than 8mm and can record for about an hour of video, MiniDV offer better effects and more superior lenses. Some MiniDVs can take good quality digital still pictures like a professional digital camera.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">MicroMV</span><br />Ultra-compact MicroMVs camcorders are smaller versions of standard MiniDVs. Designed for portability and easy-of-use, lightweight MicroMVs measure only about 10 x 5 x 7.5cm (HxWxS).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">DVD</span><br />DVD camcorders allow direct recording onto 8cm DVD-R or DVD-RW discs without the PC and immediately view playbacks on a DVD player. DVD camcorders have enhanced features of MiniDVs and Digital8s plus some special effects.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Hard Disc</span><br />This camcorder types sports a built-in hard disc which store digital movies. Hard disk types make it easier for the user to edit, delete and transfer files to the PC.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Memory cards (SD, MS)</span><br />Memory card camcorders types are smaller designs and records highly compressed videos mainly for Web sites, blogs and e-mail.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Features WatchList</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lens</span> - at least 10x optical zoom.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Inputs and Outputs</span> - Firewire port, Audid/Video outputs for TV connection, S-Video (Super-Video) cable<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Image Stabilization </span>- to avoid "camera jitters"<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Still–Photo Capabilities </span>- Many digital camcorders now offer still photo capture features.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Low–Light Performance </span>- Camcorder’s ability to capture video in low-light situations<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Battery Life </span>- Check the maximum recording time. Expect to get less than the stated maximum battery life so won’t get frustrated.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-83603500220529029052008-07-17T03:51:00.003+08:002008-12-09T06:39:30.159+08:00Amped Games ties up with GPlayon to promote N-Age in the Philippines<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9V629n8zc5cqKRpiQIY2tqaSkRivDighndaToyJHzz-anC1ba-0kuzcjrxtqq-barreOeaRg2yf44LzpVpjqAA50ki-vhb5NvApEXU4akL-IBCuSsXON65Lm4nUubsiTVyq_KM0pZ_Re6/s1600-h/amped.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9V629n8zc5cqKRpiQIY2tqaSkRivDighndaToyJHzz-anC1ba-0kuzcjrxtqq-barreOeaRg2yf44LzpVpjqAA50ki-vhb5NvApEXU4akL-IBCuSsXON65Lm4nUubsiTVyq_KM0pZ_Re6/s400/amped.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219401306475364914" border="0" /></a>Online gaming distributor <a href="http://www.amped.com.ph/">Amped Games</a> has recently sealed a partnership with Korean game publisher GPlayon to exclusively market and distribute <a href="http://www.n-age.com.ph/">N-Age</a> in the Philippines.<br /><br />According to Amped Games product manager Agnes Tapia, GPlayon will manage the technical backbone of N-Age with servers located in the Philippines while Amped Games will provide business direction.<br /><br />"N-Age is a new massively multiplayer online role playing game that sets a distinctively contemporary urban theme. Users will notice the difference of N-Age’s color and localized background to fit the Philippine local market," Tapia said.<br /><br />N-Age users are directed to protect a virtual city called “Centerville” by eliminating black-suited minions who try to takeover the metropolis. Users get to interact with other users in the process.<br /><br />According to Amped Games product officer Julius Salagan, “users will not only experience an exciting MMORPG virtual world in N-Age, they can also buy, sell and trade with other members.”<br /><br />N-Age offers free membership but users will be required to buy top-up cards from Amped Games priced at 10-500 pesos to experience the full game features. These top-up cards are also used with other MMORPGs distributed by Amped Games including <a href="http://www.tantra.ph/">Tantra</a>, <a href="http://www.warrock.ph/">WarRock</a>, and <a href="http://www.cronous.ph/">Cronous</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-78989858296624953002008-07-05T15:44:00.004+08:002008-12-09T06:39:31.581+08:00Video Creation on the WebOnline videos have ushered in a new dispensation of Internet landscape, spurring millions to tune in on the Web to watch countless footage and movie clips. Tagging on YouTube’s phenomenal success, a huge number of Web sites have been taking a crack at offering motion picture experience to its users. With a cheap video camera or video phone, you can actually become a video producer overnight by uploading just about whatever videos you want for free to let the world watch your home videos of parties, cute babies or pets, family portraits, and even your nonsense jokes and pranks. What’s more interesting is seeing video junkies taking a further step in the world of online videos. We have rounded up some interesting sites on the Net which allow users to create videos minus the special software. And it’s free!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5ZvT91mNWQ72Uj1TtXT0RoZaH83eM29F6c2Z5o5_HMLn4ZhdzruoBKX4-QpcyvyTqURxeABAO2LnExpjYOsADhNvINejTyViR1WZhnPWIdieDSIVsvu3_8cecnzKWJ-VLyBPEaSMmqiy/s1600-h/media_convert.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5ZvT91mNWQ72Uj1TtXT0RoZaH83eM29F6c2Z5o5_HMLn4ZhdzruoBKX4-QpcyvyTqURxeABAO2LnExpjYOsADhNvINejTyViR1WZhnPWIdieDSIVsvu3_8cecnzKWJ-VLyBPEaSMmqiy/s400/media_convert.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219575592066407874" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.media-convert.com/">Media-Convert</a></span><br />Media-Convert can convert audio, image and video files from one file format to another to hasten up you video creation for free. Media-Convert will come in handy with some sites that allow certain video format which may not be compatible with your video phone. With support to almost any media format on earth, there's a good chance Media-Convert can convert serve you needs. Media-Convert can actually convert PDF documents to Adobe Flash (SWF) files, and it even obscurely converts text documents to Morse code.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXdY5RqeMTzexf3EAp32rO50tAqwPsT5o-yx0E3QGbBIGmgETiexLnmI3MPo0lYSUBWtfSyKzMX6KmMWxuu5mR_3WI8TsMThqTjvsN0WPpQrD6XCyGrzNVSR0-szrLhubjMjC3-4Qx0qo/s1600-h/movavi.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqXdY5RqeMTzexf3EAp32rO50tAqwPsT5o-yx0E3QGbBIGmgETiexLnmI3MPo0lYSUBWtfSyKzMX6KmMWxuu5mR_3WI8TsMThqTjvsN0WPpQrD6XCyGrzNVSR0-szrLhubjMjC3-4Qx0qo/s400/movavi.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219577251805307298" border="0" /></a> <a href="http://www.movavi.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Movavi Online Convert</span></a><br />Movavi Online offers free online video converter that allows you to upload videos and convert them to formats you wish to use. Movavi Online also allows videos downloaded from YouTube, Google and other video-sharing sites to be converted to AVI, MPEG, MOV, FLV, MP4, 3GP for most widely used cellphones including iPhone and portable media players like iPod. Movavi also converts videos on your local PC without installing new software. Yes, it’s free minus the annoying ads!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXCAxYsw0R3A9sOJYPmiC8qjYfxVW5FawxQORRD1_JkeFvGUVfMEVYZwpv85tkHKFVIpnv9k4uPJjYZY6uqpywVd2GKkmcWyeE8Zv29JzWP09Th8Pd31FZ2v_3ZJXCtWPXUrIMVY7Oivh/s1600-h/zamzar.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHXCAxYsw0R3A9sOJYPmiC8qjYfxVW5FawxQORRD1_JkeFvGUVfMEVYZwpv85tkHKFVIpnv9k4uPJjYZY6uqpywVd2GKkmcWyeE8Zv29JzWP09Th8Pd31FZ2v_3ZJXCtWPXUrIMVY7Oivh/s400/zamzar.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219578053066960354" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.zamzar.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Zamzar</span></a><br />Zamzar is an online one stop solution for a comprehensive file conversion needs. It’s actually a web service that converts not just video files but almost any other audio, images and documents to other formats. It has an extensive list of conversion compatibility to transform songs, videos, images and documents into different formats.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDxru7W30IQX359UJt7Hbg4pMk8O1jdARuwjCbVIJRBftq92YoRuBvhsOQMEq6zGQ78VEjzD-sJvH0m0aKEhyphenhyphenHlPouwDsy064fV40GgSyOiMJUVtP9RCsjoCtTc5eg2Bf6bYoBEW_rrI5/s1600-h/jumpcut.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicDxru7W30IQX359UJt7Hbg4pMk8O1jdARuwjCbVIJRBftq92YoRuBvhsOQMEq6zGQ78VEjzD-sJvH0m0aKEhyphenhyphenHlPouwDsy064fV40GgSyOiMJUVtP9RCsjoCtTc5eg2Bf6bYoBEW_rrI5/s400/jumpcut.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219578612326399058" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.jumpcut.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">JumpCut</span></a><br />Web video creation becomes so easy and fun with Jumpcut. JumpCut is a free Web site that offers online video creation and publishing from scratch. If you want to be creative with your clips and images, Jumpcut has a drag and drop video editor of clips, images, music, sound effects, transitions, and effects which you can play around right on the Web site. JumpCut offers a unique “remixing” feature that allows users to combine their created footage and cool picture slideshow with others. Just a note, Yahoo! recently acquired JumpCut and it seems online video creation will be added to its services for free.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO-DG4-fMRNZXDsqCj_o9nE5NraS11lY8rwMDJvW0xY79p4sisAyiFNZ1Fh3lWfyxa4I0UgTeMAyr0dzgaQPTgwDp3LS4pMl_La_KnE3khjf6JYHCUBpQ44V52yQKlUJLBX8vjer3YXrpj/s1600-h/muveemix.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO-DG4-fMRNZXDsqCj_o9nE5NraS11lY8rwMDJvW0xY79p4sisAyiFNZ1Fh3lWfyxa4I0UgTeMAyr0dzgaQPTgwDp3LS4pMl_La_KnE3khjf6JYHCUBpQ44V52yQKlUJLBX8vjer3YXrpj/s400/muveemix.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219579767367690962" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.muveemix.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">MuveeMix</span></a><br />MuveeMix is a free online video mixing service for user-generated content that allows users to create short personal videos from raw footage, music and pictures. The Web site calls the video files stored on its server as “muvees” with embed links that can be posted straight to MySpace or blog site. MuveeMix automatically creates video mixes and slideshows that trail the beat of chosen sound file or music. It also adds synchronized effects and transitions based on the video creation style that the user picks.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYpK0FKkfLS2x_6Iv388to8djliA3qV1Bg45Eom9OEkHZoWN9IENUjqyX68q2MHBAadv24QnuBqKNDu7FzwOjWhLJTfG9csA88xeoW9vPF9t5DP96DsDfYCCz9RC9pohyzOhVNHBSfVKJ9/s1600-h/moblying.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYpK0FKkfLS2x_6Iv388to8djliA3qV1Bg45Eom9OEkHZoWN9IENUjqyX68q2MHBAadv24QnuBqKNDu7FzwOjWhLJTfG9csA88xeoW9vPF9t5DP96DsDfYCCz9RC9pohyzOhVNHBSfVKJ9/s400/moblying.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219583094406144722" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.moblyng.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Moblyng</span></a><br />Moblyng is a cool and easy way for users to create and share video content both on the web and to mobile phones for free. Moblyng tries to catch the wave of mobile video buffs. Moblyng’s unique feature is its ability to converts Flash-based widgets for distribution to mobile phones. The Web site has applications that convert web-based photo and slide show widgets and online video from any social media page for cellphones and portable media players.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhslfjtGF4kyYi17tqffkpaFwNtuHgDpSxmf_tcWcGM0-vFRehvjTS1m0-BSKxsaO1hKDE4pjA50p3aluDN8UQ2RVWpJgtbP1TQrffRApHdcPWT2V2iHgKp4lI4eUx1quzSlfGSGpHsYLA/s1600-h/photobucket.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhslfjtGF4kyYi17tqffkpaFwNtuHgDpSxmf_tcWcGM0-vFRehvjTS1m0-BSKxsaO1hKDE4pjA50p3aluDN8UQ2RVWpJgtbP1TQrffRApHdcPWT2V2iHgKp4lI4eUx1quzSlfGSGpHsYLA/s400/photobucket.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219581410568047458" border="0" /></a><a href="http://www.photobucket.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold;">PhotoBucket</span></a><br />Photobucket is one of the most popular Web sites for uploading and sharing photos, videos, and graphics online. With free accounts that can store thousands of photos and hours of video, Photobucket offers free tools for making slideshows of photos, videos with music.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXDERGHmEsLMKSKdfzaQ2beQ7PqRc7DG9wknHroeWkj0g-E2nLYuA6HkkTxWUkjXiaLNQIXVXell4RBOmw4GdWcK8HtEXLofK5uJxLFM9ZEDpej9XmNlDPH0zouSf_wZuqx-brzXo8ETH/s1600-h/hellodeo.gif"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQXDERGHmEsLMKSKdfzaQ2beQ7PqRc7DG9wknHroeWkj0g-E2nLYuA6HkkTxWUkjXiaLNQIXVXell4RBOmw4GdWcK8HtEXLofK5uJxLFM9ZEDpej9XmNlDPH0zouSf_wZuqx-brzXo8ETH/s400/hellodeo.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219581860405268450" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="http://www.hellodeo.com/">Hellodeo</a></span><br />Hellodeo sports a simple but interesting Web site interface that allows its users to record videos directly from a webcam and then post them on blog sites or any web page without installing new software. Hellodeo revolutionizes online social interaction with a Web that’s so simple, users are not even required to register or log-in.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-21787621489861291142008-06-30T08:59:00.005+08:002008-08-05T02:22:18.885+08:00Windows XP is DeadA wire from the <a href="http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5htzwpdi2SxPWz4ohZtpjmFeOjG5gD91K1OJ80">Associated Press</a> with the title <a href="http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5htzwpdi2SxPWz4ohZtpjmFeOjG5gD91K1OJ80"><span style="font-weight: bold;">"</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Microsoft to stop selling Windows XP on Monday"</span></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>(June 30, 2008) carried a story saying that the six-year-old Windows XP meets its eventual end.<br /><br />Microsoft will cease the sale of its Windows XP operating system. My <a href="http://techdriveph.blogspot.com/search/label/Operating%20Systems">previous post</a> on the subject in December 2007 materialized as retailers and hardware vendors stop the distribution of the most popular and most bootlegged operating system. Will this mean that PC users who don't want to use the beefy Vista will be forced to drink the juice?<br /><br />This may be Microsoft's way of clamping down on Windows piracy. Users who want to use XP should buy the higher Vista categories, then "legally downgrade to XP." The software giant is paving the way for the anticipated and more advanced Windows 7 by killing XP.<br /><br />XP's legacy will still cast a long shadow with the sprouting affordable UMPCs which opt to use XP instead of Vista.<span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-30307232048073568672008-06-26T16:15:00.001+08:002008-12-09T06:39:31.774+08:00Genius introduces a bluetooth headset with touch panel design<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlMPkTXT9Vzi-Fb7VEAyA3Zeczf0FMIcFO8Fd-hbr_eOKUsGbk2EmfvwQLBU6Zf9_VB_5zF47UY8Pwxn72K1Bcrugyt08Ryiuirfr-SQqOcv7IP_wERxuBK_YBX40VDhuCPoEwyL-xnP9/s1600-h/genius_bluetooth.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHlMPkTXT9Vzi-Fb7VEAyA3Zeczf0FMIcFO8Fd-hbr_eOKUsGbk2EmfvwQLBU6Zf9_VB_5zF47UY8Pwxn72K1Bcrugyt08Ryiuirfr-SQqOcv7IP_wERxuBK_YBX40VDhuCPoEwyL-xnP9/s400/genius_bluetooth.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5219429751444548978" border="0" /></a>Genius recently introduced the BT-03i, a Bluetooth headset with a touch panel design that allows users to make calls with a touch panel "phone" icon.<br /><br />A wireless headset that delivers fashion as well as convenience and comfort, the BT-03i features an advanced CVC (Clear Voice Capture) and a 30mm driver unit that produces powerful audio.<br /><br />With a Bluetooth working distance of up to 30 feet, the BT-03i supports A2DP Protocol powered by a rechargeable Hi-Polymer Li-ion battery with a USB charger and adaptor.<br /><br />Priced at P3,790 SRP, the Genius BT-03i is distributed in the Philippines by <a href="http://www.msi-ecs.com.ph/">MSI-ECS</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-43403726477021044482008-06-23T16:32:00.009+08:002008-08-04T12:55:42.573+08:00An Integrated approach to Secure and Manage Endpoints<span style="font-style: italic;">This article written by Richard Velasco, <a href="http://www.symantec.com/en/ph/index.jsp">Symantec</a>'s Senior Technical Consultant for Philippines, was sent to me by <a href="http://www.ardent.com.ph/">Ardent Communications</a>. Richard is responsible for strategic engagements with <a href="http://www.symantec.com/en/ph/index.jsp">Symantec</a> customers on their security infrastructure requirements.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/richard_velasco.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 196px; height: 169px;" src="http://smmoamarketing.com/banners/richard_velasco.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Managing the dynamics of endpoint infrastructure is a challenging task. Organizations today need proactive endpoint security measures that can protect against zero-day attacks and unknown threats. With the current threat landscape which is full of stealthy, targeted, and financially motivated attacks, organizations are facing an increasingly complex security environment. Many sophisticated threats can evade traditional security solutions, leaving organizations open to data theft and manipulation, disruption of business, and damage to corporate brand and reputation.<br /><br />Deploying security solutions individually on each endpoint is not only time-consuming, it also increases IT complexity and costs. Organizations then need to provide management, training, and support for a variety of different endpoint security solutions.<br /><br />This article outlines a new approach to securing and managing the enterprise endpoint computing environment.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Business problems at the endpoint</span><br />The IT department at a typical enterprise these days finds itself fighting some pretty fierce fires:<br /><br />* Endpoint management costs are increasing The cost of downtime impacts both productivity and revenue. According to a recent study by Infonetics Research, network downtime caused by security attacks is costing large enterprises upwards of US$30 million a year. In addition, the costs to acquire, manage, and administer point products are increasing, as is demand on system resources.<br />* Complexity is increasing as well The manpower required to manage disparate endpoint protection technologies is inefficient and time-consuming. Also, differing technologies can often work against one another or impede system performance due to high resource consumption.<br />* Growing number of new known and unknown threats Stealth-based and silent attacks are increasing, so there is a need for antivirus to do much more. The current threat environment is characterized by an increase in data theft and data leakage, and the creation of malicious code that targets specific organizations for information that can be used for financial gain. One gauge of the growing sophistication of attacks is the appearance of blended threats, which integrate multiple attack methods such as worms, Trojan horses, and zero-day threats.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">An integrated approach</span><br />Antivirus, antispyware, and other signature-based protection measures, which are primarily reactive, may have been sufficient to protect an organization’s vital resources a few years ago, but not today. Organizations now need proactive endpoint security measures that can protect against zero-day attacks and unknown threats. They need to take a structured approach to endpoint security, implementing a solution that not only protects them from threats on all levels, but also provides interoperability, seamless implementation, and centralized management.<br /><br />Symantec’s approach to endpoint protection provides advanced threat prevention that protects endpoints from targeted attacks as well as attacks not seen before. It includes proactive technologies that automatically analyze application behaviors and network communications to detect and block suspicious activities, as well as administrative control features that allow administrators to deny specific device and application activities deemed as high risk for the organization. They can even block specific actions based on the location of the user. In the case of an infected endpoint, security products repair the damage by disinfecting or quarantining the system. The remediation process is then completed by deploying the necessary patch.<br /><br />This approach calls for consolidating endpoint protection technologies in a single, integrated agent that can be administered from a central management console. The goal is to increase endpoint protection while eliminating the administrative overhead and costs associated with multiple security products.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Comprehensive protection</span><br />Organizations need a holistic approach to endpoint security that protects from threats at all levels. Traditional antivirus and antispyware solutions are no longer enough.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.symantec.com/en/ph/index.jsp">Symantec</a>’s approach boosts protection and lessens overhead and costs of managing endpoint security by providing a single agent administered via a single console. It is an approach that can save organizations time and money while protecting their assets and business.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-28812712284298205512008-06-22T16:18:00.002+08:002008-08-02T22:21:36.462+08:00Canon goes for green technology with environment-friendly productsCanon Marketing Philippines recently announced its initiative to encourage awareness on current environmental issues by promoting the use of energy-efficient products.<br /><br />“The company recognizes the critical global issue of environmental concerns. In line with this belief, Canon reiterates its commitment to provide products that lessen energy consumption and are increasingly earth-friendly,” Ramon G. Arteficio, Canon Marketing Philippines President and CEO said<br /><br />Canon also announced that it has accomplished new product modifications and enhancements that are designed to lower energy consumption and increase recyclable materials including new automatic shut-off functions, decreasing warm-up period features, enhancing reusable plastic, and implementing an environmental information system in stages of product development.<br /><br />“Complying with international standards of environmental preservation, Canon’s latest line of scanners, fax machines, copiers, and inkjet printers have gained the seal of Japan’s Eco Mark and USA’s Energy Star,” Arteficio said.<br /><br />Arteficio also said that the company maintains close relationships with various organizations that promote environmental conservation.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-13943345322366196242008-06-19T16:19:00.001+08:002008-08-02T22:21:51.399+08:00Epson unveils new line of low-priced printers designed for back-to-school seasonTo address the need of students for affordable yet high quality digital imaging tools, <a href="http://www.epson.com.ph/">Epson Philippines</a> recently introduced its latest line of printers priced and designed for the entry-level users and first-time buyers.<br /><br />The new line of low-cost Epson printers include the Stylus T10 (PhP2,195 SRP) and TX200 and TX400 stand-alone All-in-One models. All printers are equipped with Epson's innovative four-color individual ink cartridge system that significantly cuts ink costs because users will replace depleted ink cartridges separately.<br /><br />Ed Bonoan, Epson Philippines Senior General Manager and Division Head for Sales and Marketing said, “we wanted to dispel the notion that only great artists using expensive printers and scanners can produce quality pictures and prints. With our new line of printers, students and other entry-level users can now afford professional-quality digital imaging tools for their school and recreation needs."Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6014616033243040990.post-43569153535662818212008-06-18T16:20:00.002+08:002008-12-09T06:39:32.051+08:00Multiply.com ventures on Philippine market with ABS-CBN<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbKYyWznqXLx8vnmUGfsaHDDWQdjqw0noq0l0NCancBZMLlLygpy-9HKvRnZ-uN3bB_x-z1xvlv_MHAnoT0xVqteAS8dCVsYXDDtj3lNxJh1D7ACWH4avKo5BTFjy0CdwQ5KrThZbVoFN/s1600-h/multply.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVbKYyWznqXLx8vnmUGfsaHDDWQdjqw0noq0l0NCancBZMLlLygpy-9HKvRnZ-uN3bB_x-z1xvlv_MHAnoT0xVqteAS8dCVsYXDDtj3lNxJh1D7ACWH4avKo5BTFjy0CdwQ5KrThZbVoFN/s400/multply.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218929534354817154" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Multiply.com founder and president Peter Pezaris, ABS-CBN Interactive managing director Paolo Pineda, and Multiply.com vice president for business development David Hersh brief the press before the announcement of Multiply.com and ABS-CBN's partnership at the Rockwell Tent, Makati City on June 18, 2008. (Photo courtesy of ABS-CBN Interactive)</span><br /><br />Leading U.S.-based social networking web site <a href="http://www.multiply.com/">Multiply.com</a> recently announced its partnership with <a href="http://www.abs-cbn.com/">ABS-CBN Interactive</a> in a bid to seize new business opportunities and create more online advertising revenue from the Philippines.<br /><br />In a press briefing held at the Rockwell Tent in Makati City last June 18, Multiply.com founder and president Peter Pezaris confirmed that his company has signed up an exclusive marketing deal with ABS-CBN Interactive to sell Multiply.com online ad in the country.<br /><br />Pezaris said that Multiply.com is currently one of the world’s largest multimedia sharing web sites with more than 9 million users worldwide who post about two million photos, 19,000 videos and 55,000 blog entries everyday.<br /><br />Paolo Pineda, ABS-CBN Interactive managing director said “with currently more than 2.2 million members that has signed up from the country, Multiply.com is the fastest-growing and one of the most popular social networks in the Philippines."<br /><br />According to web traffic analyzer <a href="http://www.alexa.com/site/ds/top_sites?cc=PH&ts_mode=country&lang=none">Alexa.com</a>, Multiply.com is currently the top 5 most visited web site in the Philippines generating more than a million page views everyday.<br /><br />Pineda said that advertisement from the Philippines will only serve users from the country. He added that ABS-CBN’s extensive advertisement network will provide the revenue for Multiply.com.<br /><br />David Hersh, Multiply.com vice president for business development said that a large number of members in the Philippines are engaging in online retail business through Multiply.com. “This is something that is unique about Philippine members that we can explore with ABS-CBN,” Hersh said.<br /><br />Launched in 2004, Multiply.com’s online services provide free personal web site that allows peer-based sharing of photos, blogs, videos, and other digital content.<br /><br />ABS-CBN Interactive manages the Internet operations of ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, the largest media and entertainment company in the Philippines.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2