Xbox 360™ Halo® 3 Special Edition

Xbox 360™ Halo® 3 Special Edition

In anticipation of this year's largest blockbuster game launch, Microsoft will offer the Xbox 360™ Halo® 3 Special Edition Console in September 2007 priced at $399.99. The console features an exclusive "Spartan green and gold" finish and comes bundled with a matching Xbox 360 Wireless Controller, 20GB Hard Drive, Headset, Play & Charge Kit, and exclusive Halo 3 Gamer Pics and Theme (available via Xbox LIVE® download).

Microsoft held its E3 press conference in June, the only major announcement related to Xbox 360 hardware was the reveal of a Halo Special Edition console. Although Halo 3 itself won’t be hitting shelves until next week, gamers looking to dial up their Halo-fever can now pick up the Special Edition console from their local electronics and games retailer. It the time of announcement, Microsoft focused mainly on the Halo 3 console's authentic Spartan green and gold finish and comes with matching Xbox 360 Wireless Controller,20GB Hard Drive, Headset, Play & Charge Kit, Halo 3 Gamer Pics and Theme available via Xbox Live download. Less than a month later, HDMI ports were spotted on Xbox 360 20GB Premium consoles.

Gamers wanting the HDMI output feature but not interested in spending the extra money for an Xbox 360 Elite can be assured of getting such a console by purchasing the Halo Special Edition. The Halo console retails for $399, while the regular Premium console is $349. For a short period, Best Buy was offering $349 Premium consoles with guaranteed HDMI output. The special green console is not the only Halo promo item on Microsoft’s list. Microsoft has designed both a black and brown Halo edition Zunes preloaded with appropriately themed soundtracks and media. In June, retailer GameStop revealed special Halo 3-themed Xbox 360 controllers featuring Todd McFarlane artwork and Spartan green wireless headset. Halo 3 launches on September 25 in what could be the biggest game launch in history

Buy from Amazon.com, See link below


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Technical characteristics HP Compaq Presario V3600 and V6600

Technical characteristics HP Compaq Presario V3600 and V6600
To the renewal of the series of laptop consumer HP Pavilion it follows unavoidably that one of the line Compaq Presario, with two new models, HP Compaq Presario v3600 and v6600.

Generations: HP Compaq 6820s, 6720s, 6520s, HP G7000 and G6000 (aka Compaq Presario C700 and F500), HP Pavilion dv2600, dv6600, dv9600, tx1300, HP Pavilion dx6600 and HDX9100, are all?
Truly not, something still lacks: the Compaq Presario V3600 and V6600.

The lines of product of Compaq, after the acquisition from HP part, have been subdivided in a family of notebook professional "HP Compaq" and in a range of laptop consumer "HP Compaq Presario", that parallel regarding most famous series HP Pavilion runs.

To maintain two distinguished coppers of notebook consumer would have been economically sconveniente, for this HP it adopts is for the series Compaq Presario that for the Pavilion series same motherboard and therefore also the same inner design, except some small modification. It achieves some that, to the launch of the new HP Pavilion dv2600 and dv6600 the new release of the Compaq Presario V3600 and V6600 is placed side by side, than from they they derive.

Made this premise, it does not have to astonish to nobody the fact that the list of the technical detailed lists of the HP Compaq Presario V3600 and V6600 traces that one perfectly of accredits HP Pavilion dv2600 and dv6600:

Technical characteristics HP Compaq Presario V6600

  • Processor: Intel The 2 Cores Pair T7500, T7300, T7100, T7250, T5550, T5450, T5250, Intel Core Pair T2330, T2310, Intel Celeron M540, M530, AMD Turion 64 X2 MK-38, TL-66, TL-60, TL-58, TL-56, AMD Athlon 64 X2 TK-53
  • Chipset: Intel GM965 or nVidia MCP67M
  • Memory: 2 SODIMM PC2-5300, 667-MHz, DDRII, max 4GB
  • Screen: 15.4-inch, WXGA BrightView
  • Card video: Intel GMA X3100 or Nvidia GeForce 7150M
  • Hard disk: SATA 80, 120, 160, 250 GB to 5400 rpm o200GB to 4200rpm
  • Optical Drive: Super±DVD RW and CD-RW Fines Double-Layer Combo Drive with Super LightScribe or±DVD RW and CD-RW Fines Double-Layer Combo Drive or DVD-CD/RW Combo Drive
  • Audio: Realtek ALC861-VD-GR or Conexant CX20549-12, loudspeakers Altec Lansing
  • Networking: modem 56k, 10/100 Ethernet LAN, Intel FOR Wireless 3945 802.11a/b/g and 802.11b/g with 2 antennas, Intel FOR Wireless 4965 802.11a/b/g/n with 3 antennas, Intel WLAN + Bluetooth, Broadcom 4321AGN Wi-Fi Adapter (802,11 a/b/g/ draft-n) + Bluetooth with 2 antennas, Broadcom 4321AGN Wi-Fi Adapter (802,11 a/b/g/ draft-n) with 2 antennas
  • Expansions: reader of cards of memory 5-in-1 (Secure Digital cards, MultiMedia cards, Memory Stick, Memory Stick For, xD Picture), slot ExpressCard/54
  • Doors: jack audio and microphone, Consumer infrared, RJ-11 (modem), RJ-45 (Ethernet), S-Video-out, from 1 to 3 USB, VGA (Dsub 15-pin), 1394
  • Battery: 6-Cells 2.20-Ah Li-ion, 6-Cells 2.55-Ah Li-ion, 12-cell 2.20-Ah Li-ion
  • Dimensions: 25,7 x 35,7 x 4.1 cm
  • Weight: 2,86Kg


Technical characteristics HP Compaq Presario V3600

  • Processor: Intel Core Pair T2310, Intel The 2 Cores Pair T5250, T5450, T5550, T7100, T7250, T7300, T7500, Intel Celeron M540, M530
  • Chipset: Piece of furniture Intel 965 Express
  • Memory: 2 SoDIMM PC2-5300, DDRII (667-MHz), max 4 GB
  • Screen: 14,1 inches WXGA High-Definition HP BrightView Widescreen Display (1280 x 800)
  • Card video: Nvidia GeForce 8400M GS or Intel GMA X3100
  • Hard disk: SATA 80, 120, 160, 250 GB to 5400 rpm
  • Optical Drive: 24X DVD/CD-RW Combo Drive, LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD+/-RW with Double Layer, or SuperMulti 8X DVD+/-R/RW with Double Layer
  • Audio: loudspeakers Altec Lansing
  • Networking: High speed 56K modem, 10/100BASE-T Ethernet LAN (RJ-45 connector), Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABG Network Connection with or without Bluetooth, 3945BG Network Connection with or without Bluetooth, 4965AGN Network Connection with or without Bluetooth, 802.11b/g with or without Bluetooth
  • Expansions: reader of cards of memory 5-in-1 (Secure Digital cards, MultiMedia cards, Memory Stick, Memory Stick For, xD Picture), slot ExpressCard/54
  • Doors: VGA, HDMI, 2 USB 2,0, RJ-11, RJ-45, jack caps and microphone, IEEE 1394a, Consumer IR, S-Video-out
  • Other: webcam with incorporated microphone, reader of digital prints them
  • Battery: 6-cells Li-ion; 12-cells Li-ion
  • Dimensions: 33,4 x 23,7 x 2,6/3,9 cm
  • Weight: 2,5Kg
Source: notebookitalia.it


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Special Edition HP Pavilion dv2600

Special Edition HP Pavilion dv2600 Notebook...

Overview
For sheer uniqueness, the special edition HP Pavilion dv2600 is hard to beat. The special 'verve' imprint draws inspiration from the fluidity of life – all specially laser-etched and protected by an inlaid moulding process.

Features

• Featuring genuine Windows Vista® Home Premium for superior digital entertainment and advanced features

• The Verve Imprint Finish, featured on the Special Edition notebook, adds a dash of designer sophistication that is sure to leave its mark. The high quality exterior casing, adorned with a striking filigree flower pattern, is set to turn heads

• Featuring the latest Intel® Core™ 2 Duo technology, integrated webcam, fingerprint reader and HP QuickPlay, this notebook delivers an outstanding entertainment experience and all the computer power you need

• To accompany the notebook in both elegance and convenience, stylish accessories include a like-coloured wireless mouse as well as a slender russet slipcase to protect your notebook without ever detracting from your style

• Super smooth graphics performance from the NIVIDIA GeForce 8400M GS lets you sail through graphics intensive games without missing a beat. Great for enjoying multimedia files and presentations too.

The Pavilion dv2600, dv6600 and dv9600 notebooks represent 14.1" (WXGA), 15.4" (WXGA) and 17" (WXGA+ or WSXGA) screen sizes respectively. The Pavilion dv2600 series is only available with Intel Core 2 Duo processors and can be equipped with Intel GMA X3100 or NVIDIA GeForce 8400M GS graphics solutions.

Stepping up to the dv6600 gives users the choice of Celeron, Core 2 Duo, Sempron, Turion or Athlon 64 X2 processors depending on the model selected. Graphics options include the Intel GMA X3100, NVIDIA GeForce 8400M or GeForce 7100M.

The dv9600 series of notebooks, like its smaller dv6600 sibling, can be had with both AMD and Intel power. The dv9600 also gains one more graphics option over the dv6600: the NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GS. Due to its bulk, the dv9600 also can accommodate dual hard drives up to a maximum of 500GB (2 x 250GB).

All Pavilion dvXXXX models can be equipped with numerous WiFi and Bluetooth chipsets from Intel and Broadcom, and all feature Altec Lansing speakers and HDMI connectivity.

HP's Pavilion tx1300 is an AMD-only notebook featuring the NVIDIA C51M chipset paired up with the MCP51 southbridge. The notebook features a 12.1" (WXGA) display, NVIDIA GeForce Go 6150 graphics, 802.11a/b/g/n WiFi and Bluetooth.

Finally, there are new budget 15.4" (WSXGA) models in the form of the HP G7000 (Compaq Presario C700) and HP G6000 (Compaq Presario C500). The G7000 and G6000 share similar feature sets, but the former goes for Intel/X3100 while the latter goes for AMD/GeForce Go 6100 for the processor/GPU.


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Dell XPS M1330 - Review



Product summary

The good: Thin, sexy design; strong performance; backlit-LED display; included media remote control.

The bad: Small touchpad; some options (SSD hard drives, Blu-ray) not available yet; not as many color options as Dell's new Inspiron line.

The bottom line: Dell has finally put design first with the head-turning XPS M1330 laptop, emphasizing both the "thin" and "light" aspects of the thin-and-light category without sacrificing features or performance.

Specs: Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo (2 GHz); RAM installed: 2 GB DDR II SDRAM; Weight: 4 lbs

Dell has never been known as an innovator in consumer product design. In fact, the company's stodgy, boxy products have been blamed for a loss of market share to the bolder design strokes of competitors such as HP and Gateway. That's what makes the new 13-inch XPS M1330 such a pleasant surprise. From our first behind-closed-doors peek at it last month, we've been impressed with the emphasis on the user experience in this superthin, high-end laptop, from the slot-loading DVD drive to the touch-sensitive media buttons and HDMI-output jack. At $2,000 and up, it's definitely a premium product, but worth it if head-turning design is as important to you as specs and performance.

Price as reviewed / starting price $2,188 / $1,299
Processor 2.0 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T7300
Memory 2GB, 667MHz DDR2
Hard drive 160GB at 5,400rpm
Chipset Intel 965
Graphics 128MB Nvidia GeForce Go 8400
Operating System Windows Vista Premium
Dimensions (WDH) 12.5x9.4x0.87-1.3 inches
Screen size (diagonal) 13.3 inches
System weight / Weight with AC adapter [pounds] 4.3 / 5.1 pounds
Category Thin and light

Unlike the bulky, unattractive 12-inch Dell XPS m1210, the M1330 has clearly been built with an emphasis on good looks and clean lines, ditching the earlier model's cumbersome, rotating Web cam and thick chassis. The system is slightly wedge shaped, going from 0.87 inch in the front to 1.3 inches in the rear. At less than four pounds, it's one of the lightest 13-inch laptops we've seen--nearly a full pound lighter than the popular yet hefty 13-inch Apple MacBook, and a touch lighter than the 12-inch XPS M1210.

The keyboard tray is brushed silver with black accents, while the lid is available in black, white, or red. Our review unit had the matte-red finish (Dell calls it Crimson Red), which looks great, but more color options (as with the newly revamped Inspiron line of laptops) would have been welcome.

Dell manages to squeeze a good number of extras onto the keyboard tray, including touch-sensitive controls for volume and media playback, an eject button for the slot-loading DVD drive, and a quick-launch button for Dell's proprietary Media Direct software. The biggest drawback we found with the M1330's design was the tiny, 2.75-inch touchpad, which we found to be particularly frustrating given the fact that there's plenty of room on the wrist rest for a bigger pad.

Rounding out the laptop's external features are a Webcam on top of the display and a small, credit-card-size remote control that pops into PC card slot on the side.

The LED-backlit display, also seen in the new 15-inch MacBook Pro, helps to make the system's lid thinner (less than a quarter-inch thick) while also extending battery life, although users should not expect the display to look any different than a traditional LCD laptop screen. With a native resolution of 1,280x800--the same as on the 13-inch MacBook--you get the best mix of screen real estate and readability.

Source: http://reviews.cnet.com


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DX9 limitations - Crytek


Crytek talks up DX9 limitations

Laws of phsyics re-written
CRYSIS DEVELOPER Crytek has finally weighed in to the DirectX 9 v DirectX 10 debate, spelling out for gamers what the differences in technology will mean for its upcoming PC title.

There appear to be differences between what the single player will offer and what the multiplayer will bring to the table. Speaking about the multiplayer aspect, according to a posting detailed here, the DX9 version won't have the spectacular physics advertised in trailers and demos so far, nor will it have a day and night cycle.

This means that the shoot-down-trees gameplay simply won't exist in the DX9 version, at least in multiplayer, with players reduced to passive interaction with the environment, rather than the active carnage that has previously been promoted.

The company cited high server load and low performance as the reasons for dropping these features from DX9 version of the game. To get the full multiplayer experience, including the high-end interactive physics, gamers will need to be running a fully DX10 rig, which means a GeForce 8-series / Radeon 2-series and Windows Vista.

Gamers with DX10 rigs will be able to play on DX9-specific servers, but not the other way round.

How this will translate into multiplayer is still unclear. Is the interactive physics being dropped from the DX9 version entirely, or is this simply a multiplayer limitation? As with everything regarding Crysis, information is drip-dropping its way out slowly, but we suspect all will be revealed only when the game is actually sitting on a shelf


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AMD - Triple-Core Phenom Processors

AMD - Triple-Core Phenom Processors, catch the details in this Video Clip...
AMD is throwing the processor world for an interesting curve. While both AMD and Intel are eager to hype their quad-core platforms – various reasons for each – AMD is pitching something that Intel has yet to offer. A tri-core processor.

Why three cores? I'm not sure – but today they announced that they will be adding triple-core Phenom processors to their roadmap for the near future. In a video posted to AMD's site, they pitched it as a CPU that gave a competitive edge in various markets, from desktops to enterprise. Their assertion is that quad-core and beyond are giving diminishing returns, particularly in the desktop market. Obviously, this means a price reduction between these CPUs and another quad-core variant of the same series.

It is a short video, and has more marketing speak than actual technical justifications, but is interesting nevertheless. Depending on the price different between dual, quad and now triple core processors, maybe they will have a fit on the desktop.

On the technical side, this is pretty trivial to do: three to core four is just a fuse to blow. What it gets you is a whole lot of choices. Remember the smooth run of SKUs, that was the beginning. If your clocks are thermally constrained, having three instead of four cores gives you a bin or two of speed. Given how few games use a second core fully, this might be a real win.

As far as money goes, assuming there is no salvage, three cores could still be a profit win, but it could be a loss. The selling price of a three core is greater than the price of a dual, and if that difference is greater than the manufacturing cost difference between a dual and a quad, AMD wins. If it is not, or people who would buy a quad buy a tri, then they lose.

Overall, it ends up with greater flexibility for AMD. How the firm uses it will determine whether or not this is a win, loss or draw. In any case, look for it on the consumer side, not the server first, and possibly moving over if it works out.


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Sony VAIO C Review

Sony VAIO C Review
The recently introduced Sony VAIO C Series laptop sports an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 13.3" widescreen display, features sleek styling with a selection of colors and starts at about $1,099. That description sounds suspiciously like the Apple MacBook, and there's no doubt Sony is trying to take a bite out of Apple's recent success in the portable notebook market space with the VAIO C

Video displaying the Features and Capability of the Sony VAIO C

click on Play Button to Play Video



The Sony VAIO VGN-C140 13.3" widescreen laptop

Overview

The Sony VAIO C comes in a number of configurations and colors. You can configure a VAIO C online at SonyStyle.com or buy a stock configuration from various retailers. When you configure the VAIO VGN-C190 at SonyStyle.com you have a dizzying array of colors to choose from (Green storm, Pink swirl, Angel, Red storm, Blue streaks, Urban Gray, Spring Green, Blush Pink, Espresso Black, Sea Shell White). Sony also offers a free 60 character engraving in the top left side of the screen -- I don't recommend this if you want to protect resale value of your notebook though.


Sony offers a free 2-line 30 character per line engraving on your VAIO C190 notebook if you configure online

Processor wise you can choose either a cheapy Intel Celeron processor for the VAIO C or select from the full range of Core 2 Duo processors (from the Intel T5500 1.66GHz Core 2 Duo up to the T7600 2.33GHz Core 2 Duo). The only screen offering is the 13.3" WXGA and the base amount of RAM is 1GB, since this notebook is being touted as "Vista Compatible" Sony made a wise decision here. Built-in wireless 802.11 a/b/g is standard. Finally you can choose from a range of 40GB - 120GB hard drives and have the choice between a DVD burner (dual-layer) or a more basic CD Burner / DVD optical drive.

For this review we're taking a look at the Sony VAIO VGN-C140G/B that was purchased for $1,179.99 before rebate from Amazon.com, but after a mail-in rebate of $100 that price gets knocked down to $1,079.99. Following are the specs for the notebook under review:

  • Screen: 13.3-inch screen WXGA (1280 x 800) with XBRITE-ECO (glossy finish)
  • Color: Espresso Black with copper accents
  • Processor: 1.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo T5500
  • Hard Drive: 120 GB hard drive (SATA, 5400RPM)
  • Memory: 1 GB RAM (PC4200, 533 MHz, DDR2 SDRAM, 2 x 512 MB) -- 2 GB max memory
  • Optical Drive: multi-format/dual-layer DVD/CD burner
  • Ports and Slots: Two USB 2.0, one FireWire 400 port, one ExpressCard 34, one S-Video, memory card reader adapter, headphone / line-out, microphone-in, modem, 10/100 Ethernet
  • Wireless: Tri-mode Wi-Fi (802.11a/b/g)
  • Graphics: Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 950 (128 MB of shared RAM)
  • Operating System: Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 (Windows Vista capable and Windows Vista Premium ready)
  • Dimensions: 9.28 inches, 12.98 inches, 1.47 inches (depth, width, thickness)
  • Weight: 5.1 pounds, travel weight of 5.8 pounds with the adapter and battery

The VAIO C packaging box

Contents inside the box

Contents unwrapped

Screenshot of VAIO C desktop at first bootup

Build and Design

You have to hand it to Sony, they've done a nice job with the styling of the VAIO C and the selection of colors and designs is unprecedented. The Espresso Black with copper accents that comes with the C140 is sleek, cool and professional looking. The slightly dimpled finish on the keyboard and palm rests area is effective in making the notebook look more spritely. The pinhole sized LED indicator lights at the front of the notebook are attractive looking, albeit hard to read what they actually mean. The translucent power button is easy to find and also effective in making the VAIO C look more suave -- I'm a sucker for nice looking power buttons.


Nice lights

The lid of the VAIO C also has a nice look, the silver VAIO badge is pleasong and the look is very clean.


VAIO C140 lid, the Sony logo is the front of the notebook -- from this view it is upside down but when the lid is open it appears right-side up to onlookers

Build-wise the VAIO C is classified by Sony as a thin-and-light notebook. At 1.5" of thickness it's not exactly skinny, but it's not as thick as one of those 2-inch thick 17" screen notebook monsters. Honestly, I would have liked to have seen this notebook at 1.2" of thickness. If you're looking for a true thin and light weight 13.3" screen notebook the Sony VAIO SZ is a better option, but much more expensive.


At 1.5" of thickness the VAIO C isn't exactly super model thin, it's as thick as an 800 page paper back computer programming book



Notice that the VAIO C is quite a bit thicker than the larger screen but thinner 14.1" ThinkPad T43

The case of the VAIO C case is composed of plastic while the lid is some type of magnesium-alloy to offer better protection of the screen area. I was bracing myself for a dissapointingly cheap plastic case with a lot of flex to it, but to my pleasant surprise that's not what I found. The VAIO C offers a very sturdy and relatively thick plastic casing. While the VAIO SZ offers a high-end carbon fiber build case that makes the SZ lighter, I don't think it's a ton better in terms of sturdiness than the C. I stood in a Best Buy with a VAIO C next to a VAIO SZ and did my standard push and flex tests all over each notebook and found them to be about equal.


13.3" Sony VAIO C on the left next to a 14.1" screen ThinkPad T43 on the right

The VAIO C lid does not have a latch to hold it closed, which is a little disappointing to me, but once closed the lid does stay firmly down. The trick is opening it, you really have to use two hands and get one finger under the lid to lift it open. The hinge for the screen is very good, it is firm and holds the screen in place well -- I even found the VAIO C to have a more convincing hinge mechanism than the somewhat wobbly VAIO SZ hinge.

One knock against the VAIO C is that for the ExpressCard 34 slot Sony gives you a plastic dummy to fill the slot when it's not in use, having a spring based flap would be preferable, removable plastic pieces are easily lost.

Performance and Benchmarks

The Core 2 Duo that comes with the VAIO C-series is no laggard in terms of performance, even at the 1.66GHz low-end we have configured. Having said that, the VAIO C is not being pushed by Sony as a portable performance machine as it does not offer a dedicated graphics option -- that's the realm of the VAIO SZ series. The 120GB hard drive provided does spin at 5400RPM, so that's pretty decent. The two 512MB memory sticks included are 533MHz variety and Sony doesn't even offer 667MHz memory if you configure a C190, surprising since the FSB on the Core 2 Duo can support speeds of up to 667MHz, so there may be a slight performance bottleneck there.

Super Pi

NotebookTime
Sony VAIO C140 (1.66GHz Core 2 Duo T5500, with 533MHz memory speed)1m 23s
Fujitsu LifeBook A6010 (1.66GHz Core 2 Duo T5500, with 667MHz memory speed)1m 22s
Dell Inspiron e1505 (2.0GHz Core Duo)1m 16s
Lenovo ThinkPad T60 (2.0GHz Core Duo)1m 18s
Toshiba Satellite M100 (2.00GHz Core Duo)1m 18s
Samsung X60 (1.66GHz Core Duo)1m 29s
Dell XPS M140 (1.86 GHz Pentium M)1m 41s
Sony VAIO FS680 (1.86 GHz Pentium M)1m 53s
IBM ThinkPad T43 (1.86 GHz Pentium M)1m 45s


PCMark05 Comparison results:

NotebookPCMark05 Score
Sony VAIO C140 (1.66GHz Core 2 Duo T5500, with 533MHz memory speed, Intel GMA 950 graphics)2,911 PCMarks
Fujitsu LifeBook A6010 (1.66GHz Core 2 Duo T5500, with 667MHz memory speed, Intel GMA 950)2,994 PCMarks
Fujitsu N6410 (1.66GHz Core Duo, ATI X1400)3,487 PCMarks
Alienware M7700 (AMD Athlon FX-60, Nvidia Go 7800GTX)5,597 PCMarks
Sony Vaio SZ-110B in Speed Mode (Using Nvidia GeForce Go 7400)3,637 PCMarks
Toshiba Tecra M6 (1.66GHz Intel T2300E, Intel GMA 950)2,732 PCMarks
Asus V6J (1.86GHz Core Duo T2400, Nvidia Go 7400)3,646 PCMarks
Sony VAIO FE590 (1.83GHz Core Duo, Nvidia Go 7400)3,427 PCMarks


CineBench

Cinebench is a good rendering benchmark tool based on the powerful 3D software, CINEMA 4D. Its rendering tasks can stress up to sixteen multiprocessors on the same computer. It is a free benchmarking tool, and can be found here: http://www.cinebench.com. The basic CPU test provided the following results, you can see the VAIO C failed to match the similarly priced MacBook Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz based notebook but of course did better than an old Pentium M based ThinkPad T43.

Cinebench 9.5 BenchmarkSony VAIO C140 (1.66GHz Core 2 Duo)MacBook Core 2 Duo (2.0GHz Core 2 Duo)ThinkPad T43 Pentium M 2.0GHzLenovo ThinkPad T60 Core 2 Duo 2.0GHz
Rendering (Single CPU)266 CB-CPU331 CB-CPU222 CB-CPU327 CB-CPU
Rendering (Multiple CPU)487 CB-CPU596 CB-CPUN/A (not dual core)592 CB-CPU


HDTune Benchmark results:



The 120GB hard drive size is nice and certainly appreciated, especially good is that it spins at 5400RPM and not a slower 4200RPM. I wouldn't want a 7200RPM spinning drive in this type of laptop, it drains the battery too much -- bettery to add more RAM for performance.

Screen

The 13.3" screen is a WXGA 1280 x 800 job, it's a comfortable size for viewing and in my opinion quite a sweet spot for portability. I like how Sony made it so the display sits down slightly below the base, thereby giving the VAIO C a lower overall profile when in the open position (good for tight quarters such as use on a plane).

The display is nice and fairly bright with even backlighting, it offers 8 levels of brightness. The display is an XBRITE-ECO type, this is not as bright as the plain old "XBRITE" display. Sony claims the XBRITE-ECO to offer better power efficiency, but really it's just a dimmer backlight than what you get in say the VAIO FE or VAIO AR where the display can get as bright as the sun (seemingly). Nonetheless, I found the XBRITE-ECO display to be quite bright enough, and the glossy finish makes the colors vibrant for watching movies.

What I didn't like about the display is the very poor vertical viewing angles. If the display isn't aligned just so with your eyes then screen colors distort really fast. Horizontal viewing angles weren't fantastic, but acceptable.


Viewed at 90-degrees colors are true and good, here is a scene from the 007 Casino Royale trailer in black and white

Viewing the screen from a low angle colors become dark

View the screen from too high an angle and colors wash out

Horizontal viewing angles are okay

Keyboard, Touchpad and Other Input Buttons



The keyboard on the VAIO C is quite usable, it's got 86-keys spread out over 6-rows and the keys are full sized. The key travel is decent and the touch is light. If you have long fingernails it's kind of easy to catch the key above the key you're pushing down and pop it up a bit -- so trim those nails or you might be popping off keys (I've seen this happen on the VAIO SZ). The keyboard is really pretty firm too, there's a little bit of flex on the side areas, but nothing horrible and will be unnoticed by most.

The touchpad is very usable and just the right size. The mouse buttons are a good size too, I'd rather they have a bit more travel and springiness to them and were a little less noisy, but they're not horrible and most certainly usable.

With the VAIO C the only dedicated hardware buttons we get are the power button and Wireless on/off button that's located on the front of the notebook. It's dissapointing Sony didn't include more media buttons along the top like they did on the VAIO SZ.

Input and Output Ports

Let's take a quick tour around the port offerings of the VAIO C:


Front side: Wireless on/off slider switch and Memory Stick Pro reader slot


Back side: Nothing except the battery


Right side: Two USB 2.0 ports, FireWire 400, S-Video, Monitor-Out, heat vent, Kensington lock slot, Power jack and speaker above the power jack


Left side: Ehternet and modem port with speaker above, microphone and headphone jacks, ExpressCard 34 slot above the DVD burner optical drive area

The port selection is actually quite good, except for the fact we only get two USB 2.0 ports. I'd like to see three, but I can get by with two on a notebook of this size. It's the same number of USB ports as the competing MacBook.

Sony included a reader for the Memory Stick Duo on the front of the notebook and then provided a 5-in-1 memory card adapter that fits in Express Card 34 slot to read SD/xD/MMC/MemoryStick type cards. Why didn't Sony just upgrade that front memory card reader to a 6-in-1 instead of giving us two memory reader slots.


Sony includes a seperate memory card reader that goes into the ExpressCard 34 slot



Audio

The VAIO C has stereo sound via speakers on the left side and right side. If you check out the pictures of the sides of the notebook you'll see the speakers located on flanking side areas. With the speakers being on the side they don't exactly direct the sound at you and I thought this would be problematic, but the audio is surprisingly good and volume level also quite good. They're actually some of the better speakers I've heard from a notebook of this size. The headphone jack is located on the left side when you want better audio quality or need to avert disturbing others.

Heat and Noise

The VAIO C runs nice and quiet with the 1.66 GHz Core 2 Duo. It would run warmer if say a faster 2.33GHz was configured, but as far as this review unit goes there's nothing to complain about. The bottom right side gets a bit warm, but never so much that it would be uncomfortable on the lap. I ran three benchmarking tools at the same time to stress out the machine and make it work hard, but even then temperatures stayed reasonable and comfortable to the touch. So while I complained about the thickness of this notebook, the amount room inside allows things to stay cool so extra thickness isn't all bad.

The fan is on the back right side and it is quiet when running, you have to put your ear down at desk level to hear it over any other ambient noise in the room. Some people would prefer not to have the fan on the right side as it can push warm air onto your mouse hand, but during these colder months I actually appreciate that.

Battery and Power Adapter

Sony quotes the battery life of the included 6-cell battery at 3.0-4.5 hours of use depending on how you use the notebook. In my test of using the notebook at half screen brightness, wireless off, and idling for 2 hours and then light usage (typing in Word) for 1 hour I got exactly 3 hours of use. So that falls on the low-end of Sony's claim, and if I were doing anything during that 2 hours of idle time you'd get less battery life. You can get a 9-cell battery ($299) for a longer usage time unplugged, but the 9-cell will stick out from the back and add weight to the system.


Picture of underside of VAIO C with battery removed

The power adapter for the VAIO C is unnecessarily huge. If you take a look at the pictures of the adapter next to the notebook you'll see what I mean -- this brick adds a full .7 pounds of travel weight to the VAIO C. Dissapointing since Sony is touting it as a travel friendly notebook, why not make the adapter travel friendly too?

Software

Sony includes some useful and a lot of not so useful software with the VAIO C. Here's a rundown of what you get

  • Click to DVD - Sony DVD Creation software
  • DVgate Plus - Sony Digital Video editing software
  • Trial Versions of Sony popular games (Bewitched, Jeopardy!, Da Vinci Code, Wheel of Fortune)
  • DISCover My Games application
  • Microsoft Works 8.5
  • 60-Day Trial Version of MicrosoftOffice 2003
  • Norton Internet Security 60-Day Trial
  • Napster
  • TrendMicro Anti-Spyware 30-Day Trial
  • A bunch of AOL Software (AOL Explorer Browser, AOL High Speed trial, AOL 5GB storage , AIM, AOL Video, AOL Desktop Search, AOL Music)

All I can say is Sony has broken a record for the amount of AOL trial software on one notebook. What a shame, I didn't even know there was an AOL Video or AOL Music application but unfortunately you get them along with a garbage AOL toolbar showing up by default on your Internet Explorer browser.


AOL has its software all over the VAIO C, and your default start page is AOL.com

All this software is unappreciated, it slows down the system and takes up hard drive space.

Conclusion

The Sony VAIO C ends up being a decent portable notebook that's very nice looking and is built well. It overlaps a bit with the VAIO SZ, but because it's cheaper and not quite as powerful due to the integrated graphics, there's room for it in the VAIO lineup. It also stacks up well feature for feature against the MacBook. The VAIO C is of course missing the built-in camera, slot loading drive and OS X that the MacBook has. On the flip side, the VAIO C offers a media card reader, Wireless on/off switch, S-Video and an expansion slot in the form of the ExpressCard that the Apple MacBook is missing. If you'd like to be able to use Mac OSX I'd say go with the Apple MacBook, but if you're sure that Windows XP or Vista is your OS of choice I think the VAIO C should win out so long as price is in line between similar configurations of these notebooks (and at the current time they are).

Pros

  • Very nice looks with a bevy of color options when configuring
  • Fast Core 2 Duo processor and base 1GB of RAM amount ensures good system performance
  • Good build quality and sturdiness
  • Good abilities to read all types of media cards, albeit through use of two media card slots
  • 13.3" form factor is nice and fits easily in any backpack
  • Stays cool and makes little noise
  • Good keyboard

Cons

  • Too much garbage software installed, especially AOL stuff
  • Screen has bad vertical viewing angles, could be a bit brighter
  • Only two USB 2.0 ports
  • Power adapter is big and overall travel weight of close to 6 lbs is too much for a notebook of this size
  • Only 533MHz speed memory is available in the C series at time of review

Pretty in Pink

Here's some pictures of the same VAIO C190 in a more feminine pink color




Source: www.notebookreview.com


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Nokia 888 Mobile - Future of Mobile Communication

Nokia 888 Design
A great honor to Tamer Nakisci and congratulation on its design award for the future of Mobile communication....Nokia 888 Mobile

Video displaying the Concept and Capability of the Nokia 888

click on Play Button to Play Video

Nokia 888Nokia 888 design is a new concept in mobile communication devices which looks funny but is a serious thingy newly released in the mobile world. A new launch by Nokia, this slim paper-like phone has a lot of features which people just used to imagine about.
The piece is designed by “Tamer Nakisci”, who has already won “The Nokia Benelux Design Awards” and now is a jury member of Apple iCan 06.

The phone is completely flexible and can be carried any where and in any form. It can be bended in any shape, or can be rolled up round the wrist, or if at all you are not comfortable with this, then you can just use the phone as a clip for your shirt. Never ever was there a concept of this kind… and is already in huge demands prior to the release of this piece.

Nokia 888This phone can change it’s own shape whenever you need to talk like a normal phone. Talk without words, but with emotions which can be sent and recieved by other Nokia 888 users.
Things like liquid battery, speech recognition, flexible touch screen, touch sensitive body cover and extremely new ones into the world of Nokia Mobiles.
The color can be changed along with the shape of the phone. What else you need? Everything is unique and new… so you will really enjoy using it… not just a mobile, but it is Fun!

Nokia 888

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Nokia N95 The GSM Cellular Phone


Nokia has always had the most high tech features on their phones. The N95 makes sure to keep the tradition going. Nokia has seemed to always make the best use out of the new features coming out for phones such as cameras, media players, and internet browsing, and many others.

The Nokia N95 is more than just another mobile phone. It is a complete business and entertainment solution with 5 mega pixel camera, built in GPS mapping, HSDPA technology, Wi-Fi connectivity and so much more. Connect to mobile Broadband using WLAN or HSDPA (3.5G) with up to 10 times faster downloading than 3G or find directions and locations with the integrated GPS on this GSM/WCDMA dual mode portable multimedia computer supporting EGSM 850/900/1800/1900 and WCDMA 2100 HSDPA.

This multi function device can be used to take high clarity pictures and to enjoy videos, music and graphics with crystal clarity on the 2.6" QVGA (240 x 320 pixels), 16M color display. Make your N95 your own entertainment system and listen to music with enhanced "3D stereo" using the built-in dual speakers or for a 'cinema' effect, connect the Nokia N95 to a compatible TV using direct TV or via Wireless LAN and UPnP technology.

Value added features include USB 2.0, Bluetooth 2.0 EDR with A2DP stereo audio, and MicroSD memory card support.


Video displaying the GPS capability of the Nokia N95


GSM Bands: 850/900/1800/1900
Dimensions: 99 x 53 x 21 mm
Weight: 120 g
Internal Memory: 160 MB
Memory Card Slot: Yes
Edge: Yes
WiFi: Yes
Built-in handsfree: Yes
Talk Time: Up to 6 h 30 min
Stand-by: Up to 220 h
Bluetooth: Yes
3G Bands: HSDPA 2100
Camera: 5.0 MP
Form: Slider
SKU Status: Generally In Stock

Similar products:
Nokia Cell Phone T-Mobile Nokia WCDMA Bluetooth Ce...


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Jays q-JAYS Dual Micro Armature Earphones


To Buy Click on Image or Here
Features:

dWith a size of an astonishing 18.4 x 7.5 x 7.5 mm the q-JAYS are the smallest earphones on the market. Despite this it fits dual micro armatures and an AirBooster that deepens the bass and listening experience. The sound will blow you away. If you thought you had heard it all – think again.

Dual micro armatures
q-JAYS are built with the same technology used in our awarded d-JAYS, but we have managed to shrink the armature size drastically. Despite a housing size almost the third of the d-JAYS, our top model fits two micro armatures in each earphone – one tweeter that delivers precise highs and one woofer that creates rich lows and mids. Furthermore an AirBooster enhances the low frequencies and gives an even deeper bass.

Ultimate Fit
Smart earphone design and a soft silicon sleeve, available in five sizes, enables the earphone to fit snugly in any ear. The sleeves are washable and allow you to keep them clean at all times.

Sound Isolation
JAYS silicon rubber sleeves reduces the background noise of modern life. With this silent setting you can experience an amazing sound experience even at low volumes.

Flexible cord and input connection
Highly effective transducer technology allows lower input, thereby increasing battery time for your media player.

Flexible Cord and Input Connectorq-JAYS cord can be adjusted both in length and with different input connectors. q-JAYS comes standard with a 60 cm (~24inch) long cable with a straight 3.5mm (1.8 in) Mini-Plug Stereo connector. It is delivered with two 90 cm (~35inch) extension cords, both with 3.5mm (1.8 in) Mini-Plug Stereo connector, one L-shaped and one I-shaped.

Specifications
Driver: Dual Micro Armatures
Isolation: JAYS Sound Isolating System
Sensitivity: 95 dB SPL @ 1 kHz
Impedance: 39 Ohm @ 1 kHz
Frequency Response: 20Hz - 20 000 Hz
Cord lype: PVC coated with Kevlar filling
Cord length: 60 cm (24 in)
Cord diameter: 2/1.5 mm (0,079/0,059 in)
Weight: 8 grams (0.46 oz)
Plug: Straight, Gold-Plated Stereo Mini-Plug 3.5 mm (1/8 in)

Accessories
q-JAYS Dual Armature Earphones, I-shaped extension cord, 90 cm (~35 inch), L-shaped extension cord, 90 cm (~35 inch), 7 Pair of Silicon Rubber Sleeves (L, 2 x M, 2 x S, XS, XXS), 4 Pair of Canal Filters, Airline Stereo Adapter - for listening to in-flight entertainment systems, Stereo Splitter - Used when listening two persons to the same sound source, Carrying Case, User Guide in English, Swedish, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Japanese, Korean and Chinese


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Nokia Cell Phone T-Mobile Nokia WCDMA Bluetooth Cell Phones Nokia E61i


Nokia Cell Phone T-Mobile Nokia WCDMA Bluetooth Cell Phones Nokia E61i

Product Description: Nokia Cell Phone T-Mobile Nokia WCDMA Bluetooth Cell Phones Nokia E61i

Nokia E61i, designed specifically for extensive mobile email usage, provides advanced attachment handling with on-the-device document editing. The full keyboard design with Navi and One Touch keys offers an unbeatable mobile user experience in the palm of a hand. Nokia E61i supports corporate mobile and most popular consumer email solutions. In response to customer demand, the device also features a high quality 2Mpix camera, a music player and a video player.

Full Specifications: Nokia Cell Phone T-Mobile Nokia WCDMA Bluetooth Cell Phones Nokia E61i

Features
Cell Phone Type Camera, Digital Player, Push to Talk, Bluetooth, MP3, Video
Carrier T-Mobile
Cell Network Technology WCDMA, GSM
Wireless Technology Bluetooth, Infrared, Wi-Fi
Synchronization MS Outlook, SyncML
Supported Memory MicroSD
Megapixels 2 Megapixels
Talk Time 5 hrs.
Operating System Symbian OS 9.1, Series 60 3rd Edition
Screen Size 2.8 in.
Supported Media Format RealVideo and RealAudio (RealMedia), MPEG-4, 3gp, H.263 video and AMR audio, AAC, Real Audio, AMR, MP3
Key Functions Digital Camera, Digital Player
Connector Types DC power input, Data port, Pop-Port
Messaging POP3, IMAP4, SMTP, MMS
Additional Features Push-to-talk Mode
Antenna Style Integrated
Colors Mocha
Digital Camera Yes
Included Accessories Hands-free Headset
Included Functions digital camera / digital player
Memory Type Flash
Network Technology WCDMA (UMTS), GSM 850/900/1800/1900
Voice Dialing Yes
Vibrating Alert Yes

Digital Camera Features
Digital Zoom 4 X

Display
Display Type LCD
Display Resolution 320 x 240 Pixels
Display Color Support Color

Power Managment Battery
Technology Lithium Ion

General Product Info
Height 4.6 in
Width 2.8 in
Depth 0.6 in
Weight 5.3 oz
Also known as Nokia, Nokia 0027694
Manufacturer Part No. 0027694
Dimension 4.6 in x 2.8 in x 0.6 in (HxWxD)


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Sanyo Xacti HD1000


Sanyo Xacti HD1000!!!
The new Sanyo Xacti HD1000 weighs only 9.5 ounces and has a total volume of only 16.6 cubic inches, making it the world’s smallest and lightest Full HD recording digital camcorder. It records video in the full high definition resolution of 1920 pixels by 1080 pixels. It incorporates advanced MPEG-4 AVC/H.264 video compression, enabling up to approximately 85 minutes of Full HD (1920 x 1080) video recording or up to five hours, 14 minutes of TV-quality (640 x 480) video recording onto an 8GB SDHC Memory Card.
Sanyo developed a new high-speed image processing engine to handle the high capacity demands of Full HD data. This engine utilizes Sanyo’s proprietary codec, enabling Full HD compatibility with the AVC/H.264 format, and makes it possible to do with one simple yet powerful chip the complex processing which previously required two separate chips.
It is new ergonomic designed for easy, one-handed operation with all key conveniently functions thumb-operable, the HD1000 is comfortable to hold, even for extended periods. As part of its stylish and thoughtful new design, the HD1000 also adds a distinctly useful feature frequently requested by users of previous Xacti camcorders — the ability to have the lens level with the ground when the device is used with a tripod.
Incorporating the latest high-definition CMOS sensor, the Sanyo Xacti HD1000 camcorder captures full 1080i high-definition video (1920×1080) at 60 frames-per-second. Designed to record the rich and vibrant colors of real life, the HD1000 also captures the subtle tones to provide a natural-looking result. The HD1000’s CMOS sensor provides the quick responsiveness needed to capture fast moving subjects and Sanyo’s noise reduction technology helps obtain the cleanest signal from each pixel.
The HD1000’s new “Xacti Library” feature makes it exceptionally easy to save video and image files by simply connecting the included USB cable from the docking station to an external hard disk drive. After connecting the docking station to an external hard drive and to a television (via an HDMI cable), the user places the camera into the docking station and — using the menu that appears on the television screen — can search through the thumbnails and choose either to play the file or save it to the external hard disk.
At the front of the HD1000 is a commanding 10x all-glass HD lens. The HD1000’s fast f/1.8-2.5 lens is capable of allowing almost four times more light through to assist in lower light venues. Consisting of eight groups and eleven total lenses with a built-in neutral density filter, the HD1000’s lens provides a spectacular field-of-view with a 38-380 mm range (35 mm equivalent). Combined with the 10x digital zoom, the HD1000 provides up to 100x total zooming capability.
The HD1000 features a large 2.7 inch widescreen Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). The display flips out from the camera and rotates up to 285 degrees on axis, allowing you to take great video or still images even from difficult-to-view positions, which is especially useful when shooting in large crowds or in small rooms.
High-definition can’t hide shaky or erratic camera movement. That’s why Sanyo’s HD1000 comes with a sophisticated image stabilizer for both stills and video. This handy feature operates in both wide-angle and telephoto modes, giving every shot a solid, professional-looking feel. For video-compatible anti-shake correction, Sanyo further developed the digital stabilizer based on previous proprietary image stabilizer technology, and advanced the technology to be more accurate in its correction, increasing the image area detection function. Also, Sanyo newly developed its proprietary “Superposition function” for higher still image quality. This function allows for clear pictures of the subject even when moving or rotation occurs.
The HD1000 includes a new “Face Chaser” function that automatically detects and isolates faces to assist the camera’s exposure and auto-focus. The HD1000 is capable of detecting up to 12 independent faces at a time.


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Universal Wireless Rear Speaker Kit Rocketfish™

Wireless Rear Speaker Kit
Universal Wireless Rear Speaker Kit Rocketfish™
Model: RF-WHTIB

This wireless kit sends rich sound to your home entertainment system speakers while eliminating ugly and cumbersome wires. Just plug the sender into your home theater and your rear speakers into the receiver.

Feature
Provides uncompressed CD-quality audio to rear speakers without the use of wires

Wireless signal with 100' range

Multiple mounting options, including horizontal, vertical in the included stand or wall-mounted

Includes sender, receiver with stand, two 2" sections of speaker wire, AC adapter and user manual


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Wireless Stereo Speakers with Auto Tuning 900MHz

Wireless Stereo Speakers with Auto Tuning 900MHz
Wireless Stereo Speakers with Auto Tuning 900MHz
Model: AW871

Feature
Frequency response: 20Hz - 20kHz
5-1/4" woofer
1" dome tweeter
10-watt RMS internal amplifier in each speaker
3-in-1 power/volume/scan control combines power, tuning and volume control for easy use

Built-in handle for easy portability

Convenient push-button, auto-lock tuning

Dual-power mode: AC adapter (included), batteries (sold separately)

Battery charging indicator light

Left/Mono/Right switch provides an option for versatile stereo operation

Omnidirectional transmitter features an up-to 300' range and 3 separate transmission channels

Channel-select switch permits changing transmission frequencies to operate more than one 900MHz product within the same area

Range may vary according to environment

Works with TVs, DVD players, A/V receivers, mini systems, VCRs, PVRs, MP3 players, portable CD players, computers and more

Details:
Product Height 12"
Product Width 9-1/2"
Product Depth 20"
Features:
Transmits up to 300' from transmitter; built-in handle; 2-way acoustic suspension


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Electronic Translator 10 Language Talking Super1010C

Super1010C
Electronic Translator 10 Language Talking Super1010C

The Super1010C is an updated and improved version of the 10 Talk. This NEW model has over 200,000 words (total) and 23,000 useful phrases. This translator translates into foreign language characters and shows you phonetically how to pronounce the characters in your own language, and then pronounces them for you at the touch of a button! You no longer have to learn a foreign alphabet in order to converse in that language!

It translates in all directions for the following languages: Arabic, English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, Chinese, Greek, and Turkish.

Super1010C has clear sound quality as well as a backlit large four line easy to read LCD display for your comfort and convenience. You can also use the included earphone and volume control for private listening. Equipped with a powerful Databank, it allows you to store all of your appointments, Telephone numbers, addresses and memos. The (8) Metric and (8) currency features and Euro Converter are handy tools for your frequent traveler or business person. This translator also has world time in over 200 cities and has a very accurate alarm feature. It weighs 5.5 ounces and is small enough to fit into your shirt/pants pocket or purse, and has an easy to use QWERTY keyboard. Other features include a 12-digit calculator, auto power off, contrast control, and many more convenient features. A soft carrying leatherette pouch is included.

Specifications
# Translates over 200,000 Words (20,000 words per language)
# 23,000 Useful and Popular Phrases
# Clear Sound Quality
# LCD BACKLIGHT
# 32K Databank
# 4 Line x 16 Character LCD Display
# 8 Currency Conversions
# 8 Metric Conversions
# 10 Digit Talking Calculator
# Local Time 12/24 Hour Format
# World Time in 200 Cities
# Contrast Control
# Alarm Feature
# Ear buds Included
# Auto Power Off
# Real Leather Case Included
# Password Feature
# Powered by 3 "AAA" batteries (Included)
# Weight: 5.5 oz.
# Size: 4.5 x 3 x .8 In.
# English User Manual is included in the package
# Option 1 ( + 25.00): Translate_Euro_NS Translation Software ($99.00 value)!


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