digital camera binoculars

Staples: Bush Stanford Computer Desk $170 shipped

2008-10-02T21:19:00.005-07:00

Staples: Bush Stanford Computer Desk $170 shipped

Crowd Sourcing a new logo for Cloud Labs

2008-10-02T21:19:00.003-07:00

Crowd Sourcing a new logo for Cloud Labs
I've been fascinated by the concept known as crowd sourcing for some time, so last night I decided to start an experiment. I'm engaging the techniques of crowd sourcing to obtain a logo for Cloud Labs (one of my business interests). Right now the pro... (more in the full post)

Tip of the day - buy some Telecom NZ shares

2008-10-02T21:19:00.001-07:00

Tip of the day - buy some Telecom NZ shares
Currently at $2.70 these are a bargain!

Once all the idiots have sold out the better things will be for Telecom. Telecom is not the company it was 4 years ago. It is a lean mean telco run by a very smart CEO that will continute to dominate the NZ landscape for many many many years to come.

Lets hope the investors bailing out at present are the idiots who only invested in the company for their dividend - greedy people who were only ever in it for a quick return. Those same people who pushed for Telecom to make big profits and caused the problems that are now the stumbling block the company is having to deal with.

Those buying shares now are the smart ones who realise that a bargain they are getting...

Western Digital ShareSpace 4 TB Network Storage System Review

2008-10-02T21:18:00.013-07:00

Western Digital ShareSpace 4 TB Network Storage System Review
Western Digital announced its ShareSpace 4 TB network storage system this morning. We have an in-depth look at this photographer friendly image storage solution.

Canon EF 24-105mm for cropped-frame DSLRs - full review and video tour

2008-10-02T21:18:00.011-07:00

Canon EF 24-105mm for cropped-frame DSLRs - full review and video tour
The EF 24-105mm is a premium quality zoom from Canon's 'L' series. It features superb build and mechanical quality, quick and quiet USM focusing and Image Stabilisation to counteract camera shake. It's an ideal general purpose lens for owners of full-frame Canon DSLRs, but what about those with cropped-frame bodies like the EOS 400D / XTi, EOS 450D / XSi or EOS 40D? In this review we'll examine how the EF 24-105mm performs on cropped-frame Canon DSLRs and as always, check out our video tour for a demonstration.

Nikon D90 SLR High ISO Full Size Image Samples Test

2008-10-02T21:18:00.009-07:00

Nikon D90 SLR High ISO Full Size Image Samples Test
We have just posted a small image gallery from the 12.3MP Nikon D90 with the Nikkor AF-S DX 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR zoom lens. The images are taken at ISO settings from 1600-6400 ISO. Original unedited images are available for download (JPEG FINE). Please note as of today Capture NX2 has not been updated to read the Nikon D90 digital SLR EXIF data properly. To see the correct EXIF data it seems that Apple Aperture and Adobe Bridge version CS3 will display the correct EXIF data. See our Nikon D90 image samples...

Sites to Browse - Television - Seinfeld Scripts

2008-10-02T21:18:00.007-07:00

Transcripts of the entire Seinfeld TV series are available.

If you can't get enough of the television show Seinfeld, if you love shouting "no soup for you!" whenever you're in a cafe, if you think of George Castanza when you watch the Yankees, or if you've been to Monk's diner, then these websites may be for you.

The following websites offer transcripts of the entire television run of Seinfeld, from the pilot episode to the two-part finale where the characters end in jail:...

Read more at MalekTips. Read More

Google Chrome - Stop Notifying When Pop-up Windows Are Blocked

2008-10-02T21:18:00.005-07:00

Prevent Google Chrome from announcing when it finds and blocks a pop-up window in a webpage.

While pop-up windows do have legitimate uses in navigating certain websites, they are often used for advertisements. Google Chrome, by default, blocks them. When pop-up windows are blocked, Google notifies you with a "Blocked Pop-up" alert at the bottom-right of the browser window.

If you frequently visit websites where pop-up windows are blocked, you may grow tired of this notification. If so, it can be disabled:...

Read more at MalekTips. Read More

Fuji Z10FD

2008-10-02T21:18:00.003-07:00

Fuji is getting with the programme, by introducing the Fuji Finepix Z10FD digital camera�which has some Read More

Dell Home: Microsoft Xbox 360 Elite System 120GB $350 shipped

2008-10-02T21:18:00.001-07:00

Dell Home: Microsoft Xbox 360 Elite System 120GB $350 shipped

Clinique: Free shipping + free Clinique Happy Fragrance sample w/ any order

2008-09-29T21:54:00.019-07:00

Clinique: Free shipping + free Clinique Happy Fragrance sample w/ any order

Logitech Illuminated Keyboard

2008-09-29T21:54:00.017-07:00

If Art Lebedev’s Optimus Maximus keyboard has your wallet crying uncle and Saitek’s Cyborg is a little loud for your tastes, Logitech’s new, ultra-slim Illuminated Keyboard might be just the ticket to bring some flavor to your desk. We found it to tasteful, comfortable to type on, and well built, making it one of the best style-minded keyboards to float through our offices.

Read | Permalink | User Reviews | Linking Blogs

Dell Home: Ergotron DS100 Dual-Monitor Desk Stand $140 shipped

2008-09-29T21:54:00.015-07:00

Dell Home: Ergotron DS100 Dual-Monitor Desk Stand $140 shipped

HE DID IT!! Fusionman completes successful English Channel Crossing

2008-09-29T21:54:00.013-07:00

HE DID IT!! Fusionman completes successful English Channel Crossing
He made it! Earlier this week we reported on the incredible challenge undertaken by Fusionman Yves Rossy in attempting to fly solo across the English Channel using his home-made jet-powered wing, a feat he successfully completed on Thursday at 1:19 BST when he parachuted into Dover less than 15 minutes after leaving the skies above France. Great picture gallery of the event. ..

Tags: Fusionman, Rossy

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My Zero G flight experience: the pictures

2008-09-29T21:54:00.011-07:00

My Zero G flight experience: the pictures
In my previous post you can see a short video with my Zero G flight experience. I have now uploaded some of the pictures to my Flickr Zero G set:

NewEgg: ENCORE ENHWI-N 802.11n Draft 2.0 Wireless Router $50 shipped

2008-09-29T21:54:00.009-07:00

NewEgg: ENCORE ENHWI-N 802.11n Draft 2.0 Wireless Router $50 shipped

Fujifilm launches SD memory line: xD presumably on its way out

2008-09-29T21:54:00.007-07:00

It may look like a sign of the apocalypse to many, but it seems that rumors of Fujifilm's move away from the proprietary xD memory format that it's jointly supported for years with Olympus are credible. Read More

AVA Direct Gaming PC Workstation

2008-09-29T21:54:00.005-07:00

AVA Direct Gaming PC Workstation

AVA Direct builds custom gaming systems to order, and our review sample turned out to be the computer equivalent of a 22-ounce filet mignon paired with a $500 bottle of merlot. Not surprisingly, the $6,200 amalgamation of high-end hardware blew nearly every game we could throw at it out of the water, with build quality and attention to detail from this manufacturer to match. This specific system build doubles as both a workstation and a gaming PC which explains why Xeon processors were used.

Read | Permalink | User Reviews | Linking Blogs

TVNZ7 Internet Debate

2008-09-29T21:54:00.003-07:00

TVNZ7 Internet Debate

The TVNZ 7 Internet Debate, in association with InternetNZ involves four politicians quizzed on major areas of ICT policy with questions coming from you through the online chat, a studio audience, and experienced journalists.
The politicians are Labour’s Minister of Communications Hon David Cunliffe, National ICT Spokesperson Hon Maurice Williamson, ACT Leader Rodney Hide and Greens ICT Spokesperson Metiria Turei.
Broadcaster Sean Plunket will moderate the debate, with questions posed by experienced journalists Fran O’Sullivan and Russell Brown.

Mauricio has already mentioned this debate numerous times on Geekzone and from the lack of comments in the forums set up for this thread it seems that people don't seem interested in what is happening in the internet scene in NZ which is rather ironic because the second xxx ISP has poor speeds of xxx telco has a problem suddenly out of the woodwork come hundreds of people all lining up to complain!

This is YOUR chance to have YOUR questions answered by these four MP's, any of whom could be key players in the telecommunications sector in New Zealand after this years election.

Ask your Broadband questions here

Ask your cybersafety questions here

Ask your digital divide questions here

Ask your copyright questions here

Ask your convergence questions here

The debate screens live on TVNZ7 at 9pm on Tuesday 23rd September. It will also be streamed live in the TVNZ website.

New Zealand broadband according to Akamai

2008-09-29T21:54:00.001-07:00

I have just noticed the Akamai State of the Internet report Q2 2008 is out now. Interesting stats from around the world - worth reading it.

From a New Zealand perspective here is the only data provided:

- more than 962,000 uniqye IP addresses, a 3.78% increase from Q1 2008, about 0.23 per capita (or about 1 for almost four people here);
- only 2% connected to Akamai servers at 5 Mbps or more - 0.01 "high broadband" per capita;
- 52% connected to Akamai servers at 2 Mbps or more;
- 10% connected at 256 Kbps or less.

Sony BRAVIA KDL-46W3000 Television

2008-09-25T19:46:00.017-07:00

Sony BRAVIA KDL-46W3000 Television
The Sony Bravia KDL46W3000 is one of the latest High Definition LCD TVs that Sony has released. The

Linkification v5

2008-09-25T19:46:00.015-07:00

Linkification v5
Wow, nothing Apple this week..

News / Web Happenings:

Dropbox has gone public - this popular service no longer requires an invite.
"Porn Mode" coming to Firefox - the FF team following suit on one of Chrome's popular features.
Spore and the great DRM Backlash - nevermind the DRM.. what a dissapointing game :(.
Integrated circuit turns 50, now isn't that nifty?
Smartphone sales up in Q2 '08, BlackBerry leapfrogs Windows Mobile
VLC 0.9.2 released: New interface, better codec support
BMW Vehicles gaining Google Maps
Google shows of Android powered phone - Video of the very 'iPhone' looking OS in action.
Google Maps Mobile Adds Street View, Walking Directions
SQL DB? No firewall? Weak admin password? That is a trojan coming your way alright
Joost Now Offers Online TV with Only a Browser - Seriously, is anyone actually watching any more?
Vista Group analyzes the new Auckland A
Sergey Brin launches a personal blog

General Interest:

20 Best Countries for startups - New Zealand listed as #2!
GPS guided UAVs used to ferry medicines in rural areas
Chevy Volt Uses GPS to Maximize Electric Engine Use

Development:

7 open source version control systems reviewed - SVN + Tortoise SVN + Visual SVN = WIN!
jQuery and JavaScript Coding: Examples and Best Practices
75 (Really) Useful JavaScript Techniques
Introducing Microsoft SQL Server 2008 - Free e-book

Fail of the week:

Car security FAIL

Sony Style: ultraportable Sony VAIO TZ VGN-TZ290 11.1in Notebook $1300 shipped

2008-09-25T19:46:00.013-07:00

Chrysler's 2009 GEM Peapod neighborhood electric vehicle

2008-09-25T19:46:00.011-07:00

Chrysler's 2009 GEM Peapod neighborhood electric vehicle
A decade after its launch and with 38,000 zero-emission electric vehicles produced and in use, Chrysler LLC's GEM brand has launched the first of its next-generation designs - the Peapod. Scheduled for production in 2009, the low-speed neighborhood commuter can cover up to 30 miles without recharging at a top speed of 25 mph. In keeping with the company's "lots of love" slogan, the new fully-enclosed pod design uses eco-friendly recycled and recyclable materials in its construction and should keep a lid on road rage by virtue of its smiling facade (both front and rear), as well as keeping those inside the car happy with new ergonomic mesh seating and a freshly designed center console featuring iPod integration and hands-free iPhone support...

Tags: Battery Electric Vehicles, Braking, Chrysler, Electric, Emissions Control, iPhone, iPod

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Logitech Squeezebox Boom

2008-09-25T19:46:00.009-07:00

Logitech Squeezebox Boom

Most streaming music devices require two key outside components to work: speakers and a source to power them. Since there are very few powered speakers out there in reality, you most likely need to attach the streaming device to a mini-system or your home theater system – and that can create a lot of clutter, especially in the kitchen. The Logitech Squeezebox Boom fixes this problem by creating an all-in-one sound system with music streaming capabilities. Priced at $300 USD, there is no doubt that price tag is hard to swallow, but thanks to its easy setup, intuitive navigation and beautiful sound, we can easily say you get what you pay for. Read on for the deep dive.

Read | Permalink | User Reviews | Linking Blogs

Microsoft Word 2007 - Insert Copyright, Trademark, Other Symbols

2008-09-25T19:46:00.007-07:00

Add symbols for copyright, trademark, and registered trademark to your Word 2007 document. Read More

Sports Authority: 20% off coupon code

2008-09-25T19:46:00.005-07:00

Sports Authority: 20% off coupon code

Nikon D700 DSLR Preview and D300 vs D3 Comparison

2008-09-25T19:46:00.003-07:00

Nikon D700 DSLR Preview and D300 vs D3 Comparison
Nikon has today announced the 12.1MP Nikon D700 FX format full frame digital SLR, the baby brother to the flagship Nikon D3 featuring the same sensor, and similar in size to the Nikon D300. The major advancements in performance and design that were first introduced with the Nikon D3 and D300 have been incorporated in the D700 along with a few differentiating features and functionality. See our first look preview and Nikon D700 vs D300 vs D3 side by side comparison......

Nikon D700 DSLR Preview and D300 vs D3 Comparison

2008-09-25T19:46:00.001-07:00

Nikon has today announced the 12.1MP Nikon D700 FX format full frame digital SLR, the baby brother to the flagship Nikon D3 featuring the same sensor, and similar in size to the Nikon D300. The major advancements in performance and design that were first introduced with the Nikon D3 and D300 have been incorporated in the D700 along with a few differentiating features and functionality. See our first look preview and Nikon D700 vs D300 vs D3 side by side comparison...... Read More

NewEgg: ASUS VK222H 22in 2ms HDMI LCD Monitor w/ Webcam $200 shipped AR

2008-09-25T19:45:00.001-07:00

NewEgg: ASUS VK222H 22in 2ms HDMI LCD Monitor w/ Webcam $200 shipped AR

Staples: Maxtor 500GB Ultra16 SATA II Internal Hard Drive $70 shipped

2008-09-24T03:44:00.019-07:00

Staples: Maxtor 500GB Ultra16 SATA II Internal Hard Drive $70 shipped

Fuji Z10FD

2008-09-24T03:44:00.017-07:00

Fuji is getting with the programme, by introducing the Fuji Finepix Z10FD digital camera�which has some Read More

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 / TZ4 with 10x Wide-Angle Zoom

2008-09-24T03:44:00.015-07:00

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 / TZ4 with 10x Wide-Angle Zoom
Panasonic has today introduced two new Lumix digital cameras, 9.1-megapixel DMC-TZ5 and 8.1-megapixel DMC-TZ4, each featuring a 28mm wide-angle 10x optical zoom Leica DC lens (equivalent to 28-280mm on a 35mm film camera). The DMC-TZ5 newly integrates the capability of recording 720p HD (high-definition) motion pictures together with its direct output function allowing users to enjoy watching both still and motion pictures in HD quality on a large-screen HDTV. See full story...

Staples: Maxtor 500GB Ultra16 SATA II Internal Hard Drive $70 shipped

2008-09-24T03:44:00.013-07:00

SQL DB? No firewall? Weak admin password? That is a trojan coming your way alright

2008-09-24T03:44:00.011-07:00

According to the Symantec Security Response Blog, a new trojan called Trojan.Eskiuel is going around infiltrating SQL servers and causing havoc:

This time we have found a new SQL threat: Trojan.Eskiuel. The main functionality of this threat is to scan the Internet to find machines with poorly configured SQL servers (i.e. with weak or non-existing passwords), gain access to them, and use their stored procedures in order to download new malware from a remote host.

Check your servers...

Canon WFT-E3(A) wireless transmitter - full review and video tour

2008-09-24T03:44:00.009-07:00

Canon's WFT-E3(A) wireless file transmitter is one of the most powerful accessories for the EOS 40D. It equips the 40D with Wifi, allowing you to transfer images or remote control the camera without a cable in sight, even from the other side of the world. It also includes USB connectivity to external storage devices and even GPS navigators to record your co-ordinates on images. And the whole thing is packaged into a portrait grip for comfortable shooting on the side. To find out how it performs in practice, see our detailed Canon WFT-E3(A) review and for a demonstration of its features, check out our video tour. Read More

eBags: 20% off coupon

2008-09-24T03:44:00.007-07:00

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3 Digital Camera

2008-09-24T03:44:00.005-07:00

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3 Digital Camera
The Panasonic TZ3 is an 8.5 mega pixel digital camera with a 10x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom and a

Pentax Optio Z10 - full review and video tour

2008-09-24T03:44:00.003-07:00

Pentax Optio Z10 - full review and video tour
The Pentax Optio Z10 is an 8 Megapixel compact with a 7x optical zoom sporting an equivalent range of 38-266mm, equipping it with a longer reach than most compacts at this size and price. Despite the longer than average zoom range, the Z10's optics remain housed within the body at all times, and unusually for most compacts, you can also operate the zoom while filming a video. The lens gives it an edge over most compacts, but how does it perform in practice? Find out in our Pentax Optio Z10 review and check out its features in our video tour.

Vodafone - do you want my business?

2008-09-24T03:44:00.001-07:00

Vodafone - do you want my business?
Customer retention is something every business needs to be good at. If your customer don't come back then you'll very quickly find yourself going out of business.

Visit your local coffee shop these days and you're bound to get a loyalty card. Buy 10 coffee's and get 1 free. Visit Subway and you'll get credit that goes towards buying a sandwich. Fly with an Airline and you'll get frequent flyer points. Buy your groceries at New World or buy your petrol at Shell and you'll get Fly Buys points. I don't need to list any more - I'm sure you get my drift.

Most of these companies all exist in competive marketplaces where customers have many choices when it comes to spending their hear earned money. These companies realise that keeping their customers happy is not just something you pay sparse attention to, it's part of your core business.

Now lets look at the mobile market in NZ. Stastistics tell is that 100% of NZers own a mobile phone so I'll ask a question that everybody should be able to answer. Exactly what are Vodafone or Telecom doing for you to keep you as a happy loyal customer? Do you feel that your mobile carrier really wants your business or are you simply treated as a number? Do you think they really care if you moved away to another carrier?

This poses the question - do these companies care about customer loyalty? Both feature business models based around locking you into long into term contracts and giving you small discounts off overpriced handsets. Imagine if you wanted to buy petrol but could only do this if you entered into a 24 month exclusive contract with the fuel outlet of your choice, a contract that you couldn't break without paying a penalty. In return they would sell you a 1.5l bottle of Coke dicscounted to $3.00 - more than you would pay for this product if you shopped at a supermarket. Would you feel like you were a happy, content loyal customer or would you feel like you were just a number?

New Zealand now has a greater choice when it comes to mobile with TelstraClear launching a virtual mobile network using Telecom's CDMA network and Black+White are about to launch a similair virtual network using Vodafone's network. B+W won't be offering term contracts and instead believe they can compete by offering a package that makes their customers feel like they are receiving value for money which in turn will drive customer loyalty.

So I'll now ask the question - having been a Bellsouth & now Vodafone customer for 13 years do you really value my business? What have you done recently that should make me feel happy about being a customer of yours? How have you rewarded me for my loyalty over the years? You give me significantly less airtime for my $ spend than virtually any other Vodafone Group network. You've put up roaming rates so I now have to pay more to make calls when I visit Australia 3-4 times per year and also charge all incoming roam forward calls by the minute rather than per second. This annoyed me greatly. What else have you done? Nothing. What would I like you to do? Offer me a plan that feels like I'm receiving value for money. Don't lock me into a term contract. Don't make me laugh me by offering me $50 off a $1000 handset that's selling for $200 more than it's true market value. Quite simply don't insult me. I'm happy to pay good money each month for a plan that meets my needs.

Do you really value my business or not? If you do what are you going to do for me?

Vodafone Music Store goes DRM Free & adds Subscription music.

2008-09-19T19:07:00.005-07:00

Vodafone Music Store goes DRM Free & adds Subscription music.

So Stuff.co.nz is reporting that as of today/tomorrow Vodafones Music store is about to loose it's DRM laden WMA's for 256k MP3's and not only that but off NZ's first true subscription service (still heavly DRM'd).

Apparently the costs will be the same at $1.99 a track and they don't say wether previous purchases will be able to redownloaded DRM free. I do like the fact they are quoted as saying "...at 256 kilobits per second, which makes them "significantly higher quality'' than those sold by many music download services, including Apples' iTunes" although if you buy an iTunes Plus (AAC DRM free) track you get a 256k Unprotected AAC which is better compression at the same bitrate. Also from what I can tell iTunes is actually cheaper still - $1.79 for a DRM Free track.

For subscription you're looking at $10p.month which certainly offers a sweet spot on pricing but sucks big time by only being available on VMUSIC compatible phones. If it is indeed only available to your phone and only your phone the advantage of subscription seems to go out the window and kids (VMUSICs main market) will just steal music as usual.
Of course theres no mention of iPhone compatibilty for the subscription side of things, but its safe to say it won't work.

No matter what, actually having an option other than iTunes and Amplifier for DRM free music in NZ can only be a good thing.

Internet Explorer 7 Misc - Enable or Disable All Browser Extensions

2008-09-19T19:07:00.003-07:00

Internet Explorer 7 Misc - Enable or Disable All Browser Extensions
Configure whether or not to use browser extensions in Internet Explorer 7.

For everything but cameras and lenses

2008-09-19T19:07:00.001-07:00

For everything but cameras and lenses
Lakeland Photo Supplies is your stop for photographic accessories.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 / TZ4 with 10x Wide-Angle Zoom

2008-09-19T19:06:00.013-07:00

Canon IXUS 960 IS Digital Camera

2008-09-19T19:06:00.011-07:00

The Canon Ixus 850is and 950is impressed us so much we though that Canon might struggle to improve upon Read More

TVNZ7 Internet Debate

2008-09-19T19:06:00.009-07:00

The TVNZ 7 Internet Debate, in association with InternetNZ involves four politicians quizzed on major areas of ICT policy with questions coming from you through the online chat, a studio audience, and experienced journalists.
The politicians are Labour’s Minister of Communications Hon David Cunliffe, National ICT Spokesperson Hon Maurice Williamson, ACT Leader Rodney Hide and Greens ICT Spokesperson Metiria Turei.
Broadcaster Sean Plunket will moderate the debate, with questions posed by experienced journalists Fran O’Sullivan and Russell Brown.

Sony Alpha A350 Compared to Nikon D80 SLR Review

2008-09-19T19:06:00.007-07:00

Sony Alpha A350 Compared to Nikon D80 SLR Review
We have just posted a side by side comparison review between the new 14.2 MP Sony Alpha A350 digital SLR with DT 18-70mm lens versus the 10.1 MP Nikon D80 digital SLR kit with the AF-S DX 18-55mm VR zoom. To see what real world benefits the latest generation technologies and features incorporated in the Sony Alpha A350 offer in terms of image quality or enhancing the photographic experience, we decided to compare this new camera model against the Nikon D80 which remains one of the predominant cameras in the current Nikon line up. See how these two SLR cameras performed in our tests...

Apple announces iTunes 8, new and revammped iPod line, and 2.1 software update.

2008-09-19T19:06:00.005-07:00

Apple announces iTunes 8, new and revammped iPod line, and 2.1 software update.

It's been about a year since Apples last iPod announcements, and since various fan boy YouTube users have flooded the popular video sharing site with speculations and other un-just nonsense. Hopefully now we can give our eyes and mind a rest from most conscious, speculation-causing, thought as, yes, Apple has spoken!

Earlier today, at the Let's Rock media event, a new 4th generation iPod nano was announced. Yes, it look far more like the old 2nd gen than the 3rd, but it now sports a nice wide screen display and, finally, an accelerometer. Making this the second iPod (not including iPhone) to have one. No word yet to how accurate it is, or how many there are in it, but I’m sure that iPhone (and iPod touch) will remain superior in that regard.

Another, less heard of announcement was the introduction of a redesigned iPod touch. It still has the same stuff on the inside, but now boast’s dedicated volume up/down buttons and a loud speaker, much like those on the iPhone. The casing has also been modified slightly, now sharing the same tapered edges as the iPhone 3G.
Further on the line of new iPods, Apple has now ditched the 80 160GB classic models, replacing them with but one 120gb model at the same price as the 80.

The last thing I’m going to mention here is that the 2.1 iPhone software update now has a release date. Yes, i'm sure many of you were a bit worried that we'd have to sit through another eight updates to get from 2.0.2 to 2.1. But rest assured that the 2.1 update will be released this Friday!
At this time, Apple has not ye posted a list of all the fixes, but for now we can expect, at least, improved battery life, less dropped calls and, of course, the usual performance tweaks.

(iTunes 8 was also released, however I am short of time and there isn't much worth mentioning)

NewEgg: ASUS P5N-D LGA 775 NVIDIA nForce 750i SLI ATX Intel Motherboard $149 shipped

2008-09-19T19:06:00.003-07:00

NewEgg: ASUS P5N-D LGA 775 NVIDIA nForce 750i SLI ATX Intel Motherboard $149 shipped

Canon new anti-reflective lens coating technology

2008-09-19T19:06:00.001-07:00

Canon new anti-reflective lens coating technology
Canon's Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) is a new coating technology for camera lenses that minimizes ghosting and flare caused by reflected light.

Canon Announces Instant Rebates on EOS 40D, EOS 5D, EF Lenses and Speedlites in US

2008-09-19T18:23:00.013-07:00

Canon Announces Instant Rebates on EOS 40D, EOS 5D, EF Lenses and Speedlites in US
Canon USA Inc. has launched a series of generous instant cash back rebates covering the Canon EOS 40D and the higher end full frame 12.8 MP Canon EOS 5D digital SLR, along with savings on a number of Canon EF lenses, and Canon Speedlites. Save up to $125 US on select EF lenses and $300 on the Canon EOS 5D. See the full story and a complete list of the products now covered by instant rebates...

Bestbuy: Panasonic 50in 720p Flat-Panel Plasma HDTV $1000 shipped

2008-09-19T18:23:00.011-07:00

Carl Zeiss serves up Distagon T* 21mm f/2.8

2008-09-19T18:23:00.009-07:00

The folks at lens maker Carl Zeiss have been busy this week, with several new premium glass options coming from the manufacturer this week. The latest, announced today, is the Distagon T* 21mm f/2.8. Read More

Durham Uni Smartdesk envisages the classroom of the future

2008-09-19T18:23:00.007-07:00

September 18, 2008 A century ago, most school children sat on the floor, with tables and chairs following and eventually giving way to rudimentary desks. A century from now, one wonders how far we’ll have progressed in creating an environment most conducive to nurturing the minds of our most precious resource. Researchers at the Technology-Enhanced Learning Research Group (TEL) at Durham University in the United Kingdom are designing new learning environments using interactive multi-touch desks that look and act like a large version of an Apple iPhone. ..

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Sony BRAVIA KDL-40W3000 Television

2008-09-19T18:23:00.005-07:00

Introducing the Sony Bravia KDL40W3000 from the KDL-W3000 series. As the LCD TV range has failed to Read More

Canon EF 24mm f1.4L II USM

2008-09-19T18:23:00.003-07:00

Canon enhances EF series with new EF 24mm f1.4L II USM fast aperture wide-angle prime lens Read More

NewEgg: Rosewill 7in-14.1in Black Notebook Cooling Pad $20 shipped

2008-09-19T18:23:00.001-07:00

Canon new anti-reflective lens coating technology

2008-09-19T18:22:00.005-07:00

Canon's Subwavelength Structure Coating (SWC) is a new coating technology for camera lenses that minimizes ghosting and flare caused by reflected light. Read More

NewEgg: OCZ 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 800 PC2 6400 Memory $20 shipped AR

2008-09-19T18:22:00.003-07:00

NewEgg: OCZ 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 800 PC2 6400 Memory $20 shipped AR

Canon EOS 5D Mark II -full frame DSLR

2008-09-19T18:22:00.001-07:00

Canon EOS 5D Mark II -full frame DSLR
Full frame and Fulll HD video capabilities opens up a whole new multitude of possibilities for photo journalists and news photographers.

Canon Announces Instant Rebates on EOS 40D, EOS 5D, EF Lenses and Speedlites in US

2008-09-15T09:08:00.017-07:00

Canon Announces 10MP PowerShot SD890 IS, SD790 IS and SD770 IS

2008-09-15T09:08:00.015-07:00

Canon Announces 10MP PowerShot SD890 IS, SD790 IS and SD770 IS
Canon has announced three new 10 megapixel compact PowerShot digital cameras, the SD890 IS, the PowerShot SD790 IS and the SD770 IS. The Canon PowerShot SD890 IS features a rounded curve design incorporating a 5x image stabilized lens, optical viewfinder, and a 2.5 inch LCD. The more square PowerShot SD790 IS trades the optical viewfinder away to make room for a larger 3.0 inch LCD monitor, and features a 3x optical zoom with IS. The PowerShot SD770 IS offers a 3x optical zoom with stabilizer, an optical viewfinder and a 2.5 inch PureColor LCD II screen.. See full story...

Sony KDL-32S3000 32 in. LCD Television

2008-09-15T09:08:00.013-07:00

Sony KDL-32S3000 32 in. LCD Television
Sony released a great range of entry-level HD Ready LCD TVs earlier this year which are the cheapest

Very slack proof reading at Vodafone

2008-09-15T09:08:00.011-07:00

Very slack proof reading at Vodafone
... and by poor proof reading:

- from the Vodafone website.

It's been up there for a few days since they changed their little advertisement blocks into images...

Saitek Cyborg Keyboard

2008-09-15T09:08:00.009-07:00

Saitek Cyborg Keyboard

The Saitek Cyborg keyboard lands somewhere squarely between pretty and gaudy. No, this getup is not business appropriate, but it is ironically the most aesthetically customizable keyboard we’ve seen. And still, it doesn’t look like the kind of design you would see on an adult’s desk, unless you adorn your monitor with Voltron toys. Read on to find out why we think this keyboard really needs some TLC in a number of departments.

Read | Permalink | User Reviews | Linking Blogs

Bibble 5

2008-09-15T09:08:00.007-07:00

Bibble 5
Bibble 5 will be introduced at Photokina and it will improve all aspects of photographic workflow.

Sony Bravia Kdl 40V3000 Tv

2008-09-15T09:08:00.005-07:00

The 40inch 1080 High Definition Sony V3000 Bravia LCD TV has the Sony customary glossy black finish Read More

Intelligent Assistance for Desktop User Tasks. Google Video.

2008-09-15T09:08:00.003-07:00

I have been watching this a few times as so much of it makes scene. I like how he displays a learning system, that with time/more samples it get better. I found this inspiring in regards to some concepts I have been learning, regarding the design of expert systems for (tag cloud)/categorisation development of forums.

Optus introduces unlimited calling plans in Australia

2008-09-15T09:08:00.001-07:00

Optus introduces unlimited calling plans in Australia
Isn't competition in the mobile marketplace fantastic? It's a concept that unfortunately New Zealanders are missing out on due to the cosy duopoly that exists between our two mobile providers - Telecom New Zealand and Vodafone.

Optus have just launched unlimited "timeless" mobile plans into the Australian marketplace. For A$99 per month you get unlimited calling to other mobiles and landline phones in Australia as well as unlimited SMS and MMS messages. This $99 pack however isn't quite $99 - it requires the purchase of a A$14.95 mobile pack that gives you 200MB of included data.

For A$129 however you receive unlimited calling, SMS and MMS along with 2GB of data.

Now compare that to what you're paying in NZ. Competition really is a great thing.

Creative Zen X-Fi 32GB

2008-09-15T09:07:00.001-07:00

Creative has been hawking its X-Fi sound enhancement technology hard in the last couple of years, putting it in everything from sound cards to headphones -- and now in a portable AV player. Aside from the usual voice recorder, FM radio, expandable storage, and audio/video playback, the Zen X-Fi is the first player from Creative to offer built-in WiFi. Like Microsoft's Zune, the X-Fi lacks a Web browser, which is a major stumbling block for a WiFi device, but it also lacks the Zune's wireless sync. It does, however, offer limited chat capabilities and AV streaming via LAN.

Read | Permalink | User Reviews | Linking Blogs

Sigma DP1 - full review and video tour

2008-09-13T04:09:00.019-07:00

The Sigma DP1 is one of the most unique and highly anticipated compact digital cameras on the market. It's the World's first compact to house a full-sized DSLR sensor, which should allow it to avoid the noise artefacts which plague modern compacts. It also shuns zoom lenses in favour of a fixed focal length model with an equivalent wide-angle coverage of 28mm. On top of this you get full manual control over exposure, manual focusing capabilities and unusually for a camera with a DSLR sensor, a movie mode. So has Sigma really managed to squeeze DSLR quality into a compact body? Find out in our Sigma DP1 review and as always, to see a demonstration of its highlights, check out our Sigma DP1 video tour Read More

Moosejaw: upto 50% off North Face sale + 25% off coupon, Jackets from $15

2008-09-13T04:09:00.017-07:00

Moosejaw: upto 50% off North Face sale + 25% off coupon, Jackets from $15

Logitech V550 Nano

2008-09-13T04:09:00.015-07:00

If you’re sick of dragging a sweaty finger around on your laptop’s touchpad, but equally tired of toting a mouse around with your otherwise ultra-mobile machine, Logitech’s V550 Nano promises to liberate you from carrying around that fist-sized plastic anchor by snapping it directly to your notebook. We found the concept surprisingly useful, and very well executed on Logitech’s behalf, but your results may vary depending on how you use your notebook.

Read | Permalink | User Reviews | Linking Blogs

Sharp's solar LED street lights incorporate seismic detection

2008-09-13T04:09:00.013-07:00

Sharp's solar LED street lights incorporate seismic detection
The argument for switching to solar-powered street lighting seems very clear cut: they run on sunlight, emit no CO2 emissions, provide an off-the grid source of lighting during in an emergency situation and use efficient LED-based light which tends not to attract insects. Sharp Corporation has announced plans to roll-out two new models of solar-powered LED street lights in the Japanese market and these have the added bonus of in-built Seismic Motion Sensors which detect earthquakes of five or greater on the Japanese seismic scale and respond by switching to full illumination for two nights...

Tags: LED, Lighting, Security, Sharp, Solar

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Sony 75-300mm telephoto zoom review - new video tour

2008-09-13T04:09:00.011-07:00

Sony 75-300mm telephoto zoom review - new video tour
Sony's 75-300mm telephoto zoom lens remains a popular option for owners of Alpha DSLRs. It's a common bundle with the earlier A100 and likely to find itself fitted to many of the new A200 bodies. As such it's an ideal time to revisit our Sony 75-300mm lens review with a brand new video tour, using the Alpha A100 body. Remember the new A200 has the same sensor, so our quality results are equally applicable for this new body. So to see - and hear - how this budget telephoto zoom compares, check out our Sony 75-300mm video tour.

DSLR Tips workshop - how to use a polarizing filter

2008-09-13T04:09:00.009-07:00

Polarizing filters are an essential accessory for every DSLR owner. They cut through haze, deepen blue skies and make colours more vibrant. They're also one of the few filters which can't be simulated with software. In our video workshop at DSLR Tips we'll show you how to use polarizing filters to improve your landscape photos, along with providing a step-by-step guide for reference. Discover everything you need to know in our polarizer workshop Read More

Very slack proof reading at Vodafone

2008-09-13T04:09:00.007-07:00

Dell Home: XPS M1330 laptop T5850 13.3in LED 3GB 250GB WWAN $1099 shipped

2008-09-13T04:09:00.005-07:00

Dell Home: XPS M1330 laptop T5850 13.3in LED 3GB 250GB WWAN $1099 shipped

Nikon D300 Image Samples Available

2008-09-13T04:09:00.003-07:00

Nikon Corporation has now provided another four image samples from the soon to be released Nikon D300 digital SLR. The full size images include a couple of portraits, one landscape/scenery and one action shot. The images are taken at 200 ISO, except for one of the portraits captured at 400 ISO. The Nikkor lenses used for these Nikon D300 sample image tests include the Nikon AF-S DX VR Zoom Nikkor ED 18-200mm F3.5-5.6G, the prime AF Nikkor 50mm F1.4D and the AF-S VR Nikkor ED 300mm F2.8 IF telephoto lens. Read Full story... Read More

Samsung Le 40F86B Tv

2008-09-13T04:09:00.001-07:00

The Samsung LE40F86B 40 1080p HD Ready LCD TV is one of the latest additions to Samsungs range of Read More

Digital Foci Image Moments 6

2008-09-13T04:00:00.015-07:00

Share & relive your treasured memories, instantly in sharp, vibrant colours Read More

HP: HP dv9700t notebook T5750 17in WXGA+ 3GB 250GB $750 shipped

2008-09-13T04:00:00.013-07:00

Squeezecenter and Softsqueeze - how to make a great centralised music server for the office

2008-09-13T04:00:00.011-07:00

Squeezecenter and Softsqueeze - how to make a great centralised music server for the office
Ingredients:

1x E4800 2.4GHz C2D workstation w/4GB RAM, 250GB HDD ~$1000NZD (It does some other tasks too)

2x Logitech Z2300 THX Cert 400w RMS 2.1 speakers ~$200NZDea (Director + IT Guy)

1x Logitech Z4 2.1 ~$70NZD (Reception)

1x ... (more in the full post)

Editor's Choice, August 2008: Nikon D700

2008-09-13T04:00:00.009-07:00

We been a little slow in announcing our August Editor's Choice selection, but that doesn't mean we're any less impressed by the Nikon D700. Read More

Editor's Choice, August 2008: Nikon D700

2008-09-13T04:00:00.007-07:00

Editor's Choice, August 2008: Nikon D700
We been a little slow in announcing our August Editor's Choice selection, but that doesn't mean we're any less impressed by the Nikon D700.

OneCall: Weekend Sale

2008-09-13T04:00:00.005-07:00

Liebherr's ZKes 453 cigar storage unit

2008-09-13T04:00:00.003-07:00

Liebherr's ZKes 453 cigar storage unit
Storing and maturing cigars successfully relies heavily on the regulation of air temperature and humidity, and the new ZKes 453 humidor from Liebherr achieves this using a stainless steel housing lined with Spanish cedar wood that incorporates sensitive electronic control system in conjunction with temperature and humidity sensors, all operated via an electronic SoftTouch panel. ..

Tags: Humidity, Smoking, Storage

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Measuring your health in dollar terms - study shows short-term ROI of $1.17 per $1.00 spent

2008-09-13T04:00:00.001-07:00

September 10, 2008 A program to reduce weight and improve health risk factors in obese employees produces a short-term return on investment (ROI) of $1.17 per dollar spent, according to a University of Georgia study. Just as important, the ROI model used in the study provides a relatively simple and inexpensive tool to help companies estimate the dollar benefits of investing in employee wellness programs. The ability to simulate the cost savings associated with reducing employee health risks could help in building a "credible and defensible case" for investment in employee wellness.This story really got us thinking that it might also pay for individuals to begin considering what the ROI for investing in their health would be – if there’s a short term benefit measured in dollars for your employer to pay for you to get healthy, what’s the long term ROI for investing in your optimum health with all those other personal gains to be considered – such as happiness, a feeling of well-being and a few extra years of painless mobility...

Tags: Environmental, Health, Obesity

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Tim McKenna

2008-09-13T03:59:00.003-07:00

Action Sports Photographer Tim McKenna teams up with Outdoor-Archiv Read More

Buyers Guide updated with latest models

2008-09-13T03:59:00.001-07:00

Buyers Guide updated with latest models
Following a run of excellent cameras, we've updated our Buyers Guide to include the Canon EOS 450D / XSi, Sony Alpha A350 and Panasonic's Lumix TZ5 and FX35 compacts. So whether you're in the market for a new compact, super-zoom, budget DSLR or semi-pro DSLR, check out the Camera Labs Buyers Guide to find out the best models around right now! As always, every model recommended in our Buyers Guide has been fully tested.

New fluorescence correlation spectroscopy technique offers real-time view of human chemical messenger system

2008-09-05T17:47:00.013-07:00

New fluorescence correlation spectroscopy technique offers real-time view of human chemical messenger system
September 2, 2008 One wonders sometimes just how far our understanding of life itself will extend within the next few decades. Earlier this week, U.K. researchers announced the development of a technology that enables the real-time viewing of microscopic activity within the body’s chemical messenger system. The researchers first created novel drug molecules which have “fluorescent labels” attached, then using fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, the molecules can be followed under a highly sensitive microscope as they bind to receptors, glowing all the while under a laser beam … all in real time at the single molecule level. Truly remarkable! ..

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Nikon Coolpix P6000 with 4x Wide Angle Zoom and GPS

2008-09-05T17:47:00.011-07:00

Nikon Coolpix P6000 with 4x Wide Angle Zoom and GPS
Nikon has today introduced their new Coolpix flagship compact camera, the 13.5 MP Nikon Coolpix P6000. The Nikon Coolpix P6000 features a 4x optical zoom starting at 28mm and includes optical lens shift Vibration Reduction (VR), a 2.7-inch high resolution LCD monitor, four exposure modes (P,S,A,M), a dedicated hotshoe and an optical viewfinder. See full story...

Dell Home: Sony Cybershot DSCT300 Black 10MP 5X Zoom Digital Camera $270 shipped

2008-09-05T17:47:00.009-07:00

Google Fixes Terms and conditions for Google Chrome

2008-09-05T17:47:00.007-07:00

After many posts and panicked reactions about the following clause in the licence for Chrome

"11. Content license from you

11.1 You retain copyright and any other rights you already hold in Content which you submit, post or display on or through, the Services. By submitting, posting or displaying the content you give Google a perpetual, irrevocable, worldwide, royalty-free, and non-exclusive license to reproduce, adapt, modify, translate, publish, publicly perform, publicly display and distribute any Content which you submit, post or display on or through, the Services. This license is for the sole purpose of enabling Google to display, distribute and promote the Services and may be revoked for certain Services as defined in the Additional Terms of those Services."

On the official Google blog they have pointed out the following:

"Whenever we release a product in beta as we just did with Google Chrome, we can always count on our users to come up with ways to improve it. This week's example: several eagle-eyed users and bloggers have expressed concern that Section 11 of Google Chrome's terms of service attempts to give us rights to any user-generated content "submitted, posted or displayed on or through" the browser.

You'll notice if you look at our other products that many of them are governed by Section 11 of our Universal Terms of Service. This section is included because, under copyright law, Google needs what's called a "license" to display or transmit content. So to show a blog, we ask the user to give us a license to the blog's content. (The same goes for any other service where users can create content.) But in all these cases, the license is limited to providing the service. In Gmail, for example, the terms specifically disclaim our ownership right to Gmail content.

So for Google Chrome, only the first sentence of Section 11 should have applied. We're sorry we overlooked this, but we've fixed it now, and you can read the updated Google Chrome terms of service. If you're into the fine print, here's the revised text of Section 11:
11. Content license from you
11.1 You retain copyright and any other rights you already hold in Content which you submit, post or display on or through, the Services.
And that's all. Period. End of section."

And of course they are stating this update will be retro active and cover everyone who has downloaded Google Chrome since its launch.

Good on Google, whilst they might not do everything right, and occasionally scare the bejeezus out of privacy advocates / activists,
nobody can accuse them of not being proactive!

Amex Preferred Rewards Gold Card: Free $100 gift card

2008-09-05T17:47:00.005-07:00

Amex Preferred Rewards Gold Card: Free $100 gift card

Canon Rebel XS, EOS 1000D Entry Level Digital SLR

2008-09-05T17:47:00.003-07:00

Canon Rebel XS, EOS 1000D Entry Level Digital SLR
Canon has today introduced the Canon Digital Rebel XS digital SLR. In some countries (Europe) the camera will be known as the Canon EOS 1000D. The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XS / 1000D features an APS-C size 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor and Canon's DIGIC III image processor, and joins the ranks in the Canon lineup as the entry level digital SLR model under the recently announced 12.2 MP Canon Rebel XSi / 450D. See full story...

Happy tenth birthday to the smart fortwo

2008-09-05T17:47:00.001-07:00

Happy tenth birthday to the smart fortwo
September 4, 2008 Ten years ago the smart fortwo was launched to a world market decidedly unsure about the highly unusual two-seater that was just two and a half metres in length. It could fit into less than half a parking space, took two people and their luggage quite comfortably and had impressively low fuel consumption and minimum carbon dioxide emissions. The degree of foresight in the design will be judged most kindly by history given the issues of global warming, road congestion, and the effect the laws of supply and demand have had on fuel pricing. Throw in the car’s safety and technical innovations and a design that combines functionality with joie de vivre and the smart fortwo deserves a warm round of applause on its automotive coming of age...

Tags: smart

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Price Decrease on Nikon D200, D80, D40 and Select Nikkor Lenses

2008-09-05T17:46:00.005-07:00

Nikon Canada Inc. has today announced new lower manufacturer's recommended retail pricing (MSRP) on a number of their digital SLR cameras, including the family photography oriented 6.1 MP Nikon D40 and the Nikon D80 digital SLR for the advanced amateur. The Nikon D200 (for the serious hobbyist and professional geared photographer) has been reduced in price by $100 to a new MSRP of $1399 CAN, while the Nikkor AF 80-400mm F/4-5.6 VR zoom lens has been reduced in price by $120 to a new retail of $1579 Canadian. Nikon Canada has also confirmed pricing for their latest new lenses, including the Nikon AF-S DX 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II zoom, the AF-S 60mm f/2.8G ED Macro, and the PC-E Nikkor 24mm f/3.5D ED tilt/shift lens. See full story... Read More

Dell Home: XPS 630 gaming desktop E8300 4GB 500GB DL DVD+-RW HD3870 + 22in wide LCD $1303 shipped

2008-09-05T17:46:00.003-07:00

Ringflash Adapter

2008-09-05T17:46:00.001-07:00

See the Ringflash Adapter demonstrated by Dalibor Zyka at Photokina. Read More