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Wednesday 2 June 2010
Computex 2010: Gigabyte promotes cloud computing solutions
Gigabyte Technology has announced that it will launch cloud-computing server solutions at Computex Taipei 2010. Gigabyte's GS-R21AD server is a cost effective solution that maximizes power efficiency with a co-location design for power supplies and cooling fans. The company's 2U server housing is built for four stand-alone AMD Opteron 6100 (GA-3ATSH/ GA-2ATSH) servers or four AMD Opteron 4100 (GA-3DTSL/ GA-2DTSL) servers, and support the latest AMD Opteron processors, 12 or 6 DDR3 DIMM power outlets, six SATA II serial ports, and x16 PCI Express Gen 2 and Mezzanine slots. Realizing that AC and DC conversion in a server usually consumes excessive electricity, Gigabyte has been working to boost power efficiency and optimize its housing design. To optimize thermal dissipation, the company has reconfigured the internal components and input/output layouts of the device. Overall, Gigabyte's servers can save around 10W while idle and 34.5W during maximum operation loading. In addition to cloud-computing server solutions, Gigabyte will also demonstrate six products for value-conscious businesses. Its GA-6FXSV2 & GA-6FASV1 are based on Intel Xeon 3400 series processors to provide the lowest power-consuming server platform. The GA-7TESM, GA-7TCSV2, GS-R12T102 and GS-R22T81 solutions are dual-socket platforms supporting the entire range of new six-core Intel Xeon processor 5600-series and are consistent with the company's commitment to green computing. These new solutions support low-voltage 1.35V DDR3 memory modules as well as standard 1.5V modules. Gigabyte is located at Hall-1, Booth D002. Gigabyte's server solutions for cloud computingPhoto: Company
Wednesday 2 June 2010
Computex 2010: Litemax showcasing high-brightness industrial solutions for digital signage, marine navigation, medicare, and energy-savings
Litemax Electronics, a provider of sunlight readable LCD industrial solutions, has stated its theme for Computex Taipei 2010 will be "Green Litemax" as the company sets out to showcase its R&D efforts in energy saving applications. The company will highlight several lines of sunlight readable (1000 nits) LCD devices powered by the award winning "Durapixel LED backlight" at its booth. Another dazzling focus at the booth will be its Spanpixel stretched LCD panels which provide special ratios for various digital signage applications, Litemax has developed its Spanpixel series LED-backlit panels with aspect ratios of 16:3 and 16:6, and sizes from 15 to 39 inches. In addition, Spanpixel panels can incorporate a Litemax Ad control board enabling ads to be deployed in previously unavailable spots such as vending machines, POS, refrigerators, and on taxis, buses, trains, etc. Meanwhile, the company's Navpixel series of display and panel PCs for professional marine applications will see the introduction of a new model, the NPD2115, at the show. With IEC60945 marine type approval, the Navpixel range has become popular in the boat builder market. In addition to 8.4-, 12-, 15-, 17-, and 19-inch models, a new widescreen 21.5-inch, 1000 nits LED backlight model will be showcased in the booth. This new, large, Full HD (1920x1080) resolution display enables a range of vital information such as compass navigator, fuel supply, radar, fish finder, and security camera feed to be view onscreen simultaneously. In light of the great potential in the healthcare market, Litemax will introduce the Medpixel range of bedside infotainment units for patients. With iPhone-like multi-touch support, the Medpixel MPS1812 is a perfect bedside terminal enabling patients to browse the Internet, write emails, watch TV, make phone calls, and check their medical records, etc. The 18.5-inch panel PC features a 1366x768 resolution, 500 nits brightness LCD powered by EverBrite technology, and an Intel Atom CPU. Medpixel is looking for partners around the world with interest in this market. Finally, Litemax will showcase its Litile range of seamless, high brightness panel wall modules in an "L" shape setup with specially designed content to help visitors understand more about the product line. Litemax developed the Litile range to be Sunlight readable, Seamless, Scalable, and Slim making it the only choice for large area displays. Litemax and all of its products can be found at booth D426 to D430 in Hall 1. The theme for Litemax at Computex Taipei is "Green Litemax" as the company showcases its energy saving applications.Photo: Company
Wednesday 2 June 2010
Computex 2010: Cayin to showcase advanced digital signage integration
Digital signage solution professional Cayin Technology has announced that its digital signage solutions will empower over 60 screens around three main exhibition halls during Computex Taipei 2010 from June 1-5. The company will also be exhibiting its full lineup of digital signage products and software solutions during the show, and will launch two new applications targeting mobile technologies and barcode scanners. The company has prepared solutions for more than 60 screens in three different exhibition halls that will be powered by Cayin's digital signage system to help keep visitors abreast of the most up-to-date information and activities at the Computex show. The company noted that the Nangang Exhibition Hall will feature comprehensive coverage using Cayin's systems. The company has teamed up with other IT leaders including DS SIG, AOpen, Qisda, and Modernsolid as sponsors in order to feature digital signage solutions at seven main entrances to the Computex show. This is the third year in a row Cayin has been a sponsor at Computex. Cayin will also debut two advanced digital signage solutions at its booth during the show, said Ravel Chi, VP of Cayin. Two new applications include a digital signage and mobile solution where visitors can learn how the iPhone, Google Maps and 3G technology can be integrated into a Cayin digital signage system. The other applications are digital signage and barcode scanner solutions. Cayin has created a scenario to present how retailers can utilize a barcode scanner with digital signage to boost sales. Other useful software applications, along with the company's complete lineup of digital signage products, will be showcased during the show. Solutions include the company's digital signage and web server & database, where Cayin xPost is used to outline the possibilities of integrating digital signage systems with web servers and databases for different vertical markets and applications. The company will also showcase digital signage and touch screen, a solution that utilizes Cayin SMP-WEB series players to empower interactive digital signage as an information stand. Web-based and zone-type digital signage players will also be showcased, as well as new networked digital signage players, including SMP-PRO4, SMP-WEB4, and SMP-WEBDUO. Visitors can choose a suitable player based on their requirements, such as Full HD video, streaming video, RSS feed, multiple screens support, etc. The company also is highlighting its management server and software solution, Cayin CMS servers, together with SuperMonitor 3 and SuperReporter 2 to enable administrators to centrally update content, schedule playlist, broadcast streaming video, monitor functioning status, and create billing reports. Cayin's booth is located in Hall 3, G555. Cayin's lineup of digital signage products and software Photo: Company
Wednesday 2 June 2010
Computex 2010: XPAL Power to introduce next-generation portable charger products
A pioneer of portable chargers, Tennrich is launching new products during Computex Taipei 2010 and will hold a press conference in meeting room 404, Taipei World Trade Center, Nangang Exhibition Hall, Thursday, June 3. The company will highlight features of new portable chargers products, including solutions for Nintendo gaming devices, pico projectors, and the MacBook notebook. The company is also showcasing its products in the Nangang Exhibition Hall, 1F, Components & Parts Booth, I1118, I1124, I1217, I1223. Portable chargers are now a product line used by Energizer (Energi To Go). The solution is designed to save power by using Energizer batteries in a charger to provide power whenever and wherever you need, such as at an airport or on a train. The concept is to extend battery life and charge consumer electronics (CE) devices without using the original adaptors and cables. The charger supports more than 90% of CE devices, and is constantly being updated. The company's goal is to create a universal battery that can be used by most of the latest CE devices to hit the market. Tennrich is a pioneer in the portable power industry and the company developed its own brand, XPAL Power. The company also started a licensing partnership in June 2008 with Energizer. The company's Energy Business Unit was established in 2004 especially for developing portable chargers and tapping the potential of the CE accessory and peripheral markets. Energizer Energi To GoPhoto: Company Portable chargers can power notebooks, handsets and other mobile devicesPhoto: Company
Wednesday 2 June 2010
Computex 2010: Aiptek to showcase mobile projector and pocket-size 3D HD-DV
At Computex Taipei 2010, projector specialist Aiptek is introducing its new PocketCinemaZ20 globally. The Pocket CinemaZ20 combines a mobile projector and HD camcorder, providing easy-to-use solutions for business presentations or personal entertainment. The company is also unveiling its ground-breaking Aiptek 3D i2 worldwide. The company claims the Aiptek 3D i2 is the world's first pocket-size 3D HD-DV to integrate 2D and 3D camcorder technologies. The PocketCinema Z20 is a pocket-sized multimedia projector with built-in camcorder that provides remarkable high definition video recording at a resolution of 720p. In addition, it allows users to capture still images at a resolution of 8-megapixels. The new RGB LED technology offers a wide range of colors in high contrast and also can throw clear images of up to 65 inches within a short distance range of two meters. Pictures, videos and documents can be easily stored on the built-in 2GB drive and memory capacity can be expanded by using a MicroSD card up to 32GB. The PocketCinemaZ20 is extremely portable, with dimensions of 125x62x24mm and weighs only 250 grams including battery. The ergonomic design features touch buttons with LEDs underneath and the battery lasts 120 minutes when fully charged. The ultra mobile AC power adapter design enables easy recharge of the Li-lon battery. The 3-in-1 AV jack enables quick connection and supports most media players, video equipment and notebooks. Apple iPod/iPhone and HDMI devices can also be easily connected through optional accessories. Everyone can make their own 3D movies The Aiptek 3D is a 3D HD-DV that is different from any camcorder on the market. The device is equipped with two lenses for filming both high quality 2D and 3D images. The camcorder provides 5-megapixels CMOS image sensors with selectable high definition 2D and stereoscopic 3D video recording at a resolution of HD 720p. In addition, it gives you a quick and easy access to capturing still images at a resolution of 5-megapixels. The 2.4-inch 3D panel makes it a joy to view 3D live without the need for eyewear and also features an easy playback function that is switchable from 2D to 3D. The new 3D camcorder comes at an affordable street price starting at US$199. Those without a 3D TV can utilize the built-in software to upload stereoscopic 3D videos to YouTube 3D simply by pressing a single button. Users can enjoy 3D red/cyan effects on their PCs with glasses included with the device. The memory capacity can also be expanded with a SD/SDHC card up to 32GB. The AIPTEK 3D i2 is ultra-compact, with dimensions of 118x72x23(mm) and it weighs only 250 grams including battery. The built-in USB plug enables easy recharging and connecting to a PC for data sharing. The battery lasts 120 minutes when fully charged. The company's new 3D product lineup, including the 3D HD-DV, a 3D photo frame and 3D PC Camera, will be shown in the 3D Special Zone at Computex Taipei 2010, at Booth B1030 in Hall 1. Aiptek's full product lineup will be at its booth (Hall 1, B1030). Aiptek 3D i2 is world's first pocket-size 3D HD-DV to integrate 2D and 3D camcorderPhoto: Company Pocket CinemaZ20 combines a mobile projector and HD camcorderPhoto: Company
Wednesday 2 June 2010
Computex 2010: AAEON releases slim 10.2-inch rugged tablet computer
Industrial PC manufacturer AAEON has released a new powerful Rugged Tablet Computer (RTC), the RTC-1000AS, which is ideal for users who need to work in harsh/severe environments. The device features a 10.2-inch sunlight readable LCD panel with 500 nits brightness and is slimmer in design compared to the company's previous rugged tablet PCs. The RTC-1000AS is equipped with the Intel Atom N270 1.6 GHz processor and includes one 200-pin DDR II SODIMM socket (up to 2GB). The unit offers flexible I/O for storage, such as two USB 2.0, one Mini USB, one RS-232, PCMCIA, two internal Mini Card, and one CompactFlash Slot for versatile expansion. The system memory is optional based on user needs. The RTC-1000AS is sealed to IP-65 specifications. It is built from the ground up to withstand water, dust, vibration and drops, as well as the harsh environments the device needs to be utilized in. This model deploys a 10.2-inch WSVGA (1024x600) 16:9 TFT LCD display with LED backlighting that can be viewed at wide angles and is readable in bright sunlight. The display also features a patented AOT (Advanced Optibond Technology) touch screen. This advanced technology is for impact protection that is often required by rugged applications, said Howard Hu, product manager of AAEON's R&D Center. In addition, numeric keypad and programmable function keys on the front panel are all user friendly features of the RTC-1000AS, Howard added. The optional docking station and vehicle chargers can keep the system up and running for multiple operating shifts. For network communication, the RTC-1000AS uses one 10/100/1000Base-TX Ethernet and a Wireless LAN IEEE 802.11b/g plus Bluetooth 2.0 Class 1 module to provide fast and convenient connections. For mobile application power users, it could also be upgraded to a bundled 3G module kit and/or GPS kit for more convenience. Another valuable feature of the RTC-1000AS is the gross weight, which is only 3.9lb (about 1.8kg). All RTC units can be utilized by various professionals, including hospital practitioners, express delivery staff, and users who simply need a handheld computer. The RTC-1000AS offers high performance with low power consumption that is perfect for areas in the emergency medical services, public safety, transportation, marine, and aviation to name a few. The device will be on display at Computex Taipei 2010, along with other AAEON products, in Hall 1, Booth A820a/A824/A819/A823. The AAEON RTC-1000AS rugged tablet computer (RTC)Photo: Company
Wednesday 2 June 2010
Computex 2010: PC component provider Thermaltake promises powerful innovation with a sporty spirit
PC component provider Thermaltake has announced that once again it will be headlining the Computex Taipei 2010 show to showcase its broad variety of the latest PC DIY, overclocking and gaming hardware for demanding users. In addition to exhibiting a number of innovations in cases, cooling solutions and power supplies, Thermaltake plans to put on exciting shows throughout the entire exhibition period, including stage shows, lucky draw events and daily competitions of the Taiwan professional eSports League. In terms of PC products, Thermaltake will be introducing an entirely new edition in the award-winning "Toughpower" line of high-end PC power supply units. The New Toughpower Grand comes with a classy black finish and makes what the company calls a clear statement of pure quality. The device's proprietary 14cm dual-ball-bearing flower-shaped fan provides optimized ventilation, while being 80 PLUS Gold certified means that users don't just get a guaranteed eco-friendly PSU with more than 90% efficiency at 50% load and a 0.95 active power factor correction (PFC), but their electricity bill will noticeably drop as well. For people on the go, the universal notebook and mobile device power adapter, the Toughpower Ultra Slim 95W, will be of interest. In the CPU cooler segment Thermaltake will show the power of the newly arrived Frio overclocking cooler, which will be the flagship CPU cooling solution of choice for 2010. The Frio cooler is specifically designed for overclocking, and comes with one preinstalled 120mm fan and an additional OC fan that can be manually controlled between 1200 and 2500RPM. In addition, previews of ultra-silent cooling solution with the new Jing design concept will be on display. Thermaltake cases are well-known for their stylish looks and ambient LED-fans. This year the mid-tower ARMOR A90 will be shown in an AMD Edition, while the full-tower Element V comes in an Nvidia Edition. In addition to these special editions, more surprise highlights will be announced during the show. As for PC cases with integrated hard drive docking stations and storage enclosures, Thermaltake will be presenting its brand-new USB 3.0 line-up. In terms of more information about Thermaltake's plans for Computex, the company recommends that attendees visit the company's booth at Nangang Hall, 4F M614 to learn more. Cool PC components from ThermaltakePhoto: Company
Tuesday 1 June 2010
Parade develops 6Gb/s SATA3 repeater ICs
Parade Technologies has added two new devices to its family of SATA/eSATA/SAS bi-directional repeater ICs (also known as redriver ICs). The PS8521 devices are 6Gb/s SATA3 repeater ICs to incorporate adaptive equalization technology, which compensates for signal loss due to variations in PCB design.Parade claimed its PS8521A is the world's first SATA3 device using a power-saving 1.5V supply voltage. Along with the PS8521B, which uses a traditional 3.3V supply, these devices employ unique SATA power management features that were pioneered by Parade. Compared to alternative 3.3V SATA3 devices, the PS8521A consumes 50% less power in active transmission mode.Designed for driving internal and external data storage and other peripherals, the PS8521 devices are ideal for notebook, PC motherboard and computer docking station redriver applications, according to Parade. Both devices support 1.5Gb/s, 3Gb/s and 6Gb/s data rates, and both are compatible with industry-standard SATA3, eSATA and SAS (serial attached SCSI) protocols. Out-of-band (OOB) signaling is also supported.The PS8521A and PS8521B automatically detect traffic on the SATA bus, transitioning into sleep mode when no traffic is present. When traffic is detected, the devices become active with less than 10 ns latency.To compensate for wide variations in system PCB trace and cable design and length, the PS8521 devices incorporate two important signal conditioning features: receiver adaptive equalization and output pre-emphasis technology. Adaptive equalization allows a redriver to automatically reconstruct incoming SATA signals despite challenging trace or cable electrical characteristics.Programmable pre-emphasis enables the PS8521A and PS8521B to reduce signal jitter and optimizes the output 'eye' signal for robust transmission. These programmable features can be flexibly controlled either through an I2C port or directly through dedicated pin inputs.Parade said the PS8521A and PS8521B are available in a 4x4mm 20-pin TQFN package. The devices are pin-compatible with a wide variety of SATA devices, allowing for rapid system design conversion to SATA3.Both PS8521A and PS8521B are sampling now, and production volumes will be available in the third quarter of 2010, according to Parade. The devices will be sold for US$1.50/ea. in volume.Block diagram: Parade PS8521A and PS8521B redriver ICsPhoto: Company
Tuesday 1 June 2010
Computex 2010: Nvidia looks to take 3D PCs to the next level
With the success of "Avatar" and other similar movies, TV vendors have now begun seeing the opportunities of pushing 3D TVs to consumers looking to enjoy these movies at home. However, if you look at the 3D content market, most 3D media, whether it is movies, web broadcasts and/or PC games, or even the oldest of 3D mediums – 3D photographs – are currently being accessed using a PC. The PC remains, and will continue to remain, the dominant device for accessing 3D content. But up until now there has been no 3D PC category in the PC industry. But that was then and this is now. This year at Computex Taipei 2010, Nvidia has brought together various players in the PC, CE (consumer electronics) and gaming ecosystem to launch what it calls the 3D PC class of PC products and the company believes that within five years, 3D PCs will account for about half of the 150 million discrete solutions sold in the global market. In light of Nvidia's push for PC supremacy in the 3D market, Digitimes has taken the time to investigate some of the reasons Nvidia has created a 3D PC class and what this means to consumers and players in the PC industry – that is to have a united ecosystem for delivering 3D content and 3D supporting hardware. What is a 3D PC and why do I need one? In January 2009, Nvidia launched its 3D Vision platform for delivering stereoscopic 3D. The foundation of 3D Vision is a combination of wireless active shutter glasses that deliver twice the resolution per eye versus passive glasses, a high-power IR emitter that transmits data directly to the active shutter glasses within a 20 foot radius and advanced software that automatically transforms hundreds of PC games into full stereoscopic 3D experiences. The platform is designed to work with certified 120Hz LCD monitors. However, while Nvidia has already shipped more than 100,000 units, the trend has been for users to install the kits as a DIY (do-it-yourself) product. Since it launched 3D Vision though, Nvidia has been working closely with PC vendors, digital camera makers and game developers to bring the ecosystem together to deliver more integrated products and a more unified vision of 3D content on the PC platform. With the launch of Nvidia's 3D class of PCs, the trend will now be for OEMs to launch completely configured 3D PCs, providing 3D to a whole new category of user. According to Nvidia, a number of OEMs are participating in the program, including Acer and Asustek Computer, and other global OEMs will announce complete 3D PC models in the near future. While Nvidia has shipped more than 100,000 3D vision kits, shipments of one million or even 10 million are not that far in the future, especially as the ecosystem comes together. Much like the well-recognized brands in the TV industry who are promoting 3D in their industry, Nvidia is taking the leadership position in the PC industry to help various market players focus together to deliver the optimal 3D PC experience to the market. At Computex, most of the 3D PCs shown by Nvidia and its partners will be gaming desktop PCs or notebooks, and the products will definitely catch the public's attention. Examples of products scheduled to be highlighted during the show include an Asustek notebook that will be the first 3D notebook to include an integrated emitter (current solutions are supported by a dongle) and several AIO (all-in-one) 3D PCs. A number of monitors supporting Nvidia's 3D Vision solution are also being displayed at Computex, including monitors from Acer, Asustek, Dell/Alienware, LG Electronics, Samsung Electronics and ViewSonic. It's all about the content If you look at what is driving growth of 3D, it's all about the content. For example, "Avatar" has been a great boon in the movie industry, educating the general population about 3D and making audiences hungry for more. The movie was produced at a quality level that made people realize that 3D is more than a gimmick. The important thing is that people can enjoy the experience for more than two hours. But even more exciting for players in the industry is that there have been several Hollywood movies since then made in stereoscopic 3D. "Alice in Wonderland" and "How to Train Your Dragon" were both well received in 3D. Consumers want to see an increasing amount of content in 3D, and as the penetration rate of Blu-ray players increase, more 3D movie content will become available for viewing at home. However, while 3D movies get the most press, the gaming industry is making an even bigger push into 3D, and it should be noted that the gaming industry is bigger than the film industry. Nvidia indicated that more than 400 PC games now support Nvidia's Stereoscopic 3D system. Another area where 3D technology can be used is photography. Nvidia already automatically supports a 3D Vision Photo viewer when its 3D Vision driver is installed, and the company has added hardware partners such as Fujifilm, whose devices can contribute content files and build up the 3D photo ecosystem. At Computex, NVIDIA also announced that the Sony NEX-5 digital camera will be upgraded to support a 3D Sweep Panorama mode supported by NVIDIA 3D Vision PCs. Players in the industry are also excited about 3D content being streamed over the Internet, as the trend in the market moves increasingly from broadcast to Internet-based video distribution. This year the Masters Golf tournament was broadcast live over the Internet in 3D and an increasing amount of professional sports will take advantage of both 3D and Internet streaming to provide fans with a more exciting viewing experience for top events. And sporting events are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to 3D content on the Internet. YouTube has over 5000 3D videos and movie websites like Netflix are looking to see how to enable people to enjoy 3D on the web. Are all 3D solutions created equal? Nvidia has made a strong case that it made the right choice in designing its 3D Vision system around full-resolution frame-sequential 120Hz displays with active shutter glasses as opposed to interlaced half-resolution micro-polarized displays (micropol) with passive glasses which are being used by competitors. But more importantly, from the very beginning Nvidia more so than its competitors understood that the 3D market will be decided by the quality of content. In line with this vision, Nvidia developed its 3D Vision platform to automatically convert hundreds of PC games to work in stereoscopic 3D out of the box, without the need for special game patches. Currently, its solution supports over 400 PC games and the company has about four-times the title support of its competition. And Nvidia is striving to remain the most significant player in the market with its “The Way It's Meant to Be Played” program that ensures future games will support 3D Vision. Nvidia explained that you can take your old gaming library and enjoy them again in 3D. The company noted that feedback so far has been fantastic. Users rave about popular games such World of Warcraft (WoW) played in 3D. In driving games users have been able to reducing their lap times because 3D is giving them more sensation. 3D Vision Surround mode allows users to set up 3 monitors in 3D mode for the ultimate immersive solution. In fact, professional drivers are using 3D games for simulation on new tracks using 3D Vision Surround mode, Nvidia added. New games are starting to use 3D effects as well. Lost Planet 2 and Just Cause 2 are said to look spectacular in 3D. And while current games are equipping with 3D, future games are incorporating 3D features into their designs, such as adjusting the camera positions. Nvidia stressed that its success is due to the investment it put into developing the market. The company contends users are much happier with its solution than with any other solution on the market. Nvidia also pointed out that its not just game applications that it supplies, but also video applications, photo applications and it is working with Blu-ray player and TV vendors to enable them as well. Nvidia is also working closely to help deliver 3D streaming plug-ins for Adobe Flash and Microsoft Silverlight to enable 3D content over the Web. The company believes the whole 3D product and content ecosystem needs to work together to make the market successful. And because it has been investing in the market early and often, Nvidia noted that it is seeing much more compatibility on its platform. Nvidia explained that it has taken advantage of its unique place in the market. The age-old chicken-and-egg problem dictates that in any type of new market, content providers don't want to invest in content until the hardware is there and hardware doesn't want to invest till software is there. As a hardware enabler that has long worked with game developers, the company found itself in a position to enable both sides of the market by taking a leadership position and devoting the time and investment needed to make it easier for both sides of the market to develop products for the market. Why buy a 3D solution, and why PC over TV? There are a number of reasons consumers will come to the conclusion that the PC platform is the way to go when choosing a 3D solution. First of all, based on where the market is moving, anyone who buys a discrete graphics card solution should buy a 3D stereoscopic solution, according to Nvidia. Those buyers who want the performance boost of a discrete graphics solution are the same people who understand that in addition to gaming quality, stereoscopic 3D stereo is one of the PC experiences that make an investment in discrete graphics worthwhile. Today the price premium for a stereoscopic 3D-ready PC is about US$300 above the price of a PC without. The breakdown is about US$100 for a 120Hz display and US$200 for the active shutter glasses. Nvidia noted that it is working with all players on the hardware side of the equation to reduce that differential and the company sees opportunities to steadily decrease the premium. The company also pointed out that while a US$300 3D premium is about the same in the PC and LCD TV industries, 3D LCD TVs will run consumers about US$3,000 while a 3D PC will cost only about US$1,500. In addition, the PC platform has a significant advantage in terms of content, especially for gaming and Internet content. In addition, a 3D PC can still enjoy current 2D content in 3D. Ultimately though, the best advantage the PC market has is the same advantage it always had. From the very beginning, the PC market has been successful because it is a flexible and dynamic market. Products can be upgraded and changed every year. PC software is also designed around APIs that can enable software and hardware to change quickly. Nvidia pointed out that it was able to work with game developers to create a new API and a new driver to enable 400 3D games in one year. By comparison the games console industry is thinking about maybe 20 3D games this year. Nvidia added that graphics power is always climbing in the PC industry. The GTX 400-series has 2x the performance of previous years. Nvidia also has the GPU performance to render 3D where the requirement is double – one for each eyeball. In the LCD TV or game consoles market consumers will be stuck with the graphics horsepower of a product for five years, and advancements in the hardware or software come slowly. This means a lot in a world that originated the idea of Moore's Law. For that reason, Nvidia foresees that about half the discrete graphics market will feature 3D within five years. That means if 150 million discrete graphics devices are sold every year, the market will reach 75 million units in that time. The content ecosystem will grow accordingly as well. There is a compelling case if you are gamer to buy a 3D PC if you buy a new PC. The games you play today and buy tomorrow are going to be that much better in stereoscopic 3D. And more 3D content will be experienced through Blu-ray drives or peripherals such as 3D cameras or 3D digital photo websites. More than a fashion statementPhoto: Company Nvidia's GeForce 3D VisionPhoto: Company
Tuesday 1 June 2010
Computex 2010: Jow Tong expands Cideko air keyboard lineup
Jow Tong Technology will be exhibiting a number of products at this year's Computex Taipei 2010 show, including its Cideko branded air keyboards that integrate a wireless mouse and keyboard into a single device. The company will also be launching new Cideko keyboards at the show, as well as wireless A/V devices. While the Cideko lineup has been well-received in the market, Jow Tong stated that it was not satisfied with just having the Cideko Air Keyboard replace a regular mouse and keyboard. The company said it needed to focus on delivering a compact and fashionable design with its Cideko products as well. This means users are much more willing to use Cideko products in their everyday lives – such as when using a home theater PC (HTPC) or with a flat screen TV – not just for computing. For example, the Air Keyboard is ideal for gadget users looking for an alternative controller for an HTPC, as all Air Keyboard models can support HTPCs. The company added that the Air Keyboard is ideal for users that connect a small notebook to a large display such as a flat screen TV, as the combo 3D mouse and keyboard provides long-distance wireless control. In order to bring entertainment to end users, Cideko will launch two more Air Keyboard models, the Air Chatting (AK05) and Air Conqueror (AK-08). The Air Chatting comes with microphone and earphone ports. Users can make calls on Skype or listen to music directly through the all-in-one Air Keyboard and use Air Chatting to enjoy live-chatting away from the PC area. The Air Conqueror is an evolutionary device featuring an integrated wireless mouse, keyboard, and gamepad. It has an ergonomic design that enables users to play games, write email, and move a cursor fast and easily. The ambidextrous game pad control brings gaming to users without wires. The company will also be featuring its A/V products at Computex, including A/V sender and A/V player product lines. For example, the Air Gear (AF02) can synchronize a PC to a TV wirelessly. Another product to be featured at Computex is the Air Catcher (AB01) A/V player series which is capable of streaming A/V files from multiple interfaces to a TV. The device is portable and works even when the computer and display screens are in different rooms. In addition, it also has built-in multi-slot card reader and one USB port, so users can plug in any combination of mass storage devices, such as pen drives, hard drives and memory cards. Jow Tong developed its Cideko brand by forming an acronym from the concepts it hopes to achieve through its designs, namely convenience, integration, digital, entertainment, knowledge and originality. Jow Tong stated the brand helps remind the company that it must deliver a promise of high product performance and offer creative and integrated solutions that are easy to manage. Over the past few months, Cideko products have been picked up by distributors in almost every continent and the company reported it is seeing great feedback from the market. Over 20 distributors have joined the company in promoting Cideko products and more Cideko branded products will be announced during the Computex show. Visitors can find out more about the company and its products in Hall 1, Booth B510/510a/518/518a.