Asustek Computer has announced its new ASUS P7F7-E WS SuperComputer motherboard, which integrates technologies such as USB 3.0, SATA 6G storage interface, and IEEE 1394b FireWire standard.The P7F7-E WS adopts Intel 3450 chipset with integrated graphics as well as LGA 1156 socket for support of Intel's latest Xeon and Core processors.The motherboard also supports up to four graphics cards through AMD's CrossFireX or Nvidia's 3-way/2-way SLI technologies.The motherboard is embedded with six memory slots and supports up to 16GB of DDR3 memory, while Asustek's exclusive GPU Boost technology can overclock the integrated GPU in real time for a higher graphics performance. Asustek P7F7-E WS SuperComputer motherboard specifications Item Detail CPU support Intel Xeon 3400 series, Core i7/Core i5/ Core i3/Pentium processors with supports of Intel Turbo Boost technology Chipset Intel Ibex Peak 3450 chipset/ Nvidia NF200 Memory 6 DIMMs, supporting up to 16GB DDR3 2000/1600/1333MHz, ECC, un-buffered memory Expansion slots Four PCI Express 2.0 x16 and three PCI Express x1 Multi-GPU Supports 3-way/2-way Nvidia GeForce SLI technology and AMD's CrossFireX technology, up to four graphics cards Storage Two SATA 6Gb/s and six SATA 3Gb/s Source: Company, compiled by Digitimes, March 2010Asustek P7F7-E WS SuperComputer motherboardPhoto: Company

CORNING, N.Y., March 15, 2010 - Corning Incorporated (NYSE:GLW) announced today that Corning's Gorilla glass has been designed into the LG X300, a newly released premium mobile PC. This lightweight device packs portable computing technology into an ultra-slim form. It measures just 17.5 millimeters (mm) thick and weighs roughly 2 pounds, giving users convenient portability. Corning's Gorilla glass enables the unique edge-to-edge cover design and allows the device to remain thin and lightweight. Harrison Park, general manager, PC Division, LG Electronics said, "Slim, lightweight mobile PCs will be the main trend this year. By using Corning's Gorilla glass, we were able to design a thinner device with a durable and strong display." "Laptop makers are challenged with designing thinner and lighter devices and Corning's Gorilla glass is helping them succeed," said Jim Steiner, senior vice president, Corning Specialty Materials. "The unique properties of Gorilla glass allow for reduced thickness and weight without compromising durability." Gorilla glass is an environmentally friendly protective window used in high-end display devices including cellular phones, laptop and tablet computers, and mobile devices. With a variety of available thicknesses, ranging from 0.5mm up to 2.0mm, Gorilla glass offers a lightweight and durable design that compliments the needs of premium devices such as the LG X300. This aluminosilicate glass is produced with Corning's proprietary fusion-draw process, which enables the production of uniform thin sheets with a pristine surface and is also adaptable to scalable sheet sizes for optimal throughput. During finishing, Gorilla glass undergoes a chemical strengthening process that gives it the unique properties which make it especially suited for use as a durable, scratch-resistant liquid crystal display (LCD) cover. These benefits allow Corning customers to optimize their device design and fabrication efficiencies.

Micro-Star International (MSI) has launched its latest 17-inch gaming notebook - the GE700 - equipped with Intel's latest core i5 processor, ATI Radeon HD 5730 discrete graphics card with 1GB DDR3 VRAM, two cinema-class speakers, a subwoofer, a HD webcam, and support for two hard drives.The GE700 utilizes Intel Turbo Boost Technology for dynamic enhanced processing efficiency, and boasts MSI's exclusive ECO Engine Power Saving technology to extend battery running time.The GE700 adopts a keyboard that features luminescent touch hotkeys with shortcut keys for activation of technologies such as GPU Boost, Cinema Pro, and Multimedia Control. MSI GE700 gaming notebook specifications Item Detail OS Windows 7 Home Premium CPU Intel Core i5 processor Chipset HM55 Graphic ATI Radeon HD 5730 with 1GB VRAM Memory DDR3 SODIMM slot x2 Display 17.3-inch LCD HDD 2.5-inch 250/320/500GB SATA, supports up to two hard drive (optional) Source: Company, compiled by Digitimes, March 2010MSI GE700 gaming notebookPhoto: Company

Flexibility, great freedom of design and high efficiency – these are the main advantages of the new PrevaLED Core light engines by Osram. The PrevaLED range is designed using a modular principle and thanks to fixed interfaces reduces both development effort and time to market for luminaire developments. The system consisting of light engine and electronics control gear is small, easy to use and extremely powerful.PrevaLED light engines enable luminaire manufacturers - despite the fast development cycle of LED - to significantly reduce the effort of developing new luminaires and thus to save costs. Design ideas can be evaluated and realized much quicker.The PrevaLED Core product family provides a wide range of lumen output options from 800lm to 3,000lm at a system efficiency of up to 75lm per watt and is available in the color temperatures 3,000K and 4,000K. A special feature of this system is its outstanding light quality with a color rendering index (CRI) larger than 90, without compromises in system efficiency. Active control of the light engines reduces the tolerances between single light engines below the limit of visual perception and ensures top quality of light in the application.Thanks to intelligent system design, currently available lumen packages will be available for years, independent of increased LED efficiency, thus permitting a future-proof luminaire design.Individual future-proof luminaire designIrrespective of the lumen output, all round modules have the same dimensions (50mm diameter) and feature the same integrated reflector mounting options. Thanks to the wide beam angle of 140-degree these light engines are ideally suited for light shaping with reflectors. The light engines can be flexibly combined with various control gears allowing the simple integration of additional functions such as dimming, if so required. The combination of these features and their compact size make PrevaLED Core light engines ideally suited for use in downlights and spots of various output powers.Osram PrevaLED Core light enginesPhoto: Company

March 11, 2010 (Plano, TX) - Texas Advanced Optoelectronic Solutions, Inc (TAOS), the world's leading supplier of digital ambient light sensors to the smartphone and HDTV markets, today announced the first members of its next generation digital ambient light sensor (ALS) and proximity detection family that is designed to provide consumer electronics manufacturers with greater freedom to produce sleeker, more appealing and innovative product designs. These latest TAOS devices eliminate the need to use clear glass/plastic in front of the sensor or drill holes/slots into the display, bezel or frame in order for light to reach the sensor.Specifically designed to operate behind darkened glass or other translucent materials, the TSL2771 device family provides both ambient light sensing and proximity detection in a single device that consumes far less power than currently available comparable solutions. Proximity detection is ideally suited for touch screen smartphones to automatically turn off the display or control other user functions and can also be used in laptops, desktop computers and monitors to conserve energy or maintain information privacy when the user is not present. Other emerging applications for proximity sensing technology include touchless display controls activation and management as well as human gesture detection."The need for ambient light sensors to operate behind darkened glass or other translucent materials has emerged as a critical requirement in today's consumer electronic products," said Carlo Strippoli, TAOS vice president of Sales & Marketing. "Consumers have become increasingly sophisticated and manufacturers need a way to be able to deliver sleeker, more compelling designs while still being able to deliver the benefits of improved picture quality and reduced energy consumption that digital ambient light sensors provide. Our next generation of high sensitivity digital ambient light and proximity devices - the latest addition to the TAOS, Inc Display Management Solutions portfolio - delivers in both areas to help consumer electronics manufacturers design more appealing 'green' products."The TSL2771 Ambient Light Sensor and Proximity Detection device family incorporates an IR LED current-limited driver, analog-to-digital conversion (ADC), interrupt capability, multiple I2C interface voltage options and flexible programming allowing it to be configured into many different applications. As darkened glass or translucent materials can be transparent to IR wavelengths while attenuating visible light by 100 times or more, the device utilizes TAOS' patented dual-photodiode architecture that allows the sensor system to compensate for the increased IR component. When combined with the ability to adjust the analog gain settings up to 128X, the device excels in challenging low-light level applications."Power consumption is another key advantage to the TSL2771 device family," said Kerry Glover, TAOS, Inc applications manager. "In many of the portable applications, battery life is very critical. Traditional proximity detection methods require a significant amount of power. With the new TAOS architecture, as few as one IR pulse is required for presence detection. This can provide 10x in power savings over traditional analog or other digital solutions."In applications requiring longer distance detection, an external driver can be utilized to boost the power such that a person can be detected in front of a monitor. A unique state machine allows the device to go into a lower power wait state, thereby only having the high power external detection running a very small portion of the time. For applications requiring only ambient light sensing, this next generation of TAOS devices also includes the TSL2580/81 high-sensitivity ambient light sensors. To accelerate time-to-market and reduce design-in effort, TAOS provides support for software device drivers and/or C-reference code as well as Evaluation Modules (EVMs).TAOS TSL2581Photo: Company

Micro-Star International (MSI) has unveiled the latest addition of its X-Slim notebook series, the X-Slim X360, with Intel's Core i5 processor and HM55 chipset.The X360 adopts MSI's ECO power-saving technology to allow consumers to select from five different power management levels. With the addition of Intel's Turbo Boost technology to automatically adjusts power levels, the X360 can run as long as nine-hours continuously, MSI claimed.The X360 will also come with MSI's EasyViewer, a 3D image display software and EasyFace, a face identification software to protect information on the notebook. MSI X-Slim X360 ultra-thin notebook specifications Item Detail OS Windows 7 Home Premium CPU Intel Core i5-520UM processor Chipset Intel HM55 Graphic Intel integrated graphics Memory DDR3 memory supports up to 4GB Display 13-inch LCD with 1366×768 resolution HDD 2.5-inch 250 /320/500GB SATA Webcam 1.3-megapixel Sources: Company, compiled by Digitimes, March 2010MSI X-Slim X360 ultra-thin notebookPhoto: Company

Leading memory module brand Kingmax has launched its extended rechargeable battery case series, which is iPhone certified for Apple's iPhone 3G and 3GS devices. The new series is an extension of the Kingmax handset-accessory product line. The new Kingmax battery extender is a non-slip grip protective case, measuring 12.45×6.60×2.29cm (LxWxH) and weighs 70 grams. The portable battery case includes a 1500mAh lithium-polymer battery, which uses Japan-made battery cells to guarantee reliability and safety. With the built-in rechargeable battery, the Kingmax iPhone-use battery case powers the device for up to 270 hours standby. It also has an integrated LED indicator, which shows the charging status. Kingmax said it has already launched the iPhone-use rechargeable battery case series in Europe, Southeast Asia and Taiwan. It will be available in other parts of the world at a later date. In addition, Kingmax revealed plans to offer battery products for other leading smartphone brands including Blackberry, HTC, Samsung and Nokia. The company has tapped the handset battery market, introducing lithium (LiON) batteries that support Nokia- and Sony Ericsson-branded handsets. Kingmax iPhone power casePhoto: Company

SAN JOSE, Calif. Acer America today extends its leadership in delivering excellent products that take advantage of consumers' growing demand for 3D imagery with two new Nvidia 3D Vision-Ready video projectors.The three-dimensional experience is made possible by a combination of the projectors' DLP projection capabilities, high refresh rates and Nvidia 3D Vision technology. As a result, the flat surface of any wall can be transformed into a 3D screen."The new Acer video projectors provide incredibly compelling and realistic 3D video and images that make customers feel like they are part of the experience," said Irene Chan, senior product marketing manager for peripherals, Acer America. "With the Acer projectors, consumers can enjoy existing 2D content as if it were developed in 3D for a more immersive entertainment and learning experience – whether it's a fictional journey, a scientific exploration of the universe or a tour of ancient archaeological sites. Of course, customers will thoroughly enjoy the superior visuals projected from these new models even while watching traditional 2D content."Acer H5360 – brilliant 3D visuals for home theater entertainmentHome theater enthusiasts will enjoy video, game content, photos and more in an incredible new level of realism and video immersion using the new Acer H5360 projector. Delivering HD-ready 720p (1,280x720) resolution, the Acer H5360 boasts the latest technology for a truly unsurpassed video projection experience. The advanced lamp technology with illumination of up to 2500 ANSI lumens paired with the high 3200:1 contrast ratio also heightens the color and clarity of the images. Also – it displays images in native 16:9, so customers can view high-definition digital content without image distortion that arises from incompatible aspect ratios. The projector also has a 50-120Hz vertical refresh rate.The Acer H5360 projector has an HDMI port that provides a seamless connection to the latest digital sources ensuring exceptional high-definition viewing and audio from Blu-ray Disc high definition technology as well as DVDs. So even when it's not paired with Nvidia 3D Vision, customers get to enjoy incredibly realistic 2D images that are crisp and vibrant.Along with its HDMI port, the projector has other ports that ensure the projector can connect to a wide range of video sources; it has three RCA jacks, component video, S-video mini DIN, 2.5mm audio mini-jack, 15-pin D-Sub for a PC analog signal.The Acer H5360 projector is available now for US customers at leading retailers for a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of US$699.00.Acer X1261 projector – excellent 3D performance for home, work, schoolThe Acer X1261 projector is ideal for home, business and classroom environments, providing rich visuals at an excellent value. Delivering bright colors and crisp images, the Acer X1261 projector features advanced lamp technology with illumination of up to 2500 ANSI lumens, a high 3700:1 contrast ratio and a vertical refresh rate of 50-120Hz. Its native XGA resolution and 4:3 aspect ratio are ready for presentations, photos, multimedia, and more. The projector can also be adjusted to a 16:9 aspect ratio for video content such as that from Blu-ray Disc and DVD. The Acer X1261 projector can connect to a variety of video input sources through its range of ports; it has composite video, component video, S-video mini DIN, and a stereo mini Jack.Customers who want an excellent home video projector for 3D video, games, photos and multimedia yet need to stay within a certain price range will appreciate the performance and value delivered by the Acer X1261 projector. It is available now for U.S. customers at leading retailers for an MSRP of US$579.00.State-of-the-art technology from Nvidia 3D visionBoth new Acer projectors – the Acer H5360 and Acer X1261 – deliver an incredibly realistic 3D viewing experience when combined with Nvidia 3D Vision technology, which transforms traditional 2D images into stunning 3D. Nvidia 3D Vision is a combination of an Nvidia 3D Vision compatible computer and graphics card, and 3D Vision Kit that includes wireless active-shutter glasses and advanced software that can transform hundreds of PC games into an exceptional 3D experience. The lightweight glasses, which can be worn over regular eyeglasses, can provide up to 40 hours of 3D entertainment on a single charge.Projectors have first-rate features for improved visual experience at homeBoth new projectors display images with more natural and balanced shades, and truly lifelike tones, thanks to Acer ColorBoost II+ featuring an optimized 3X color wheel design, a powerful image processor and an advanced lamp waveform to improve color performance. Further contributing to the enhanced images, the ColorSafe and DLP technology ensure picture integrity even with prolonged use, making the projectors virtually immune to color decay. The visuals are complemented by ample audio with an internal speaker on the new projectors with 2-watt output. External speakers can be connected.Up to 4,000 hours of lamp life on the two new Acer projectors reduces lamp replacement costs and ensures long-term dependable projector use. The extended lifespan and consistent image quality lower the total cost of ownership and translate to big savings. Further savings are ensured by the innovative DLP chip, enabling a filter-free design for lower maintenance and operating costs.Designed to be used in a variety of locations, the new projectors will deliver superior visuals at home, the office or in a classroom. Thanks to the innovative wall-color compensation capabilities, the projectors display clearly even on colored surfaces, so they do not need to be used with a screen. Acer projectors correct vertical distortions of up to 40 degree, so the audience sees a rectangular image rather than one with a wider top/bottom, even if the projector is placed above or below the screen. Plus, both models can be ceiling mounted and used with the included remote control. Customers can easily change the lamp module even when the projector is ceiling-mounted thanks to the Acer Top-loading Lamp design.Easy-to-use and eco-friendlyTo improve ease-of-use, Acer projectors are equipped with Empowering Technology, a suite of tools designed to simplify access to simple setup, viewing and timer utilities, making customers more productive. The Acer eView Management capabilities let customers quickly and easily adjust the projector settings to suit any environment and any type of content. Eight factory or user-defined presets instantly configure color, brightness and contrast to deliver best-quality images.The new Acer projectors employ an environmentally friendly management solution – Acer EcoProjection – which reduces standby power consumption by up to 50 percent after five minutes of being idle. Additionally, it delivers 20 percent additional power savings and automatically performs a safety shutdown if it does not receive input after a time interval that can be set by the customer. Also included in the Acer EcoProjection suite is Acer ePower Management, a tool that lets customers create customized power-saving configurations.The new Acer H5360 and Acer X1261 video-projectors are backed with a one year warranty on the DLP chip and 90 day warranty on the lamp.Acer's Nvidia 3D vision-ready projectors - the H5360Photo: Company

DALLAS, March 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Committed to solving the growing performance and efficiency challenges of the 8-bit market, Texas Instruments Incorporated (TI) (NYSE: TXN) today announced the MSP430 microcontroller (MCU) Value Line that offers superior 16-bit MCU performance and industry leading ultra-low power consumption at ultra-low 8-bit MCU prices.Starting at 25 cents, the Value Line ensures 8-bit developers no longer need to sacrifice performance, power efficiency or scalability because of price. The roadmap includes more than 100 MCUs to be released over the next 15 months, providing developers with a broad portfolio to best fit their memory, peripheral and packaging configuration needs. The new MSP430G2xx devices are code compatible across the MSP430 MCU platform, enabling easy code migration and upgrades to higher-end devices as application requirements evolve. The new MCUs are also supported by TI's easy-to-use MSP430 tools, free software and broad third party support network, driving faster time-to-market across a broad range of cost sensitive applications, including safety, security and touch sense.

Nvidia has introduced the next-generation Ion graphics processor, which it claims will offer 10 times the graphics performance of standard netbooks and enable up to 10 hours of battery life thanks to Nvidia's Optimus technology, according to the company.The new Ion is a discrete GPU with dedicated memory that attaches to an Intel Atom Pine Trail CPU via PCI Express.The new Ion GPU outperforms basic netbook graphics by delivering rich HD media in games, movies, and Internet-based video. Unlike netbooks with Intel integrated graphics, Ion netbooks have the power to play HD video smoothly from video websites and support popular PC games, according to Nvidia.The new Ion netbooks also feature Nvidia's Optimus technology, which automatically selects the best graphics processor for running any given application – seamlessly routing the workload to either an Nvidia discrete GPU or Intel integrated graphics.More than 30 products featuring the new Ion GPU are expected to launch by summer 2010 including netbooks, small form factor desktops, barebone systems, motherboards, and discrete add-in cards. The Acer's Aspire One 532G (10-inch) and Asustek Computer's 1201PN (12-inch) are expected to be the first new Ion netbooks to be introduced. New all-in-one PCs powered by next-generation Ion will include Asustek's EeeTop 2010PNT and Lenovo's C200. Channel partners including AOpen, ASRock, Asustek, Foxconn, Giada, J&W, Jetway, Pegatron Technology, POV, Shuttle, and Zotac also plan to introduce new Ion-based products soon, Nvidia said.New Ion-based Asustek 1201PN netbookPhoto: Company