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Thursday 22 October 2009
Acer launches 3D notebook in US market
Acer America has announced its Aspire 5738DG notebook with 3D viewing technology that features advanced display capabilities, a high-definition graphics engine, an Intel Core 2 Duo processor and Dolby surround sound.Introduced alongside the new Windows 7 Home Premium operating system, the new Acer Aspire 5738DG 3D notebook will be available this week at select retailers in the US for a price starting from US$779.99.The foundation of the Aspire 5738DG's 3D features is a TriDef 3D solution that includes the 3D display, software and glasses to enable 3D visuals. The Aspire 5738DG can also takes 2D content and replicates into a 3D environment.Acer explained that the notebook features a 15.6-inch Acer CineCrystal HD display coated with a special 3D film, which clings to the panel pixel by pixel, enabling the LCD technology to deliver a 3D image. Consumers can use the TriDef Ignition tool to enables 2D to 3D conversion for games and applications supporting DirectX 9 and above. Acer Aspire 5738DG-6165 3D notebook specifications Item Detail CPU Intel Core 2 Duo T6600 OS Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit Display 15.6-inch HD high-brightness (220-nit) Acer CineCrystal LED-backlit TFT LCD with integrated TriDef 3D screen Chipset Mobile Intel PM45 Express VGA ATI Mobility Radeon HD 4570 Memory 4GB of DDR2 1066 MHz memory Storage 320GB 5400RPM SATA hard drive Price US$779.99 Sources: Company, compiled by Digitimes, October 2009Acer Aspire 5738DG-6165 3D notebookPhoto: Company
Thursday 22 October 2009
Gateway debuts three new EC series notebooks
Gateway has debuted three new EC series notebooks, two in the 15.6-inch mainstream segment and one in the 11.6-inch ultra-portable segment. All the models deliver up to eight hours of battery life.The new Gateway EC series notebooks will be available this week in retail stores with the launch of Windows 7.The 15.6-inch Gateway EC58 and EC54 start at 5.29 pounds and are an inch thin. They are built by a brushed aluminum alloy chassis available in silver or blue. The 11.6-inch Gateway EC14 adopts a mobile Intel processors and a full-size keyboard. With a more compact form factor, it weights only 3.79 pounds and is available in cherry red or black.The EC series feature Gateway's PowerSave one-touch key, which puts the notebook into energy conservation mode with a single touch. The Gateway EC58 and EC54 lines also include Gateway's MyBackup Manager for backing-up important files and information. Gateway EC series notebook specifications Model Gateway EC1430u Gateway EC5409u Price US$549.99 US$649.99 CPU Intel Pentium dual core processor SU4100 Intel Pentium dual-core processor SU4100 OS Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit Windows 7 Home Premium 64-bit Display 11.6-inch HD widescreen ultrabright LED-backlit TFT LCD 15.6-inch HD widescreen ultrabright LED-backlit TFT LCD Chipset Mobile Intel GS45 Express chipset Mobile Intel GS45 Express chipset VGA Intel graphics media accelerator 4500MHD Intel graphics media accelerator 4500MHD Memory 4GB dual-channel DDR2 667MHz memory, support up to 8GB 4GB dual-channel DDR3 1066MHz memory, support up to 8GB Sources: Company, compiled by Digitimes, October 2009Gateway 15.6-inch EC series notebookPhoto: Company
Thursday 22 October 2009
Sanyo releases new two-lamp projector with innovative QuaDrive optical engine for improved color reproduction
CHATSWORTH, CA. -- October 20, 2009 – Sanyo, one of the world's largest manufacturers of LCD and DLP projectors, announces the release of a new two-lamp projector, the PLC-XF1000, which features the exclusive QuaDrive optical engine for exceptional color reproduction for brighter capacities, 12,000 lumens brightness, 4000:1 contrast ratio, and the proprietary active maintenance filter (AMF) for increased reliability.The high brightness, two-lamp PLC-XF1000 projector is the second Sanyo model to be equipped with their proprietary QuaDrive optical engine. Unlike conventional 3LCD (red/green/blue) systems, the QuaDrive includes an additional color control device that allows the PLC-XF1000 to automatically control the amount of yellow light in the image, producing higher luminosity with improved color accuracy and clarity.The demand for even brighter projectors continues to come from the field as systems integrators are asked to install video displays in extremely large venues such as convention halls, conference rooms, auditoriums and houses of worship with high levels of ambient light. It is also especially well suited for the digital signage market where high resolution is in demand. However, as brightness levels increase on traditional 3LCD projectors, there is a reverse effect in color reproduction. Colors become noticeably washed out, lacking vibrancy and realism.Sanyo's innovative QuaDrive technology provides a solution for these specific cases, providing new projectors capable of extremely high luminosity without the trade off in color accuracy. The PLC-XF1000 is rated at an extraordinary 12,000 lumens, the highest brightness available in 100V AC projectors. Coupled with the impressive high contrast ratio of 4000:1, the PLC-XF1000 is capable of generating clear and color-rich images that are more vivid for cases where brightness and high resolution become primary installation factors.The PLC-XF1000 is equipped with two high-output 330-watt lamps, improving light efficiency and achieving the industry's highest brightness of 12,000 lumens. It uses a basic 100V AC electrical outlet for ease of use and installation convenience.The QuaDrive optical engine uses an inorganic panel for increased reliability contributing to the projector's outstanding 4000:1 contrast ratio for improved image depth, resulting in a 3D-like appearance. With the incorporation of three mirrors and Sanyo's two-lamp combining technology, the overall color uniformity is significantly improved resulting in richer high definition images. The new design allows the PLC-XF1000 to produce the same brightness with two lamps as previous models did with four.Maintaining projectors in the field can be costly and time-consuming. The integration of Sanyo's exclusive Active Maintenance Filter (AMF) system enables filter cartridge replacement intervals of approximately 11,000 hours because a single cartridge contains a filter roll that is equal to 10 individual filters.Installation is also simplified with key Sanyo features such as the power vertical/horizontal lens shifting and power zoom/focus functions, which enable easy projection adjustments without changing the projector's position. These power-driven systems can be easily operated with the supplied remote control, which is especially convenient when the projector is installed on the ceiling or wall. Moreover, the projector can be installed in virtually any location, due to versatile setup positioning functions like the vertical 360-degree tilt angle and a center lens design. There are ten optional lenses available for use with the PLC-XF1000, ranging from short to long-focus choices.Other features include a mechanical shutter, which can completely block projection light, convenient for presenters making presentations on stage, easy stacking grooves for placing a back-up unit on top of the main projector, and a built-in MVP expansion-slot system that enables the addition of Sanyo's network and uncompressed HD data wireless transmission boards.SpecificationsResolution: 1024x768 (WUXGA)Aspect ratio: 4:3Brightness: 12,000 lumensContrast ratio: 4000:1Uniformity: 90%Projection lamp: NSHA 330W x2 Screen size: 40"-600" distance varies based on lens type usedInput terminals: DVI-D (HDCP), RGB D-sub 15-pin (input and output), RGBHV/Y/VIDEO, Pb/Cb,Pr/Cr (BNC x5), S-videoControl: RS232C (in)/ D-sub 9 x 2 (out) Dimensions: 21 (W) x 10.55 (H) x 30(D) inches Weight: 60.1 lbs (excluding lens)Like all new Sanyo products, the PLC-X1000 conforms to the EU RoHS directive. It will be available from the beginning of December 2009 for an MSRP of US$24,995.00 (excluding lens).Sanyo new two-lamp projector - the PLC-XF1000Photo: Company
Wednesday 21 October 2009
Osram super low-profile OLED developed in research project - new technology for large transparent OLEDs
The OLED prototypes that Osram Opto Semiconductors has developed as part of a research project are large transparent light sources only a few hundred micrometers thick. Thanks to new technology these organic light emitting diodes (OLED) do not need separate encapsulation and can be made incredibly thin in any layout. The transparent test samples have a luminous area of 210 square cm and are already showing the enormous potential of OLED light sources. They offer a tantalizing glimpse of the extraordinary lighting applications that may one day become reality.Even the 17x17 cm OLED panels provide a clear indication of the direction that the OLED lighting market is taking. The demand is for large low-profile transparent light sources. With these samples Osram Opto Semiconductors has set an important milestone. The test samples were developed as part of the TOPAS research project funded by the Germany Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF). The aim of the project is to produce 1 square meter large transparent OLED modules and will run until 2011.Even though the modules will have to be made larger they already have many of the properties that distinguish OLEDs from other light sources. They are extremely slim and no longer need expensive encapsulation. Their thickness is now defined only by the substrate as the carrier material - at present this is between 300 and 700 micrometers. Further development work will lead to an even thinner carrier material and therefore even thinner OLEDs. These low-profile OLED modules will be even easier to use in all kinds of applications. They can be made in any shape, take up very little space and can be integrated so discreetly that they are only noticed when they are switched on. "Transparent OLEDs and flexible OLEDs at a later date will add an entirely new aesthetic dimension to lighting solutions", said Dr. Karsten Heuser, head of the OLED division at Osram Opto Semiconductors. "The possibilities range from light sources that can be integrated in room dividers and furniture, for example, to entire windows that would allow natural light in during the day and flood the room with light at night." Current OLEDs are being showcased at PLDC (Professional Lighting Design Convention) from October 29 to 31, 2009 in Berlin to demonstrate the latest state of development. The panels provide an impressive foretaste of future applications in which designers can let their imaginations run wild.The OLED panels can be made transparent without any detracting structures. This is thanks to new developments in electrode design, a special component architecture and a new approach to thin-film technology. Without any additional conductor path structures on the light-emitting surface, the current is distributed evenly over the active surface, which in turn leads to uniform luminance. The new technology also simplifies the manufacturing process, whether OLEDs are produced on a small molecule or polymer basis. Irrespective of the material of the active layers, the technology can be used for colored, warm white and cold while OLEDs. The next stage is to integrate the processes into a stable manufacturing operation.Osram Opto Semiconductors 300dpi transparent PMOLEDPhoto: Company
Tuesday 20 October 2009
Taiwan market: AMD launches Radeon HD 5770/5750
Following the launch of DirectX 11-supporting Radeon HD 5870/5850 GPUs at the end of September 2009 in the Taiwan market, AMD has now launched the Radeon HD 5770/5750.The Radeon HD 5770-based graphics cards are already available at retail prices of NT$6,000-7,000 (US$186-216). One from Micro-Star International (MSI) is priced at NT$6,499 and Asustek Computer has a model priced at NT$6,890.The Radeon HD 5770 features 800 stream processors, 40 texture units, has a core clock speed of 850MHz and 1GB GDDR5 memory running at 1.2GHz, while the 5750 had 720 stream processors and 36 texture units with the GPU's core clock speed running at 700MHz and memory clock speed running at 1.15GHz. Both GPUs support ATI's Eyefinity, Stream and UVD2 technologies.A Radeon HD 5870-based graphics card from first-tier vendor Asustek Computer is priced at about NT$15,000 and one from Gigabyte Technology is priced at NT$14,500.MSI R5770-PM2D1G graphics cardPhoto: Company
Tuesday 20 October 2009
AUO unveils flexible e-paper technology and 20-inch e-paper module
AU Optronics (AUO) today announced a series of e-paper products, including a 20-inch e-paper module and a 6-inch flexible e-paper. AUO plans to offer flexible e-paper samples in 2010, and relevant e-paper technologies will be showcased at FPD International 2009, held in Yokohama Japan, from Oct. 28-30, according to the company.After marking the worldwide debut of its 6-inch touch function e-book reader in Display Taiwan 2009 in June, AUO launched its first 6-inch flexible e-paper technology in October. Adopting Sipix's Microcup technology, this flexible e-paper incorporates a plastic substrate, so that the display can be repeatedly bended, allowing it to match even more closely the functionality of real paper. The flexible e-paper is portable and unbreakable, significantly increasing the product's durability, the company said. While the curved radius of this e-paper reaches 100mm, it remains flexible and features 16 gray levels, a 9:1 high contrast ratio, and a reflectance of 33%. In terms of power consumption, there is no electricity required during reading and it consumes power only when the image is updated. Using the roll-to-roll manufacturing process, the technology allows for the commencement of volume production with higher yield rates, making it more cost-competitive. The size of the flexible e-paper is able to be tailor-made based on customers' needs. AUO expects to distribute samples to customers in 2010 and to start volume production then.AUO's 20-inch EPD (electrophoretic display) module is ready for mass production, it said. It will be for future applications in public information display because of its ability to eliminate backlight. It also features low power consumption of less than 2W as well as 16 gray level capabilities.Other EPD applications to be exhibited in FPD International 2009 include 2-inch electronic shelf label (ESL), and 6-inch and 9-inch touch function built-in e-book displays. Since the 2-inch ESL uses active matrix equipped bi-stable image characteristics, label images can be maintained for at least one month without electricity supply on the shelf. With the in-cell touch functions and embedded single chip solution, the debut 9-inch e-book display provides a 1024x768 high-definition screen. AUO also debuts its 2-piece 6-inch e-book with foldable design. Consumers can combine e-book reading with a traditional reading experience, it said.CT Liu, senior VP and GM of consumer product display business group of AUO, said, "AUO holds the advantage of having integrated technologies and manufacturing capabilities. With the fully supported panel capacity in the different generations of fabs, AUO applies its 4G lines to produce e-tags, 5G lines for 6-inch to 10-inch e-book panels, and 6G or 7.5G to produce e-signage display panels. In the near future, AUO will continue to provide customers with full-range services that lead the industry."AUO 20-inch electrophoretic display (EPD) modulePhoto: CompanyAUO 6-inch flexible e-paperPhoto: CompanyAUO 9-inch touchscreen e-book readerPhoto: Company
Tuesday 20 October 2009
Micron 34nm MLC NAND for enterprise storage
Micron Technology has announced a new line of NAND products - both multi-level cell (MLC) and single-level cell (SLC) - designed specifically for enterprise applications. By leveraging its 34nm NAND process, the new MLC NAND device achieves 30,000 write cycles - a 6x increase in endurance when compared to standard MLC NAND, according to the company. The 34nm SLC NAND device also achieves 300,000 write cycles - a 3x increase in endurance when compared to standard SLC NAND."These products ensure that enterprise organizations have a highly reliable NAND flash solution - be it MLC or SLC - for design into the broader enterprise storage platform," said Brian Shirley, vice president of Micron's memory group.Micron's new Enterprise NAND products also feature an ONFI 2.1 synchronous interface that delivers a 4- to 5x improvement in data transfer rates when compared to legacy NAND interfaces, according to the company. Its 34nm enterprise NAND portfolio includes a 32Gb MLC NAND chip and a 16Gb SLC NAND chip that can be configured into multi-die, single packages supporting densities up to 32GB MLC and 16GB SLC, respectively.Micron said it is now sampling the enterprise NAND products with customers and controller manufacturers, and expects to start volume producing the chips in early 2010.Micron Enterprise NANDPhoto: Company
Monday 19 October 2009
MSI launches AMD-based Wind12 U210 notebook
Micro-Star International (MSI) has introduced the Wind12 U210 notebook, featuring a 12.1-inch LED backlit display and AMD's ultra-thin power saving platform.The 12.1-inch MSI Wind12 U210 has a similar size to a sheet of A4 paper (297 x 190 mm) and weighs only 1.3kg with battery.The Wind12 U210 also features MSI's exclusive EDS (Ergonomic De-stress) keyboard. Each key on the keyboard has 51% more surface than a traditional keyboard to offer a bigger finger contact range for comfortable typing.The Wind12 U210 adopts an AMD Athlon Neo MV40 or Athlon Neo X2 L335 processor and RS 690/SB600 chipset, 1GB of DDR2 677MHz memory and a 160GB or higher SATA hard drive. MSI Wind12 U210 notebook specifications Item Detail CPU AMD Yukon MV40 or L335 Operation System Windows XP Home for MV40 Windows Vista Home Premium for L335 Chipset AMD RS690 + SB600 LCD 12.1-inch with resolution of 1366×768 and HD ready VGA Integrated ATI Mobility Radeon X1250 Memory Support DDR2 667MHz memory up to 2GB Storage 2.5-inch 160/250/320GB SATA HDD Dimension (LxWxH, mm) 297×190×24-31 Weight 1.3kg (with a 3-cell battery) Sources: Company, compiled by Digitimes, September 2009MSI Wind12 U210 notebookPhoto: Company
Friday 16 October 2009
Samsung improves workspace with seamless dual display for laptops
RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J., October 15, 2009 – Samsung Electronics America Inc., a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Corporation, the number one worldwide brand of LCD display products, today announced the release of its Lapfit monitors, LD220G and LD190N, for use as a secondary display for notebook PCs. Now available through Samsung resellers and retailers at an estimated street price of US$249.99 and US$149.99 respectively, Lapfit offers notebook users the benefits of having dual displays to view multiple web sites, documents, tool palettes and widgets."With the strong growth in the laptop and netbook categories, our Lapfit monitors offer a great synergy for users needing multiple screens," said Doug Albregts, VP, information technology division, Samsung Electronics America Inc. "Lapfit enables users to be more productive by eliminating the awkward external monitor configuration that comes with pairing standard LCD monitors with a notebook."Dual Display HarmonyWith more consumers migrating to laptops, the Lapfit is a convenient display solution that complements and enhances the laptop. Lapfit enables multiple applications to run simultaneously or display movies and games in 16:9 widescreen high definition format and 1080p (LD220G) picture quality. Settings, such as brightness, backlight and color effects, can be quickly customized with a touch of a key using the MagicColor, MagicBright, Color Effect and Image Size functions. It also maintains 100% image integrity and eliminates distortion using its intelligent image size function to accommodate normal and widescreen content.Simple and quick connectionsThe Lapfit requires minimal set up and offers the simplicity of being instantly functional. The LD190N installs quickly with a standard VGA cable. The LD220G has the added benefit of USB connectivity with Samsung's UbiSync technology, which allows users to quickly plug-in and manage multiple monitors without using additional video cards or changing system settings. The LD220G also serves as a USB hub to attach additional UbiSync monitors or peripherals.Elegant and versatile formThe Lapfit features sleek, clean contours and high-glossy black casings that can be placed almost anywhere. Weighing less than 10 pounds and possessing an integrated kickstand, the Lapfit maintains a thin profile taking up minimal space on the desk or on the go. While the uneven positioning of most external monitors can cause eye or neck strain, the Lapfit's low profile remains level with the notebook, creating a more convenient view in addition to the benefit of multiple monitors. The adjustable stand can tilt from 10 to 40 degrees to match the laptop screen's angle."For laptop users in the academic environment or mobile power users, the Lapfit is a great tool to boost productivity and the laptop's capabilities," said Young Bae, director, Information Technology Division, Samsung Electronics America Inc. "For netbook users that want to watch video in HD formats, the LD220G is an affordable solution for screens that are too small."LD190N & LD220G•1360x768 (LD190N) and 1920x1080 (LD220G) resolution •250 cd/m2 brightness •Dynamic contrast ratio of 20,000:1 •16:9 Aspect Ratio •5ms response time •UbiSync technology for connectivity via USB (LD220G) •Low power consumptionMonitors are available through Samsung resellers and distribution channels, which can be located by calling 1-800-SAMSUNG or by visiting www.samsung.com. Samsung Power Partners receive special promotions, lead referrals, training and technical support, as well as collateral and marketing materials. Samsung also recycles all monitors through the Samsung Recycling Direct SM Program. To find out more about becoming a Samsung Power Partner or the Samsung Recycling Direct Program, visit http://www.samsungpartner.com/.Samsung laptop companion the Lapfit monitorPhoto: Company
Friday 16 October 2009
Sanyo releases 2 projectors ideal for large venues and digital signage with high brightness and high performance
CHATSWORTH, CA. – October 15, 2009 – Sanyo North America Corporation (Sanyo), the regional headquarters for the Sanyo Electric Group, which is one of the world's largest manufacturers of LCD and DLP projectors, introduces the PLC-XM150/150L and PLC-XM100/100L projectors, with 6000 and 5000 lumens respectively, along with Sanyo's proprietary active maintenance filter (AMF) system, and a new optical engine that ensures high reliability.Marking Sanyo's 20th anniversary developing leading edge projectors, "These two new projectors represent the type of out-of-the-box functions and high-brightness/high-image-quality technologies that have made Sanyo a world leader in the industry," states Mark Holt, VP and general manager for Sanyo's presentation technologies division.Labeled the highest brightness projector in its class, the PLC-XM150/150L is rated at 6000 lumens, more than enough light output to fill a large conference hall or auditorium. While still considered a high brightness product, the PLC-XM100/100L offers a version rated at 5000 lumens. An inorganic liquid crystal panel was incorporated into the newly developed optical engine and combined with a superior cooling technology, allowing both projectors to boast such high brightness levels. The light efficiency is approximately 20% higher compared to Sanyo's conventional models, enabling big screen projection in large venues and well-lit areas, which also lends itself to handle digital signage.In an effort to further provide high reliability and easy maintenance, both models are equipped with Sanyo's exclusive active maintenance filter (AMF) system. A single cartridge contains 10 filter rolls and lasts approximately 10,000 hours. When the system detects air blocks or clogs, the filter reel scrolls to the next clean filter.There are five lens options available for the PLC-XM150/150L and PLC-XM100/100L, enabling the best lens selection for the installation site. This allows these projectors to be used in a wide variety of venue settings, such as medium to large conference rooms, classrooms, school auditoriums and lecture halls.Installation and operation is quick and fast due to the advanced Power Vertical/Horizontal Lens Shifting and Power Zoom/Focus functions. Both enable projection adjustments without changing the projectors position. These power-driven systems are conveniently operated and fine-tuned via the supplied remote control. This is advantageous when the projector is placed in a less than optimal area, such as on the wall or ceiling. The Vertical 360-degree Tilt Angle feature allows projection on the ceiling, floor, or any surface desired. Easy operation is also facilitated by the Auto-Input Signal Search function, which automatically detects the signal input.Both models are compatible with Sanyo's optional PJ-NET Organizer that enables sophisticated and centralized control of the projector over a network, achieved by using the projector's wired LAN terminal (RJ-45). Other functions ideal for professional use are incorporated, such as Corner Keystone Correction, which straightens the image when projecting from an angle, and Mechanical Shutter which temporarily blocks the lamp output. The Direct Power-off function allows the projector to shut down without the need to cool down. Just remove the plug and go.These units also conform to the EU RoHS Directive and the packaging contains pulp molds, which can be recycled as used paper.Specifications• Resolution: 1024x768 (WUXGA dot resizing possible)• Aspect Ratio: 4:3• Contrast Ratio: 1,000:1 • Brightness: 6000 ANSI lumens (PLC-XM150/150L), 5000 ANSI lumens (PLC-XM100/100L)• Screen Size: 40" to 400"• Video Inputs: DVI-D (HDCP compatible), Analog RGB x 2, D-sub 15pin, BNC 5-type x 1, BNC 3 type (Y-Pb/Cb-Pr/Cr), • RCA (Pb/Cb -Pr/Cr), S-Video• Video Outputs: Analog RGB, D-sub 15pin• Control Ports: D-Sub 9, USB (type B), mini jack 3.5mm (wired remote control connection), RJ-45 (wired LAN)• Dimensions: 19.27 (W) x 6.45 (H) x 17.12 (D) inches (with lens), without lens depth is reduced to 14.61 inches• Weight: 21 lbs. with lens attached, 19.5 lbs without lensThe PLC-XM150/150L will be available in mid-November, while the PLC-XM100/100L will be available in mid-December. Both models are sold with or without a lens for the following MSRPs:• PLC-XM150L (no lens) - US$4,795• PLC-XM150 - US$5,460• PLC-XM100L (no lens) - US$3,895• PLC-XM100 - US$4,349Samsung high brightness projector - PLC-XM100Photo: Company