Panasonic has introduced two new high definition (HD) video camcorders, the HDC-SD1 and HDC-DX1.The HDC-SD1 records onto high capacity, solid-state SDHC memory cards, and according to the company, is one of the world's smallest and lightest 3CCD HD video camcorders. Because there are no moving parts in the recording section, the HDC-SD1 is also exceptionally resistant to impact, claims Panasonic.The HDC-DX1 records directly to DVD discs, eliminating the need to rewind or fast-forward so users can play back a scene immediately after recording, according to Panasonic.Both models use the high-resolution AVCHD format and feature the kind of 3CCD video recording system used in many professional broadcast cameras, stated Panasonic. The HDC-SD1 provides about one hour of HD recording on a 4GB SDHC memory card and the HDC-DX1 provides about 40 minutes of HD recording on a dual-layer DVD-R disc.The two new camcorders also incorporate Panasonic's Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.) that minimizes the effect of the hand shake, according to Panasonic, which noted that, because this system is optical and not digital, there is no loss of image quality.The HDC-SD1 and HDC-DX1 feature a 5.1-channel surround sound system with five microphones. A zoom mic function links the microphone's action to the camera's action. When zooming in on a subject in the distance, for example, the microphones also zoom in and record the sounds specific to that subject.The Leica Dicomar lens featured in the HDC-SD1 and HDC-DX1 has 13 lens elements in 10 groups, with 21 multi-coated surfaces, and uses low-dispersion optical glass to reduce chromatic aberration, according to the company.Both high definition camcorders will be available in March, with a suggested retail price of US$1,299.95.The Panasonic HDC-SD1 high definition camcorderPhoto: CompanyThe Panasonic HDC-DX1 high definition camcorderPhoto: Company

Sony Electronics today unveiled two new front home-theater projectors that bring the movie-going experience to homes at prices beginning at about US$1,000.The new BRAVIA 3LCD VPL-AW15 and VPL-AW10 projectors feature 1,280×720 progressive resolution, which is ideal for large-size home entertainment applications like enjoying high-definition (HD) movies, gaming and sports, according to Sony.Both new models feature a 165-watt lamp that produces 1,100 lumens of light. Each one is equipped with a short focal-length lens with 1.6 times zoom and features a low fan noise of 20dB (in low-lamp mode), providing flexible installation options in many home settings.The VPL-AW10 model features Sony's Advance Iris for contrast ratio of up to 6,000:1 when "auto" iris mode is selected. The VPL-AW15 unit features the step-up Advanced Iris 2 technology, producing deep, accurate blacks and a dynamic contrast ratio of up to 12,000:1 when "auto" iris mode is selected. The Advanced Iris 2 also features a variable setting allowing for user optimization.Additionally, the VPL-AW15 model has greater installation flexibility with lens shift, which helps adjust the picture both vertically and horizontally expanding projector placement options. Key to this feature is Sony's All Range Crisp Focus (ARC-F) lens. The lens allows for flexible throw distances, making installation easier in less than ideal conditions like small rooms.Users can also optimize the AW15's model's color palette with Sony's Real Color Processing function. Color hues can be adjusted to match specific tastes.Both projectors feature a HDMI input supporting 1080/24p, which is downscaled to native 720p. Other inputs include a RS-232C connection for custom control applications and a host of others including component, composite and S-video. The VPL-AW15 projector also includes an HD15 input for analog PC.The new VPL-AW15 and VPL-AW10 front projectors are expected to ship in June for about US$1,300 and US$1,000, respectively. They will be available at Sony Style stores, online at www.sonystyle.com and at authorized dealers.Sony new home-heater LCD projector (VPL-AW15)Photo: Company

Asiamajor recently introduced its V-Gear TalkCam TX6 multi-purpose webcam.The V-Gear TalkCam TX6 has a 1.3-megapixel image resolution and features low-noise CMOS imaging technology for good signal-to-noise ratio and low-light sensitivity. The webcam has a built-in high performance loud speaker and a unidirectional microphone.The TalkCam TX6's face tracking and zooming function enables the webcam to follow the face of users automatically to ensure that they are in focus. The webcam also allows users to add frames and video effects onto web videos instantly and, through its multiple-video-streaming technology, can allow chat on different video messengers at the same time.The unit comes with an angle clip to allow mounting on practically any monitor. V-Gear TalkCam TX6 specifications Item Details Interface USB 2.0 Effective pixels 1.3-megapixels Max. resolution 1280×1024(SXGA) Max. frame rate 30fps (640×480: 25-30fps, 1280×1024: 9fps) Focus range 4cm to infinity White Balance Auto Auto Exposure (AE): Auto USB cable length 150cm Built-in microphone Unidirectional x1 Built-in speaker Max. 1W x1 Audio output 3.5mm phone-jack Weight (g) 76 (USB cable included) Dimensions (mm) 102×59×118 Source: Company, compiled by DigiTimes.com, March 2007The V-Gear TalkCam VX6Photo: Company

Sony Ericsson announced on March 26 its new W580 slider Walkman phone and Z750 clam shell handset, the company's first Tri-band HSDPA phone for the North American market.The W580 Walkman phone is a 2.5G, Quad-band EDGE device (850/900/1800/1900) and features a 2-inch color screen. At 14mm thick, the phone features a 2.0-megapixel camera and a built-in FM radio with RDS. The W580 ships with a 512MB Memory Stick Micro (M2) and comes in white or gray with orange color accents and light effects along the sides.The Z750 is a tri-band HSDPA (850/1900/2100), Quad-band EDGE (850/900/1800/1900) phone and is Sony Ericsson's first handset to offer push email, according to the company. The phone features a 2.0-megapixel camera a 2.2-inch screen, and like the W580, comes with a built-in radio with RDS. The Z750 comes in grey or pink.The Z750 is Exchange ActiveSync enabled and supports wireless synchronization and direct push email, calendar and contacts. Moreover, it also includes support for Java push mail solutions provided by third parties and leading email standards, such as POP/IMAP, according to Sony Ericsson.The Sony Ericsson W580 will be available in selected markets from the third quarter of 2007 while the Z750 will be available first in North America before wider distribution to other global markets later in the year.The Sony Ericsson W580 slider Walkman phonePhoto: CompanyThe Sony Ericsson Z750 clam shell handsetPhoto: Company

Microsoft has announced the upcoming availability of Xbox 360 Elite, a new model of its Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system that will include a 120GB hard drive and a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) port, and comes bundled with a high-definition cable, wireless controller and Xbox LIVE headset.Xbox 360 Elite console is distinguished from other Xbox 360s by its black finish and HDMI output allowing for high-definition entertainment (up to 1080p) and full surround sound capabilities right out of the box, according to Microsoft. The Xbox 360 Elite will have an estimated retail price of US$479.99 slightly higher than the Xbox 360 Premium bundle which typically retails for less than US$400.Xbox 360 Elite comes with a new 120GB HDD – previously only 20GB models were available – allowing users to increase their library of Xbox LIVE Arcade games and songs, as well as downloadable high-definition TV shows and movies available on Xbox LIVE Marketplace. The new 120GB hard drive also will be sold as a stand-alone accessory for an estimated retail price of US$179.99 to give current Xbox 360 owners the option to upgrade too. Additional Xbox 360 Elite accessories, such as the black Xbox 360 Wireless Controller (US$49.99), Xbox 360 Play & Charge kit (US$19.99) and the Xbox 360 rechargeable battery (US$11.99), will be available separately. The Xbox 360 Elite and its accessories are expected to begin arriving in US stores on April 29.Xbox 360 ElitePhoto:Company

Helio introduced on March 26 its Ocean 3G dual-slider handset, which combines a traditional numeric keypad and a separate full QWERTY keyboard in a single device.The Ocean features a traditional alphanumeric keypad to send quick texts or surf the web, and slides open to reveal a horizontal full QWERTY keyboard suitable for writing e-mails or texts, web searches and allows for full screen landscape viewing of images and video, according to Helio.The Ocean sports a 2.4-inch, 260K color high-resolution QVGA display viewable in both portrait or landscape modes, external stereo speakers, a 2.0-megapixel camera with digital zoom and flash for photos and over two hours of continuous video recording. The handset also has Bluetooth for wireless voice and stereo Bluetooth for untethered music and videos, 200MB internal memory expandable via microSD to over 2GB, and USB mass storage mode for drag-and-drop sideloading of content. Ocean supports an array of audio and video formats including MP3, AAC and WMA audio, and MPEG4 and H.264 video, according to Helio.The Ocean's integrated messaging dashboard includes out-of-the-box access to most major e-mail services offered on the Internet today, as well as the ability to add additional IMAP/POP3 email accounts. Ocean will also support push mail from Yahoo! and other providers, as well as Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync, and can wirelessly synchronize Microsoft Office Outlook email, calendar and contacts from a corporate Exchange Server.The Ocean is planned for launch in spring of 2007 at a suggested retail price of US$295.The Helio OceanPhoto: Company

The new OCZ Trifecta Secure Digital (SD) card series combines a microSD, SD and a USB key in one unit to create a new way of sharing files between a mobile phone, MP3 player, digital camera and PC.The Trifecta card combines the storage use of microSD with the ability to be converted into a standard SD card that can also be plugged into any USB port for quick access on a desktop or notebook, noted OCZ. This eliminates the need for a card reader, allowing the transfer of images and music to and from a handset anywhere. The Trifecta features three of today's most common storage needs for digital cameras, handsets, and PCs, according to the company.OCZ Trifecta memory cards will be available in 1GB and 2GB capacities with high-speed 66x read-rates, and come backed with a 5-year warranty.OCZ Trifecta 3-in-1 SD cardPhoto: Company

High Tech Computer (HTC) on March 26 introduced its Shift and Advantage mobile computing devices.The HTC Shift features a QWERTY-based keyboard design and 3G-connectivity. Similar in size to a couple of DVD cases, the HTC Shift comes with Windows Vista Business, and features a 7-inch widescreen touch display and a 30GB hard drive, according to the company. The HTC Shift features high-speed global connectivity with tri-band UMTS/HSDPA, Quad-Band GSM/GPRS/EDGE, Bluetooth 2.0 and Wi-Fi. The mobile computer leverages Windows Media Player 11 to provide easy access to music, videos and photos, according to HTC.Developed from the ground up to be extremely portable, the HTC Advantage is based on Microsoft Windows Mobile 6 and includes Microsoft Office Outlook Mobile for quick access to email, calendar and contacts and Microsoft Office Mobile enabling the creation and editing of Microsoft Office documents. The HTC Advantage includes a thin, magnetically connected QWERTY keyboard and connectivity with Tri-Band UMTS/HSDPA, Quad-Band GSM/GPRS/EDGE, Bluetooth 2.0 and Wi-Fi, stated the company. In addition, the HTC Advantage enables navigation capabilities with built-in GPS navigation. Other features include a 5-inch VGA touch display, 8GB hard disk, 256MB of ROM, 128MB of RAM, miniSD card slot, HTC VueFLO for easy navigation and a 3.5mm Stereo audio jack.�@ The HTC Advantage will be available through Amazon.com and other retailers summer 2007. The HTC Shift will be available in the US and Europe in the third quarter of 2007. Additional details, including specifications, pricing and availability will be announced when available.The HTC AdvantagePhoto: CompanyThe HTC ShiftPhoto: Company

As everyone in Hannover, Germany begins the process of packing up and returning to Taiwan, the question that all companies are asking is was it all worth it? For many – including some of the biggest Taiwan IT names – the answer is no.According to data released by CeBIT organizers Deutsche Messe, Taiwan was still the largest represented Asian country in terms of exhibitors with 602 companies attending this year. However, this figure was down significantly from 2006 which saw 711 companies attending, and the falling trend is set to continue based on recent comments from company sources.The list of no-shows in 2007 included Acer, HTC, and Shuttle, a significant result as all three companies have particularly strong performance in Europe compared to other markets. Shuttle announced as early as October 2006 that it had decided not to attend the 2007 event citing previous difficulty in reaching key decision-makers. This move by the Taiwan-PC maker was especially telling as in other years the company was regarded as having one of the largest presences at the show. Additionally, Shuttle has an advantage over most other Taiwan companies as it has a branch office located in Germany which could offer support.For many of the companies that did exhibit this year it seems that decision was not reached lightly. "In business you are always having to look at your potential ROI (return on investment)," said a representative at one of the largest Taiwan motherboard and notebook makers just weeks before the event, "And with CeBIT we're just not seeing any." In the run up to March 15, sources at many companies were talking about scaled back budgets and last-minute changes of plan, leading expectations to be lukewarm at best; and it seems coming out of the show this poor outlook was either met or exceeded, with Asustek and Gigabyte Technology reportedly already having announced they will likely not be returning in 2008.Another trend that emerged was the decision of key industry players not to syncronise their product launches with the event as had been typical in the past. With Nvidia deciding to not attend itself and to schedule the launch of its upcoming mainstream and low-end graphics chips, the G86 and G84, for April, it looked at first that AMD would have the floor all to itself for the launch of its new Direct X 10-based R600 GPU. However, this decision was canceled just weeks before the show, leaving Taiwan graphics card makers, on both sides, with nothing but variations of old products to display.Motherboard makers had the launch of Intel's new DDR3-supporting Bearlake chipset to act as a key event, but even then only two mid- to low-end versions were ready, with the high-end version - which also adds PCI Express 2.0 support – not expected until the second quarter. MSI, which was not only a launch partner with Intel introducing six Bearlake-motherboards but also one of the largest exhibitors at CeBIT according to the company's representative, revealed that it will be cutting back in 2008. Another launch partner, ECS, admitted that it had scaled back its original plans for CeBIT 2007 as was likely to do so even further in 2008.For handset makers, CeBIT came just a month after the GSM World Congress which was also held in Europe (Barcelona, Spain) meaning that for these companies CeBIT was little more than a repeat performance. Gigabyte Communications showed two new handsets, one supporting digital mobile TV and the other 3.5G connectivity but said that 2007 was the first year it had attended CeBIT, and would most probably be the last. E-TEN which also introduced a 3.5G handset was less decisive stating that in 2008 GSM World would be its main focus, but it may consider attending CeBIT in order to ensure it reaches as wide an audience as possible.One of a few companies that appeared to be bucking to negative trend was Walton Chaintech which introduced its new Apogee GT series of high-end memory. Having all but left the European market in recent years, the company announced that it is ready to increase its presence there again with CeBIT serving as a platform to reach its target audience.Of the notebook makers MSI had things to say about the potential for the built-in media center capabilities of Widows Vista to boost notebooks into the home theater PC (HTPC) market segment, adding that this will drive the addition of HDMI connectors and larger screens into new notebooks. However, the only new product it launched was part of its luxury Crystal collection which did not fall into the HTPC category. BenQ was another company that did not attend the show.With the commitment from so many Taiwan companies towards CeBIT 2008 so unenthusiastic it is uncertain, at least from a Taiwan company's perspective, whether future CeBIT dates will be something to mark on your calendar.

Thermaltake recently introduced its MaxOrb CPU cooler for the enthusiast segment.Supporting Intel Socket LGA775 and AMD Socket AM2/939/754 series CPUs, the MaxOrb utilizes six independent channel heatpipes to dissipate heat through the radial fins of an aluminum radiator. The six cooling pipes are attached to the cooler's copper base plate which has a mirror-finish to ensure close thermal contact with the CPU. A built-in fan with a blue LED light ensures that a constant stream of air passes through the radiator fins while casting cool illuminations on the workings of this cooling system.Thermaltake claims the MaxOrb makes only 16dBA of sound while operating at minimum speed. The also fan has an adjustable speed control to provide more performance for overclocking operations, noted the company. Thermaltake MaxOrb specifications Item Details Compatibility Intel Core 2 Extreme (socket LGA775) Core 2 Quad (socket LGA775) Core 2 Duo (socket LGA775) Pentium D (socket LGA775) Pentium 4 (socket LGA775) Pentium (socket LGA775) Celeron D (socket LGA775) Celeron (socket LGA775) Athlon 64 F2 (Socket AM2/939) Athlon 64 X2 (Socket AM2/939) Athlon 64 (Socket AM2/939/754) Sempron (Socket AM2/754) Dimensions (l×w×h,mm) 143×144×95.2 Heatsink material Copper base and aluminum fins Fan dimensions (l×w×h,mm) 120×120×25 Power input 3W Fan speed 1,300-2,000rpm Maximum air flow 86.5CFM Maximum air pressure 2.22mmH2O Noise 16dBA-24dBA Live expectancy 50,000 hours Connector 3 pin Weight (g) 465 Source: Company, compiled by DigiTimes.com, March 2007The Thermaltake MaxOrb CPU coolerPhoto: CompanyThe Thermaltake MaxOrb CPU cooler glows with a blue LED lightPhoto: Company