Can a USB drive survive being swallowed?
A man (Florin Necula) reportedly swallowed a Kingston USB Flash Drive while in Secret Service custody. Florin was brought in for allegedly placing card readers over ATM slots to “skim” magnetic strip information off cards inserted in those machines. After four days of not passing the drive Necula gave in to doctor removal.
Reportedly, Necula has been charged with four felonies including obstruction of justice and is being held without bail.
I have put my flash drive (Lexar) through the washing machine a couple of times and it survived, but I would imagine the human stomach is a little tougher environment.
[via Cnet; via The Smoking Gun]
We all know that most built-in laptop speakers leave a lot to be desired when it comes to audio performance. Logitech is no different and has slung out the Laptop Speaker Z205, a lightweight speaker with a portable clip-on design allowing laptop junkies to rock their favorite tunes in some decent quality. Logitech made the Laptop Speaker Z205 lightweight and small enough to take anywhere a laptop goes. It measures approximately 1.35 inches thick and 2.5 inches tall. To me the coolest thing about the Laptop Speaker Z205 is there is no need for external power. The included USB cable takes care of the power and audio transmission. Logitech even throws in a carrying case to store the Laptop Speaker Z205 in while in transit. The Logitech Laptop Speaker Z205 should be available in the U.S. and Europe for $39.99 beginning in March.
Editors Note: The clip-on mechanism may cause interference with built-in web cams. The fix may be as easy as offsetting the speakers from center slightly. Just be aware before purchasing.
Check B&H Photo for availability.
Press Release
FREMONT, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Laptop and netbook computers are portable and powerful enough to do everything you love such as enjoying music, movies and video calls. But as computers have gotten smaller, audio quality has often been sacrificed. To enhance the audio quality of your favorite tunes and movies, today Logitech (SIX:LOGN) (NASDAQ:LOGI) announced the Logitech® Laptop Speaker Z205 — a lightweight speaker with an easy-to-attach clip-on design that lets you pump up the volume wherever you take your laptop.
“While people love the portability of their laptop computer, they are often missing out on the immersive listening experience that external speakers provide”
“While people love the portability of their laptop computer, they are often missing out on the immersive listening experience that external speakers provide,” said Mark Schneider, vice president and general manager of Logitech’s audio business unit. “When designing the Logitech Laptop Speaker Z205, we wanted to help people get better audio while enjoying their favorite shows or music without sacrificing portability. The Laptop Speaker Z205 is tiny enough to toss in your bag, but delivers big sound.”
Whether you use a Mac® or a Windows®-based laptop or a netbook, the Logitech Laptop Speaker Z205 securely attaches to the top of most laptop screens. The Laptop Speaker Z205 is also small — approximately 1.35 inches thick and 2.5 inches tall — which means you’ll always be able to take it with you. And the included carrying case protects your speaker while inside your briefcase or backpack.
Now, when you’re watching your favorite show, listening to Pandora™, or making a video call, you’ll enjoy rich, full stereo sound thanks to two high-performance drivers, a built-in amplifier and an acoustically tuned enclosure. And you can easily adjust the volume as well as turn the speaker on and off using the buttons located on the top of the speaker. The included USB cable is all you need for power and audio — there’s no need for an external power supply — so simply plug the Z205 into your computer and start enjoying your entertainment.
Pricing and Availability
The Logitech Laptop Speaker Z205 is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe for a suggested retail price of $39.99 (U.S.) beginning in March.
About Logitech
Logitech is a world leader in personal peripherals, driving innovation in PC navigation, Internet communications, digital music, home-entertainment control, gaming and wireless devices. Founded in 1981, Logitech International is a Swiss public company listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (LOGN) and on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (LOGI).
Logitech, the Logitech logo, and other Logitech marks are registered in Switzerland and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. For more information about Logitech and its products, visit the company’s Web site at www.logitech.com.
HP is not to be outdone in the ever growing tablet PC world. HP has just unveiled the EliteBook 2740p, an ultra-thin, multitouch-enabled convertible tablet targeted at business with on-the-go needs. Also ready to roll out is the EliteBook 2540p the lightest EliteBook notebook PC, starting at only 3.3 pounds. HP is also bringing out four new ProBook standard series (s-series) notebook PCs for everyday use. Read more details in the press release after the break. [click to continue…]
by Joe on February 26, 2010
I was browsing around the Orb website and found that they have a new speaker combo. Orb is marketing this small system as a simple high quality audio solution for iPods, TVs and computers.
This package includes 2 Orb Mod1 or Mod2 speakers and a tiny, audiophile quality amplifier to provide power for your Orbs. Add optional subwoofer for additional performance. Also includes adapters to work with any mini headphone jack or RCA output, so it will work with almost any TV or computer.
Amp Details
Audiophile Class T Amplifier by OPI Audio. Includes a stereo mini input and compatible cable, as well as adapters for stereo RCA input making it easy to connect any TV, iPod, DVD player, cable box or other audio/video component with the provided cables. Speaker wire is all that is need extra. Peak output 15W (plenty for the Orbs). Works with 110V and 220/240V. Orb says this package can be combined with the Apple Airport to stream music wirelessly.
Right now this Orb system with The Mod1 speakers (black or white) will run $299.00 (introductory price) . Tack on $149.00 if you want the Mod2 system (gives you 2 speakers on each side…pic below) and if you want to throw in a subwoofer add on another $299.00 for the Super Eight and $598.00 for the Uber Ten.
by Joe on February 21, 2010
by Eric on February 20, 2010
The Samsung HMX-U20 and HMX-U15 are two new ultra-compact camcorders introduced at PMA 2010.
The Samsung HMX-U20 features 1080p video capture, a 3x optical zoom, a 2-inch LCD and a built-in USB connection. The HMX-U20 can also capture 10MP still images. The Samsung HMX-U20 should be available in Spring 2010 at an initial retail price of $249.99. Check availability on Amazon.com.
The Samsung HMX-U15 also features 1080p video capture, no zoom, a 2-inch LCD and a built-in USB connection. The HMX-U15 capture 14MP still images. The Samsung HMX-15 should be available in Spring 2010 at an initial retail price of $229.99. Check availability on Amazon.com. [click to continue…]
by Eric on February 18, 2010
Sony STR-DN1010
Sony’s new receivers cover the entry-level line up for home theater enthusiasts. The new models range from about $230 at the bottom end (STR-DH510) up to roughly $500 for the 3D-capable STR-DN1010.
The DN1010 features the HDMI 1.4 standard, which allows it to pass 3D info between other 3D-capable devices, like Blu-ray players and the new 3D TVs.
Sony STR-DN1010 Rear Inputs
The DH810, DH710 and DH510 should all be available in March 2010, while the DN1010 should be available in June 2010.
More details and images of the new receivers below. [click to continue…]
by Eric on February 18, 2010
muvee Reveal is a software program designed to help luddites transform simple home movies into more professional-looking videos. The software touts the ability to apply professional templates, add music voiceover and captions, and share on YouTube or Facebook with ease. muvee Reveal also supports HD video for the growing HD crowd of home video cameras. [click to continue…]
by Joe on February 18, 2010
Today, Monster has flown out a new ear bud called “Butterfly, ” designed by hip fashion designer Vivienne Tam. These days fashion is no stranger to just about every consumer product in the market. Monster recognizes this fact and is no stranger to the game. Monster brings a full line of earbuds and over-ear headphones for the fashion minded without suffering audio quality.
Monster is thoughtful enough to include multi-sized soft eartips for a comfortable fit and with the built-in ControlTalk remote on Butterfly headphone cable, you get on-cable control of your music, as well as easy, high quality hands-free calling. Enjoy quick-access music playback control, like volume, play/pause and tracking, without having to dig for your digital music player. A list of supported MP3 players and phones can be found at monstercable.com. The list price is set at $199.95. Check B&H Photo for avalability and a full line of Monster headphones. [click to continue…]
by Joe on February 18, 2010
Adesso has dropped out a fabulous new wireless keyboard with built-in touch pad for use in tight spaces or even on the go if you are like me and don’t like using a laptop keyboard.
Specs
- Connection: 2.4 GHz RF Smartlink with 12 Auto-Changeable channels (65000 IDs per channel)
- 4 Internet Hotkeys: (Scroll Up/Down, Home, E-mail and Forward/Back
- 6 Multimedia Hotkeys:(Play/Pause, Stop, Previous Track, Next Track, Vol+/Vol- and Mute )
- 3 PC Hotkeys:(My Computer, Search and Sleep)
- Keyboard Dimensions: 11.75″ x 6.0″ x 0.5″
- Mini USB Receiver Dimensions: 1.65″ x 0.75″ x 0.25″
- Weight: 2.0 lbs
- Number of Keycaps: 87 Keys Mini Layout in an ultra-stylish design.
- Keyboard Technology: Membrane Switch
- Mouse Function: Touchpad with two Buttons
- Switch Life: 5 Million Cycles
- Switch Travel: 3.0+/- 0.3mm
- Includes 2 AAA Battery
- Power Consumption: Active mode: 7mA; Standby mode: 5mA, Without any movement, the keyboard will go into standby mode; Sleep mode: 150uA, 10 minutes in standby mode, the keyboard will go into sleep mode.
Check B&H Photo for availability.
Press Release
WALNUT, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Adesso Inc., a leading manufacturer of computer input peripherals, today announced the availability of the latest addition to the company’s extensive line of keyboards, the WKB-4200UB. Encased in a compact design, this wireless touchpad keyboard complements various desktop PC systems, flat LCD monitors and tablet PCs in modern office environments. The WKB-4200UB also fits comfortably in tight spaces, including living rooms, kiosks, conference rooms, mobile and workgroup project environments. Available at various retailers, the WKB-4200UB has an MSRP of $119.99.
Adesso’s WKB-4200UB allows users to work freely, without the interference of limited space, angles or distance. With 6500 IDs on 12 channels, users can enjoy 30 feet of wireless freedom. Featuring a Sleep mode and On/Off switch, this wireless keyboard offers users the option of saving battery life when not in use for extended use over time. In addition, the Quick Connect button enables users to synchronize their PC with the click of a button.
The WKB-4200UB features the following:
- No space, angle or distance restraints, allowing users to work freely
- Soft tactile membrane key switch for regular typing
- Built-in touchpad, eliminating the use of a mouse
- Power-saving switch and convenient Quick Connect button
Adesso’s various product lines are available through Ingram Micro, Synnex and D&H direct vendors, eRetailers, including Amazon.com, Buy.com, PC Mall, CDW, Insight, Newegg and TigerDirect. In addition, they are also available at retail stores, such as Micro Center and CompUSA, and leading catalogs, including CDW, PC Mall and PC Connection.
About Adesso
Adesso was founded in 1994, and has since manufactured and marketed innovative, ergonomic, industrial, programmable, wireless and foldable keyboards. The company is also known for its extensive line of touchpads, mice, barcode scanners and high performance graphic tablets. Adesso’s most successful product lines include its touchpad keyboards, graphic tablets and barcode scanners.
In June 2008, Adesso acquired limited business of ADS Tech (www.adstech.com).
The company is located at 160 Commerce Way, Walnut, CA 91789, and can be reached at (909) 839-2929 or via the web at www.adesso.com.
