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Reviewed by: Donald Bell for CNET.

When Numark unveiled the first iDJ iPod mixer in 2005, the half-baked product required two iPods,
and lacked many essential features. After three years back at the
drawing board, Numark’s iDJ2 ($599 retail, $499 street) finally makes
good on the promise of a professional iPod DJ mixer.

Design

Compared with the hodgepodge of laptops, CDJ decks, mixers, and
retrofitted turntables today’s digital DJs are saddled with, the iDJ2′s
biggest selling point may be the neatness of its all-in-one system.
Numark has managed to fit a two-channel mixer, music library, and DJ
control surface all into a space measuring 16-inches wide by 12-inches
deep by 3-inches high (including knobs).

The face of the iDJ2 is where all the fun happens. The
centerpiece of the system is a slightly angled 4.25-inch color screen
used to select songs and view playback status. An adjustable iPod dock
above the screen uses a deep well in an attempt to keep your iPod out
of harm’s way. To the right and left of the screen are an identical
pair of mixer controls, including knobs, buttons, faders, and jog
wheels.

Like most traditional DJ mixers, all of the Numark iDJ2′s audio
connections are on the top edge of the console, with the exception of
headphone and microphone inputs, which are conveniently located on the
edge facing you. The bottom and sides of the iDJ2 are bare.

Overall, we’re impressed by the iDJ2′s ergonomic layout and
attractive onscreen user interface, however, the all-plastic
construction does feel flimsy compared to traditional analog DJ mixers.

Features
The Numark iDJ2′s plastic design and iPod dock may
attract a few chuckles from doubtful DJs, but its useful and
professional features are nothing to laugh about.

With the iPod’s accessory compatibility always in flux from year to
year, Numark was smart to diversify the number of ways to get audio in
and out of the iDJ2. Aside from plugging your iPod into the iDJ2′s dock
(Classic, Nano, and 5G iPods are supported), you can also load audio
from a generic USB drive or route external audio through the dual-line
and phono inputs located on the back. The iDJ2′s outputs are also
diversified, with balanced XLR and RCA outputs used for the main mix, a
separate RCA-recording output, and an S-Video output for playing iPod
video content on an external display.

Whether you’re connected to an iPod or a USB drive (or both),
all your MP3, WAV, or unprotected AAC music files get displayed on the
iDJ2′s prominent color screen. A decremented rubber knob beneath the
screen lets you browse your music by track, album, artist, genre, BPM,
year, playlist, or folder tree. Combined with a USB keyboard (not
included), a search option allows you to quickly locate songs in your
collection, making requests a breeze. Once you’ve found a track to
play, you can transfer it to either of the two decks using the
illuminated buttons below the screen.

After loading your songs, playing and mixing between songs on
the iDJ2 is a mostly DJ 101 affair. You have dedicated controls for
pitch, EQ, channel volume, crossfade, play, pause, and cue, as well as
LED-lit volume meters on each side of the screen for keeping song
levels consistent. Headphone controls on the front edge of the iDJ2
have independent tone and gain controls, a cue mix knob for previewing
each of the two decks, and a switch that juggles between the program
and prefader mix.

At first glance, there’s nothing surprising about mixing with the iDJ2,
however, Numark did throw in a few neat tricks. For instance, the
pitch-adjustment controls include a key lock feature and can be
switched between four different modes: 6 percent; 12 percent; 25
percent; and awesome 100 percent mode that can slow playback down to a
full stop. The iDJ2 also includes a tap-tempo feature for quickly
matching track BPMs between decks, and an LED sync grid above the
crossfader, which offers a visual cue for the downbeat for each song.
Efficient features, such as an on-the-fly DJ-crate playlist and
automatic track loading, help eliminate tedious searching and loading
of music.

Performance
The Numark iDJ2 isn’t just a fun iPod
accessory–it’s one of the most impressive digital-DJ solutions we’ve
seen in the $500 range. You don’t get the endless tweaking and deep
control offered by a laptop-based rig, but you also don’t get the
sound-card hassles and inherent unpredictability of a piecemeal
computer-DJ setup. Think of the iDJ2 as a tidy, lean, and
well-conceived DJ system that happens to have iPod support.

Sonically, the iDJ2 fared just as well as a laptop-based DJ rig
with a professional-outboard soundcard, but don’t expect it to hold up
to the luxury of an Allen & Heath analog mixing deck. The
three-band EQ for each deck was adequate, and didn’t introduce any
noticeable distortion or noise into the mix. We wish Numark had
included an effects section of filters, flangers, and delays, or at
least thought to add an effects-loop output for external effects–but
it’s not a deal-breaker.

In all, we think the Numark iDJ2 is a fantastic solution for
working DJs who need something light and efficient to take out to
weddings, proms, or events that typically call for deep and predictable
catalogs of music and little in the way of flashy DJ skills. It’s also
a worthy system for amateur DJs looking for a professional, yet
headache-free system.

Creative has launched its X-Fi Go! – a USB sound card that promises the power and performance of its award-winning X-Fi audio technology.

The small and lightweight device weighs less than 20g and utilises Creative’s X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio, aimed at providing gamers with ultra-realistic surround sound over headphones. Creative tells us that the world-renowned gamer Johnathan ‘Fatal1ty’ Wendel helped test and approve the USB-powered sound card, and seeing as he liked it, we’re guessing most lesser gamers would, too.

The X-Fi Go! is plug-and-play ready and all its installation software is stored on the device’s 1GB of built-in memory – so you’ll never need to be on the lookout for drivers or installation CDs. The smooth-black finish is easy on the eye, and the X-Fi technology (including features such as EAX HD, X-Fi Crystalizer and X-Fi CMSS-3D) will no doubt be easy on the ear.

It’s a promising high-end audio solution for those who require portability, and it’s available in Europe now at a suggested retail price of €49.99.

The X-Fi Go!’s key features, as listed by Creative, are as follows:

• Plug into any USB port and play
• Installation software and other essential files stored on the device. No need to carry an installation CD or additional USB storage
• Handy USB stick format fits onto keyring/lanyard for maximum portability
• Built-in award-winning X-Fi technology comes with incredible 360 degree X-Fi Headphone Surround for an enhanced audio experience with games, music and movies
• EAX Advanced HD 4.0 and Open AL for maximum audio realism in games
• Built-in VoiceFX technology allows users to morph their voices into other personas during online games, or when chatting over the Internet
• Creative ALchemy software restores surround sound for legacy games under Windows Vista
• Bonus software available for free download:
  • Creative Karaoke Player with LRC format support, allows users to sing along with their favourite songs using Pitch Shifter function and Reverb effect
  • Creative WaveStudio provides convenient and easy audio editing, special effects and audio clean-up functions for recorded music files, lectures and podcasts

Official press release: CREATIVE LAUNCHES SOUND BLASTER® X-FI™ GO! THE USB STICK SOUND CARD FOR ULTRA-REALISTIC GAMING WITH HEADPHONE SURROUND

Official product page: uk.europe.creative.com

by Dustin Sklavos

It may seem that the more exciting parts of the “How it Works” series are behind us. We’ve covered the graphics, memory, and processor – three key performance-defining elements of modern computers in general. While there’s no question that these components are the big performance workhorses of the machine, it bears mentioning that the memory and northbridge are designed with mitigating the low bandwidth of the hard disk in mind.

Even beyond simple performance characteristics, understanding the hard disk in your notebook is very important. After all, it’s where you keep all of your data. Family photos, video games, school work, music…all of it is being stored here. In some cases your hard disk can quickly become even more important than your car. You can always get a ride somewhere, but how easy is it to recover lost memories?

How It Workd: Hard Disks

As mentioned in the introduction, the hard disk is basically where everything on your notebook is stored to be accessed later. It’s also the second slowest component in your notebook in terms of bandwidth (the slowest being your CD/DVD drive). Since we love our analogies here at “How it Works,” you can think of the hard disk as being the bank, and the memory (as mentioned in Part IV) as your wallet. The bank stores all of your important stuff, but in order to get it out, you have to actually go there. Your wallet holds a lot less, but you’ve always got it on you. And much as the bank tries to maximize convenience by offering more branches and adding debit cards, hard disk manufacturers have also made strides in improving access speeds and performance characteristics.

Before we move on, it bears mentioning that the terms “hard disk” and “hard drive” mean essentially the same thing. They’re interchangeable. For the purposes of this article we’re going to talk about the mechanical hard disks that 99% of us are familiar with. I’ll do a small blurb about solid state disks at the end, but for now it’s not really relevant.

In this article, I’m going to first explain how the hard disk physically works so you can understand all of the specs that follow it: form factor, spindle speed, cache, interface, and capacity. At the end, as I said, we’ll talk about solid state disks, and I’ll make some recommendations and talk about brands a bit.

The Hardware Itself

Hard disks are actually pretty interesting pieces of hardware. If you were to open one (which you should never do under any circumstances short of being a licensed technician in a clean room), you’d see a series of metallic discs (as many as three in a notebook drive), and mechanical heads hovering over them.

A hard disk stores data on these discs, called platters, and this data is accessed through those mechanical heads, called drive heads. The software within the hard disk itself, called firmware, operates these parts and optimizes how they function to maximize performance and reduce this troublesome bottleneck. The drive itself also contains a small amount of its own dedicated memory (non-upgradeable) called a “cache” that also helps improve performance, but more on that later.

Given that a drive head has to physically move over a spinning platter to get your data, it should come as no surprise that the hard disk is one of the slowest components in the system. In order to read your stuff, something has to actually physically move someplace else.

The key component here is the platter. The more densely packed data is on the platter, the shorter distance the drive head has to move to get to it, and thus the faster the disk can operate. This results in an aspect that may at first seem counterintuitive: the greater the capacity (more on this later), the faster the disk.

Now, remember how I mentioned that you shouldn’t open the hard disk unless you were a licensed technician operating in a clean room? The reason for this is because of how ridiculously fast the platters spin and the drive head moves. A single particle of dust on a platter can fatally damage a hard disk. Alternatively, if the drive head fails, it can collide with the platter and ruin the disk, which is where you get the term “crash.” The disks are designed to be as robust as possible, but the hardware within is still somewhat fragile, so violently shaking your laptop while you’re copying files is probably not a good idea.

You don’t hear about bad memory that often, and almost never defective processors, but everyone hears about hard disks crashing. Manufacturers try to make them as reliable as possible and are standardizing on five year warranties, but there’s only so much you can do with a mechanical device like this. I’m not trying to make you paranoid like a mental health student who suddenly thinks he’s a paranoid schizophrenic hypochondriac, because these things really are pretty reliable (otherwise they wouldn’t have flourished the way they have). Hardware can still fail, though.

So how can you know if your hard disk is becoming bored with life? Hard disk failures in my experience have never been immediate, sudden things. There’s usually a warning sign affectionately referred to as “the click of death.” While your hard disk is usually operating, the little hard disk light on your laptop (typically symbolized by a cylinder) is blinking and you may hear faint, asynchronous “crunching.” The click of death is not dissimilar to the sound a CD player makes when it’s trying valiantly to read a CD you’ve left on the floor of your car a little too long: it keeps making the same series of noises at the same speed over and over again before finally informing you that CD cases were invented for a reason. The click of death will be a single hard click that often follows the typical crunching sound a hard disk makes, but it will repeat the exact pattern over and over again. In the process, your computer will suddenly become completely unresponsive in trying to open anything stored on that drive. Eventually, if you ride it out you may be able to back up your stuff. Odds are you’re screwed, though.

So how does all this stuff work? (I know, great lead-in.)

Form Factor

First, the important thing to know is that a desktop hard disk isn’t going to fit in your laptop. This probably seems obvious to some of you, but it bears mentioning. There are three common form factors, or sizes, of hard disk.

3.5″ drives are used in desktop computers. These are large, heavy SOBs that as of the time of this writing can hold up to 1.5 terabytes. They draw the most power, and will not fit in your laptop.

2.5″ drives are the most commonly used in laptops. These offer a good blend of performance and capacity without being too heavy, drawing too much power, or taking up too much space. These are the drives we’re talking about in this article.

1.8″ drives are the most commonly used in hard disk based media players as well as high end (read: expensive) ultraportable laptops, not to be confused with netbooks. These tend to have mediocre performance and the lowest capacity, but they’re also tiny and keep power consumption and weight down.

The hard disk in a notebook is generally user-replaceable and it’s pretty easy to do, but there’s a caveat: your data isn’t going to magically hop aboard this new one, so you’ll need to back it up first and then use your recovery media (you did write it when you got your laptop, right?) to reinstall your operating system.

Interface

I know, I’m handling all the exciting stuff first, right? This is important, though. If you’ve bought your laptop in the last couple years, it probably uses Serial ATA, or SATA to connect to the computer. Serial ATA is the standard all modern laptops use, as it’s the fastest and more importantly, universal between desktops and notebooks. Yes, this means you can internally connect a notebook hard disk to a modern desktop. SATA is characterized by two L-shaped plugs next to each other on the back of the drive.

Parallel ATA, or PATA, and originally known as IDE (or EIDE) is the old standard, and many laptop hard disks available in retail use this standard. PATA is identifiable by two rows of pins on the back of the drive, and is generally slower than SATA. PATA laptop disks require a special converter to connect to desktops.

This is important to know if you’re planning on upgrading the hard disk in your laptop, so if you’re unsure about which interface your laptop uses, check the notebook’s specifications on its manufacturer’s website.

Spindle Speed

Much like a vinyl, platters inside the hard disk spin. But while your mint Culture Club record rotates at 45 revolutions per minute, or RPM, the platters inside a hard disk can spin as fast as 7,200 RPM. On desktops drives this speed can hit 10,000 RPM, and server disks can reach a scorching 15,000 RPM. And of course, the faster the platters in the drive rotate, the quicker data can be retrieved, but the hotter the drive runs and the more power it draws. This is largely why notebook drives top out at 7,200 RPM and typically ship at 5,400 RPM.

That said, thermal characteristics and power draw can change depending on the manufacturer and the kinds of optimizations they’ve made to the hardware. While in theory a 7,200 RPM drive should draw much more power than a 5,400 RPM due to the increased draw from spinning the motor that much faster, this is offset by the faster accesses from the 7,200 RPM drive. Simply put, it doesn’t have to spin as long to get your data, so the power draw tends to even out.

Of course, that doesn’t change the heat dissipated by the drive. Depending on where the hard drive is located inside your notebook, this could be either a non-issue or a serious problem. I had an old Gateway laptop that practically buried the drive on the bottom of the notebook, so it wasn’t an issue when I upgraded to a 7,200 RPM drive. On the flipside, my current notebook, a custom-built (and fantastic) HP dv2500t, places the hard drive squarely under the left palm rest. After a little while, the thing gets so hot it makes your palm sweat. I had to stick to a 5,400 RPM drive, much to my chagrin. Your mileage may vary.

Cache

In order to improve performance, hard drives also contain their own tiny amount of memory, or cache. This is really a sort of non-issue that you shouldn’t spend much time thinking about. Notebook hard drives tend to come with between 8MB and 32MB of cache, averaging out at 16MB. While cache can have a definite impact on how a hard disk performs, the optimizations the manufacturer has made in how it’s used tend to have a greater one. As a result, most retailers won’t even tell you how much cache the drive has as it’s generally irrelevant.

Capacity

And here we have the reason why hard disks haven’t been replaced. Simply put, there isn’t a better, more cost-effective technology for storing massive amounts of data on the market. We’ve already discussed how the data is stored and how it’s accessed, and way back in Part I we defined how to measure capacity, so for the most part we should be good to go, right?

Mostly. There are a couple of key elements here. First, while I said that a larger drive will oftentimes be faster than a smaller one (assuming the same spindle speed), this does get a little bit tricky. For example, if a 100GB drive has three platters of 33GB apiece, this drive will generally be a bit slower than an 80GB drive with two 40GB platters. However, by this logic, you can assume that the largest drives on the market will be among the fastest at their spindle speed.

Second, there’s the way GB are supposed to be measured and the way hard disk manufacturers measure them, and this is something I alluded to in Part I. Simply put, a drive advertised with a capacity of 100GB will show in the neighborhood of 90-94GB of space in the operating system. This is normal; your operating system measures bytes in base 2 as opposed to base 10 which results in this disparity.

You should keep in mind that capacity is also further reduced by the installation of the operating system and by the file system that operating system uses. File systems aren’t worth going into, but suffice to say your operating system needs some way of knowing where everything is on the drive and the file system covers this. Capacity can be reduced yet again by the manufacturer storing the recovery partition on the drive itself. After all is said and done, your shiny new notebook with a 160GB hard drive may only be offering you in the neighborhood of 90GB free.

Worth mentioning is that while some larger notebooks include more than one hard disk bay, the vast majority do not, so the capacity of the single drive in your notebook is what you’re stuck with.

Solid State Society

Mechanical hard drives are the standard in modern computing, and this makes them cheap to produce en masse. However, the next great technology is upon us: solid state drives, or SSDs. These drives occupy the same space that your existing hard drive does and is even backwards compatible, but what changes is how the drive stores its data.

A solid state drive uses flash memory, like what you use in your digital camera or in a USB thumb drive, only it uses higher quality flash memory and it uses a lot more of it. Theoretically, this radically reduces power consumption and heat dissipation while dramatically improving acess times.

SSDs are a young technology, however, and while the industry is ramping up to produce more flash memory (and indeed, flash prices have been falling like rocks as a result), the drives aren’t quite ready for primetime. Prices for SSDs are exorbitant, capacity is mediocre, and transfer speeds are in some cases poorer than their mechanical counterparts. This technology will mature and take over for mechanical drives, but it’s a ways off still. As it stands, they generally aren’t worth the money for any but the most indulgent buyers.

As a side note here, it bears mentioning that the burgeoning netbook market is thick with SSDs, but there are caveats here. These drives are typically slower than standard mechanical drives and offer a fraction of the capacity. These are included because a few chips of slower flash memory are easier to fit into a small netbook chassis, draw minimal power, and are less expensive.

Conclusion

As far as drive recommendations go, it gets a little bit trickier. I’ve found that drive reliability in modern computers is worlds more consistent than it has been in the past. I’ve seen drives from every major brand fail (excepting Fujitsu and Toshiba, both of which are often too slow to be relevant anyhow). Manufacturers typically employ Fujitsu drives on the low end, with Hitachi, Seagate, and Western Digital drives filling out the rest.

In my experience, Hitachi drives have been the fastest while running the hottest. This seems to be the prevailing theme over most (not all) of their products. I’ve used Hitachi drives before and been immensely satisfied by the performance, but the heat dissipation off their 200GB 7,200-RPM drive was too much for my HP dv2500t.

Western Digital’s drives fill out the market nicely. They’re solid performers and don’t dissipate too much heat. Though they have what is in my opinion the best price/performance knockout on the desktop scene, the rest of their lineup is just “solid.” Nothing wrong with Western Digital, but nothing performance leading either. The 320GB 5,400-RPM drive I use in my notebook isn’t the fastest thing in the world, but it does approach the performance of 7,200-RPM drives, and may be an excellent compromise for speed, power, heat, and capacity.

Seagate is all over the map. I’ve always loved Seagate drives and found them to be exceptionally reliable, but their products range from industry leading to middle of the road. You can’t really go wrong with a Seagate, and they were offering a five year warranty well before the other manufacturers.

Last is Samsung. Samsung has a pretty devoted following among our forums, and I can understand why. While Hitachi, Western Digital, and Seagate duke it out for the limelight, Samsung offers hard disks at lower prices than their competitors while oftentimes matching them for performance. I don’t have a great deal of experience with their notebook drives, but found their desktop drives to be a good value.

Now, let’s do what we do and condense it all. First and foremost, the most important specs for you are going to be capacity and spindle speed. Interface is good to know for those itching to upgrade, while form factor is largely a given and cache isn’t worth the effort of researching.

The rest of your distillation:

• Higher spindle speed generally means a faster, hotter drive.
• Capacity in Windows (or Linux, or Mac OS X) will always read as less than advertised.
• Solid state drives are the future, but not worth worrying about right now.
• If you’re going to upgrade your hard disk, back up your stuff, have your recovery media ready, and make sure you buy a drive with the right interface.

Coming Up:

So I’ve told you how stuff gets stored on your computer, but how do you put stuff on it? Optical drives!

*LG KC-910 mobile phone : The KC910 handset is the perfect successor to the multi-million selling camera phone, LG Viewty. Like its predecessor, which debuted as the slimmest 5 megapixel phone, the LG-KC910 will be the slimmest 8 megapixel handset on the market at just 13.95 mm when released. This camera phone combines the latest multimedia features and an intuitive user interface evolved far beyond what Viewty offered. With this phone LG has created a multi-sensorial experience like no other, providing enhanced viewing enjoyment, superior sound and better use of touch. The KC910 LG camera phone will be available for purchase beginning in October 2008.

LG KC910 handset “With our new flagship handset, the LG KC910, we’ve once again combined a high-end camera with top-notch multimedia features and full touchscreen interface to provide the ultimate multimedia experience,” said Dr. Skott Ahn, President and CEO of LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company. “According to our customers a full touchscreen interface is essential for fully utilizing high-end multimedia features and this is one of many areas where the LG KC910 cell phone excels.” LG camera phone The LG-KC910 phone leads the industry with its 8 megapixel camera, which is being developed to include Schneider-Kreuznach certified optics, a xenon flash and ISO sensitivity up to 1600. Further strengthening the phone’s camera features are image stabilization, auto-focus, manual focus, Face Tracking, Smile Shot and blink detection. An embedded GPS receiver gives the LG KC-910 camera phone the ability to geo-tag photos for later plotting on an interactive map. A variety of creative shot modes, so far only found on standalone digital cameras, will be included. LG KC910 navigation Rounding out the phone’s comprehensive feature set, are A-GPS enabled navigation, compatibility with the latest 3G HSDPA networks for connections up to 7.2Mbps and Wi-Fi for even faster internet access. The phone also includes a Jogging Buddy program that uses GPS technology to help track workouts, a feature sure to please exercise enthusiasts. A 3.0-inch WQVGA full touch LCD screen is the ideal canvas for experiencing and interacting with the LG-KC910’s multimedia features. A customizable interface, with numerous widgets and shortcuts, makes the phone’s myriad features even easier to use. • Lowest price information & availability : ArrayLG KC910.

Array

*LG KS360 mobile phone : LG Mobile announces the launch of the LG KS360, its vibrantly coloured, feature-packed mobile phone specifically designed for messaging on the move. The LG KS360′s sliding QWERTY keypad and high-spec messaging features mean that users can send SMS, IM, email and have the ability to access social networking sites all from one device. In addition, the LG KS360 cell phone comes with touchscreen dialling, a 2MP camera and MicroSD card slot. The LG KS-360 cell phone is available in Titanium and bright blue, White and soft pink, Black and red and Black and silver.

LG KS360 Jeremy Newing, head of LG mobile marketing, LG Electronics says, “We recognise that manufacturers need to develop a variety of handsets that cater for different segments of the market. By offering a whole range of handsets – whether it’s premium or prepay, a camera or music device, for example – we’re giving consumers the choice to purchase a phone that’s right for them.” LG KS-360 features - Network: GSM/GPRS/EDGE - Band: GMS 900/1800/1900 - Battery: Li-Ion 800mAh - Dimensions: 101.5x51x16.8mm - Main screen: 2.4″ QVGA (240×320) 262k - Camera: 2 megapixel - Camera feature: Fixed focus - Memory: 15MB/MicroSDTM up to 4GB - Bluetooth: V2.0 - USB: V2.0, Mass Storage - Ringtones: 64 polyphonic - Audio codecs: MP3/AAC/AAC+/eAAC+ - Video codecs: MPEG4/H.263 - Browser: WAP 2.0 - JAVA: MIDP 2.0 - Messaging: SMS, MMS, IM, Email - Other: Touch Screen Dialling LG SMS phone with QWERTY keypad With the KS360′s slider QWERTY keypad, users can write messages quickly and accurately. To make messaging easier, once the full length keypad has been opened, the 2.4″ screen automatically rotates 90 degrees using accelerometer technology. At just 16.8mm thin, this handset has been designed to fit easily into a pocket or handbag, a convenient alternative to lugging a laptop around. LG KS360 mobile phone “With the popularity of social networking sites and instant messaging amongst younger audiences, the LG KS360 handset has been designed so they can access these features when away from their computer. This handset is perfect for this segment of the market. Its vibrant colours, easy-to-use QWERTY keypad and fantastic messaging features offer users a simple and fun device that will enable them to communicate with each other instantly,” says Newing. • Price information & availability : ArrayLG KS360.

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by Jerry Jackson

Last year Logitech released their innovative “Wave” keyboard design and although our editorial staff was skeptical at first, the Wave keyboard quickly became the favorite keyboard for two of our editors. How does Logitech plan to follow the success of the Cordless Desktop Wave this year? By releasing the same keyboard (with a few minor changes) and a much better wireless mouse … and calling it the Cordless Desktop Wave Pro.  Is this minor update worth your hard-earned cash? Let’s take a look.

Build and Design

As mentioned in the introduction, the Logitech Cordless Desktop Wave Pro is an update to last year’s release of the Cordelss Desktop Wave. The truth is that the new keyboard and mouse set looks as much like the old one as it sounds. While there are some sublte differences to the paint scheme used on this year’s keyboard, the only major difference is the mouse.

Old Cordless Desktop Wave

New Cordless Desktop Wave Pro

As with the previous keyboard, the biggest challenge new users face with any ergonomic keyboard is the learning curve. The split key design that was popular years ago required users to re-learn how to type. The “Wave” does take a couple days to get used to, but after that, you’ll wonder why all keyboards don’t feel this good. Once your brain and fingers get used to the different depth of keys and smile-like curve of the keyboard you’ll be typing at full speed.

The Wave’s design is largely dictated by finger length. To account for certain fingers being longer, or shorter, than others, Logitech designed the contour of the keyboard to fit each finger appropriately. The keys are the highest at the A and Enter keys, which are hit by the shortest fingers. Moving inward, the D and K keys represent a valley as they are typed with the longest middle fingers. The keyboard rises again in the middle to accommodate the pointer fingers. The theory is, since this keyboard is optimized for the fingers, you’ll use less awkward positions to reach them.

Aside from key height, the keyboard also features what Logitech calls a U-shape, or what we call the smile design. Either way, it’s a five degree curve that nets a more comfortable wrist position. The wrists also receive a padded palm rest, which gives a little more comfort and encourages better hand positioning. I will note that the palm rest will wear quickly, and you may beable to notice the wrist sweat marks in our photos.

Standard on keyboards in this class, the Wave also features several media and programmable hot keys. The keyboard is powered by 2 AA batteries and battery life is expected to be an impressive 3 years! (We obviously couldn’t put that claim to the test in time to publish this review.) There is a low-battery warning light underneath the down arrow key that glows when it’s time to replace the batteries.

Better Mouse, Worse Mouse Traps

While the keyboard is the main attraction here, the new Wave desktop set also includes the all-new MX 1100 cordless laser mouse. Although this contoured mouse isn’t designed to be ambidextrous, right-handed users should find this mouse to be extremely comfortable. Sure, the MX 1100 seems to have a weird shape the first time you look at it, but it’s also exceptionally well designed, matching the keyboard and including rubber grips on the sides, along with a “Microgear” precision scroll wheel, scroll toggle, on-the-fly adjustable dpi, as well as front and back buttons.

I particularly enjoyed the adjustable dpi capability for working with multiple monitors set to different resolutions, as well as playing games set to different screen resolutions. The only thing that I didn’t like about this mouse is one of the “features” I neglected to mention: the “stealth thumb button.” The stealth button is a hidden button located beneath the thumb rest area on the mouse that allows for application switching using the “Window Switcher” in Windows Vista. At least, that’s what it does if you install Logitech’s bloated SetPoint software included with the keyboard and mouse. If you don’t install SetPoint then the stealth button doesn’t work. Honestly, there’s no practical reason why you should “need” SetPoint for this particular button to work, so I can only assume a product engineer at Logitech was feeling lazy or Logitech wanted to give you a reason to install their software.

The mouse is powered by a single rechargeable AA battery and Logitech was kind enough to include a pre-charged Sanyo Eneloop brand battery in the box. Battery life is expected to be 6 weeks, and after 3 weeks of daily use (usually at least 6-9 hours daily) the battery in our review unit is still going strong. There is also a light on the mouse to indicate low battery levels. Logitech includes both a USB charging cable as well as a USB-to-power outlet adapter so that you can charge the mouse battery without connecting it to your computer

Conclusion

Once again, all of Logitech’s promises have lived up to the marketing hype with their latest Wave keyboard and mouse. As I said previously, two of our editorial staff members (including yours truly) have been using Logitech Wave keyboards since last year and I’m a big believer in this ergonomic design. While the keyboard itself hasn’t really changed in the last year, everything works as it should. The new MX 1100 cordless laser mouse is the main reason the new Cordless Desktop Wave Pro is so appealing over last year’s model. Again, the new mouse is exceptional and nearly perfect … as long as you’re willing to install SetPoint and you aren’t a southpaw.

Overall, I doubt there’s a more comfortable cordless keyboard and mouse set on the market. However, for the full MSRP of $129, this wireless bundle might give you sticker shock since it costs $50 more than last year’s Wave keyboard and mouse set.

Pros:

• Ergonomic keyboard design is etremely comfortable and easy to use
• Great mouse (for right-handed users)
• Fantastic advertised battery life

Cons:

• “Stealth” thumb button completely useless without installing bloated SetPoint software
• USB receiver is a little large, but not too bad
• Palm rest shows wear almost instantly
• More expensive than last year’s model

Pricing and availability

The Logitech Cordless Desktop Wave Pro keyboard and mouse set will be available soon in retail stores everywhere and has an MSRP of $129. Visit the Logitech website for more information about features and availability.

For those users that have never heard of Swype, they are one of TechCrunch’s finalists in their TechCrunch50 Demo. Swype creates text input technology for any touchscreen device in a very creative way. It’s touching you might say.

The patented interface enables users to create words with one continuous finger motion across an on-screen keyboard. This approach provides a faster and easier way to write, so to say the least this may be the perfect solution for taking notes in class or giving those business presentations.

Key Features:

Check out the video below for a demo of Swype in action:

This innovative technology might be a new way to write papers and get work done productively on your Tablet PC. After all touch is all the rage these days.

Most people buy new keyboards at one of three times: when they buy a new computer, when they spill a drink on their old one, or when they just can’t take the tangled rat’s nest of cables behind their desk any longer. Fortunately for the frazzled consumer, there are companies there to fill the gap, and Logitech is one of the best known. Recognized for their quality computer peripherals, Logitech offers products that span the market, from ten-dollar keyboards up to hundred-dollar mice. The Cordless Desktop S520 falls somewhere in the middle of that range. At $60, though, is wireless freedom really worth the price?

Features

The Cordless Desktop G520 comes with the following specifications and/or components:

• Cordless S520 keyboard
• Cordless LX5 laser mouse
• 2.4GHz wireless transceiver
• Multimedia, volume and zoom keyboard keys
• Estimated 15-month keyboard battery life
• Estimated 8-month mouse battery life

Keyboard

The S520 keyboard included with the cordless desktop set has more in common with most laptop keyboards than it does a traditional desktop keyboard. The keys are flat, low-profile, and offer zero degrees of tilt. The keyboard itself is very thin at less than half an inch. Being so thin, the keys don’t have a lot of travel, but typing is still a pleasurable experience.

The keyboard offers a full complement of function keys, which is a bonus in a keyboard that takes up so little room. Each function key is overlaid with an alternate keybinding in blue, triggered by pressing a special Fn key, like what’s found on most laptops. These alternate keys allow you to launch common applications like Word or Excel or your web browser’s home page, mail, search, settings, etc. Four more are programmable via Logitech’s SetPoint software. The bottom front of the laptop is completely taken up with the silver plastic wristrest. The curvature makes the rest more comfortable to use than most, but it would have been nice to see a different finish or coating on top. On the bottom, there are holes in the casing to allow for drainage in the unfortunate event that something is spilled on your keyboard. Keep in mind, however, that Logitech only rates the keyboard as being able to withstand a few milliliters of fluid spillage, drainage holes or no.

Transceiver

In an attempt to save battery life, the designers kept all lights off of the keyboard except for one slightly below the arrow keys which warns when the batteries are getting low (thus remaining quiescent the majority of the time). Instead, the status lights are present on the USB wireless transceiver that plus into the back or side of your computer.

The base unit is a simple fold of plastic, with status LEDs for when Caps Lock and NumLock are activated. It also has a connect button on top to re-engage the wireless keyboard and mouse. While I understand the need to maintain battery life, it seems that Logitech could have done a better job with the transceiver. Instead of having a small USB dongle that plugs directly into a port, you have to contend with this piece of technology, with a very long cord and status lights that are difficult to read unless you’re at exactly the right angle to see them.

Mouse

The included mouse is basic but functional. It has three buttons (left, middle, right) as wee as a scroll wheel. There are no side buttons on this mouse which, considering today’s mice, can take take some getting used to. Fortunately, the mouse was designed to be symmetrical, meaning both left- and right-handed people can use it.

Just like the keyboard, the mouse uses two AA batteries as its power source. Given the amount of data capture and light that the mouse has to emit, however, it’s battery life is rated as half that of the keyboard. Keep in mind that these are manufacturer’s estimates, as we’ve obviously not been able to test the keyboard for fifteen months. Cleverly, the top half of the mouse pops off to reveal the batteries hidden beneath. This lets the mouse remain compact.

The bottom of the mouse, like the bottom of the keyboard, is spartan, with an on/off button, connect button, battery release lever, and optical sensor. The on/off button is a nice feature that should be on more mice; this way the optical sensor doesn’t blink constantly (and thus run down the battery) when the mouse is sitting on the desk or getting tossed around in a backpack.

Conclusion

Overall, the Logitech Cordless Desktop S520 is a solid purchase in a middle-of-the-road sort of way. The keyboard is well designed, sturdy, offers a modicum of spill protection and is easy to type with. The mouse is plain, and only offers the basic set of features and functionality. Even the range of the desktop set was a bit of a surprise, as I found consistent wireless performance from the mouse about ten feet away (the mouse did have line of sight with the wireless transceiver). The set is comfortable to use and sturdy, which are the most important features of any keyboard and mouse set. At only $59.99, the Cordless Desktop S520 is a great buy for anyone looking to unclutter their lives a little bit.

Pros

• Inexpensive for a good quality wireless set
• Keyboard is thin enough to slip into a bag for extra productivity on the go
• Excellent battery life
• Comfortable to type on
• Symmetrical mouse allows lefties to join the fun, too

Cons

• Keyboard wristrest makes keyboard bigger
• No discrete buttons on mouse, like forward/back
• Wireless transceiver is awkwardly shaped and far bigger than necessary
• Included SetPoint software can be very buggy

Photokina 2008 show report : Every two years the world’s largest digital imaging event, the Photokina show, is held in Cologne, Germany. This year, the Photokina 2008 show will be held from 23-26 September and will be open to everybody. We, from LetsGoDigital, will be there, right on the spot with a live report, topped up with live images. You will find all of this on our special Photokina report website, including an RSS feed that keeps you up to date with the latest news about digital SLR cameras, printers, compact cameras, mobile imaging and everything related to imaging. The Photokina 2006, two years ago, attracted more than 1500 exhibitions from 46 countries and required a floor area of 230,000 square meters to exhibit all the news.

Nikon D90 Test photos : We have a full production test sample of the Nikon D90 SLR in the office at this moment, and we expect to publish a full Nikon D90 review soon. In the meantime, a Nikon D90 digital SLR camera is undergoing a thorough, standardized test in our DIWA Lab. Although our workflow is simply overwhelming with the Photokina 2008 in sight, we were still able to make a number of test images with the Nikon D90 today, and we used various Nikkor lenses for the occasion. The much-discussed video feature, which is unique at this moment, will undoubtedly be continued in future generations. However, for now, the Nikon D90 features this unique video function that puts Nikon in the spotlight again as a genuine innovator.

Nikon D90 photo gallery As far as we can see, the first test samples offer high image quality. High ISO can be used with excellent results, through which Nikon continues its success that started with the introduction of the Nikon D3 and D300, and the Nikon D700 soon after. The user-friendliness for the Nikon user is superb as always and everything looks very familiar. As soon as the DIWA test results become available, we will combine this data with a test in practice and publish a full Nikon D90 review. Nikon D90 Body includes Live View LCD The Nikon D90 has been designed with an eye-level pentaprism viewfinder, offering some 96% frame coverage. Yet, when looking through the viewfinder isn’t practical, simply press the Nikon D90’s Live View button and the 3-inch LCD with 170˚ viewing angle and approx. 920k-dot LCD support your Live View shooting with three contrast-detect AF modes: Face Priority, Wide Area and Normal Area. And when you’re not sure which camera settings are appropriate, try the advanced scene modes like Active D-Lighting and Picture Control for beautiful, crisp images every time. Nikon photo gallery These test photos have been taken with a full production model, meaning that this model is equivalent to the model that will be available to the consumer in September. The location of the pictures is the Amsterdam Zoo, called Artis, in the Netherlands. The photos have been reduced to enable correct reproduction and compressed to ensure a faster loading time. The large pictures (to be downloaded) are the original, unedited Nikon D90 test photos (unfortunately D90 NEF is at this moment not supported by any converter software which leaves us with JPEG Basic for the moment). Download original : Nikon D90 Test Photo (Warning: approx. 1.8MB file size!) Download original : Nikon D90 Sample Photo (Warning: approx. 1.7MB file size!) Download original : Nikon D90 Test Sample (Warning: approx. 1.3MB file size!) Download original : Nikon D90 Image Gallery (Warning: approx. 1.9MB file size!) Download original : Nikon D90 Sample Pictures (Warning: approx. 1.2MB file size!) Nikon D90 HD video samples Capturing motion pictures with the Nikon D90 cannot be compared to the way you capture these with a camcorder. To begin with; the camcorder is built especially for capturing video and is therefore ergonomically well thought-out. The video function the Nikon D90 offers through the DSLR system is significantly different. First of all, capturing HD video without the use of a tripod is somewhat awkward and the auto focus is not available when filming. This is a real lack and, in my opinion, for a large part of the amateur target group, it means a diminution of the innovation. * The HD video samples are compressed by YouTube and do not represent the final video quality.

HTC Touch Diamond review : From the package it is clear that HTC now more than ever aim at the design, with the P3700, better known as the HTC Touch Diamond, in order to conquer a larger crowd. The operating system of the HTC Diamond is Windows Mobile 6.1 Professional. This new version has undergone several small improvements. Furthermore, the HTC Diamond offers many options. New is the 4GB internal memory and a 3.2 megapixel camera with auto focus. In addition, the HTC offers a large touchscreen, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GPRS and HSDPA for quick Internet scrolling. • Read the full HTC Touch Diamond review .

HTC Touch Diamond digital camera HTC has equipped the Diamond with a 3.2 megapixel digital camera with auto focus. This is reasonable as far as specifications are concerned, and definitely when comparing it with previous HTC models. However, you’d expect more from a device in this time and age. Every renowned manufacturer who wants to integrate serious mobile photography should add a camera with a minimum of 5 megapixels, in order not to make to make a fool of himself. The forecast is an 8 megapixel model crossing the counter by the end of this year. Digital photography with the HTC Diamond LetsGoMobile adds: “Activating the camera application is possible through the menu or through the quick access button at the photo viewer in the TouchFLO. This way it is not possible to start shooting immediately, also due to the somewhat slow start-up time of the application. When the camera application is started, the screen fully serves as viewfinder. This is extremely pleasant, since it offers a clear view of what you are capturing. The viewfinder does not refresh that quickly as a result of which you will see annoying stripes on the screen when making a small movement. Upon taking a picture, the phone is slow in focussing and it also takes some time before the picture is actually captured. Even if you move the phone slightly after focussing, it still results in a blurred picture, very awkward!” HTC Touch Diamond test LetsGoMobile concludes: “The HTC Touch Diamond P3700 clearly shows that HTC have gone in a different direction. Design and user’s ease are key words to describe the HTC Diamond. The HTC Diamond has 4GB of internal memory at its disposal which cannot be enhanced. This is quite reasonable looking at the current comparable devices, although 8GB would have been a real plus. Internet through HSDPA or WiFi, combined with the Internet Explorer Web browser is perfect on this mobile phone; it’s fast and easy. The preinstalled Mobile version of Microsoft Office enhances the user’s possibilities in a positive way. Also because editing Office documents is enabled, thus optimising the business availability.” Got interested in the HTC Diamond P3700 mobile phone? Read the full HTC Diamond review .

Sony-Ericsson W380i review : The Sony Ericsson W380i is a clamshell model of the Walkman phone series, and focuses entirely on the needs of music enthusiasts. This device features a Walkman player, Radio and Track ID function. Moreover, on the front of the W380i, certain special music buttons are positioned, which save you the trouble of having to open the phone before selecting and listening to songs. The Sony Ericsson W380i comes in the following colours: Electric Purple, Magnetic Grey and Tangerine Black.• Read the full Sony Ericsson W380i review .

Sony Ericsson W380i Walkman phone The Sony Ericsson W380i Walkman phone is all about music. An important component is the Walkman player, selectable through the menu. You can choose from a black, orange or white theme; all three different interfaces of the player are equally neat. Moreover, the structure of the setting menu is extremely intuitive. Select a song from your music library, press play or use the music buttons on the front of the phone to scroll through your music list. Or you can let yourself be pleasantly surprised if you select the shuffle function, or select a play list made by yourself containing all your favourite songs. Sony-Ericsson W380 test LetsGoMobile adds: “The built-in digital camera of the Sony Ericsson W380i has only 1.3 Megapixels at its disposal, which shows that the phone is of a slightly older generation. The megapixel race is the cause of mobile phone cameras like this getting somewhat out-dated before their time. Nor is it a camera with many setting possibilities. The only options the W380i offers are: night mode, white balance, picture quality, self-timer and some effects such as black and white and negative. When the light is extremely perfect, a sharp picture may appear in your album but in general, due to the lack of an auto focus, the quality of the captured pictures is disappointing.” Sony Ericsson W380i review LetsGoMobile concludes: “Whilst testing the Sony Ericsson W380i a number of important pros and cons emerged. Do not purchase this phone if you want to capture moments on a regular base with the camera function of this mobile phone. The setting possibilities are limited and the quality of the pictures rather poor. If you use your mobile phone as MP3 player, you will probably find the W380i an interesting device. The beautiful penetrating sound of the Mega Bass, the possibility to enhance the phone’s memory, the Radio and the Track ID function make this Sony Ericsson W380i the perfect phone for music enthusiasts and that is exactly the target group this Walkman phone aims at.” Do you want to know more about this Walkman phone? Read our full Sony Ericsson W380 review.

Samsung Soul U900 review : The mobile telephony market is a dynamic market. At a high rate, developments are made and the user-friendliness starts to play a more important role in this. The Samsung U900, also known as Samsung Soul, features a 5.0 Megapixel digital camera, FM radio, Bluetooth, a memory that can be enhanced, and the option to make video calls. What’s new on this Samsung is the Magical Touch. A small touchscreen below the normal screen that shows various icons that change with every choice you make in the menu.• Read the full Samsung U900 Soul review .

Samsung Soul with 5 Megapixel digital camera LetsGoMobile says: “The 5.0 Megapixel digital camera takes excellent quality pictures. The quick buttons on the Magical Touchscreen at the camera application enable quick access to the self-timer, the flash and the macro mode. Furthermore, there is an abundance of setting possibilities. You can adjust ISO values, adjust resolution and select various effects when shooting a picture. The Samsung U900 also features face detection.” Multimedia features on the Samsung Soul U900 Naturally, the Samsung U900 features an MP3 and video player. Several file formats are being supported and videos can be played on full screen. The Media player is quite standard. The built-in speaker, with reasonable volume and quality, as well as the included headset let you enjoy your music and videos. Upon viewing the pictures made with the Samsung U900, you will notice their large size since it takes a while before a picture is fully rendered. Samsung Soul U900 review LetsGoMobile concludes: “Once again Samsung hold a successful device with the U900. The first few weeks the device was available in stores, it already reached the Top 10 of most sold devices. The Samsung U900 has a stylish appearance. A nice option is the sharing of pictures which can be uploaded to the Internet immediately thanks to the fast Internet connection. The Magical Touch gives the Samsung U900 Soul that little bit of extra to make it stand out from the rest of the models that are currently available. Samsung have combined user-friendliness and style in the best way possible.” Got interested in this multifunctional Samsung phone? Read the full Samsung U900 review .

Sony Ericsson G705 mobile phone : Sony Ericsson introduces the Sony-Ericsson G705. This elegant slider phone, complete with large 2.4” screen, allows users to surf the internet at high speed with turbo 3G and its full HTML browser – just use the shortcut key and you’re straight through to Google search from the idle screen. Page a bit too small? Use the illuminated zoom web shortcut key or just tilt the phone and it automatically switches to landscape view. The Sony Ericsson G705 keeps you updated with the information most important to you via RSS feeds that are delivered straight to your phone’s desktop. Whether its sport scores or news from around the world, be the first to break that story to friends or work colleagues.

Sony-Ericsson G705 camera The Sony Ericsson G705 mobile phone is equipped with an 3.2 megapixel digital camera and video capabilities, upload your favourite and funny moments straight to the web for friends all over the world to see. Time to relax? Use the phone’s Wi-Fi connection to upload pictures, create a picture blog or download music and videos from your favourite web sites. Entertain your friends and family with all your great images on the 1GB memory card, or relax with the sounds you want through the built-in FM radio. On your way to an important meeting but can’t find your way? The inbuilt aGPS combined with Google Maps for Mobile and Wayfinder navigation means that you will never have to ask for directions again. Sony Ericsson G705 “The Sony Ericsson G705 is ideal for those who need a bit of help organising their busy life.” said Catherine Cherry, Global product marketing manager at Sony Ericsson. “This life-enhancing phone has everything you need to keep track of your daily activities and is perfect for keeping in touch with friends. It also allows you to stay fully up-to-date thanks to the full HTML browser, email support, and desktop RSS feeds – all delivered at turbo 3G speeds.” Orange Sony Ericsson G705u Also announced today is the Sony Ericsson G705u, the first UMA enabled phone from Sony Ericsson. UMA enables users to seamlessly roam between the mobile network and local area networks thanks to GSM/Wi-Fi dual capabilities. The Sony Ericsson G705u is exclusive to the operator Orange in its territories. YouTube compatible phone In addition, Sony Ericsson is pleased to announce a partnership with Google meaning that YouTube will be integrated into selected upcoming cell phone from Sony Ericsson. This capability will allow users to instantly download and upload video directly from their mobile phone to YouTube. The Sony Ericsson G705 mobile phone will be YouTube compatible and further Sony Ericsson handsets will be announced at a later stage. • Price information & availability : Sony-Ericsson G705.

Sony Cybershot DSC-W170 review : The Sony DSC-W170 is equipped with a 10 Megapixels CCD sensor, making it one of the highest resolution W-cameras. This keeps Sony at pace with the rest of the manufacturers that have dived into the continuing Megapixel race. For those keen on figures; the following comparison with a 10 Megapixel Sony Alpha might be of interest to you. Pro ratio, there are approximately 35 million pixels on one square cm of the W170′s sensor, whereas the Sony Alpha 300 has 2.7 million pixels. Both cameras offer 10 Megapixels of image resolution.• Read our full Sony DSC-W170 review.

Sony-Ericsson digital photo frame : Sony Ericsson is proud to unveil the IDP-100 Digital Photo Frame, a convenient, stylish and easy way to store and share these important images with friends and family. For too long mobile phone photos have been confined to the phone – hidden away and viewed only occasionally and only on a small screen. Now it’s time to unleash these photos and display them with pride with the help of the superb Sony Ericsson IDP-100 Photo Frame, the ideal accessory to your Sony Ericsson Cyber-Shot mobile phone. The Sony Ericsson IDP-100 photo frame is compatible with all phones featuring M2 card, micro SD, SD and MS Duo, USB interface or Bluetooth. It will be available in selected markets in Q4 in dark grey.

Sony Ericsson photo frame Thanks to the easy transfer of photos from not only your CyberShot cameras but also regular digital cameras, budding photographers can display their best photos in all their glory. Transfer your favourite photos in a variety of ways, Bluetooth, USB flash memory, M2 memory card, micro SD, SD or MS Duo, to ensure that nothing is left unseen. With a sleek dark grey finish, which adds style to any surrounding, this stylish 7” Sony Ericsson photo frame will let you display photos in either landscape or portrait format and can be mounted on a wall or sat on a bedside table or office desk. Sony-Ericsson IDP-100 features Size: 7” LCD screen Aspect ratio: 4:3 or 16:9 Viewing angle: 140º (H)/140º (V) Lifetime: to 50 per cent brightness: 10,000hr Brightness: 200cd/m2 Panel resolution: 800 x 480 (WVGA) Pixel density: 0.1905 (H) x 0.1905 (V) Contrast ratio: 400:1 Connectivity: USB 2.0 Built in memory capacity: 128MB Weight: 320g for media product without stand Dimensions: W205xH145xD25 Sony-Ericsson IDP100 photo frame The Sony-Ericsson IDP-100 frame sits perfectly with the C905 Cybershot cell phone. The first mobile phone to offer an 8.1 megapixel digital camera now has the ideal accessory that will help you show off your high quality images in all their glory. The photos can be displayed and managed with the touch sensitive control menu, just view the slideshow options and pick your personal preference. In addition, the Digital Image Correction (DIC), included with the Sony Ericsson IDP-100 will ensure the photos are displayed to perfection as it automatically adjusts your photos – this includes colour correction, tone enhancement and even edge enhancement.

Sony Alpha A900 Digital SLR : Sony introduces the Alpha 900, the world’s first full-frame 24.6 megapixel DSLR: The A900 delivers the unmatched image quality, creative expression and performance demanded by professional photographers. The Sony DSLR-A900 digital SLR from Sony sets a new benchmark for serious photo enthusiasts who demand the unrivalled quality and creative possibilities of full-frame imaging. The flagship of the Alpha DSLR range features the industry’s first ever 24.6 effective megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor. Developed by Sony, this groundbreaking sensor’s ultra-high pixel count and large size – equivalent to a 35mm film frame – deliver extraordinary image detail and wide dynamic range.

Sony Alpha A900 The new-generation sensor captures flawless images with unprecedented fidelity, characterized by vibrant colours, ultra-real textures and subtle tonal gradations. Complementing the extremely high native resolution of the sensor, Exmor performs on-chip analogue/digital (A/D) signal conversion and two-stage noise reduction. This guarantees ultra-low noise image files that take advantage of the superb resolving power of high-precision α lenses. Realising the immense creative potential of the 24.6 megapixel full-frame sensor, the new advanced dual BIONZ processors handle massive amounts of image data at extremely high speed. Powerful noise reduction algorithms are applied prior to RAW data conversion and then again during image processing, yielding flawless, detail packed images with an absolute minimum of noise. The dual BIONZ processors also underpin the camera’s razor-sharp shooting responses, allowing sustained 5fps continuous shooting at full 24.6 megapixel resolution. Sony Alpha 900 DSLR Serious photo enthusiasts will appreciate the ground-glass optical pentaprism viewfinder that offers exceptional brightness and a field of view covering 100% of the full-frame sensor’s imaging area (approx.). The Sony Alpha 900 DSLR camera’s uncompromising credentials are underlined by a fast, high-accuracy 9-point AF system to ensure fewer missed shots. It’s supplemented by 10 focus assist points to assist subject detection, improved out-of-focus detection to reduce focus hunting and a dedicated F2.8 sensor for enhanced AF accuracy with wide aperture lenses. Sony A900 Alpha features SteadyShot Inside The Sony a900 digital SLR is also the world’s first full-frame camera to feature SteadyShot INSIDE. This enhanced in-body optical stabilisation system delivers up to 4 steps of anti-shake correction with all compatible lenses, opening up even greater creative possibilities when shooting handheld. Shots can be evaluated critically on the 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD with an exceptionally high resolution (921k dot) that offers sharp, clear viewing – even outdoors or in bright ambient light. There’s a wide choice of index view options to simplify best-shot selection, plus a full-featured RGB histogram and shooting information display. Sony A900 LCD functions At the touch of a button, the LCD display switches to Quick Navi mode, allowing rapid on-the-fly adjustment of camera settings without disturbing your creative workflow. A new Intelligent Preview function simulates the effect of White Balance, D-Range Optimizer and exposure level on the LCD screen without actually taking a picture. By simple confirmation on the camera, all the new settings are applied to take the next picture. This simplifies precise control over the final image in complex setups. Sony Digital Photography Shots can also be viewed on a connected HD television. PhotoTV HD mode provides optimized still image viewing with breathtaking clarity and lifelike colours on compatible BRAVIA televisions. The HDMI terminal also gives access to HD picture viewing on any compatible TV. Sony DSLR-A900 features • Superlative, detail-packed images from full-frame 24.6 effective megapixel CMOS sensor Exmor • Bright optical glass pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage • Enhanced SteadyShot INSIDE offers up to 4.0 steps anti-shake performance with Alpha lenses • Sharp shooting responses and flawless, low-noise images from dual BIONZ image processor • Review images on High Resolution 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD • Fast, high-accuracy 9-point AF with 10 focus assist points • 5fps continuous shooting at full resolution 24.6 megapixels Sony A900 Body Built for years of unstinting service in challenging environments, the Sony Alpha 900 DLSR is ruggedly constructed from a high-tensile aluminum chassis with magnesium alloy body panels. Viewfinder, card slots, controls and other sensitive areas are protected from dust and moisture by rubber seals for worry-free shooting. The inside of the camera is also protected by an anti-dust system that safeguards the full-frame sensor from the effects of dust entering the body during lens exchange. Sony VG-C90AM vertical grip Allowing stable, comfortable handling in portrait or landscape orientations, the optional Sony VG-C90AM Vertical Grip holds up to two high-capacity batteries for extended shooting time and all the major controls are available in vertical holding for easy operation. The grip has also been designed in same high quality material as the Sony DSLR A900 with magnesium alloy and rubber parts. Sony A900 Lens options There’s now wide range of compatible Alpha lenses to fully realize the incredible imaging potential of the camera’s full-frame sensor. The choice of premium G series optics by Sony is joined by the high-power 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM telephoto, featuring a High-torque Super Sonic wave Motor for fast, silent AF operation. .Also from Carl Zeiss, the Vario-Sonnar T* 16-35mm F2.8 ZA SSM is a fast, high-performance wide angle zoom that’s ideal for interiors, landscapes and challenging photo-reportage applications. Sony HVL-F58AM flash unit The complete Alpha system is further strengthened by the new Sony HVL-F58AM – a high-power flash (GN 58) featuring Sony’s innovative ‘Quick Shift Bounce’ system that offers even more creative control over lighting, flash and bounces angles. It’s unique ‘Quick Shift Bounce’ design make the flash head able to rotate instantly in portrait mode to keep the bounce direction for much more natural and beautiful subject lightning. For those using studio setups, Wireless Auto Flash Control also computes power ratios for up to three groups of flashes, simplifying the management of complex lighting set-ups. Sony Alpha A900 price info Availability of the Sony DSLR-A900 depends on the region, price in Europe will be 2999,00 Euro.

Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-45mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH. lens : Panasonic has unveiled a new standard zoom interchangeable lens designed specifically for the cameras compatible with Micro Four Thirds System standard. Suitable for a wide range of scenes from portrait to landscape photography, the new Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-45mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH. MEGA O.I.S. lens offers an zoom range of 14-45mm (35mm equivalent: 28-90mm) while featuring its ultra-compact size and light weight. The aspheric lens element also improves optical performance by minimizing distortion, even at the 28mm wide end.

Panasonic Lumix G Vario Mega O.I.S. lens The new Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-45mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH. MEGA O.I.S. lens incorporates Panasonic’s Mega O.I.S. optical image stabilizer, which makes it easy to shoot super clear shots even in low-lit situations by suppressing the blur caused by a hand shake. When the lens is mounted on the newly announced Lumix G Micro System DMC-G1 camera, you can use the contrast AF system, which is implemented in the DMC-G1 to offer a wide variety of convenient functions. Panasonic Lumix 14-45mm lens features With its minimum focus distance of 30 cm even at full zoom, the new lens provides a maximum photographic magnification of 0.34x (35mm equivalent). Seven aperture blades give the aperture a rounded shape that, when shooting at larger aperture, produces an attractive smoothness in out-of-focus areas. Featuring a highly reliable metal mount, the new lens system uses multi-coated lens elements that reduce ghosts and flare to an absolute minimum, helping deliver a high optical performance. Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-45mm lens specifications • Lens Construction : 12 elements in 9 groups (1 Aspherical lens) • Mount : Micro Four Thirds mount • Optical Image Stabilizer : Yes • Focal Length : f=14mm to 45mm (35mm film camera equivalent 28mm to 90mm) • Aperture Type : 7 diaphragm blades / Circular aperture diaphragm • Aperture : F3.5(Wide) – F5.6(Tele) • Minimum Aperture : F22 • Closest Focusing Distance : 0.30m at all focal lengths • Maximum magnification : Approx. 0.17x / 0.34x (35mm film camera equivalent) • Diagonal Angle of View : 75°（Ｗ）～27°（Ｔ） • Filter Size : φ52mm / 2.05 in • Max. Diameter : φ 60mm / 2.36 in • Overall Length : Approx. 60mm / 2.36 in (from the tip of the lens to the base side of the mount) • Weight : Approx. 195g / 6.88oz • Standard Accessories : Lens Cap, Lens Hood, Lens Rear Cap, Lens Storage Bag

Panasonic Lumix G lens camera system : Panasonic is pleased to announce a brand-new digital interchangeable lens camera system – the Lumix G Micro System. It is based on the new Micro Four Thirds System standard that greatly reduces camera size and weight to further enhance the inherent advantages of the original Four Thirds System standard for digital interchangeable lens cameras. Although the world market for digital interchangeable lens cameras continues to grow at a steady pace, yet there is a widespread notion that digital SLR cameras are large, heavy and hard to use resulting in a preference for compact cameras. Panasonic has now made it possible to develop digital interchangeable lens camera that comply with the new Micro Four Thirds System standard and feature greater compactness and lighter weight.

Panasonic Lumix G – Micro Four Thirds System The new Micro Four Thirds System products will join today’s Four Thirds System products to provide customers with even higher levels of performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera. The features that clearly set the Micro Four Thirds System standard apart from the Four Thirds System standard: approx. 50% shorter flange back distance (mount-to-sensor distance), approx. 6mm smaller lens mount outer diameter and electrical contacts in mount increased from 9 to 11. In essence, not only the camera unit but also the Micro Four Thirds lenses are smaller, and this is particularly true for the wide-angle and high-power zoom lenses. The number of electrical contacts between the lens and the camera body is also increased in the new Micro Four Thirds System, to allow a variety of new features and system functions in future models. The Micro Four Thirds System will also allow users to continue using their present Four Thirds System lenses on Micro Four Thirds System bodies by adding a mount adapter. Together with an innovative mirror-less structure that also dramatically downsizes the camera body, the Panasonic Lumix G Micro System achieves a dramatic portability and ease of use by an adoption of electronic Full-time Live View Finder instead of conventional optical viewfinder. Panasonic Lumix G Micro System Combining superb image quality and unprecedented mobility, Panasonic Lumix G Micro System will change the way you see the world around you, and the role that photography plays in your life. Panasonic is committed to creating a new photographic culture by introducing innovative, high-performance cameras and lenses for this new generation standard.

SanDisk Extreme III CompactFlash 32GB card : Who says big cards can’t be fast? SanDisk Corporation announced the 32-gigabyte (GB) SanDisk Extreme III CompactFlash (CF) card, the latest addition to its award-winning SanDisk Extreme III line. Combining world-class storage capacity with fast data transfer rates, SanDisk’s new memory card is designed to meet the demands of professional digital videographers and photographers. For many cards, an increase in storage capacity often comes at a cost to speed, but the 32GB SanDisk Extreme III CF card at 30 megabytes per second (MB/s) offers customers the best of both worlds.

32GB SanDisk CF for Video- and Photography “High-definition camcorders require high-capacity memory cards, and our 32GB SanDisk Extreme III CompactFlash cards offer video professionals longer record times and improved data transfer rates,” said Susan Park, director of consumer product marketing for SanDisk’s performance cards. “Our award-winning SanDisk Extreme III CompactFlash cards carry a tradition of excellence, and the recent series-wide speed increase to 30MB/s advances their legacy as professional-grade storage devices.” Increased capacity for longer-duration filming Reinforcing SanDisk’s position as a leading innovator of flash memory technology, the 32GB SanDisk Extreme III CF card provides increased capacity for longer-duration filming, and its 30MB/s (200x)2 read and write speeds 2 enable users to record and transfer content quickly and reliably, thus maximizing critical workflow. These complementary features make the new card especially attractive to field producers and camera crews who typically operate under tight deadlines. SanDisk Extreme III CompactFlash 32GB card “The 32GB SanDisk Extreme III CompactFlash cards are a great fit for our Infinity DMC 1000/10 and DMC 1000/20 camcorders,” said Scott Sheehan, director of marketing for new and emerging markets at Thomson. “Our customers want a choice in media that meets the needs of their file-based workflows. Solid state memory provides the fastest access to such content, and with SanDisk CompactFlash it’s also affordable. Using SanDisk’s 32GB Extreme III CompactFlash card, our customers can record more than 80 minutes of 100 MB/s, 10-bit, 4:2:2 HD video at the high performance needed for today’s professional video applications.” SanDisk Extreme III CF 32GB at the International Broadcasting Convention The 32GB SanDisk Extreme III CF memory card will be featured at the Thomson Grass Valley booth at the International Broadcasting Convention (IBC) in Amsterdam Sept. 12-16. Thomson will showcase its line of professional camcorders in conjunction with SanDisk’s new 32GB card, and demonstrate the practical applications of the card’s increased storage capacity and speed. SanDisk 32GB CompactFlash for professional photographers The 32GB SanDisk Extreme III CF card benefits professional photographers, who often shoot strictly in RAW format. RAW images demand up to ten times as much space as regular JPG images. Photographers often use continuous shooting mode during high-action situations such as sporting events or theatrical performances, and the high resolution photos add up quickly. SanDisk Extreme 3 32GB CF – Speed increase All SanDisk Extreme III CF cards from 4GB to 32GB, as well as the new SanDisk Extreme III SDHC and SanDisk Extreme III Memory Stick PRO HG DUO, recently received a 50 percent speed increase from 20MB/s to 30MB/s. Renowned for their world-class durability, SanDisk Extreme III CF cards possess the industry’s widest guaranteed operating temperature, ranging from minus 13F (minus 25C) to 185F (plus 85C). 32GB SanDisk CompactFlash – Price & Availability The 32GB SanDisk Extreme III CF card has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price in the United States of $299.99. Worldwide availability of the card is targeted for October.

Panasonic Lumix G Vario 45-200mm F4.0-5.6 lens : Panasonic has unveiled today a new telephoto zoom interchangeable lens designed specifically for the cameras compatible with Micro Four Thirds System standard. The new Panasonic Lumix G Vario 45-200mm F4.0-5.6 MEGA O.I.S. lens offers a zoom range of 45-200mm (35mm equivalent: 90-200mm) while achieving minimum aberration at all focal length, high-contrast representation and high color reproduction by implementing 3 ED lens elements.

Panasonic Lumix G Vario Mega O.I.S. lens The new Panasonic Lumix G Vario 45-200mm F4.0-5.6 MEGA O.I.S. lens incorporates Panasonic’s Mega O.I.S. optical image stabilizer, which makes it easy to shoot super clear shots even in telephoto shooting or in low-lit situations without using a tripod by suppressing the blur caused by a hand shake. When the lens is mounted on the newly announced Panasonic Lumix G Micro System DMC-G1 camera, you can use the contrast AF system, which is implemented in the DMC-G1 to offer a wide variety of convenient functions. Panasonic Lumix 45-200mm lens features Seven aperture blades give the aperture a rounded shape that, when shooting at larger aperture, produces an attractive smoothness in out-of-focus areas. Featuring a highly reliable metal mount, the new lens system uses multi-coated lens elements that reduce ghosts and flare to an absolute minimum, helping deliver a high optical performance. Panasonic Lumix G Vario 45-200mm lens specifications • Lens Construction : 16 elements in 13 groups • Mount : Micro Four Thirds mount • Optical Image Stabilizer : Yes • Focal Length : f=45mm to 200mm (35mm film camera equivalent 90mm to 400mm) • Aperture Type : 7 diaphragm blades / Circular aperture diaphragm • Aperture : F4.0(Wide) – F5.6(Tele) • Minimum Aperture : F22 • Closest Focusing Distance : 1.0m at all focal lengths • Maximum magnification : Approx. 0.19x / 0.38x (35mm film camera equivalent) • Diagonal Angle of View : 27°（Ｗ）～6.2°（Ｔ） • Filter Size : φ52mm / 2.05 in • Max. Diameter : φ 70mm / 2.75 in • Overall Length : Approx. 100mm / 3.93 in (from the tip of the lens to the base side of the mount) • Weight : Approx. 380g / 13.4 oz • Standard Accessories : Lens Cap, Lens Hood, Lens Rear Cap, Lens Storage Bag

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 digital system camera : Panasonic announced the release of the DMC-G1, an exciting new digital interchangeable lens camera that is based on the new Micro Four Thirds System Standard. Combining a downsized body and advanced camera features that realize the operational comfort even as easy as that of compact cameras, the super-mobile G1 shatters the old notion that all digital SLRs are bulky, heavy and hard to use. This, plus the superior picture quality made possible by a 4/3-type image sensor, draws a clear line between the new-generation Panasonic Lumix G1 and all conventional digital SLR cameras.

Panasonic DMC-G1 M4/3 camera With the Lumix DMC G1, Panasonic has developed an entirely new-concept digital camera that takes even greater advantage of the compactness and light weight inherent in the Four Thirds System Standard. By increasing the number of electrical contacts between camera body and lens, Panasonic has also increased camera expandability and maximized the future potential of the Panasonic G1, including compatibility with future features. In addition, the versatile G1 accepts not only Micro Four Thirds System interchangeable lenses, but also conventional Four Thirds System lenses (when an optional adapter is mounted). This means that users can continue to use Four Thirds lenses they already own. Panasonic G1 employs the Micro Four Thirds System The Panasonic G1 is the world’s first camera to employ the new Micro Four Thirds System standard. Together with an innovative mirror-less structure that also dramatically downsizes the camera body, the Lumix G Micro System achieves a dramatic portability and ease of use by an adoption of electronic Full-time Live View Finder instead of conventional optical viewfinder. Despite the G1′s ultra-compact design, it comes fully equipped with features that assure outstanding ease of use, made possible by the contrast AF system. The Panasonic G1 also boasts iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, a feature that took the world by storm in Lumix digital compact cameras. iA mode brings together a full range of functions – led by AF Tracking , Face Detection, Intelligent ISO Control and Intelligent Exposure – that together let users take strikingly beautiful photos with maximum ease every time they shoot. The Lumix G1 breaks new ground in styling too, overturning SLR camera conventions by giving users a variety of body colors to choose from. For people who have been hesitant about moving up to an SLR camera, the G1 is a perfect fit. It is a small, sophisticated, easy-to-use camera that will greatly expand any user’s photographic capabilities. Live MOS sensor on the Panasonic Lumix DMC G1 The Panasonic DMC-G1′s Live MOS sensor gives users the benefits of Full-time Live View both when viewing the Free-Angle LCD and when looking through the viewfinder. Other new conveniences made possible by the contrast AF include 1-area-focusing, AF Tracking, and a preview functions that show the photographer how changing the shutter speed (and other settings) will affect the photograph. The large 3.0-inch free-angle LCD, with its 100% field of view and sharp 460,000-dot resolution, lets the photographer check even fine details when composing an image or viewing a shot just taken. Panasonic Venus Engine HD imaging processor Behind the G1′s exceptional image quality is a 4/3-type 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor that boasts a wide dynamic range and low power consumption, plus Panasonic’s new Venus Engine HD imaging processor, with its superb noise reduction performance and expandability represented by HDMI output capability. Because dust entering the body is a concern with all interchangeable lens cameras, Panasonic equipped the G1 with a Supersonic Wave Filter as part of a Dust Reduction System designed to prevent dust and other foreign matter from adhering to the image sensor. G1 mount adapter for standard Four Thirds lenses In addition to accepting Micro Four Thirds lenses, the Panasonic Lumix G1 can be fitted with a mount adapter that allows the use of standard Four Thirds lenses. This greatly expands the assortment of lenses available to users. They can choose lenses from a variety of manufacturers and in a variety of combinations, for virtually unlimited photographic capabilities. A wide range of special accessories is available too. The DMC-G1 also is equipped with a mini HDMI output terminal for easy connection with other AV devices. With features like these, the G1 gives users a host of photographic and entertainment possibilities to explore. Panasonic digital interchangeable lens camera The stylish Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 is an entirely new kind of digital camera with an unprecedented feature set. Especially for people who have never before used an interchangeable lens camera, and for those who have tried one but didn’t find it comfortable, the easy-to-use G1 can open the door to a world of fun, beauty and unlimited creative possibilities. With the Panasonic G1, Panasonic introduces an innovative mirror-less structure that dramatically downsizes the camera body. The DMC G1 is far more compact than conventional SLR camera on the market, thanks in large part to the Micro Four Thirds System, a new standard for interchangeable lens cameras. This new system has made it possible to reduce the flange back distance (between the mount and the image sensor) to approx. 20 mm – half the 40 mm specified in the Four Thirds System. The outside diameter of the mount is also reduced, by about 6 mm. The Micro Four Thirds System makes it possible to downsize not only the camera body, but the lenses too – particularly wide-angle lenses and high-power zoom lenses – while maintaining the superior image quality characteristic of the 4/3 image sensor. Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 digital system camera The G1′s ground-breaking structural design forever dispels the notion that an interchangeable lens camera has to be big and heavy – a drawback that’s deterred many people from switching to an digital SLR. Even with its generous 3.0-inch LCD, the G1 is extremely compact – and there is absolutely no compromise in function or performance. Another attractive feature that separates the Panasonic G1 from conventional digital SLR cameras is the choice of body colors. While traditionalists can choose the standard black body, others will enjoy the appealing blue and red colors available. With its exceptional mobility and features, the G1 offers a new style of photography; with its design and color selection, it offers a new sense of camera style. Live View Finder on the Panasonic DMC-G1 With the Lumix G1 users enjoy the advantages of Full-time Live View not only when viewing the LCD, but when using the electronic viewfinder too. The G1′s viewfinder system retains the outstanding viewability of an optical viewfinder and can also display information about camera settings that the user can see without taking his or her eye from the subject. This is one of the ways Full-time Live View uses digital technology to give the photographer useful new features and functions. In addition to a mirror-less structure, the G1 features a high-resolution 1,440,000-dot equivalent Live View Finder. Panasonic G1 features a 3″ high-resolution LCD A clever built-in eye sensor automatically switches on the viewfinder when the user looks into it, then switches it off and turns on the 3.0-inch high-resolution 460,000-dot LCD (which boasts a wide viewing angle) when the user looks away from the viewfinder. The 60-frames-per-second Live View is made possible by the Live MOS sensor, which takes signals directly from the image sensor and sends them continuously to the LCD, in real time. You can use either auto focus or manual focus while using the Full-time Live View. Both the Live View Finder and LCD provide a 100% field of view. This allows the user, when composing a shot, to check the framing accurately from corner to corner. Contrast AF function & Quick AF function The Panasonic Lumix G1 introduces a new Contrast AF function that is not only accurate and easy to use, but also very fast. Users can choose from a wide range of AF modes, including multiple-area AF with up to 23 focus areas, 1-area AF with a selectable focus area, Face Detection, and AF Tracking. In the 1-area AF mode, the AF frame size can be changed by simply turning a dial. The Lumix DMC-G1 also has a Quick AF function that begins focusing as soon as the user aims the camera – no waiting for him or her to press the shutter button halfway. This provides a quicker focusing that can help capture the subject before the crucial moment passes. Continuous AF keeps the subject in focus at all times. With the G1′s many auto focus modes, there’s an option that’s just right for any shooting situation. Panasonic LCD screen rotates 180 degrees A large, clear, easy-to-see LCD, that rotates 180º horizontally and 270º vertically is upgraded both in size and resolution to be 3.0-inch with 460,000-dot high resolution to offer even more comfortable view for both monitoring when shooting and for playing back the results. Extraordinary 3:2 aspect of the LCD on DMC-G1 is familiar to those who are used to analog film cameras. The Panasonic G1 is designed for easy viewing, no matter where your photographic pursuits take you. When the lighting around you changes, the LCD changes too. The Auto Power LCD function automatically boosts brightness by as much as 40%, depending on the shooting condition. The LCD monitor remains easy to see at all times. This helps make framing a shot with Full-time Live View even easier. Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Live View Finder The Panasonic DMC-G1′s Live View Finder has the large 1.4x (0.7x on 35mm equiv.) magnification and the 100% field of view as the optical viewfinders on high-end digital SLR cameras. This, plus the 1,440,000-dot equivalent resolution, makes it easy to shoot the exact image the camera sees. Surprisingly, when you look into the viewfinder, a sensor automatically turns the Live View Finder on and the LCD off. You enjoy smoother, easier shooting without having to switch the setting of display. In addition, customize the camera to fit your shooting preference by changing the display style or switching to a full-screen display. The user enjoys a seamless 60fps Live View both on the LCD and LVF. The G1′s Live View Finder, which is based on a field sequential system that uses RGB 3-independent sequential illumination to produce 180 fps for each of the three colors, gives the user a clear, natural and comfortable view when framing a shot. The LCD can swivel 180 degrees horizontally and 270 degrees vertically, giving the user the flexibility to take low-angle and high-angle shots easily and comfortably. The DMC-G1 also features the Quick Menu, so you can make a variety of settings without taking your eye from the Live View Finder. Intelligent Auto mode on the Lumix G1 When you don’t know which mode will give you the best shooting results, or when a sudden photo opportunity pops up and you don’t have time to make any settings, simply choose iA (Intelligent Auto) mode and let the camera do it all for you. This advanced mode includes MEGA O.I.S. to detect hand-shake, Intelligent ISO Control to detect subject movement, Face Detection to detect faces in the frame, Intelligent Scene Selector to detect scene conditions, Light Detection to detect the brightness level, and AF Tracking to continually track a moving subject and keep it in focus. These six functions work automatically and simultaneously in iA Mode to optimize your settings, making it easier than ever to take beautiful photos every time. MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) system MEGA O.I.S., implemented in the lens, compensates for the blurring caused by hand-shake. Even slight hand-shake movement is accurately detected by a sampling frequency of 4,000 times per second, and compensated to produce sharp, clear images. It also works for zoom shots and macro shots, which are especially susceptible to hand-shake, and lets you shoot in dimly lit rooms or evening illumination, without a flash, to preserve the mood. Intelligent ISO Control for motion detection The Intelligent ISO Control function detects subject movement and automatically adjusts the ISO setting and shutter speed to best suit the movement and light conditions. When it detects subject motion, it automatically raises the ISO setting and increases the shutter speed to prevent motion blur. On the other hand, when the subject is still and no movement is detected, it takes beautifully natural photos with a low ISO setting. Intelligent ISO Control gives you stunning images with ease because there is no need for complicated settings. Intelligent Exposure function for light detection The Intelligent Exposure function increases the exposure only in under-exposed areas by detecting the brightness level part-by-part in the picture. If the background includes the sky, which tends to be easily washed out, the camera automatically adjusts the aperture and shutter speed to keep the setting slightly under-exposed to prevent wash-out while brightening the darkened area by increasing the ISO only in that area. If the background of an indoor portrait receives insufficient lighting from a flash and becomes dark, the ISO sensitivity is raised in only the low-lit area to make it brighter without causing graininess in the subject’s face. When Intelligent Exposure is turned on, the icon changes from white to yellow. In addition, you can adjust the effect in three levels in normal shooting mode— high, normal, and low. Face Detection function on the Panasonic G1 The Face Detection function detects faces and automatically optimizes the focus and exposure settings. It prevents the blurry faces that happen when the camera focuses on something in front of or behind the subject, and keeps faces from appearing dark when shooting indoors or against the light source. It detects up to 15 faces at a time, making it extremely convenient for group photos. Once the camera detects a face, Face Tracking follows it even when the subject moves around. This makes it easy to capture the person’s face quickly if he or she is moving. It is also equipped with Digital Red-eye Correction. The camera takes care of the red-eye effect that often happens when shooting with a flash, to ensure attractive facial expression always. Panasonic Intelligent Scene Selector When the camera’s in iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode, the Intelligent Scene Selector automatically sets the Scene Mode to either Scenery, Portrait, Close-up, Night Portrait or Night Scenery. The camera judges it from the various detection results such as focusing distance, inclusion of human face and brightness level of the circumstance. You are free from annoying settings every time scene changes when taking pictures with these most frequently used Scene Modes to get beautiful results even before you know it. AF Tracking for subject detection Simply focus on your subject, then press the shutter button to activate AF Tracking. Even when you remove your finger from the shutter button, the camera continues to automatically keep your moving subject in focus. This keeps the focus sharp and blur-free when shooting active children or pets, as well as when capturing sports scenes or subjects in a moving object. It minimizes the shutter time lag so you won’t miss those spur-of-the-moment shots, and helps to give you truly beautiful photos always. DMC-G1 shooting assist functions The user can activate all of these useful, convenient shooting-assist functions by simply selecting iA mode. This makes the Lumix DMC-G1 the ultimate, super-versatile automatic camera for capturing clear, beautiful, mistake-free photos with ease despite its high quality image rendering capability as a system camera. My Color Mode on the Panasonic DMC-G1 My Color Mode is a special option that gives free rein to the user’s creativity. In My Color mode you can freely adjust the color, brightness and saturation parameters, while checking the Full-time Live View image to see how those adjustments affect the picture. This makes it easier and more fun to create interesting, expressive images. Adjust the settings that best suit the shooting conditions and your expressive intent, and then enjoy your own photography. Panasonic G1 incorporates Film Mode Furthermore, the Panasonic DMC-G1 provides options of picture taste with the function called Film Mode. Each analog film has its characteristics such as with color, contrast, gradation and which affects on the outcome of the picture, in other words, it is one of the ways of expression. With the Lumix G1, the Film Mode allows you to choose the one that takes the best advantage of the scene or the subject you take out of a total of nine film modes including Standard, Dynamic, Nature, Smooth, Nostalgic, Vibrant, Standard B/W, Dynamic B/W and Smooth B/W, with capability of fine adjustment of contrast, sharpness, saturation and noise reduction. Users can also shoot the same scene in 3 different films using the new Multi Film mode. All these settings can be confirmed before you take the picture and the result is always as you intended. Lumix DMC-G1 white balance settings The Full-time Live View lets the users check the outcome image in advance after adjusting the shutter speed, aperture or white balance. The white balance can be adjusted in the area of two-axis of coordinates precisely. And also the white balance bracket in 3 pictures either along with A(amber)-B(Blue) axis or G(Green)-M(Magenta) axis is now available for Panasonic G1. Panasonic 4/3-type 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor The 4/3-type 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor featured in the DMC-G1 offers the best of both worlds – the superior image quality of a CCD sensor, and the lower power consumption of a CMOS sensor. New technology that makes it possible to read 4 channels of data simultaneously also helps the Panasonic G1 deliver 60 frames-per-second Full-time Live View images, while faithfully reproducing high-resolution images with fine detail and rich gradation. 12 Megapixel Panasonic camera For the image processing LSI, the new Venus Engine HD features exceptionally advanced signal processing capabilities. This sophisticated LSI separates chromatic noise from luminance noise and applies the optimal noise reduction to each, so you capture clear and beautiful images even when shooting at high ISO sensitivity levels. The Venus Engine HD also provides independent gradation control for each of the R, G and B colors, so even delicate color nuances are reproduced faithfully. Linking smoothly with the Live MOS sensor, the Venus Engine HD records stunning high-resolution 12-megapixel images with exceptional accuracy. Signals containing a large amount of image data are sent from the Live MOS sensor to the high-resolution Live View Finder, resulting in the 1.44 million-dot equivalent sharp clear images at 60 fps. The Venus Engine HD also supports an extensive range of functions, including HDMI output. Panasonic dust reduction system If dust or other foreign matter gets inside the camera when you’re changing lenses, it could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in your photos. The Dust Reduction System in the Lumix DMC-G1 helps eliminate this possibility by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor. Vibrating around 50,000 times per second, the filter repels dust and other particles. Panasonic Lumix G Micro System The Panasonic Lumix G1 and Lumix G Micro System is compatible with any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds Standard. This gives you access to the entire range of Four Thirds lenses. And a stream of new Micro Four Thirds lenses will be announced in the future, giving you a large, diverse line of high-performance lenses to add to your photographic toolbox. With the Lumix G Micro System and the growing assortment of lenses becoming available, your expressive possibilities are unlimited. The Panasonic DMC-G1 is a system camera with a wide variety of options to choose from to match your shooting situations and style. Panasonic Lumix G1 accessories • External Flash: DMW-FL220 (GN22) • External Flash: DMW-FL360 (GN36) • External Flash: DMW-FL500 (GN50) • PL Filter: DMW-LPL52 • ND Filter: DMW-LND52 • MC Protector: DMW-LMC52 • Mount Adapter: DMW-MA1 • Battery Pack: DMW-BLB13 • DC Cable: DMW-DCC3 • Soft Case: DMW-CG1 • Soft Bag: DMW-BAG1 • Shoulder Strap (Stylish) DMW-SSTG1-A/C/R • Shoulder Strap (Woven）DMW-SSTG2-W • Shoulder Strap (Leather) DMW-SSTG3-T • Remote Shutter: DMW-RSL1 • HDMI mini Cable: RP-CDHM15(1.5m), RP-CDHM30(3.0m) View your photos on a Panasonic Viera TV The Panasonic G1 has an HDMI output terminal. When the G1 is connected to an HDMI-compatible TV via an HDMI mini cable (purchased separately), the user can easily enjoy a slideshow of photos taken with the G1. When the Lumix DMC-G1 is connected to a VIERA TV that has VIERA Link capability, the TV’s remote control unit can be used to run the slideshow. Panasonic DMC-G1 manual focus mode When using the Panasonic Lumix G1 in manual focus mode, the frame will automatically enlarge by around 5x or 10x (magnification can be altered by the front dial) for easy viewing in the Live View Finder or high-resolution LCD with Manual Assist function. This lets the user frame the shot with greater ease and accuracy. The movable guide lines make it easy to check the horizontal and vertical positioning of the subject and scene, no matter how the shot is being composed. Quick Menu on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 The Quick Menu has further evolved as an interface in the G1. The newly enhanced menu screen makes it easier to use the G1′s advanced functions, while simply rotating the turn-and-push device (front dial) lets the user select and enter settings with a single finger, without having to look away from the viewfinder. Most settings can be made in this way. The new My Menu tab automatically stores the five most recently used menu items, for quick, easy retrieval. The custom setting function can also be used to register a shortcut for a frequently used function; the function can then be activated by pressing the Down button of the cursor key. The color of the LCD information display screen can be changed in three colors. These features make the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 easier to operate while also giving the user a way to customize his or her camera.