Technology, Data Recovery, Cell Phones, Latest Gadgets, Game Reviews

T-Mobile Samsung Vibrant available for pre-order July 1 from Radio Shack

2010-06-30T15:44:00.001+05:30

We knew it was coming on the 21st of July, but a fresh press release has delivered T-Mobile Galaxy S fans some good news. You can pre-order yourself a Samsung Galaxy S, known to T-Mobile customers as the Vibrant, starting on July 1st courtesy of Radio Shack. You can hit up The Shack online — at www.radioshack.com/vibrant — or in one of their 4,000 retail locations to reserve yourself Samsung’s flagship Android handset. We’ve got the full press release for you after the bounce.

Samsung Vibrant from T-Mobile USA to Bring Robust Entertainment Experience on a Brilliant Screen T-Mobile’s Latest Android™-Powered Device Offers Exclusive Entertainment Experience, Including James Cameron’s Avatar In a Slim Smartphone Package
BELLEVUE, Wash. and DALLAS, June 29 /PRNewswire/ — T-Mobile USA, Inc. and Samsung Telecommunications America (Samsung Mobile), the No. 1 mobile phone provider in the U.S.(1), today announced the Samsung Vibrant™, a Samsung Galaxy S™ device available from T-Mobile.
Through pre-installed applications and pre-loaded content, the Samsung Vibrant’s comprehensive multimedia capabilities combine all your entertainment and communication needs into one device — it’s a television, bookshelf, radio, movie library, gaming system, and of course, a smartphone. The Vibrant comes fully loaded with exclusive entertainment features including “James Cameron’s Avatar” on an included 2GB external memory card and an exclusive collector’s edition of a popular game. The Vibrant also brings the Amazon Kindle for Android™ application with access to more than 600,000 books, MobiTV with live and on-demand TV, and much more.
The Vibrant’s 4-inch Super AMOLED touch screen display gives customers a vivid, sharp color HD-like viewing experience, whether consumers choose to play a game, watch a movie or read an e-book while on the go. Featuring a slim and sleek design, the Vibrant is one of the most portable and accessible mobile entertainment devices available to U.S. consumers. The speedy Samsung 1GHz Cortex A8 Hummingbird Application Processor and six-axis sensor are optimized for media and gaming, which gives consumers a seamless, immersive experience while reading, watching and playing. The Vibrant is also the latest smartphone in T-Mobile’s lineup that can benefit from enhanced speeds in locations with T-Mobile’s super-fast HSPA+ network.(2)
“By combining best-selling, award-winning content and amazing hardware that brings that content to life, T-Mobile continues to deliver on its commitment to bring innovative mobile entertainment experiences to consumers’ fingertips,” said Paul Cole, vice president, devices and accessories, T-Mobile USA. “We are proud to introduce the Samsung Vibrant as the latest addition to our growing lineup of Android-powered devices.”
“The Samsung Vibrant contains all of the premium core features that the Galaxy S portfolio offers to consumers, including an industry leading display and powerful processor. The Galaxy S devices make the smartphone brilliant,” said Omar Khan, chief strategy officer for Samsung Mobile. “When you combine the Vibrant’s incredible hardware with preloaded content like ‘Avatar,’ along with thousands of applications available on the Android Market, the entertainment and customization possibilities are endless.”
“‘James Cameron’s Avatar’ is in many ways the most innovative film ever produced, and in working with Samsung and T-Mobile we are now able to offer this eye-catching experience to viewers in a new and dynamic environment on the Samsung Vibrant,” said Peter Levinsohn, president of new media and digital distribution for 20th Century FOX Film Company.
The multimedia experience that makes the Samsung Vibrant a great option for entertainment enthusiasts includes the following:
20th Century Fox’s “James Cameron’s Avatar,” full-screen movie pre-loaded on the Samsung Vibrant, takes consumers back to Pandora, the fictional world created by James Cameron, in the highest-grossing film in history.
Amazon Kindle for Android application provides direct access to more than 600,000 books, including a vast majority of The New York Times Best Sellers and New Releases. Before consumers purchase a book, they can read the first chapter for free. They also can read reviews and recommendations from Amazon.com and its customers. With Kindle for Android, customers can sync their reading with their other Kindle devices so they never lose their place or are without their reading.
MobiTV mobile phone application offers consumers access to live and on-demand TV available in English and Spanish — including more than 35 channels of news, sports and entertainment. Favorite channels such as Bravo, Disney Channel, ESPN, NBC and more are available for Samsung Vibrant consumers to watch at home or away. Plus, when Vibrant consumers subscribe to MobiTV, their first 30 days of service are free.(3)
Slacker Radio mobile application comes pre-loaded on the Samsung Vibrant, allowing anyone to listen to free personalized radio. Slacker offers more than 120 genre stations and the ability to create your own. With millions of songs from thousands of artists, Slacker is the best way to discover new artists and hear your favorite music.
Gogo® Inflight Internet service offers a bonus to consumers who purchase the Samsung Vibrant: up to a month of free in-flight Wi-Fi access on their device, with Internet access on more than 3,000 daily flights and growing every day in the continental U.S.(4)
Samsung Media Hub, expected to be available in the near future, is a full library of video and literary content powered by some of the biggest names in entertainment.
The Samsung Vibrant’s assets go beyond its impressive entertainment features. Running Android 2.1, the Samsung Vibrant offers a seven-panel home screen and access to Android Market™ to personalize the device with 65,000 applications, including applications for social networking, gaming, travel and more. Samsung’s Social Hub service helps consumers to easily keep in touch with family and friends through integrated contacts, calendars, social networking sites and group messaging, including the ability to “reply all” for up to 10 contacts. The Vibrant also supports six languages: English, Spanish, French, Dutch, Italian and Korean.
The Vibrant delivers advanced phone features such as GPS functionality with access to turn-by-turn navigation and Swype® text input for fast, accurate communication. It also features a 5-megapixel camera with digital zoom and autofocus, and a video camera for recording crystal-clear, high-definition (720p) videos and photos for playback on an HD television. With support for up to 32 GB of external memory, the Vibrant provides ample space for consumers’ entertainment favorites. Consumers can customize their Vibrant with two battery cover options in dark blue and lavender that will come packaged exclusively with the T-Mobile device.
Availability
The Samsung Vibrant and its exclusive pre-loaded entertainment content is expected to be available to T-Mobile customers beginning July 21. Customers can visit http://galaxy-s.t-mobile.com for more information. In addition, it is expected that beginning on July 1, customers may pre-order the Samsung Vibrant at any one of more than 4,000 RadioShack® stores. To pre-order, customers must purchase a $50 gift card, which will be applied toward the retail price of the device. Customers can schedule an appointment to pick up and activate their devices at RadioShack stores with anticipated availability starting July 21. Customers who pre-order at RadioShack will receive a $50 gift card by mail after purchasing their phone with qualifying voice and data plan on a two-year contract. The ability to pre-order is also expected to be available online at http://www.radioshack.com/vibrant beginning July 1.

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Apple sells 1.7 million iPhone 4s in 3 days

2010-06-30T15:42:00.001+05:30

The official numbers are in, and it looks like Apple, Inc. managed to push out 1.7 million iPhone 4s from Thursday the 24th through this Saturday the 26th. Pretty impressive numbers coming out of Cupertino. We’ve got the official press release after the bump.

CUPERTINO, California-June 28, 2010-Apple® today announced that it has sold over 1.7 million of its iPhone® 4 through Saturday, June 26, just three days after its launch on June 24. The new iPhone 4 features FaceTime®, which makes video calling as easy as one tap, and Apple’s new Retina display, the highest resolution display ever built into a phone, resulting in stunning text, images and video.

“This is the most successful product launch in Apple’s history,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. “Even so, we apologize to those customers who were turned away because we did not have enough supply.”

iPhone 4 also features a 5 megapixel camera with LED flash, HD 720p video recording, Apple’s A4 processor, a 3-axis gyro and up to 40 percent longer talk time-in a beautiful all-new design of glass and stainless steel that is the thinnest smartphone in the world.

iPhone 4 comes with iOS 4, the newest version of the world’s most advanced mobile operating system, which features Multitasking, Folders, enhanced Mail, deeper Enterprise support and Apple’s new iAd mobile advertising platform.

Pricing & Availability iPhone 4 is available in the US for a suggested retail price of $199 (US)* for the 16GB model and $299 (US) for the 32GB model in both Apple and AT&T’s retail and online stores, Best Buy, Radio Shack and Wal-Mart stores. iPhone 4 is also available in the UK, France, Germany and Japan and will be available in an additional 18 countries by the end of July-Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland.

Electric car company Tesla raises over $226 million in IPO

2010-06-30T15:41:00.001+05:30

As of yesterday, no American car company had gone public since Henry Ford put his family business on the on the U.S. stock exchange back in 1956. Today, Tesla Motors (TSLA) — in an IPO — sold over 13.3 million shares of stock on the NASDAQ exchange totaling $226.1 million. The all-electric car maker’s mission is simply to “sell high performance, super efficient electric cars.” Tesla uses some pretty impressive technology to manage, store and harness the electric charge stored in the cars batteries. The company should have their first mass production model — The Model S — rolling off the assembly line this year. The company’s stock closed just south of $24.

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Click here to find out more! Cisco Cius: An Android tablet with video conferencing for business types

2010-06-30T15:39:00.001+05:30

The iPad might be the cool tablet to own, but for busy business people who really need to get things done, there are things like the Cisco Cius. Announced today, the Cius is what Cisco likes to calls a “mobile collaboration business tablet.” Based on Android, the Cius weighs in at 1.15lbs. and features a 7″ touchscreen display, front-facing camera for multi-party video conferencing that records and streams 720p video at 30 FPS , Bluetooth 3.0 as well as support for Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n and 3G/4G wireless networks. Pricing and a release date are unknown.

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Leaked: Apple’s internal iPhone 4 antenna troubleshooting procedures

2010-06-30T15:36:00.000+05:30

The antenna issues plaguing the iPhone 4 have infuriated many iPhone users (and rightfully so), but have you ever wondered how Apple is training its employees to deal with the fiasco? Well thanks to one of our Apple connects, we now know the exact procedures AppleCare reps must follow when dealing with any reception complaints regarding the iPhone 4. Hit the jump to check them out.

1. Keep all of the positioning statements in the BN handy – your tone when delivering this information is important.

a. The iPhone 4’s wireless performance is the best we have ever shipped. Our testing shows that iPhone 4’s overall antenna performance is better than iPhone 3GS.

b. Gripping almost any mobile phone in certain places will reduce its reception. This is true of the iPhone 4, the iPhone 3GS, and many other phones we have tested. It is a fact of life in the wireless world.

c. If you are experiencing this on your iPhone 3GS, avoid covering the bottom-right side with your hand.

d. If you are experiencing this on your iPhone 4, avoid covering the black strip in the lower-left corner of the metal band.

e. The use of a case or Bumper that is made out of rubber or plastic may improve wireless performance by keeping your hand from directly covering these areas.

2. Do not perform warranty service. Use the positioning above for any customer questions or concerns.

3. Don’t forget YOU STILL NEED to probe and troubleshoot. If a customer calls about their reception while the phone is sitting on a table (not being held) it is not the metal band.

4. ONLY escalate if the issue exists when the phone is not held AND you cannot resolve it.

5. We ARE NOT appeasing customers with free bumpers – DON’T promise a free bumper to customers. [BGR]

iPhone 4 Review

2010-06-30T15:25:00.003+05:30

How can a flawed iPhone be the best yet? Here's how:

***

I'm at dinner. The waitress is slow to take our order. I don't mind. I reach into my pocket for the iPhone 4. It seems like the fifth time I'm doing this tonight. It's probably the fifteenth.

It's nearly impossible to tell which side is the front. Both are slippery and oleophobic and smudged by fingerprints—flat, delicate and hard. I respond in cursory agreement to whatever it is my wife just said. My mind's too busy concentrating on fingertip sensations, maneuvering so the screen faces the right way when it emerges from its hiding place.

Success. Slide to unlock. One bar again. Once I pull it out of my pocket, the reception returns. I've never seen this issue with the three previous iPhones.

I wait a few seconds as the iPhone's antenna adjusts to freedom from the confines of my pants and hand. Then I realize there wasn't anything I needed to look at. It's a reflex at this point, like John Marston reaching for his gun.

I slide the phone back in my pocket.

* * *

The screen is the first thing I notice, naturally, because it's the one thing I couldn't test when I saw the phone back in April.

Cramming more pixels into a smaller space is the opposite of what Apple did with the iPad, which uses a relatively low amount of pixels in a large space. So why do both displays look so fantastic?

The iPhone 4 has so many more pixels that I can't see them individually with the naked eye. When I try I can just begin to defocus my eyes when the phone comes too close to my face. It's the one thing iPhone 4 users should be proud of, provided they're not one of the unlucky few with yellow spots or white dots.

Then frustration and practicality set in. Why are there more pixels if I can't see more stuff on the screen? Why are there the same same seven rows of text messages and eight rows of items in the iPod app I saw three years ago when there are four times as many pixels? Photos and videos are great, and text is sharp, but UI elements need to be updated. Only having five emails simultaneously visible is a shame on this screen. At least give me the option.

But the display itself is still better. It has more pixels in a smaller space than all the other phones I've ever used. It's sharp. Tiny text is readable, and everything is just better. I take it outside. It's no brighter, or more visible in the sun, but everything looks great. What more could I ask from a screen?

When looking at the screen, I get the same sensation I do when finishing the last slice of ice cream cake: I want more of it. My 30-inch Dell, my 63-inch Samsung and my 27-inch iMac all have more pixels, but my first thought when seeing them was look how big. When I see the iPhone's screen, it was wow, everything is so clear. Now give me bigger and clearer.

* * *

The phone glimmers from the reflectiveness of exposed glass. No more plastic. Much more aluminum. It looks and feels...more breakable.

As something carried around nearly at all times, I understand the need for a case. People drop things. Keys are absentmindedly shoved, thrown and scraped across its surface. Phones need to be set down. But the iPhone is in more danger of being irreparably damaged than its predecessors. Many previously fine resting surfaces are now verboten. A case might now be mandatory.

Yet to acquire a case would admit defeat. This aesthetic—industrial glass and steel—was meant to be the iPhone's public face. It was never supposed to be stifled by plastic to spare it from harm, or wrapped with rubber to shield the antennas from human interference. If the iPhone were meant to have a case, it would ship with a case. Attached. Out of the box.

* * *

Flick. Flick. Twitter. Swipe. Flick. New York Times. Tap. Tap. Email. Maps. Fruit Ninja. Photos. Vuvuzela. Every touch feels more responsive than the 3GS, which was more responsive than the 3G.

Swipe. Swipe. Swipe again. There's a delay from a half-inch dead zone on the side of the phone. When I swipe from that edge, nothing registers. I try the same thing on older phones. Odd, this was there all along, in the 3G and 3GS, but I'm only noticing now because the bezel is gone and it's all glass. There's no barrier to guide me.

* * *

Matt licks me. Or rather, he puts his tongue in front of the front camera in FaceTime. I enjoy it more than I should!

Buchanan sounds clear, our respective AT&T chains thrown off, our faces and voices streaming fluidly over Wi-Fi. Finally, a mass-market video calling device that's going to have enough built-in audience to actually have a chance at success. It's fun. Useful. Futuristic. Easy. My parents could do this. (Until they can't, and have to ask me for help.)

But the secret is that—when he's not licking me—I'm looking Matt right in the eye. The camera and screen are so close that they create the illusion of a camera behind Matt's eyes—so I really feel like we're talking face to face. When Skyping someone on a laptop, they're always looking at me on their screen—away from their webcam.

I say goodbye to Matt. The next time I expect to see his face in a phone conversation will probably be in 2011. Voice is enough for most. He's not my wife.

* * *

On a drive in a car that's not my own to a place I don't recognize, the Nexus One is along for the ride. There's no free, usable and decent turn-by-turn bundled with the iPhone 4.

The alternative? Fifty bucks for an app. I don't have fifty bucks. Not for this shit. Especially not when my normal car has navigation. The iPhone has been capable of turn-by-turn directions since the 3G added a GPS chip. It's time for a better solution—from Apple.

* * *

"Can you show me that video chat thing?"

"I can't. There's no Wi-Fi here."

Frustration? Anger? Embarrassment? None of the above. I feel like I've let someone down.

There was no limitation in Star Trek. Riker didn't have to have a hotspot set up in order to chat from Farpoint Station. James Bond doesn't have to locate a Starbucks to talk to Q. Batman doesn't...Batman doesn't do anything he doesn't want to. Because it was 70 years ago, Dick Tracy had the entire AT&T network all to himself to make video calls.

"But hey, it's got a better screen."

* * *

Sitting on the most intimate of chairs, I watch my own previously uploaded HD YouTube videos, marveling at the display quality. It's downscaled from the video's original quality, but still, I'm impressed.

I get bored and move on, flipping through honeymoon photos and skimming 720p videos taken in Japan, each pixel a tiny fraction of a wonderful memory that was well worth the lousy exchange rate. It makes me wish that I was in Tokyo right now, with their Toto Washlets in every home, office and public facility. But then I wonder, how much space are these bigger photos and videos taking?

Back at my iMac, I check. 3.26GB. The same photos only took up 1.6GB on the 3GS. Videos are a similar story.

We're gonna need a bigger NAND.

* * *

It's not my birthday.

I suggested the birthday song as a quick test for voice quality, because it inherently necessitates changes in tone and pitch. It's a quick song, out of necessity. I'm not sitting through the full eight-and-a-half minute rendition of Won't Get Fooled Again. Though making Rosa do that ten times successively might justify the price of the iPhone 4.

The call quality testing we did matches what I observed in my own use.

My friend seems surprised to hear from me. I haven't called him in a while, usually relying on IM and email, because this is 2010 and we are not old. Many people are getting called with the iPhone 4 today, in the name of science.

More than once my test subjects surprised that I'm switching back and forth between standard hold and speakerphone. The dual-microphone noise cancellation setup makes a huge difference for filtering ambient noises from a speakerphone. But regular calls aren't much better than before, seeing as I'm not surrounded by vuvuzelas.

"Thanks, talk to you later. Bye bye."

I look down, confused. Random buttons have been inadvertently pressed by my face. My face hasn't changed very much since using the 3GS, just days ago. Place this issue among the "to-fix-in-iOS 4.01" pile.

* * *

I keep hearing variations of the same anecdote when discussing iMovie for iPhone 4. "You could barely edit movies on a computer ten years ago."

My head bobs in agreement. Very true. I'm surprised at how quick it is, joining clips, adding themes, making titles and transitions. Exporting? Takes about as long as the clip is, on average resolution.

Then I try uploading a natively shot 720p video to YouTube from the phone. It's tiny! And grainy, even after letting it fully render over a day. And fuzzy, and definitely not 720p. How could this be? Would it be better if I uploaded over Wi-Fi, or emailed it to myself to upload from somewhere else? No. Every one of those options down-converts before sending it off the phone.

I discover that the only way to get the full 720p video from my phone to YouTube is putting it on a computer first. Dreams of shooting HD videos from the field, over that faster HSUPA upload, and not having to do extra post-processing at a computer later have vanished. Why would I edit on iMovie on a phone if I have to dump the resulting file onto a computer to upload at full-resolution anyway?

Is this AT&T's doing again?

* * *

Brian calls me, enthused, and asks me to guess where he is.

"Home."

He hasn't been able to make an iPhone call from his house without it almost immediately dropping for the last year and a half. He's had to resort to getting a Microcell. He tells me he's turned it off.

It's six minutes into the call. The iPhone 4 is smarter, choosing towers that can actually handle calls, rather than just the one with the strongest signal.

"Can you hear me? I can't hear you."

He sounds like he just went into the bathroom, filled his bathtub and dunked himself phone first. Sure, he can make calls now, but something's still keeping the phone from making great calls. After thirty seconds of this, the connection breaks. Maybe we should have used FaceTime.

Update: Actually, the 3gs miraculously has 5 bars in his house now, too. So it seems like a convenient tower change or installation or upgrade may have occurred recently.

* * *

I'm reading a chapter of Shit My Dad Says in bed, trying not to disturb the wife. There's very little eye strain, though I don't know if I could reach the end of the book reading this way. Even for a lover of ebooks, the size of the phone is too small to accurately represent a "book". It requires me to turn the page too often, like some iPad mini parody. Page turns are actually responsive enough to be pleasant.

Added up over a year, I would probably save about seven hours of cumulative time not waiting for book pages to render, apps to load and photos to resize, compared to the 3GS. I can't go back.

Now to find a use for those seven hours.

* * *

Is it too thin? Is it too delicate? I'm afraid of holding it. I never used to be.

I go to play with my bunny. When I pick him up, he squirms as if I'll never let go for all eternity. I try to lower myself to the ground as much as possible before he scratches my arms and jumps out of my hands. He can adjust his body to land on his feet, absorbing most amount of impact in the least damaging areas.

This iPhone cannot. The iPhone 4 is not as drop resistant as a rabbit.

* * *

While the wife's driving the two of us to McDonalds, I take the chance to catch up on email, Twitter, Giz and the latest episode of the Adam Carolla Show, flipping back and forth with fast app switching in iOS 4. Doubling the amount of RAM to 512MB is just like gas expanding to fill a vacuum—programs will find a use for it. Along with the smoother transitions thanks to the faster processor, every flip between programs is fluid. Things are kept fresh, ready for me when I need them.

I try to put down the phone, only to get bored and pick it up at the next red light.

The last time I charged the phone was yesterday morning, and it's already past noon today. 20%—not bad. Better than the 3GS, because the battery is bigger. Still, good thing I turned off Bluetooth.

Another red light. I'm motion sick...possibly going to vomit. But I can't stop playing with the phone.

* * *

It's Friday night. The guy from Hypermac surprises me at my table.

"You're here with your family?"

"Yup! Did you get your iPhone 4?"

He waves takes his out and does the Miss Area Woman local parade wave. I smile.

"Yup."

Three years ago a waitress asked to see my first-generation iPhone. I showed her. Ten minutes went by. She forgot to take my order. I'd forgotten, too, until she walked away.

Tonight's waitress isn't as impressed. "Oh, is that the new iPhone? My boyfriend has the old one. Does this one drop fewer calls? Well, that's good. So what are you having?"

The newness is gone, but that doesn't mean people aren't still excited.

I text Mark and Matt. They both reply within a minute—the fastest I've seen them respond in the last six months. It's clear they were both playing with their phones, or at least, had them in reach.

* * *

I'm taking photos of my food. I don't know why—I've been here before, and I'll come back again. It has more to do with the act of taking the picture than the result, which is that I have a photo of what I'm about to eat. "Remember that," I'll think to myself some months down the line. But I won't. I might not remember how the meal tasted, or what happened, nor do I really need to. There's evidence. Now the evidence is clearer and more saturated, with the better lens and smarter processing. The colors pop. They look more delicious than they do when I was actually there.

I get up real close to shoot macros of my bunny. The camera responds quicker than I'd expect—quicker than other cellphone cams. Sometimes, still, not quick enough. Bunnies are fast.

I get in closer. Autofocus kicks in, rendering orange-tinted shots that I will have to fix later in on my computer. Wish there was white balance.

I get in even closer. The limit's reached, and the shots turn out blurry.

Bunny sniffs the phone.

* * *

Everything is more crisp. I tap out a message and the new keyboard noises make the old 3GS keyboard noises seem muddy. The speakers themselves are more clear as well, but a little softer.

The home screen. The volume buttons. The power button. The screen itself. Everything is crisper, sharper, more angular. All softness is gone. The rounded back, an awkward turtle-shell of necessity, is out. It's hard. It is a hard phone. Thirty times harder than plastic, as the too-often repeated marketing phrase goes. But hard still shatters, as our own intern Ryan saw.

It was designed this way. It's probably a mistake.

* * *

The engineers have lost. The industrial designers have won.

Antenna problems, confirmed by Apple themselves, are the symptom of a problem that goes into the heart of Apple's product process. Right brain won over left brain. We all suffer.

I'm making a call, trying to adjust myself to the phone, holding it at the top instead of the bottom, so as to not jeopardize reception. What happened to Apple's iPad marketing, where the device adjust itself to you? Why am I changing the way I've held cellphones for the last decade to avoid a design issue? It feels foreign. It feels like I might drop my phone.

Then I forget. My hand slips down to the accustomed position, covering up the antenna with meat and sweat and humanity. The call maintains. There's ever-so-slightly more distortion in the voice, but I can still hear the other person fine. I'm lucky to live in one of AT&T's well-covered areas. Those with mediocre reception to begin with see a bigger impact, documented, when they use the death grip.

I'm fiddling with the phone over 3G, flipping through maps, searching Twitter, checking mail. The otherwise zippy phone feels winded. There is no alternative to the death grip when I hold the phone in the left hand and point with the right—that's the only way I can hold the phone.

I don't want to get a case.

* * *The iPhone will be there. It's the camera that counts, the camera that's with you when you get into a traffic accident, when someone's about to do something stupid, when you're doing something you've never done before.

But I have to decide, do I put more consumable content on my phone, or do I save more of that 32GB for making memories?

* * *

My dad calls. He needs his printer fixed, or he forgot how to log into Gmail, or he had a recurrence of old-person syndrome and entirely forgot how to use a computer. It doesn't matter which.

He asks me about the new iPhone. I recommend he doesn't get it.

"You actually make a lot of phone calls, unlike me. Plus, AT&T is lousy where you are. Plus there's the reception issue, which gets exacerbated* when there's low signal. As for the rest, it's improved in many ways. But stick with what you've got now."**

* I didn't use the word "exacerbated" over the phone.
** Also, this conversation actually occurred in Chinese.

* * *

Flash

I surprise, no, shock, my wife with the iPhone flash in the dark. She is not amused. I am. I am a child.

There's now light where there was no light before. Drunken New York bar exploits will be all the clearer now, illuminating various conquests, trophies mounted on Facebook the next morning, all with tiny pupils adjusting to the harsh glare. It's not perfect, but it's better than not having a flash.

I imagine thousands of these damn iPhone flashes at the next basketball game I go to, illuminating all of a full three feet ahead of these people, making the back of the bald guy's head in Row 27 look amazingly clear. Kobe, on the other hand, will still be lit just fine by the fluorescent bulbs of the Staples Center.

* * *

I keep picking up the phone, looking inside, and finding things to do. I want to use it.

I can't go back to the 3GS. The speed, the camera, the screen, the non-humpback, the video chatting. Once you have it, you can't give it up.

But I'm scared. Not of dropping calls because I'm holding it wrong—I don't make a lot of them, and when I do, they're not so critical that I can't call someone back. Plus, I have a Batphone landline and work at home. I'm scared for data. I can never hold the phone naturally because I'm afraid I'm getting a quarter of the speeds I was getting before. Like a parent with a child too lazy or too difficult to live up to his potential, I'm frustrated and confused and sad. You love it too much, and you can't give it up, but something's wrong. So like most, I focus on the good qualities. The speed, the camera, the screen. So what if he throws a tantrum when I hold him wrong? He's my boy.

* * *

Source Gizmodo

Lenovo OPhone

2009-03-01T14:26:00.001+05:30

Its on news again that Lenovo lunched its new Mobile Phone named Ophone. Is it true? or a hoax again? A small search in Google and Lenovo’s official site doesn’t return any result which we can trust.At engadgetmobile, they showed us some pics of that piece of really cool looking mobile, but they can be easily faked. As long as we don’t get any official statement, we can not be 100% sure.

Lenovo OPhone

This mobile is expecting to run on Google’s Android Operating System which infact is a good OS for Mobiles and PDA's and can compete with Symbian Series OS.

It is powered by a good speedy 624MHz CPU and 3.5″ OLED display. The touchscreen navigation interface putting it closer to Apples’s iPhone, though we learn that its longer, wider and thicker then iPhone.

Its also has 3.5mm headphone socket, mini USB Interface, bluetooth and WiFi for connectivity and a powerful 5 Megapixel camera.

With no official announcement of release, we better wait and watch till it comes out to the market

LG KP500 Cookie : No Cookie for me

2009-03-01T14:21:00.000+05:30

The Cookie is a clean looking phone at first glance. Its got a really uncluttered front facial with just three, small well beveled buttons. The phone itself is finished in matte black and has a Steel-Grey ring running right around the sides that adds a classy look.

LG KP500 Cookie

The camera and phone screen lock buttons are no one side and very easy to use despite their small size owing to great feedback, the volume up/down buttons aren’t as good. LG has added the ability to finger swipe through albums and this is called “Free Touch”, an obvious ripoff from Apple’s Multi Touch; but it doesn’t work anywhere at all as well which is why there’s a stylus provided. Its light years away from the flawless fluidity of Apple’s touch interface. Add to that a vary slow processor which becomes amply evident as you use the touch feature when browsing albums and such.

We were a bit disappointed with the touch sensitivity. On a more positive note touch accuracy is a bit better and acceptable for a phone in this bracket.
the screen itself is quite large and clear although we’ve seen bettr screens in the Xperia and the iPhone. The Cookie does make a strong point for itself by having a well laid out menu system with pretty good icons-not like some of the cartoonish icons we’ve seen from LG in the past.

LG provides a neat bunch of games and quite frankly we had a bit of fun playing these. This not camera phone and we’ve seen much better 3-megapixel units and there’s no flash. MP3 playback quality is strictly so-so and another pain is LGs continued use of a proprietary connect for the same rather than a 3.5mm jack. Call quality and signal reception strength on the Cookie isn’t all that great and nowhere close to Nokia phones. Priced at $300 it’s a mixed bundle.

Although not many phones can offer such a large touchscreen for the price there are other problems that prevent us from recommending you swallow this Cookie for one, it’s a mediocre phone, MP3 playback quality and the camera could be better. There are other alternatives for this price range that do far more as a phone and as multimedia devices.

Nokia 6210 Navigator

2008-10-17T21:48:00.000+05:30

Slider Phones are hot, in more ways than one. They have also become associated (sometimes falsely) with higher prices than other phones, thanks to flagship devices like Nokia’s N95.

The 6210 Navigator is part of Nokia’s new series of phones where GPS is the selling feature. A lot of other phones has GPS, this phone is just blatant with the handle Navigator. Its a good looking phone that looks better in black than mocha red, which are the two colors available.

Nokia 6210 Navigator

The built and the working of the slider is excellent, a very smooth and positive action. The back of the phone has a cheap and tacky feeling - a pity since the rest of the phone is quite well built. The front has this shiny plastic coating that we feel is overdone. this makes the Nokia 6210 look a little too loud. The Navigator monogram, a blue fore cornered star, on the front of the phone looks overdone too. Call Accept, Reject and Menu buttons are large, well laidout and very easy to use. The Number keypad, although flat, is large and well spaced - a boon for SMS junkies. All the button on the body feel solid and work well.

The screen is crisp and can display upto 16 million colors. The 6210 Navigator has a 3.15 MegaPixel camera that is good for taking the odd image, but falls short of some of the other 3.2 MegaPixel rated cellphone cameras we already seen. Music quality is decent, but not as good as some of the other Nokia’s. A 3.5 mm jack means you can use your own headphones.

The phone interface is fast, thanks to an ARM 11, 369MHz processor, and signal quality is good. We feel a larger battery should have been present.

At $459, the 6210 Navigator is expenssive for what it offers.

Specifications at a Glance:
1. CPU : ARM 11, 369 MHz
2. 64MB SDRAM
3. Screen Size : 2.4″ with 16 million colors.
4. Resolution : 240×320 pixels
5. Camera Lense Sensor : 3.15 Camera
6. GPS : Inbuilt GPS Navigation

AMD reports narrower loss in Q3

2008-10-17T21:41:00.000+05:30

Advanced Micro Devices Inc. yesterday reported a narrower loss than expected for its third quarter on increased sales of its microprocessors and graphics chips, the company said.

It was AMD's eighth consecutive quarterly loss but a much smaller one than the year before. The loss was $67 million, or 11 cents per share, compared with a loss of $396 million, or 71 cents per share, in the third quarter of 2007. Revenue climbed 14% to $1.78 billion, from $1.56 billion a year earlier.

The net loss is based on generally accepted accounting principles. On a non-GAAP basis, excluding a loss of $108 million from discontinued operations, as well as other charges, AMD said it would have reported a profit for the quarter of $80 million.

The revenue and profit figures both came in ahead of analyst forecasts, according to Thomson Reuters.

"AMD had a well-executed third quarter in the context of a challenging environment," Chief Financial Officer Bob Rivet said on a conference call. "We reached our goal of achieving operating profitability."

Revenue from AMD's microprocessor unit climbed 8% year over year to to $1.39 billion, while revenue from its graphics business climbed 40% to $385 million. The growth came from AMD's quad-core Barcelona server processor, which had its first full quarter of shipments following delays, and from new Radeon 4000 graphics chips that shipped during the quarter.

The graphics business, which AMD acquired when it bought ATI Technologies Inc. two years ago, turned an operating profit for the first time, Rivet said.

AMD expects servers based on its new Shanghai processor, which uses a more advanced 45-nanometer manufacturing process, to be available in a few weeks, said President and CEO Dirk Meyer. Desktop PCs based on 45-nanometer processors will be available early in the first quarter of next year, he said. The number refers to the dimension of circuits etched on the chips, and the more advanced process should mean faster, less power-hungry products.

AMD announced a plan last week to stem its losses by spinning off its chip-manufacturing business into a separate company. Analysts said the move could help AMD return to profitability by freeing it of the costly burden of building and maintaining its own manufacturing plants. AMD would continue to design and sell its chips but have them manufactured by a third party.

AMD's shares were up 5% ahead of the financial report, closing at $4.12 per share. The stock moved 9% higher after the report was issued, climbing to $4.50 per share in after-hours trading.

Financial results are being closely watched this quarter as the industry tries to weigh the impact of the emerging financial crisis in the U.S. on customers' IT spending. The news so far has been mixed.

T-Mobile to Announce Google Phone Sept. 23

2008-09-17T14:23:00.001+05:30

T-Mobile USA will become the first company in the world to announce a mobile phone based on Google's Android OS at a New York press conference Sept. 23, the New York Times reports, citing T-Mobile.

The handset was manufactured by Taiwan's High Tech Computer (HTC), the Times said. HTC representatives in Taipei declined to comment on the report.

Several other Web sites are also reporting the Sept. 23 event, including Gizmodo, which is displaying what appears to be an announcement from T-Mobile.

HTC has already said it is developing a mobile phone developed around Android and plans to call the handset "Dream."

The handset maker may end up being first in the world to put out an Android-based mobile phone, but other companies are also developing handsets around Android, including Samsung Electronics.

HTC's Google handset is just over 5-inches long and 3-inches wide, with a keypad underneath the screen that either slides out or swivels out. The aim of the keypad is for easy e-mail, note-taking and writing Web addresses.

Internet navigational controls are situated below the screen on the handset.

Android is an open source software platform that includes an OS and is designed to take advantage of Internet services for mobility. The software could become a potent new rival to Windows Mobile and other handset operating systems. At the launch ceremony early this year, Google announced that over 30 companies had joined the Open Handset Alliance

Free Data Recovery

2008-08-16T14:36:00.000+05:30

Data recovery is the process of reviving data that have been lost due to physical damages like hard drive head crash, scratched, water-damaged or broken disks and tapes, and defective mechanism. Free data recovery refers to freeware or free software applications or utilities that anybody can download from the Internet for personal use.

Aside from physical causes, data could get lost when the file system is formatted; when the operating system running the machine is reinstalled; when files get deleted accidentally; when there is a virus attack; and when the system gets corrupted. These damages can happen to anyone and any computer anytime.

Most specialist would say that the best free data recovery system is to be pro-active in file management. There should always be a backup system especially for very important data. The backup will definitely make things easier and less frustrating when the unfortunate happens.

It's a good thing that there are ways to recover your lost or damaged files. If the data loss has a large impact on your business or it's a matter of national security or something, the wisest move is to go straight to the data recovery companies who have experts that can work on your problem.

But, if you think you know what you're doing and you have a technical background in computers and storage devices, then there are two options for you: purchase a data recovery software package or download a free data recovery utility online.

Obviously, there is a huge difference on the cost for each of these two. Software packages could be expensive but they could really offer a lot to the user. The freeware mostly downloadable on the Internet entails no cost although some authors ask for donations for their efforts to keep on going.

Now, let's say you accidentally formatted your drive and you have no backup. The freeware can help you recover them but you have to bear in mind a few things:

Stand up and leave that computer which uses the drive that needs the recovery system. You can't afford disk-swap activities that could damage the data even more.

Never install or download the free data recovery software from the same machine you want to recover data from. Go to another computer and save the program on a flash drive and run it directly from there.

Never save the recovered files on the same hard drive you recovered them from.

If the machine is making strange noises or is returning error messages, stop the installation. This could be a sign of hardware malfunction.

Follow the tips if you're planning to download free recovery software to address your data loss predicament. Remember to be cautious when getting freeware to avoid getting any more problems.

Be warned also about these websites that claim to give free data recovery programs, some could be deceiving. They would say the program is free but you'll soon find out that these are just demo versions and soon you will have to purchase the real thing to get the benefits or more features. The freeware that is genuinely free are those utilities you can download and really pay nothing for.

Data Backups - Your First and Last Line of Defense

2008-08-16T14:34:00.000+05:30

Performing data backups is a lot like buying life insurance: You hope that you never have to use it, but if disaster strikes you are so much better off because you followed through on it.

While many people find reasons not to perform backups, data backups are the center piece of a computer defense strategy, no matter if the defense is set against viruses, trojan horse programs, hackers, malicious software ("malware), or hardware failures.

A virus or Trojan Horse program trashed your machine? Restore your system from a backup and you are back in business once again.

A hacker penetrates your computer defenses and goofs with your system in such a way that you do not know what they did or what they left behind? No problem! Pull out your backup and restore your system.

Malicious software launching your web browser at random intervals and pointing it to rated X sites? If the malware proves to be resistant to your attempts to remove it using ad-ware removal software, you can always restore your system from a backup that you made.

Hard disk failure keeping you from booting your computer or accessing your data? Once again, it is the handy data backup to the rescue (once you have replaced your hard disk).

So with all of these benefits, why do people fail to make backups? Most likely because they think that backups are a real pain to make and maintain.

While keeping a recent backup of your data DOES take some effort, the fact is that there are many backup strategies available, and there is undoubtedly one that will work for you.

For example, if you want to be able to be up and running as quickly as possible after a data loss, you can make an entire image of your hard drive and store it in a safe place. If disaster strikes, you simply restore the entire hard disk image and your computer is returned to the state it was in at the point in time when the backup was made. This method is nice in that it does not take much time to restore your entire system (relatively speaking), but you do have to store the ENTIRE contents of your hard drive as part of the backup. This takes a non-trivial amount of time and also chews up a lot of storage space, especially as you make multiple backups. However, the arrival of affordable external hard drives with sizes as large as one terabyte of storage space (that is one million gigabytes!) is making this option more attractive all the time.

But for those who wish to keep backups that use less space and require less time to create, you can backup ONLY your data, rather than the entire drive. The down side to this, of course, is that in the event of a data loss, you have to manually reinstall your operating system and all of your applications before you can restore your data and resume working. You have to decide for yourself if this option works for you.

There are many other backup strategies that you can employ. Each one has its own strengths and weaknesses with respect to the amount of time required to create the backup, the amount of time required to restore the backup in the event of a loss, the amount of space required to hold the backup, and the amount of human intervention required to make or restore a backup. The trick then is to assess your needs and come up with a backup strategy that balances these strengths and weaknesses in a manner that makes sense for you.

What is the Best Way to Backup Your Computer Data

2008-08-16T14:33:00.000+05:30

It seems that in today's business environment, everything of any importance is stored and managed on the hard drive of your computer. Customer Records, Sales Records, Sales Records, Sales Records, Marketing Information, Receipts, Bank Records, and the Software to run all of those records. The list goes on and on, in fact without those records you would be out of business. There is no any way to over emphasis the need for good computer house keeping. Secure, safe and timely data backup is a necessity.

In my years in business, I have used various systems to back up my valuable files. I have used floppy discs and CDs. That made sense at the time, but what happens when someone accidentally spills the morning coffee on the top of the desk and warps the discs, or someone misplaces the data media, or even worse walks of with it.

Then, there is the tape back up that is supposed to be done in a timely manner each and every day. That for some reason seems to be one of the easiest things to forget to do, or even get neglected. We all have the best of intentions, but I have done it myself, once in awhile, it could be put off until later. I am sure that I am the only person who ever did that, right.

Then there is the employee who just hit the wrong key, or misplaced that file, and can not seem to find where it was filed. Too bad, that we had been working on the particular file for oh say, months. It seems that mistakes happen, but there are sometimes mistakes that can ruin a business. Some mistakes, it seems just can not to be recovered from. What about natural disasters like fire, flood, or an earthquake? It just does not make sense to have your valuable data stored on or near the location that it is generated in.

What I have found for my own peace of mind; is that a remote data backup site is imperative for my sanity. I have experienced various ways of loosing data, and crashing hard drives. The statement that there are those who have lost data, and those that will, is an absolute truth. This type of disaster can averted with forward thinking and proper planning.

So take the initiative, and seek a secure, reliable remote site backup, before the worst takes place, and you have a loss of data that you can not recover from.

The Perils of Using Data Recovery Software

2008-08-16T14:31:00.000+05:30

The decision to use data recovery software versus the professional service of a data recovery company is one that should be weighed carefully. In extremely simple cases, the usage of data recovery software can be valuable. However, the use of recovery software often results in further damage to your hard-drive and permanent data loss. The software should only be used in extremely simple data recovery cases. If your drive is making any noise such as clicking or small vibrations then the case would not qualify as simple.

Most of the time a malfunctioning hard drive is the result of mechanical or electrical problems to the drive. In this case, data recovery software will do nothing but continue to spin the drive and result in further damage and possible permanent loss of data. Each hard drive contains spinning magnetic discs that hold all of your data. When software is used, the drive continues to spin, and if there is any sort of misalignment or electrical problem then the drive will simply be exposed to more forms of damage.

The best course of action to fix a damaged or malfunctioning drive is to discontinue use of the drive immediately. If the data on your computer is more valuable than the fees for a data recovery service, then it would be wise to seek expert advice. Unfortunately, many consumers are convinced to buy data recovery software simply because it is the cheapest method of attempted recovery. The software companies often do not disclose that their product often will result in further damage, and permanent loss of your valuable pictures of files. Most of the unrecoverable data problems that are sent to data recovery companies are the result of data recovery software or other utilities that have damaged the drive after a crash or malfunction.

Since a large majority of hard drive crashes are due to electrical and mechanical problems, the drive cannot be fixed with software. A data recovery company with expertly trained technicians must be used to give you the highest chance of recovering your files. Data recovery professionals charge fees that are much higher than data recovery software, but the service is also much more effective. If the data that you have lost is extremely important, it would be wise to invest in the money required to give yourself the best chance at a successful recovery.

The analogy is similar to a medical problem. The use of WebMD.com or any other medical advice website can sometimes be helpful for mild problems or symptoms. However, when you have experienced a serious medical condition you will obviously need to consult with a practicing medical doctor. It is more expensive, but the service customization and quality is at a vasty higher level. Data recovery service versus recovery software contains a very similar quality to cost ratio.

Freezing a Hard Drive - Debunking the Myth

2008-08-16T14:27:00.000+05:30

There seems to be some sort of misunderstanding or misinformation about various theories that are supposedly ways to recover data from a broken hard drive. One of the most popular rumors is basically that freezing a hard drive that has failed will result in the drive becoming more stable and allowing you to possible run the drive. The basic theory is that an extremely cold drive will be able to run long enough to possibly allow you access to your files to retrieve them. The internet is littered with stories of people who say it works, and have tried it, and other people who have tried it with no success.

The truth of the matter is that it can possibly work, but only on very old drives, and in very specific situations. Freezing a drive, in the majority of data recovery cases, will actually result in further data loss and damage to the drive. The specific situation where freezing a drive can possibly churn some more life out of your drive is a head crash. Unfortunately for most people, there will be no way for the individual to tell if their drive has experienced a head crash with any certainty. Additionally, freezing a drive in the case of a head crash simply leads to a microscopic shrinking effect of the mechanical parts, which will un stick the platters long enough to run the drive temporarily.

The main point is that freezing your hard drive can most likely result in even worse damage and further data loss. If that data that you are trying to recover is extremely valuable, then any sort of action without the guidance of a professional is a step in the wrong direction. Even if the drive works for 30 seconds or 10 minutes, you can be further damaging the hard drive in the process and permanently losing precious data. A data recovery case that is completely recoverable can quickly turn into disaster when methods such as freezing the drive are used.

The most common problem that data recovery companies run into when trying to recover valuable data is that the user has tried the use of home methods or data recovery software. This is not to say that these methods never work, but when they don't work the drive will often be damaged beyond the point of recoverability. Every extra second that the drive runs results in a higher and higher chance of complete failure. If the drive in question contains information that is extremely valuable it is not advisable to take serious risks with the data because one wrong step can result in permanent data loss.

The issue eventually comes down to how valuable the data is that you are trying to recover from a hard drive. If the specific situation involves data that is not very valuable, there is justification to try a risky method such as freezing, even If the success rate is less than ideal. However, when the data is extremely valuable, or you are using a new age hard drive, these methods do not work reliably and professional assistance from a data recovery company should be sought.

A Guide to Implementing Backup HIPAA Data Offsite Guidelines

2008-08-16T14:26:00.000+05:30

With new regulations in play more and more companies are considering backup HIPAA data offsite solutions. In some cases it's the law and in other's our health records are one thing most of us want to keep private. The reason for this consideration involves the HIPAA legislation, its effects on the health care industry, what those effects mean for data storage, and what medical offices need to consider. By reviewing this information on backup HIPAA data offsite storage, you may be better prepared to make choices about your storage solutions.

To understand the issue, you may need background on the HIPAA legislation. HIPAA, or the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, became law in 1996. The purpose of the law was to ensure people would maintain health care coverage if they changed jobs. However, Title II of the law dealt with Administrative Simplification, specifically how to deal with electronic data about health care. Obviously, the passage of the law had a drastic effect on the health care industry. And probably more importantly paved the way for an increase in backup HIPAA data offsite providers.

Because of the Administrative Simplification portion of the law, medical facilities today must take great care when dealing with a patient's electronic files. For example, HIPAA required a hierarchical approach to data access. Physicians might be able to access patient information that would not be available to the nurse. Protecting the data from unauthorized access became crucial. As a result, the law has affected the way data storage backups are handled in the medical field. As a consequence backup HIPAA data offsite services have had to adjust there service offerings.

Today, data storage for these facilities must be carefully controlled. HIPAA requires that all of the data be backed up and that data must be secured with 100% reliability. The government wants to make sure no one gets into your personal medical records. That means, however, that backup HIPAA data offsite storage facilities must take special precautions to ensure the service they provide meets these requirements.

If you're looking for offsite-backup for HIPAA data storage, you should look for a few factors. Make sure to find out if the storage service specializes in this type of data storage. There are many that do. You should also ask about the back up process, security, and storage to make sure you are comfortable with how the data will be handled.

8mm Exabyte Data Storage - One Foot in the Grave

2008-08-16T12:39:00.000+05:30

Exabyte is the original brand in high capacity 8mm magnetic tape storage technology. Exabyte Corporation introduced helical scan recording technology in the late 1980s and was widely recognised at the time as a reliable, cost effective format which offered high speed read/write capabilities and a wide range of native capacities and formats. The Exabyte 8mm data storage tape was the first time that helical scan technology had been used for data storage, and was mechanically identical to the widely used 8mm video format technology found in the Professional Media and broadcasting market. Due to its heritage with Sony, Exabyte 8mm technology shares similar mechanical components found in home video systems but on a slightly smaller scale.

Helical scan is an older style method of recording data onto a slow moving magnetic tape which uses a rapidly rotating read/write head. The data is recorded onto diagonal tracks, which are at an angle to the edge of the tape. After loading into a drive, the tape is pulled from the cartridge and wrapped around the read/write head, which rotates at around 30 metres per second. While the Sony AIT family also uses the same 8mm technology as the Exabyte range, they are not compatible with one another.

In its hey-day the helical scan 8mm technology was for a time at the forefront of this sector in the market due to data transfer rates of around 240KB per second and initial storage capacity of 2.4GB. It has however, since been surpassed by linear recording technology. The newer linear recording technology allows for faster reads and writes, lower search latency, and is the technology that has been widely adopted across all sectors of data storage.

What is Linear Recording?
Linear (or longitudinal) recording is a method of recording data whereby tape is passed by a non-moving recording head. The tracks are recorded parallel to the tape edge.

Why migrate from Exabyte 8mm Technology

Exabyte 8mm data storage technology has now reached EOL (end of life). Although designed primarily for a domestic camcorder market and not for the commercial data storage market, the Exabyte format became incredibly popular in the commercial sector during the 1980s and 1990s because of its relatively low-cost drives and tape media. As a result of this popularity, a broader, more comprehensive adoption of the technology occurred than perhaps strategically suited the technology. It is only in recent years as the technology was nearing retirement (EOL), that many clients have discovered that the economic advantages of the technology heralded in the early days was now showing signs of decreased reliability also and therefore resulting in data loss.

This type of aging 8mm is now becoming the new "9 track" legacy migration requirement. Unfortunately it also comes with new issues and problems which can make it very difficult or impossible to recover data from. Traditionally, 9 track tapes have presented problems for data migration, but with the implementation of binder hardening processes, specialist software and multiple reads of exercised tapes, the data in 99% of cases can be recovered.

Data stored on 8mm technology may not be so lucky. Why? From our experience we believe there are many factors which place data stored on this technology at risk. These are as follows:

Tape Width
With the exception of 4mm DAT tapes, Exabyte 8mm tape technology is the narrowest commercial data storage tape introduced to the market. In comparison, most of the tape in today's cartridges are 25mm wide. The narrowness of the tape equates to a weaker, less robust tape that results in stress and damage more readily, particularly over time and number of physical tape loads.

Dual Reel Architecture
The dual-reel cartridge architecture of the 8mm Exabyte technology is not the most ideal form. The complexity of the configuration makes it much more susceptible to physical defects and problems such as looping within the tape spools. This inturn causes inconsistencies in the tension of the media, resulting in damage to the tape media in the form of creases, nicks, folds, crushed, stretched and snapped media. Obviously not ideal!! Closed cartridges in this format result in a "if you can't see it, you can't fix it" scenario. The now more commonly implemented open reel architecture used with LTO and 3590 media overcomes the difficulties that are encountered with forms such as Exabyte.

Limited Head Adjustments
The tape drives are limited to the number of head adjustments which can be made while reading data. If there was a skew of any kind on the original drive which wrote the data, and that skew cannot be replicated by a head adjustment on the new drive, then it is unlikely it can be recovered. In addition, the multiple reading of the tape at different head settings and the constant stopping and starting can cause stress on the tape and result in snapping or damage.

Internal Drive Settings
Certain types of 8mm Exabyte drives allowed the creation of different partitions within a tape cartridge, through the use of internal drive settings. Often these were specific to certain organisations or departments only and this information is not easily obtained or second guessed during a recovery or migration process.

No Longer Supported By Manufacturer
As a data storage technology which has reached EOL, this means that it is no longer supported by the manufacturer. In fact the original drive and media manufacturer Exabyte were bought by Tandberg in 2006. This means that there are very few new drives available for purchase, nor spares readily available for maintenance and repair of existing drives. From our own experience, even to purchase older working drives is becoming increasingly difficult. Once a common item on eBay Australia, they are now rarely seen or available.

Type of Data Held On Exabyte Technology
Using the oil and gas industry as a prime example, the type of data stored in Exabyte 8mm technology was largely processed data. This means it has had substantial value added to the raw data, and therefore small losses of data can be more significant.

Density
In comparison to storage technology which is readily available today, Exabyte tapes hold very little data. An average holding of 1000 Exabyte cartridges would now quite easily fit onto 5 or 6 LTO tapes which in addition to the main advantage of data security and longevity, also represents savings in ongoing storage and retrieval costs.

In addition, as one media cartridge can be written to on many drives, there is a higher chance of there being a compatibility issue for users with regards to data density.

Brand Differences in Media
As always in a competitive market, there were quality products and inferior quality products and by this we refer to the media brand which were compatible with this technology. Largely due to the manufacturing process of 8mm tape and how the end products were distributed for rebadging and resale, there are significant differences in the reliability of different brands. The brand of media storing your data should be an important consideration when planning for its migration to newer technology - with the inferior cartridges taking priority where possible.

How To Take Corrective Action

An audit and data migration plan, if required, should take into account the following factors:

- How much data do you have stored on 8mm technology?
- How many cartridges are there?
- How/where are they stored?
- What brands of media were used to record the data? (Some will have priority, some may last a little longer)
- What type of data is residing on these tapes? (Is it field data, processed data or other data)
- How often are the tapes tested for restoration of data? (Have you already encountered problems with restoring data?)
- Do you even still have the tape drive to read the tapes on?
- Do you have problems with your drives?

Conclusion

Exabyte technology is not considered an ideal choice for archival and backup data - even for small/medium sized organisations which generally do not have the budgets to purchase expensive, state of the art high capacity storage technology. The retired drives (and tape media) can be unreliable, are prone to physical damage and stress, and as a storage technology choice are now considered a very low capacity legacy technology.

The recommended migration path for data stored on 8mm technology is to either 3592 media, which is now industry standard within the oil and gas sector, or to LTO technology for other types of industry. With the current rise in popularity of the LTO format, this enterprise level media solution is now more affordable allowing SMB/SME users to exploit its large volume and reliability. This makes it an ideal replacement for the aging Exabyte media format. Both types of media are widely used and are readily available.

Top Data Recovery Tips

2008-08-16T12:31:00.000+05:30

Once you have selected the right company to entrust your data with, it is time to scrutinize them with the requirements below to ensure that you are getting a good deal.

When making the major decision to get data recovery services, know your rights. Ask what is their data recovery success rate. You do not want to be going through evaluation and shipping for nothing even when it is paid by the recovery company.

No obligation free evaluation fees. Your data recovery company should be able to tell you how likely your data is to be recovered based on the damage on the hard disk.

Then, if you should decide to give the data recovery provider the go ahead, they will clone the system and begin attempting to retrieve the data that is on your hard drive. This is for safety purpose that another recovery attempt can be done if the first one fail.

Complimentary shipping to and from their facilities. Specialists do not require your entire computer to recover your data. All you got to do is simply ship your hard drive to them and they will retrieve the data from it.

Extra precaution should be taken when shipping your hard drive. For example, if it is damage by water, it should be shipped wet by covering it with a damp cloth. Also, you might want to put it in a shock proof tight container so that the hard disk do not get damage even more is handled roughly during shipping. However, avoid using styrofoam container when shipping as it can create static electricity that can damage the data.

If your computer is still under warranty, a data recovery attempt may void the warranty you have with the manufacturer. Honoring a drive manufacturer warranty may cause delays in recovering the data. If they do not provide you a clear warranty statement, you may have to purchase a new hard drive after your data is recovered.

Does your data recovery company offer 24 / 7 telephone-based personal support? Better still, this number should be toll-free too. Apart from that, a 24 / 7 online case status reporting ensure that you can track the progress of your case and a dedicated case manager can answer all the questions and ease all the concerns that you may have.

Laptops and notebooks can also have data recovered from them, but the process is different as the parts were way smaller. The main difference is that these computers require smaller tools in order to recover the data due to its mini size. Ask your data recovery company if they can handle this.

Can your data remain confidential? Ask this question when selecting a trustable company. Going to an established company with good credibility will help in this situation.

How will your data be returned to you? Depending on the volume, your data can be returned in the form of a CD, DVD, loan or replacement hard drive. A free disc is usually the norm. As a basic requirement, your data should be returned on media that you can easily access and integrate into your existing system.

Make sure that your newly restored data is covered by a warranty. If you later find any problem with it, you can always refer back to the data recovery company.

A clear time frame for getting your data back. Although data recovery can be done in as little 24 hours to 5 days, the evaluation process can take several days to weeks, and it may or may not be successful after all.

If they cannot get your data back you should not be charged for the service.

Should I DIY My Data Recovery Using Software?

2008-08-16T12:30:00.000+05:30

Data recovery at home using software are the cheapest and easiest way around, but does it really work? You may be tempted to DIY instead of paying hundreds and even thousands of dollars for professional data recovery service, but let's not forget that these professionals remained in demand despite their exorbitant fee and the various related software available in the market.

Two problems can arise from doing doing a DIY data recovery. One, you could have selected a poor software and the data recovery is not successful, greatly lowering the chances of the salvaging the data in subsequent effort. Two, you may have a powerful tool in hand, but it is so powerful and complex, it is most probably meant for professionals.

So as you can see, attempting to recover data on your own is no easy feat, even when you are knowledgeable with computers. Even the pros need sophisticated machines and special room and spending a lot of time and effort to delicately extract information from a corrupted hard disk. While software are created with good intention, many things could go wrong.

You should probably go ahead with software when you meet these all these three criteria:

Make sure you are excellent and well-versed with computers (and familiar with your type and year of your computer). Say for example you are an expert in today's latest computer parts but your model was phased out last year, you could be looking at a totally different thing altogether.

Ensure that your software company is helpful, preferably with live chat so you don't have to submit trouble ticket and wait hours upon hours for reply. Also, you should be following instructions that come with the software carefully and ask questions when in doubt. If the product website offer step-by-step video instruction, even better. This ensure that the product work as claimed and you get a look at how complicated it is to use before buying.

Thirdly, you must be prepared or be able to afford not seeing those data ever again. This seem ironic since the goal is to get them back. Even with professional intervention, the odds of recovery in 80-85%, although a part of this is because they sometimes work on data that failed to be recovered the first time. If loss of data means financial loss, or not getting that multi billion dollar project or contain sentimental value contents, your best bet is to NOT do it yourself.

It is crucial that if you are able to complete a scan of the failing hard drive, the recovered files are not saved back to the hard drive you are trying to recover. If you do that, the saved recovered files on the source drive could overwrite other files you are trying to recover.

Before you proceed to paying for the software, do a background search on search engine to read unsolicited feedbacks (those listed on the software site don't count). Type name of product + scam to read the bad things written about it, and whether ot not the problem gets rectified in the end. If so, how long does it get rectified? Was the software company helpful and offered help? You get the picture.

Also, if you intend to go ahead with a software, make sure they offer money back guarantee in case they don't work. You don't want to be paying for nothing. If the site does not mention anything about a return, then forget about it.

How to Spot a Data Crash and How to Handle One

2008-08-16T12:29:00.000+05:30

If you have experienced inability to retrieve stored files from your computer, chances are you may have a data crash. This could happen due to physical or logical problem with your hard drive.

Physical refers to external damage to the hard drive component such as platter, circuit board failure and motor malfunction. Logical problems are internal failures due to virus attack and accidentally deletion of files and so on.

How to tell if you are facing possible data crash? You can usually know by strange noises produced by your computer, such as grinding, scraping, buzzing and clicking.

The above symptoms are indicating the possibility of a head crash. Because hard drive have an operational spinning speed of 3600 to 15000 RPM, severe damage can be done in a very short amount of time. This can result in damage to the head, loss of data and damage to disk surface or a combination of all three.

In this event, you will have to act instantly to firstly avoid further damage to your stored data and secondly, to preserve the damage in its original state. The first thing you want to do is to power off immediately. Do not even use the 'shut down' command, just switch off from the main source. This is because if you shut down, temporary files could overwrite any precious data.

Even if you are working on a particularly important document at the time of the crash, do not attempt to edit, save or retrieve anything. Remember that your hard drive could be severly corrupted very quickly and the goal here is to preserve the original state of the damage in order to recover not one, but all your files.

If your computer tell you that it cannot detect the hard disk, refrain from rebooting repeatedly especially if you face the same outcome after the initial reboot. If there has been a data crash, you risk damaging the head by having it scratching against the disk, damaging the disk surface at the same time.

The greater the damage, the lesser your chance in recovering your data. However, in approximately 80% of the time, data recovery is possible.

Introduction to Dedicated Servers

2008-07-23T15:34:00.000+05:30

A dedicated server is a single computer on a web-hosting network that is leased or rented, and dedicated to just one customer. A service provider monitors the computer’s hardware, network connectivity, and routing equipment, while the customer generally controls and maintains the server software. Dedicated servers are most often used by those who’ve outgrown typical hosting accounts and now require massive amounts of data space and bandwidth, those with mission critical web sites, web hosting companies, or those who have special needs. Dedicated servers are housed in data centers, where service providers can monitor them close-up and have hands-on access to them.

The primary advantage of using a dedicated server over a typical shared hosting account is the sheer amount of resources and control available to you, the customer. In many cases, the client is at liberty to install whatever software they desire, giving them greater flexibility and administrative options. Dedicated server clients do not share resources, as those with shared hosting plans do; but rather, are at liberty to use all the resources available to them.

Managed Servers vs. Unmanaged Servers

There are two types of dedicated servers available today: Managed Dedicated Servers and Unmanaged Dedicated Servers.

An Unmanaged Dedicated Server leaves nearly all the management duties of running a server in the purchaser’s control. The customer in this case, updates software on their own, applies necessary patches, performs kernel compiles and operating system restores, installs software, and monitors security. With this type of dedicated server, the consumer is solely responsible for day-to-day operations and maintenance. The service provider, in turn, monitors the network, repairs hardware problems, and troubleshoots connectivity issues. Additionally, some service providers offer partial management of services, such as network monitoring, software upgrades and other services, but leave the general upkeep of the server in the hands of the client. An unmanaged dedicated server is best for someone with server management experience.

A Managed Dedicated Server is generally more proactively monitored and maintained on the part of the service provider. When renting or leasing a managed server, the service provider or host carries out the responsibility of software updates and patches, putting security measures in place, performing hardware replacements, and also monitoring the network and its connection for trouble. In other words, when utilizing a managed dedicated server, the host provider will perform both hardware and software operations. A managed dedication server solution works well for the customer with limited server management experience or limited time in being able to perform the duties necessary to keep a server running and online.

Technical Aspects In Choosing A Server

When choosing a dedicated server, there are several things to consider: Operating System, Hardware options, Space and bandwidth.

The Operating System of a server is similar to that on your own personal computer; once installed, the operating system enables one to perform tasks more simply. There are a bevy of server operating systems available today including Linux-based and Windows-based software. The operating system you choose should be directly relational to what operations your server will be performing, which types of software you’ll need to install and also, what you’re more comfortable with.

Hardware Options are also something to consider when choosing a dedicated server. You’ll need to pick a processor that’s up to the task, the amount of memory you wish installed, firewall options, and the size of the hard drive.

A certain amount of bandwidth is generally included when renting or leasing a dedicated server. Once you ascertained how much bandwidth you will require, you can adjust that limit with your service provider. The space you’ll be given is generally directly relational to the size of your hard drive. Some hosts also give clients the choice of uplink port speed (usually 10Mbps/100Mbps).

How To Troubleshoot DVD Drives Fast

2008-07-23T15:32:00.000+05:30

You really enjoy those dvd movies and games and the last thing you need or want is to experience problems with your dvd drive.

To prepare for the possibility of having your dvd drive leaving you out in the cold one morning,we will dicuss problems that may cause dvd failure as well as the procedures you should take to correct these problems.

As with all drives,be sure to double check the failure. If the dvd drive will not read the dvd,try running another dvd in the drive.Make sure the dvd has no scratches and is clean.

Visually inspect the drive if the drive is external and if the drive is enternal,check the computer.Check to see if the computer has good ventilation to help keep it cool.Here are the common dvd problems with their solutions.

DVD DRIVE HAS NO POWER

First..For external drives that have no power,first check to see if anything or anyone has caused the power cord to become unplugged.Rule out the wall outlet by plugging in another device such as a radio and see if it plays.

Second...If you've proven the wall outlet to be good,but you still don't have power,check the surge protector for any signs of damage.If the surge protector is good,check the cord.

Third..If you're certain the surge protector or wall outlet is providing power,double check the cord by plugging it in a few times.If no power is present,you will have to replace the cord or the drive itself.

Internal dvd drives receive their power from the connector from the power supply.Try another connector to the drive. if the internal dvd drive still does not receive power after using another connector,the drive is faulty.

DRIVE HAS POWER BUT TRAY WON'T OPEN

You may experience the tray failing to open.Should this happen,press the button a couple times to see if it will open.If the tray fail to open,reboot your computer and try to open the tray.

When rebooting the system,notice the monitor to see if the drive is recognized by the computer.Some systems will not display installed hardware during bootup.If this is the case,you will have to access your BIOS to check if the dvd drive is being registered.

You can also try the manual eject button on the drive to get it to open.Use something very small but firm to press in the pinhole in front of the drive to open the tray.

Shut the computer off and unplug it.Use something like a long paperclip to insert in the pinhole to open the tray. The tray may open a couple inches and you can grab it with your fingers to open it completely.

DRIVE IS NOT RECOGNIZED BY WINDOWS

Be sure the operating system is recognizing the drive by clicking on My Computer.Windows XP will show "drives with removable storage".If your drive is present, highlight the drive,right click and select properties.Click on properties and you should see "this drive is working properly".

If you see another message such as "this drive is not working properly",you may be able to update the device driver.If the drive is not present in My computer,reboot the computer and access the cmos setup.

In the cmos setup,the dvd drive should be present.The drive may not be properly installed or one of the cables have become disconnected if the drive is missing

If you check the drive cables and are certain they are connected correctly,it may be that the data cable is faulty and the drive controller may be at fault.And we can't overlook the fact that the drive itself may be bad.

DRIVE HAS POWER BUT WILL NOT READ DVD

First..try another dvd since a dirty or scratched dvd may not play.If the new dvd fail to play as well,check to see if the operating system is recognizing the drive

Click on My Computer and highlight the dvd drive.Right click and select properties.The statement "This device is working properly" should be present.If not or you see another message,try to update the device driver.

In the My Computer screen,highlight the dvd drive,and select the Properties screen,select Drivers,and then select update device driver.

To make a backup of your registry with Windows 98, just go to Start, select Run, enter scanregw and click OK. This will run Scanregw.exe.

How To Format A Hard Drive

2008-07-23T15:29:00.000+05:30

Here's how to format a hard drive (Legal Stuff: We are not responsible for any damages, lost data, or anything of the sort)...

If you have a computer, you surely know what a hard drive is. If you don't have one, or simply don't know what a hard drive is, then this article will begin with a short description of the hard drive. Then we will cover formating a hard drive...

Step 1: What Is A Hard Disk Drive?

A hard disk drive in computing is a type of storage device made up of hard disk platters, a spindle, read and write heads read and write arms, electrical motors, and integrated electronics contained inside an airtight enclosure.

Now you know what the hard drive is. Let's stick to the point and start with the information on the title of this article. How to format a hard disk drive....

Step 2...

First of all, you should have a reason if you really want to learn how to format a hard drive. But don't forget that formating a hard drive does NOT permanently delete your data!

Of course, when you format your hard drive you think that the data is really deleted, but that is not the case.

The fact is that the data you have "deleted" can be restored. Nonetheless, you should not experiment with formatting a hard drive because you never know what may happen. Of course, it also depends on the software you use, for example, there are such products that will permanently delete the data you want and then you can continue the process of how to format a hard drive.

Step 3...

In fact there is nothing so difficult in it. You first need to decide what operating system you intend to load after formating a hard drive.

It is best and easiest to use a boot disk for that Operating System, such as MS Dos6.2 or Windows95b or Windows98SE. You will need the proper Windows95/98 boot disk in order to load these operating systems on the computer, else it will reject loading due to the wrong Operating System on the computer.

Step 4...

Then you will have to insert your boot disk in the floppy drive and start the computer.

Once the system has completed booting and an A: prompt appears. You will need to type format C: /s and then press Enter. The function of this command is to tell the system to format your "C" drive and when it is finished to copy the system files to the drive.

The "/s" switches for "System". You can format a different drive this way by using a different drive letter.

Step 5...

After that you will see on the screen the following text: "WARNING, ALL DATA ON NON-REMOVABLE DISK DRIVE C: WILL BE LOST! Proceed with Format (Y/N)?" and if you really want to continue, type [Y] and then press Enter.

Your screen should display the size of your drive and a countdown in percentage of formatting completed. Depending on your computer's speed and the size of the drive it can take from a few minutes to over 15 minutes.

When it reaches 100% complete, you will see a new message: FORMAT COMPLETE. SYSTEM TRANSFERRED. This message is to indicate that the files required to boot your computer from the hard drive have been copied from the floppy to the hard drive.

The computer can now boot from the hard drive without a boot disk in the floppy drive.

The last message that will appear on your screen is the following: "Volume label (11 characters, ENTER for none)?" You can either press any key to continue, or simply to press Enter. And now, you can finally begin to load your Operating System.

Keep in mind that you can receive an error message, which says "insufficient memory to load system files". If you do receive such message, do not worry. It is caused by the lack of a memory manager loaded at boot and your PC can only access the first 1mg of ram memory.

You can handle this situation with two options. The first one is to omit the /s switch when formatting. You should do it by typing this: FORMAT C: and then press Enter. Then when the format is complete, manually add the system files to your hard drive by using this command: SYS C: and press Enter again.

The second solution is to load a memory manager in order to overcome this issue. If you don't have any you can easily download one from one of the million sites on the Internet.

Step 6...

You see, we have finally reached the end of How To Format A Hard Drive. and consequently – the end of this article. Now you surely know how to format a hard drive. But, once again, don't play with the commands if you are not serious about formating a hard drive.

Even if the data is restorable you may do something wrong to your computer. That is why, you should be careful! And now, good luck!

How To Refill Your Ink Cartridge

2008-07-23T15:27:00.000+05:30

Forget about emptying your wallets every time you see the blinking light. Quit worrying and start doing it yourself! It’s an easy process that won’t take you more than five minutes.

The following is included in a typical ink refill kit: ink bottles, syringes and detailed instructions. Some kits include an air balance clip for balancing the air inside the cartridge to ensure proper ink flow. Some kits also include hand-drill tool to make a hole in the top of your empty cartridge.

Refilling Process

1. To start the refilling process, fill the syringe with one of the ink colors over the sink or several sheets of scrap paper to prevent any mess. Different printers hold different amounts of ink. In most Epson printers, the black cartridge holds approximately 17 ml and the color cartridges hold approximately 8 ml. See the instructions with your refill kit to see how much ink your cartridges can hold.

2. Before inserting the needle, make a small hole in the top of the cartridge (one for each color chamber). The hole is at the top of the cartridge near the label. Simply push the needle through the hole and press to the bottom of the cartridge towards the outlet hole. It’s important to fill the cartridge slowly so as to avoid the ink from foaming and introducing air in the chamber.

3. You do not need to seal the refill holes since there are already breather holes on the top of the cartridge.

4. Any unused ink can be put back in the bottle. You should clean the syringe with water and dry it properly to do the same process for the other cartridges or for future use. You can also label each syringe for the different colors so that each syringe is only used with one color.

5. Once you place the cartridge back in the printer, run the cleaning cycle 1 to 3 times. If there are any gaps in the printing, run the cleaning cycle again.

Don’t Forget

There are a few things to remember when refilling your cartridge. It should be refilled before the cartridge is completely empty to avoid the chamber from drying out and clogging. Also, it is a good idea to let the printer cartridge sit for a few hours (or overnight) so that the pressure in the cartridge will stabilize.

Some printers, like newer Epson models, have a green chip on their ink cartridges which is visible by looking at your cartridge. They are often referred to as “Intellidge” cartridges. The chip keeps track of how often the cartridge is used and lets the computer know when the cartridge may be low or empty. As long as you reset the chip, refilling the cartridge with ink from a refill kit will not be a problem. A resetting tool can be used to reset the memory on the chip. This allows the printer to recognize the cartridge as being full which makes printing with a refilled cartridge possible.

Refilling your own ink cartridge is easy, good for the environment, and very good for your pocket.

DVD ROMs

2008-07-23T15:16:00.000+05:30

DVD CD ROMs have become predominantly the most used CD drive for desktop and notebook computers. They are very reliable and now come as a standard in most computers. If you are looking for a laptop then make sure it has a DVD ROM, this will give you extra speed for normal Cds, and you will be able to watch your favourite DVDs while you travel.

I often sit up late watching DVDs on my laptop after a hard working day.

If you are interested in Desktop computers, then the DVD drive will enable you to watch your favourite DVDs on your monitor. I currently have a 21-inch monitor and a 5.1 computer surround kit. This brings DVDs to life and acts just like a home cinema system, however the quality is even better.

Most DVD ROMs will come in speeds ranging from 4 to 10 speed. This is more than adequate to watch the latest DVDs, play the latest games, and use and install the latest software. Normal CDs can only perform at a certain speed, and it is a lot lower than what the DVD ROM offers. I hope you have a better understanding of why DVD ROMs are now used more than a normal CD nowadays. It is basically all part of bringing a home entertainment system at the best quality closer to everyone.

Blu-ray: A Primer

2008-07-23T15:12:00.000+05:30

Blu-ray is an optical disc format which is set to rival HD-DVDin the race to be the
de-facto standard storage medium for HDTV. The HD-DVD vs Blu-ray battle resembles
that between Betamax and VHS and DVD+RW and DVD-RW.

Currently, the major Hollywood film studios are split evenly in their support for Blu-
ray and HD-DVD, but most of the electronics industry is currently in the blue corner.

The key difference between these new players and recorders and current optical disc
technology is that Blu-ray, as its name suggests, uses a blue-violet laser to read
and write data rather than a red one. Blue light has a shorter wavelength than red
light, and according to the Blu-ray Disc Association (BDA), which is made up of,
amongst others, Sony, Philips, Panasonic, and Pioneer, this means that the laser
spot can be focussed with greater precision.

Blu-ray discs have a maximum capacity of 25GB and dual-layer discs can hold up to
50GB - enough for four hours of HDTV. Like HD-DVD, Blue laser discs don’t require
a caddy and the players and recorders will be able to play current DVD discs. Codecs
supported by Blu-ray include the H.264 MPEG-4 codec which will form part of
Apple’s QuickTime 7, and the Windows Media 9 based VC-1.

High Definition DVD

2008-07-23T15:08:00.000+05:30

High definition DVD, also known as HD-DVD (which actually stands for High Density
DVD), is one of two competing high definition storage format - the other being Blu-ray.

The need for a
new, high capacity storage format, has been primarily brought about by the rapid
rise in popularity of HDTV in Japan and the US. HDTV has much higher bandwidth
than either NTSC or regular DVD discs, so in order to record programs from HD-
DVD higher capacity discs, of at least 30GB, are required.

High definition video is also being used increasingly to make Hollywood movies as it
offers comparable quality to film at much less cost. Therefore, the studios plan to
release future movies on one or both high definition formats.

HD-DVD was developed by Toshiba and NEC and has the support of the DVD Forum,
along with a number of Hollywood studios. Currently those studios which have
announced support for HD-DVD are; Universal Studios, Paramount Studios, Warner
Bros., and New Line Cinema. It has a capacity of 15GB for single-sided discs and
30Gb for double-sided. It doesn’t need a caddy or cartridge and the cover layer is
the same thickness as current DVD discs, 0.6mm. The numerical aperture of the
optical pick-up head is also the same as DVD, 0.65mm.

Because of its similarities to current DVD, high definition DVD is cheaper to
manufacture than Blu-ray, because it doesn’t need big changes in the production
line set-up. Both HD-DVD and Blu-ray have backward compatibility with existing
DVDV discs. That is that current DVDs will play in HD-DVD player, although new
high definition DVD won’t play in older DVD players.

High definition DVD currently supports a number of compression formats, including
MPEG-2, VC1 (based on Microsoft’s Windows Media 9), and H.264 which is based on
MPEG-4 and will be supported by the next version of Apple’s QuickTime software,
which will be included with Mac OS X Tiger.

Routing, Routed, and Non-Routable Protocols

2008-07-23T15:03:00.000+05:30

ROUTING PROTOCOLS

A generic term that refers to a formula, or protocol, used by a router to determine the appropriate path over which data is transmitted. The routing protocol also specifies how routers in a network share information with each other and report changes. The routing protocol enables a network to make dynamic adjustments to its conditions, so routing decisions do not have to be predetermined and static.

Routing, Routed and Non-Routable Protocols

ROUTING | ROUTED | NON-ROUTABLE

ROUTING PROTOCOLS

ROUTING PROTOCOLS are the software that allow routers to dynamically advertise and learn routes, determine which routes are available and which are the most efficient routes to a destination. Routing protocols used by the Internet Protocol suite include:

· Routing Information Protocol (RIP and RIP II).

· Open Shortest Path First (OSPF).

· Intermediate System to Intermediate System (IS-IS).

· Interrior Gateway Routing Protocol (IGRP).

· Cisco's Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP).

· Border Gateway Protocol (BGP).

Routing is the process of moving data across two or more networks. Within a network, all hosts are directly accessable because they are on the same

ROUTED PROTOCOLS

ROUTED PROTOCOLS are nothing more than data being transported across the networks. Routed protocols include:

· Internet Protocol

o Telnet

o Remote Procedure Call (RPC)

o SNMP

o SMTP

· Novell IPX

· Open Standards Institute networking protocol

· DECnet

· Appletalk

· Banyan Vines

· Xerox Network System (XNS)

Outside a network, specialized devices called ROUTES are used to perform the routing process of forwarding packets between networks. Routers are connected to the edges of two or more networks to provide connectivity between them. These devices are usually dedicated machines with specialized hardware and software to speed up the routing process. These devices send and receive routing information to each other about networks that they can and cannot reach. Routers examine all routes to a destination, determine which routes have the best metric, and insert one or more routes into the IP routing table on the router. By maintaining a current list of known routes, routers can quicky and efficiently send your information on it's way when received.

There are many companies that produce routers: Cisco, Juniper, Bay, Nortel, 3Com, Cabletron, etc. Each company's product is different in how it is configured, but most will interoperate so long as they share common physical and data link layer protocols (Cisco HDLC or PPP over Serial, Ethernet etc.). Before purchasing a router for your business, always check with your Internet provider to see what equipment they use, and choose a router, which will interoperate with your Internet provider's equipment.

NON-ROUTABLE PROTOCOLS

NON-ROUTABLE PROTOCOLS cannot survive being routed. Non-routable protocols presume that all computers they will ever communicate with are on the same network (to get them working in a routed environment, you must bridge the networks). Todays modern networks are not very tolerant of protocols that do not understand the concept of a multi-segment network and most of these protocols are dying or falling out of use.

· NetBEUI

· DLC

· LAT

· DRP

· MOP

RIP (Routing Information Protocol)

RIP is a dynamic internetwork routing protocol primary used in interior routing environments. A dynamic routing protocol, as opposed to a static routing protocol, automatically discovers routes and builds routing tables. Interior environments are typically private networks (autonomous systems). In contrast, exterior routing protocols such as BGP are used to exchange route summaries between autonomous systems. BGP is used among autonomous systems on the Internet.

RIP uses the distance-vector algorithm developed by Bellman and Ford (Bellman-Ford algorithm).

Routing Information Protocol

Background

The Routing Information Protocol, or RIP, as it is more commonly called, is one of the most enduring of all routing protocols. RIP is also one of the more easily confused protocols because a variety of RIP-like routing protocols proliferated, some of which even used
the same name! RIP and the myriad RIP-like protocols were based on the same set of algorithms that use distance vectors to mathematically compare routes to identify the best path to any given destination address. These algorithms emerged from academic research that dates back to 1957.

Today's open standard version of RIP, sometimes referred to as IP RIP, is formally defined in two documents: Request For Comments (RFC) 1058 and Internet Standard (STD) 56. As IP-based networks became both more numerous and greater in size, it became apparent to the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that RIP needed to be updated. Consequently, the IETF released RFC 1388 in January 1993, which was then superceded in November 1994 by RFC 1723, which describes RIP 2 (the second version of RIP). These RFCs described an extension of RIP's capabilities but did not attempt to obsolete the previous version of RIP. RIP 2 enabled RIP messages to carry more information, which permitted the use of a simple authentication mechanism to secure table updates. More importantly, RIP 2 supported subnet masks, a critical feature that was not available in RIP.

This chapter summarizes the basic capabilities and features associated with RIP. Topics include the routing update process, RIP routing metrics, routing stability, and routing timers.

Routing Updates

RIP sends routing-update messages at regular intervals and when the network topology changes. When a router receives a routing update that includes changes to an entry, it updates its routing table to reflect the new route. The metric value for the path is increased by 1, and the sender is indicated as the next hop. RIP routers maintain only the best route (the route with the lowest metric value) to a destination. After updating its routing table, the router immediately begins transmitting routing updates to inform other network routers of the change. These updates are sent independently of the regularly scheduled updates that RIP routers send.

RIP Routing Metric

RIP uses a single routing metric (hop count) to measure the distance between the source and a destination network. Each hop in a path from source to destination is assigned a hop count value, which is typically 1. When a router receives a routing update that contains a new or changed destination network entry, the router adds 1 to the metric value indicated in the update and enters the network in the routing table. The IP address of the sender is used as the next hop.

RIP Stability Features

RIP prevents routing loops from continuing indefinitely by implementing a limit on the number of hops allowed in a path from the source to a destination. The maximum number of hops in a path is 15. If a router receives a routing update that contains a new or changed entry, and if increasing the metric value by 1 causes the metric to be infinity (that is, 16), the network destination is considered unreachable. The downside of this stability feature is that it limits the maximum diameter of a RIP network to less than 16 hops.

RIP includes a number of other stability features that are common to many routing protocols. These features are designed to provide stability despite potentially rapid changes in a network's topology. For example, RIP implements the split horizon and holddown mechanisms to prevent incorrect routing information from being propagated.

RIP Timers

RIP uses numerous timers to regulate its performance. These include a routing-update timer, a route-timeout timer, and a route-flush timer. The routing-update timer clocks the interval between periodic routing updates. Generally, it is set to 30 seconds, with a small random amount of time added whenever the timer is reset. This is done to help prevent congestion, which could result from all routers simultaneously attempting to update their neighbors. Each routing table entry has a route-timeout timer associated with it. When the route-timeout timer expires, the route is marked invalid but is retained in the table until the route-flush timer expires.

Packet Formats

The following section focuses on the IP RIP and IP RIP 2 packet formats illustrated in Figures 44-1 and 44-2. Each illustration is followed by descriptions of the fields illustrated.
RIP Packet Format

· Command—Indicates whether the packet is a request or a response. The request asks that a router send all or part of its routing table. The response can be an unsolicited regular routing update or a reply to a request. Responses contain routing table entries. Multiple RIP packets are used to convey information from large routing tables.

· Version number—Specifies the RIP version used. This field can signal different potentially incompatible versions.

· Zero—This field is not actually used by RFC 1058 RIP; it was added solely to provide backward compatibility with prestandard varieties of RIP. Its name comes from its defaulted value: zero.

· Address-family identifier (AFI)—Specifies the address family used. RIP is designed to carry routing information for several different protocols. Each entry has an address-family identifier to indicate the type of address being specified. The AFI for IP is 2.

· Address—Specifies the IP address for the entry.

· Metric—Indicates how many internetwork hops (routers) have been traversed in the trip to the destination. This value is between 1 and 15 for a valid route, or 16 for an unreachable route.

Note: Up to 25 occurrences of the AFI, Address, and Metric fields are permitted in a single IP RIP packet. (Up to 25 destinations can be listed in a single RIP packet.)

RIP 2 Packet Format

· Command—Indicates whether the packet is a request or a response. The request asks that a router send all or a part of its routing table. The response can be an unsolicited regular routing update or a reply to a request. Responses contain routing table entries. Multiple RIP packets are used to convey information from large routing tables.

· Version—Specifies the RIP version used. In a RIP packet implementing any of the RIP 2 fields or using authentication, this value is set to 2.

· Unused—Has a value set to zero.

· Address-family identifier (AFI)—Specifies the address family used. RIPv2's AFI field functions identically to RFC 1058 RIP's AFI field, with one exception: If the AFI for the first entry in the message is 0xFFFF, the remainder of the entry contains authentication information. Currently, the only authentication type is simple password.

· Route tag—Provides a method for distinguishing between internal routes (learned by RIP) and external routes (learned from other protocols).

· IP address—Specifies the IP address for the entry.

· Subnet mask—Contains the subnet mask for the entry. If this field is zero, no subnet mask has been specified for the entry.

·Next hop—Indicates the IP address of the next hop to which packets for the entry should be forwarded.

· Metric—Indicates how many internetwork hops (routers) have been traversed in the trip to the destination. This value is between 1 and 15 for a valid route, or 16 for an unreachable route.

Note: Up to 25 occurrences of the AFI, Address, and Metric fields are permitted in a single IP RIP packet. That is, up to 25 routing table entries can be listed in a single RIP packet. If the AFI specifies an authenticated message, only 24 routing table entries can be specified. Given that individual table entries aren't fragmented into multiple packets, RIP does not need a mechanism to resequence datagrams bearing routing table updates from neighboring routers.

Summary

Despite RIP's age and the emergence of more sophisticated routing protocols, it is far from obsolete. RIP is mature, stable, widely supported, and easy to configure. Its simplicity is well suited for use in stub networks and in small autonomous systems that do not have enough redundant paths to warrant the overheads of a more sophisticated protocol.

Review Questions

Q—Name RIP's various stability features.

A—RIP has numerous stability features, the most obvious of which is RIP's maximum hop count. By placing a finite limit on the number of hops that a route can take, routing loops are discouraged, if not completely eliminated. Other stability features include its various timing mechanisms that help ensure that the routing table contains only valid routes, as well as split horizon and holddown mechanisms that prevent incorrect routing information from being disseminated throughout the network.

Q—What is the purpose of the timeout timer?

A—The timeout timer is used to help purge invalid routes from a RIP node. Routes that aren't refreshed for a given period of time are likely invalid because of some change in the network. Thus, RIP maintains a timeout timer for each known route. When a route's timeout timer expires, the route is marked invalid but is retained in the table until the route-flush timer expires.

Q—What two capabilities are supported by RIP 2 but not RIP?

A—RIP 2 enables the use of a simple authentication mechanism to secure table updates. More importantly, RIP 2 supports subnet masks, a critical feature that is not available in RIP.

Q—What is the maximum network diameter of a RIP network?

A—A RIP network's maximum diameter is 15 hops. RIP can count to 16, but that value is considered an error condition rather than a valid hop count.

Computer Network Installation

2008-07-23T14:53:00.000+05:30

Computer network installation has become an essential prerequisite for any efficient modern-day business as it allows employees to truly work as a team by sharing information, accessing the same database and staying in touch constantly. For a computer network to give the best results, a lot of detailed planning and foresight is required before installation.

Firstly, an organisation needs to clearly define its requirements – how many people would use the network, how many would use it locally (within the office) and how many might require remote access (from a different location), how many computers and other devices (servers, printers, scanners) would be connected to the network, what are the needs of the various departments and who would be in charge of running/managing the network. It also helps if one can anticipate the direction the company would take in the near future so potential growth can be factored in during computer network installation.

The technology issues should also be ironed out in advance – hardware, software, servers, switches, back-up devices, cables and network operating systems. Make sure you have the required licenses to run the software on all your machines before installing a computer network. Alongside computer network installation should proceed the building of a dedicated technical support staff, either within your own organisation or outside consultants. Delegate responsibility clearly for network management. Before installing the network, you also need to choose the security mechanism to protect corporate data and keep viruses at bay.

The transition to a new or upgraded computer network can bring some teething problems. To minimise chances of confusion, the company might need to train its staff to make them familiar with the new system. Careful planning will to a large extent prevent crises like system downtime and network crashes.

Bluetooth Basics - Bluetooth Technology Tutorial

2008-07-23T14:36:00.000+05:30

Bluetooth Basics

Bluetooth technology is nothing new, but in many respects it still seems to be more of a buzz word rather than a well understood, commonly accepted technology. You see advertisements for Bluetooth enabled cell phones, PDAs, and laptops, and a search of the Geeks.com website shows all sorts of different devices taking advantage of this wireless standard. But, what is it?

History

Before getting into the technology, the word Bluetooth is intriguing all on its own, and deserves a look. The term is far less high tech than you might imagine, and finds its roots in European history. The King of Denmark from 940 to 981 was renowned for his ability to help people communicate, his name (in English)... Harald Bluetooth. Perhaps a bit obscure, but the reference is appropriate for a wireless communications standard.

Another item worth investigating is the Bluetooth logo. Based on characters from the runic alphabet (used in ancient Denmark), it was chosen as it appears to be the combination of the English letter B and an asterisk.

Capabilities

The FAQ on the Bluetooth.org (https://www.bluetooth.org/) website offers a basic definition: "Bluetooth wireless technology is a worldwide specification for a small-form factor, low-cost radio solution that provides links between mobile computers, mobile phones, other portable handheld devices, and connectivity to the Internet."

Just like 802.11 b/g wireless networking systems and many cordless telephones, Bluetooth devices operate on 2.4 GHz radio signals. That band seems to be getting a bit crowded, and interference between devices may be difficult to avoid. Telephones are now being offered on the 5.8 GHz band to help remedy this, and Bluetooth has taken its own steps to reduce interference and improve transmission quality. Version 1.1 of the Bluetooth standard greatly reduces interference issues, but requires completely different hardware from the original 1.0C standard, thus eliminating any chance of backwards compatibility.

The typical specifications of Bluetooth indicate a maximum transfer rate of 723 kbps and a range of 20-100 meters (65 to 328 feet - depending on the class of the device). This speed is a fraction of that offered by 802.11 b or g wireless standards, so it is obvious that Bluetooth doesn’t pose a threat to replace your wireless network. Although it is very similar to 802.11 in many ways, Bluetooth was never intended to be a networking standard, but does have many practical applications.

Practical Applications

There are a variety of products that take advantage of Bluetooth’s capabilities, from laptops and PDAs, to headphones and input devices, and even wireless printer adapters.

Many Laptops include an onboard Bluetooth adaptor to allow the system to connect to any Bluetooth device right out of the box. For laptop or desktop systems that do not have an adaptor built in, there are many USB Bluetooth adaptors available.

Bluetooth enabled PDAs allow for convenient wireless synchronization and data transfer.

Headphones can take advantage of Bluetooth for two purposes… audio playback and mobile phone communications. Using something a mobile headset with a Bluetooth enabled mobile phone allows anyone to go hands free, as well as wire free.

Logitech, and other manufacturers, also produce input devices that eliminate wires thanks to Bluetooth. You can add a Bluetooth mouse to your system, or both a mouse and keyboard. One advantage that Bluetooth wireless keyboard/mouse combinations have over the standard RF wireless keyboard/mouse combinations is range. Where most standard RF keyboard/mouse combinations have a range up to 6 feet; a Bluetooth keyboard/mouse combination will usually have a range of up to 30 feet.

Bluetooth printer adaptors make sharing a printer extremely convenient by eliminating the need for any wires or special configurations on a typical network. Printing to any compatible HP printer from a PC, PDA or mobile phone can now be done easily from anywhere in the office.

Video Encryption

2008-07-23T14:35:00.000+05:30

What is Video Encryption?

Video Encryption is an extremely useful method for the stopping unwanted interception and viewing of any transmitted video or other information, for example from a law enforcement video surveillance being relayed back to a central viewing centre.

The scrambling is the easy part. It is the un-encryption that's hard, but there are several techniques that are available. However, the human eye is very good at, spotting distortions in pictures due to poor video decoding or poor choice of video scrambling hardware. Therefore, it is very important to choose the right hardware or else your video transmissions may be un-secure or your decoded video may not be watchable.

Some of the more popular techniques are detailed below:

Line Inversion:

Method: Whole or parts of the signal scan lines are inverted.

Advantages: Simple, cheap video encryption.

Disadvantages: Poor video decrypting quality, low obscurity, low security.

Sync Suppression:

Method: Hide/remove the horizontal/vertical line syncs.

Advantages: Provides a low cost solution to Encryption and provides good quality video decoding.

Disadvantages: This method is incompatible with some distribution equipment. Obscurity (i.e. how easy it is to visually decipher the image) is dependant on video content.

Line Shuffle:

Method: Each signal line is re-ordered on the screen.

Advantages: Provides a compatible video signal, a reasonable amount of obscurity, good decode quality.

Disadvantages: Requires a lot of digital storage space. There are potential issues with video stability. Less secure than the cut and rotate encryption method (see below)

Cut & Rotate:

Scrambling Method: Each scan line is cut into pieces and re-assembled in a different order.

Advantages: Provides a compatible video signal, gives an excellent amount of obscurity, as well as good decode quality and stability.

Disadvantages: Can have complex timing control and requires specialized scrambling equipment

The cut and rotate video encryption method is probably the best way of achieving reliable and good quality video encryption, an example of a good implementation of this system is in the Viewlock II

Implementing vice scrambling

The video scrambling hardware, in particular the decoder should function correctly even if there is a noisy (for example having what are commonly known as 'snow' on the screen. 'Snow' is when there are flecks on your TV screen, often seen in poor reception areas) or unstable signal. If the link to the encrypted signal should stop working then this should not be a problem. The link between the video encoder and video decoder should be regained and the decryption quickly continued.

The very nature of security camera systems is that they are often outdoors as so must be able to withstand the rigours of the weather. The video encryption hardware should be stable under or protected from the effects of rain, sunlight, extreme heat and cold. It should not be damaged if there is a power spike in the supply. In these systems the video encoder emits a wireless signal to the video decoder unit before it is viewed, it obviously must be the case that the very act of broadcasting the signal does not effect the video encoding hardware and likewise the video encoding hardware should not effect the radio transmitter.

The most important item is that the video scrambling system should be secure, else why bother? It is amazing how some encryption methods can easily be cracked. For example certain cable television stations 'encrypt' their channel broadcasts via a relatively un complex method, which can easily be decoded using a number of cheap bits of electronics from radio shack. That would obviously be illegal! The cable TV's method of encryption is very crude, they usually just dynamically alter the vertical sync signal so that your TV cannot get a proper lock on it and so it scrolls randomly.

The other extreme is to scramble the transmitted video signal too much so that it is costly both in equipment and time to the video at the receiver. Remember that this is a 'live' video scrambling broadcast followed by a 'live' video decryption display. ANY electronics can be copied, given enough money and time, but making this process as hard as possible is of benefit as it at least delays the time when illegal copies will be available.

DVD Recorders: Getting Started

2008-07-23T14:30:00.000+05:30

IMO, these sd work 'like a VCR' as far as recording and playback. There are models w/ harddrives, VHS players, etc. built in, but to me that's overboard.

Bells and Whistles

The VHS option is not bad, but you most likely already have one you can plug into the inputs of the DVD recorder.

I have a DVD recorder for archiving TiVo shows as opposed to accessing my TiVo from my PC. This is nice because it means I can also archive VHS tapes, camcorder tapes, etc. w/no extra work.

I do have a TV card in my PC so I can do this, but using the DVD recorder is easier.

My motto is: buy what you WILL use and not what you CAN use.

I've bought lots of things that CAN do a lot, but in reality I don't use all the extra features. Not in all cases, but in this case, I say pass on the bells and whistles.

Again, there are models w/ all types of features, but if you buy one that is a DVR, DVD recorder, VCR, TV tuner all in one and one part breaks, it's all broke.

Realize Something About Technology

Remember - this is new technology and will only get better and cheaper. If you buy the top of the line today, it's going to be out of date and/or cheap tomorrow. Test the waters w/ a 'good' model and upgrade when the time is right.

Editing Your Recordings

Chances are - you won't. It's a pain for the most part and usually requires DVD-RAM or DVD-RW discs to do it and they're more expensive. If you have a lot of free time for this, you're a rare person.

I was looking for this type of solution in getting ready for having a baby and I knew I wasn't going to be sifting through and editing hours of video.

If you're really interested in editing, look in to PC options. Pinnacle, ArcSoft, Adobe, etc. - they have good solutions for that.

DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD-RAM, DVD-RW

DVD+R and DVD-R are like VHS and Beta: they're both ok right now, but eventually we'll probably land on one or the other. It seems to be leaning towards DVD-R which tend to be less expensive also.

Many recorders and players do both, but cost more. I say save some money, pick one (probably DVD-R) and move on. If you pick the wrong one, chances are in a couple years you'll be buying a new one anyway. Moreover, you'll probably be able to get a cheap one w/ a built in converter or two trays to duplicate one to the other.

DVD-RAM and DVD-RW are the rewritable types. They're more expensive and for my purposes aren't worth worrying about.

My Recommendation

I got the Panasonic DMR-E55K:

It records to DVD-R like a VCR. I don't use it to record live TV so I don't use VCR+, but it has it. Also, it has TimeSlip which lets you watch something while it's recording (start recording "24" at 8pm and start watching it from the begining at 8:20 to speed thru commercials like a TiVo). Again, I don't use this, but it has it.

Plain and simple, it records my TiVo, camcorder, digital camera (RCA cable output), VCR, etc. to DVD - that's what I want it to do and that's what it does. It's easy, creates a good menu w/ thumbnails and my chosen titles, it's a name brand w/ good reviews and was fairly cheap (there was a rebate at the time).

Also, it plays CDs and mp3 CDs w/ a good interface so not only does it replace a CD player, but since you can put so many songs on one CD, it replaces a CD changer.

An interesting trick: If you have a digital camera w/ RCA cable output, you can hook it directly into the dvd recorder and create a quick slide-show dvd. Many cameras even have a slide show function built in! You can use the sound from a music channel, CD, etc.

Expert Guide to DVD Camcorders

2008-07-23T14:29:00.000+05:30

Thinking about a mini DVD camcorder? You're not alone, it's a rapidly growing
sector of the camcorder market, with Hitachi, Sony and Panasonic all making more
than one mini dvd camcorder.

These camcorders differ from regular digital video cameras in one important way -
they record video onto mini DVD discs, rather than DV tape. This has a number of
advantages. DVD discs are more robust than tape and won't get chewed up in the
camera. Although this is thankfully a rare occurance, it scares me every time I here a
strange noise coming from my camcorder, so it's with bearing in mind.

The second advantage is that DVD discs are random access, compared to tape on
which everything is recorded sequentially. This means that there's no need to
rewind and fast forward to find the clip you're after, just select it from the menu.
Some cameras even allow you to perform basic editing functions on-camera. An
additional side-benefit is that a mini DVD camcorder doesn't have tape heads to get
worn or dirty as happens in regular mini DVD cameras.

And thirdly, you can easily watch your home movies by removing the DVD from the
camera and playing it in practically any DVD player.

However, there are negative factors to. The most siginificant one is that video is
encoded as MPEG-2 on a mini DVD camcorder, as opposed to DV format. This
means that it needs specialist software to edit - you can't just use your regular
video editing program (unless it specifically supports MPEG-2). And if a Mac user
you're out of luck, as there are no MPEG-2 editing applications for the Mac.

Also, mini DVD camcorders tend to cost more than similarly specified mini DV
cameras. And the media is also more expensive. However, if you don't intend
editing your movies and don't mind the extra cost, a mini dvd camcorder does offer
extraordinary convenience.

Recordable DVD Formats Explained

2008-07-23T14:28:00.000+05:30

Picking your way through the ton of information available on recordable DVD
formats can be a nightmare. To help you out, we’ve done our best to distill it into
this summary.

There are five recordable versions of DVD; DVD-R for General, DVD-R for Authoring,
DVD-RAM, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW. None of the formats is fully compatible with the
other although there are drives which will read, and in some cases write to more
than one format.

DVD-R for General and DVD-R for Authoring are essentially DVD versions of CD-R.
And DVD-RW is a DVD version of CD-RW. All three formats can be read in standard
DVD-ROM drives and in most DVD video players. The difference between DVD-R for
General and DVD-R for Authoring is that DVD-R for General is a format intended for
widespread consumer use and doeasn’t support ‘professional’ features such as
piracy protection or duplication in mass duplicators. The Pioneer DVD-RW drive
which is the most popular PC device for writing to DVD uses the DVD for General
format. And as as the case with CD, DVD-RW is essentially the same as DVD-R
except that it can be erased and written to again and again.

DVD-RAM is slightly different as it is a sector based disc which mounts on the
desktop of a PC when inserted into a drive. Files can then be copied to it in the same
way as any other mounted media. Some single-sided DVD-RAM discs can be
removed from their caddy and inserted in a DVD-ROM drive which will then be able
to read the content of the disc.

There are DVD video recorders which use the DVD-RAM format. This enables themn
to pull off clever tricks like timeshifting – where you can watch the beginning of a
programme you have recorded while you are still recording the end on the same
disc.

DVD+RW is the newest format and not supported by the DVD Forum, the body
which sets the standards for DVD. However, it is supported by some of the biggest
electronics and computer manufacturers, and is therefore likely to stick around.

It is also the format used by Philips in its DVD video recorders. Despite not being
authorised by the DVD Forum, DVD+RW is claimed by its supporterd to be
compatible with more DVD video players than DVD-R and DVD+RW writers are
found in PCs from quite a few manufacturers.

ATA vs SATA

2008-07-23T14:27:00.000+05:30

Hard Drives: ATA versus SATA

The performance of computer systems has been steadily increasing as faster processors, memory, and video cards are continuously being developed. The one key component that is often neglected when looking at improving the performance of a computer system is the hard drive. Hard drive manufacturers have been constantly evolving the basic hard drive used in modern computer systems for the last 25 years, and the last few years have seen some exciting developments from faster spindle speeds, larger caches, better reliability, and increased data transmission speeds.

The drive type used most in consumer grade computers is the hearty ATA type drive (commonly called an IDE drive). The ATA standard dates back to 1986 and is based on a 16-bit parallel interface has undergone many evolutions since its introduction to increase the speed and size of the drives that it can support. The latest standard is ATA-7 (first introduced in 2001 by the T13 Technical Committee (the group responsible for the ATA standard)) which supports data transfer rates up to 133MB/sec. This is expected to be the last update for the parallel ATA standard.

As long ago as 2000 it was seen that the parallel ATA standard was maxing out its limitations as to what it could handle. With data rates hitting the 133MB/sec mark on a parallel cable, you are inviting all sorts of problems because of signal timing, EMI (electromagnetic interference) and other data integrity issues; thus industry leaders got together and came up with a new standard known as Serial ATA (SATA). SATA has only been around a few years, but is destined to become “the standard” due to several benefits to be addressed in this Tech Tip.

The two technologies that we will be looking at are:
ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) – a 16-bit parallel interface used for controlling computer drives. Introduced in 1986, it has undergone many evolutions in the last 18+ years, with the latest version being called ATA-7. Wherever an item is referred to as being an ATA device, it is commonly a Parallel ATA device. ATA devices are also commonly called IDE, EIDE, Ultra-ATA, Ultra-DMA, ATAPI, PATA, etc. (each of these acronyms actually do refer to very specific items, but are commonly interchanged)
SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) – a 1-bit serial evolution of the Parallel ATA physical storage interface.

Basic Features & Connections

SATA drives are easy to distinguish from their ATA cousins by the different data and power connections found on the back of the drives. A side-by-side comparison of the two interfaces can be seen in this PDF from Maxtor, and the following covers many of the differences…

Standard ATA drives, such as this 200GB Western Digital model, have somewhat bulky, two inch wide ribbon cable with 40-pin data connections and receive the 5V necessary to power them from the familiar 4-pin connection. The basic data cables for these drives have looked the same for years. A change was made with the introduction of the ATA-5 standard to better improve the signal quality by making an 80 wire cable used on the 40-pin connector (these are commonly called 40-pin/80-wire cables). To improve airflow within the computer system some manufacturers resorted to literally folding over the ribbon cable and taping it into that position. Another recent physical change also came with the advent of rounded cables. The performance of the rounded cables is equal to that of the flat ribbon, but many prefer the improved system air flow afforded, ease of wire management, and cooler appearance that come with them.

SATA drives, such as this 120GB Western Digital model, have a half inch wide, 7 “blade and beam” data connection, which results in a much thinner and easier to manage data cable. These cables take the convenience of the ATA rounded cables to the next level by being even narrower, more flexible and capable of being longer without fear of data loss. SATA cables have a maximum length of 1 meter (39.37 inches), which is much greater than the recommended 18 inch cable for ATA drives. The reduced footprint of SATA data connections frees up space on motherboards, potentially allowing for more convenient layouts and room for more onboard features!

A 15-pin power connection delivers the 250mV of necessary power to SATA drives. 15-pins for a SATA device sounds like it would require a much larger power cable than a 4-pin ATA device, but in reality the two power connectors are just about the same height. For the time being, many SATA drives are also coming with a legacy 4-pin power connector for convenience.

Many modern motherboards, such as this Chaintech motherboard, come with SATA drive connections onboard (many also including the ATA connectors as well for legacy drive compatibility), and new power supplies, such as this Ultra X-Connect, generally feature a few of the necessary 15-pin power connections, making it easy to use these drives on new systems. Older systems can easily be upgraded to support SATA drives by use of adapters, such as this PCI slot SATA controller and this 4-pin to 15-pin SATA power adapter.

Optical drives are also becoming more readily available with SATA connections. Drives such as the Plextor PX-712SA take advantage of the new interface, although the performance will not be any greater than a comparable optical drive with an ATA connection.

Performance

In addition to being more convenient to install and drawing less power, SATA drives have performance benefits that really set them apart from ATA drives.

The most interesting performance feature of SATA is the maximum bandwidth possible. As we have noted, the evolution of ATA drives has seen the data transfer rate reach its maximum at 133 MB/second, where the current SATA standard provides data transfers of up to 150 MB/second. The overall performance increase of SATA over ATA can currently be expected to be up to 5% (according to Seagate), but improvements in SATA technology will surely improve on that.

The future of SATA holds great things for those wanting even more speed, as drives with 300 MB/second transfer rates (SATA II) will be readily available in 2005, and by 2008 speeds of up to 600 MB/second can be expected. Those speeds are incredible, and are hard to imagine at this point.

Another performance benefit found on SATA drives is their built-in hot-swap capabilities. SATA drives can be brought on and offline without shutting down the computer system, providing a serious benefit to those who can’t afford downtime, or who want to move drives in and out of operation quickly. The higher number of wires in the power connection is partially explained by this, as six of the fifteen wires are dedicated to allowing the hot-swap feature.

Price

Comparing ATA drives to SATA drives can be tricky given all of the variables, but in general it is the case that SATA drives will still cost just a bit more than a comparable ATA drive. The gap is closing rapidly though, and as SATA drives gain in popularity and availability a distinct shift in prices can be expected. Considering the benefits of SATA over ATA, the potential difference of a few dollars can easily be justified when considering an upgrade. Computer Geeks currently has a limited selection of SATA drives, but several technical sites, such as The Tech Zone and The Tech Lounge, offer real time price guides to see how comparable drives stack up.

Setting up a Network -- Wired or Wireless?

2008-07-23T14:26:00.000+05:30

To Wire or Not to Wire

Wireless networks are en vogue, but your installation won’t be successful unless you chose the right type of network and set it up properly. Wired networks require that each computer be connected via a wire to a central location, called a switch or hub. This often involves installing cables through walls and ceilings and can present a challenge for anyone.

If the computers in your home or office are all within 500 feet of each other, a wireless network might be for you. A wireless network has no cables. It can connect computers on different floors of a building or even across the street. Aside from the obvious benefit of not having wires, wireless networks are more convenient since the setup, configuration, and reconfiguration can often be done within minutes, without extensive planning.

Wireless networks, however, are not as fast as wired networks. If you play computer games or want to view streaming video or other high-speed multimedia, a wireless network might not have enough capacity. But, if you just want to check e-mail and view web pages, a wireless network is a good choice. To install a wireless network, you need a Wireless Access Point and a wireless network card for each computer. You will need to buy a wireless network card for each desktop computer, although most newer laptops come equipped with one.

Security is not a large concern in a wired network, since someone would have to physically connect to a wired network to break in. In wireless networks, a car parked outside with a laptop could easily connect to your network if you don’t have proper security in place. To prevent this from happening, encrypt your wireless network connections, or set a password to access the network, or do both.
Do It Yourself or Call a Professional?

If you decide to use a wired network, consider whether you will install it yourself or hire a professional. If you have a small number of computers that are all situated very close to one another, you may be able to buy pre-assembled network cables and connect them yourself. If you need to wire multiple floors and lay wire through ceilings and walls, you need a professional installation. If you go this route, it is best to begin with a floor plan of your office or home, determine what your current needs are, and consider how the network design can be adapted to future needs. A professional installer should be familiar with EIA/TIA standards, local wiring and electrical codes, and making custom cables. Network cabling professionals are often judged by the neatness of their work, because sloppy cabling is more apt to deteriorate over time, harder to manage, and poses more of a fire risk.

Having a wireless network or a wired network is not mutually exclusive. Many small offices have a wired network in addition to one or more wireless networks, depending on their needs. Wireless networks are continuing to get faster, more secure, and less expensive. Wired networks will continue to coexist with wireless networks, often in the same homes and offices.

Cheap Wireless Routers

2008-07-23T14:23:00.000+05:30

If you are in need of a good wireless router, it isn't necessary for you to pay an arm and a leg. The truth is, there are cheap wireless routers that can do just as good a job than some of its more expensive brethren. This means that it is a misconception that only the most expensive routers will produce the highest speed connection. Just ask many people who have used both expensive and cheap wireless routers. They will tell you that they either noticed no difference, or the cheaper router was actually a better choice.

Choosing cheap wireless routers

When scoping out cheap wireless routers, you have to make sure that the router is compatible with your particular computer. Most routers are compatible with most computers. However, there may be a few restrictions here and there. What is most important is that you determine the type of user you are so you know which one of the many cheap wireless routers is going to serve you the way you need it to.

When determining what kind of user you are, this includes asking yourself about how often you use your computer and what kind of tasks you perform on your computer. There are some individuals who only use their computer to check e-mail, and then there are those who actually use the internet regularly. Heavy users are the ones who are on their computer and using the internet all of the time. These are also the individuals who tend to download a lot of information.

The features you need

Once you have determined the type of user you are, and then it is time to decide which of the cheap wireless routers is for you. You also need to look at how many computers will be using a single router. When looking at cheap routers, you may find that a starter kit is the way to go if you're a beginner and you don't use the internet often. But if you're a heavy user, you may need to look into cheap wireless routers that are designed for heavy usage. This goes for those who like to download a lot of material. It is essential to have a router that can handle the load. These are usually the individuals who need a very high speed connection that is reliable.

When it's all said and done

By exploring the various cheap wireless routers to see what types of options exist for you, you will find that you have the type of wireless connection that you really need. There is no need to overdo it, but you don't want the connection to be inadequate either. This is also the most cost-effective solution when looking at the various cheap wireless routers available.

EXCLUSIVE: iPhone 3G Out in India Next Month!

2008-07-23T14:15:00.000+05:30

Here we have it folks, an exclusive on the iPhone's availability in India. When, how much, what features, software -- everything you ever wanted to know about the iPhone 3G in India! We know you want to get to the meat of the matter, so without further ado, here's what you need to know:

> iPhone 3G Availability: Vodafone to have a 15 day launch advantage (available August '08 through Vodafone, and late Aug/September '08 through Airtel)
> Model: Initially, the 8GB version only

> Price: Rs. 11,500 to Rs. 12,000 (note: U.S. price of the 8GB iPhone 3G is $199)

> Applications: App Store will be available

> App prices: Application prices may see a revision to suit Indian market

> 3G: No fixed date for 3G availability; expected sometime later this year

> GPS: Present on the Indian version as well

> Grey-market availability: Almost nowhere to be seen. One store expects to sell it next week at Rs. 50,000

Scroll down for the rest of the story. While we all await the release of the iPhone 3G in India, some questions are pressing. In many ways, the iPhone is a platform - a means and a tool to unlock far greater features through new and sundry software. Until recently, the only means of installing software not produced by Apple was through illegal avenues. Now though, with the launch of the App Store, Apple has brought third-party software under a legal umbrella. Thus, the first question is this: will we, in India, get access to the same App Store that the people in the U.S. and other western countries enjoy? Further, would pricing be in Rupees or would we need to pay in Dollars? What about 3G - a feature so central to the iPhone that it's part of its name, its identity - will the iPhone be released along with 3G coverage?

To put it simply, will the iPhone offer the same value proposition in India, as it does abroad? We try and answer some of these burning questions here in this TechTree exclusive.

We contacted the necessary parties at Apple, Vodafone and Airtel - the latter being iPhone's official carriers in India - to get the required answers. While Apple and Vodafone were tight-lipped about release details, we struck gold with Airtel. Our source at Airtel, who wishes to remain anonymous, gave us valuable insight. Most of it, good news.

According to our source, the iPhone 3G will bring along most of the software goodies that are available in the West. In fact, the source went on to add, some of the features will be customized to suit the Indian tariff. The source confirmed that we would also be able to purchase software from the App Store with a possibly of a revised price for the Indian consumer, quickly adding that the price revision is not set in stone. Let's move on to the meat of the matter - when will the iPhone be available in India?

When I last spoke to our source from Airtel, I was told that the iPhone 3G launch was scheduled for the 25th of August, with the caveat that the date may be pushed to early September for supply reasons. Apparently, the number of pre-orders for the iPhone have exceeded the initial product allotment by Apple.

Interestingly, our source from Airtel confirmed that Vodafone will be the first to introduce the iPhone 3G in India, with a 15-day launch advantage over Airtel, thanks to Vodafone's global tie-ups. If we are to believe Airtel, Vodafone should introduce the iPhone 3G by end of August at least. That's only a month from now!

So does this mean Vodafone will get to gorge on the subscription of maximum number of iPhone-hungry Indians due to the company's first-in-line advantage? Is the iPhone 3G is likely to become a "Vodafone product"?

One would obviously like to think so, but Airtel differs on this aspect. Our source assertively stated that Vodafone hasn't been able to create the kind of impact on the prospective iPhone buyers as Airtel has with its aggressive marketing. The latter added, "We will make sure we don t downplay them (Vodafone), but we will create an impact of our own." There has been a lot of speculation over the price of the iPhone. Initially, only the 8 GB version of the iPhone 3G will be officially launched in India. The handset is expected to cost between Rs. 11,500 and Rs. 12,000, says our source. Compare this to the $199 price tag of the 8GB version in the U.S, and it's obvious that India is once again going to feel the import-duty pinch. Moreover, this price does not include the data plan costs that a user will have to bear every month, the details of which will only be out by the 15th of August, our source indicated. There are still deliberations being made on the specifics of the plan, we were told.

If you want the iPhone 3G right away, you need to look to the grey market. The scene there isn't all rosy though, with rumors flying of Airtel and Vodafone clamping down on parallel imports. The market-reality seemed to lend credence to these rumors as most vendors we contacted told us that the iPhone (old model or new) was unavailable for purchase. One Mr. Munshi Adnan, owner of a shop called "Gadgets" at Heera Panna, in Mumbai, promises to offer the iPhone 3G next week. He claimed to have it around July 28th, and quoted a princely sum of Rs. 40,000 to Rs. 50,000! While all of the above is largely good news, the bad news comes in the garb of the key feature: 3G. Nobody seemed willing to place a date on 3G availability in India, the arrival of which is still a rather nebulous 'sometime late this year'. We have a bad feeling about this. Our source did confirm though that GPS (a feature through which the iPhone 3G can track your location) would be a present in the Indian avatar of the Apple iPhone 3G.

So there you have it! Mostly good news for those of us who have waited for the release date of this product.

What are your thoughts on the price, the model, the software availability, the lack of clarity on 3G? Let us know by typing out your comment below.

The Maintenance of HP Hard Drive

2008-07-23T14:06:00.000+05:30

The workhouse of the computer is the hard disk. Therefore, it is important to know the functions and working of the hard disk. The files that we save are magnetically recorded onto the platter. The platter is placed inside the hard disk. The platters in most of the hard drives are usually mounted on a spindle. With the help of this spindle, the platter is able to spin faster and the speed can reach up to 15,000 times/ minute. The platter is two sided, and is mounted on a single arm which has a slider.

The head can move across the surface with the help of the platter is two sided. In this way the head can read and access the data. The unit of data held by the platter is tracks/inch. The track is equal to 1 concentric ring around the disk. The track is further divided into sectors, and the sector is equal to approx. 512 bytes. The saved data on the disk is referred accordingly to its sector and track.

The process of data collection can be made faster by de-fragmenting the hard disk periodically. The de-fragmenting can be done with the help of Windows Disk Defragmenter, which reorganizes the scattered data on the hard drive. Once, the de-fragmentation is done, the files on the hard disk run faster and more efficiently. The de-fragmentation process shifts the files to the beginnings that are used most often. This shifting of files is done so that the hard disk can load these files immediately when they are accessed.

The SATA (Serial ATA) hard drives are the next generation of ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) hard drives. The HP SATA hard drives have been developed and designed to offer its users the best and optimum prices for the entry level servers. The HP SATA hard drive also offers its customers the affordable solutions for external storage deployments in the environments with low workload.

The hard disk Cleanup

The Windows Disk Cleanup application sorts through the disk and deletes unused and temporary files. In this way space can be made available on the disk which speeds up the operations.

The ScanDisk utility

The files in normal daily routine are regularly read from and written to the disk, often in small chunks. The ScanDisk utility runs when the computer had to restart after a crash or is turned off without properly shutting down the system.

The ScanDisk scans the disk to detect if there are any errors on the hard drive. If it finds any errors on the hard disk, the ScanDisk marks the cluster of sectors containing the error as unusable. In this way no data can be written to or read from that portion of the disk.

ScanDisk should probably be done after every two or three month's time. The ScanDisk can also automatically repair some of the detected errors. If the errors are more severe, then these errors can be repaired by reformatting the drive. The bumps or scratches are known as the hard errors, which are the physical damages to the disk. These hard errors cannot be repaired. If the number of hard error increases, then the hard drive needs to be replaced. The hard drive can run smoothly well past the time it has become obsolete with the help of simple maintenance.

Step by Step Instructions on How to Install a Printer Without the CD

2008-07-23T13:22:00.000+05:30

If you follow the instructions listed in this article you can install a printer without a CD. Many people have went to install a printer but could not find the CD. This used to be a difficult and frustrating task, but it is no longer that way.

1. To begin you are going to want to place the computer and the printer next to each other and make sure that the wires are connected to the printer and the computer but not connected to each other. Make sure that neither the printer nor the computer are on.

2. Next, you need to turn on the computer. Until you have booted up the computer do not do anything else.

3. Now, plug the printer into the wall and then connect the USB cord that is attached to the printer into the correct port on your computer. Now turn the printer on.

4. Click the "Start" button, typically located in the lower left corner of your computer, and click on the "Control Panel" button.

5. Once you are in the control panel you need to find the Printer button, which is either going to be found by clicking on the "Printers and Hardware" button or clicking the "Printer" button under the "Hardware and Sound" category.

6. Once you are in the Printer menu you need to click on the "Add printer" button. A message saying "Welcome to the add printer wizard." When that message appears you will need to hit the "Next" button.

7. When the next page appears you will need to click the "Automatically detect and install plug and play printer" button on the add printer wizard page. Continue by clicking the "Next" button.

8. If the computer can automatically detect the printer than it will begin to install that printer. However, if the printer is not being detect a message saying unable to detect will pop up, and you will have to install the printer manually. Again, click the "Next" button.

9. Now you will need to select the printer port. Choose the recommended port because it will give you the best set up options. Click the "Next" button.

10. You will now need to choose the manufacturer of the printer and the exact printer. Click the "Next" button.

11. You will have the option to either confirm the name or type a name that appears in the box and then set the printer as the default printer if you choose to. Click the "Next" button.

12. You will need to print a test page to ensure that the printer is set up and working. Once the test page is printed click the "Next: button.

13. You will now receive a successful completion of installation of printer message and all you have to do is click "Finish" and you have installed a printer without a CD.

It used to be extremely difficult to install a printer without a CD, but with the steps listed above you should be able to do it with no problems at all

Hard Drive Problems and Their Symptoms

2008-07-23T13:21:00.001+05:30

Hard disk drive, commonly known as the Hard Drive, is an integral device of a computer system. It is a device use to store encoded data on the rotatable magnetic surface platform. A Hard drive can be a floppy disc drive or simply a tape drive. Many times, computer users find several hard drive problems, but due to incomplete technical information, they misjudge the problem and thus, make way to more computer related problems. So, it is very important to understand whether a slight change in the functioning of the hard disc drive is a problem or not? And if it is, then what is an easy and straight forward solution for that?

Earlier, hard drives had a removable channel but these days, all drives come up as a fixed unit media. They are used to store data on a large scale. Its storage capability is considered to be reliable as well as independent. They are sealed so that dust cannot enter into it and affect the stored data. They are designed in such a way that a fine passage of filtered air keeps going on all the time. They work with a high speed and transmit the data much faster than that of a floppy disk drive as well.

Hard disk drives do have problems sometimes, but it is very important to judge the degree of the problem before starting its repair. Booting is one of the main hard drive problems. In these particular cases, the suspected poor parts of the hard drive must be replaced by high quality parts. Sometimes, there is problem in the main system and people misunderstand it. A user should first connect the drive with another system to check out the problematic area first.

Some of the symptoms of hard drive problems are discussed next. These include: when the drive starts giving poor or very slow performance, it takes a long time to reboot. Also self lock ups is a major symptom that conveys some problem in the proper functioning of hard drives.

These symptoms can also occur due to some virus in the drive. So, before replacing your drive for the above mentioned symptoms, it is wise to detect the latest virus definitions of your drive and remove it by taking some specific steps. When you install any new software in your system, your hard drive may display some problems or changes in the system. This is very normal and should not be taken as a problem if it corrects itself within 2-3 days. Sometimes, storage devices may take time to do accurate work with certain new software in the system. Hard drive failures can also be related to electrical failure, mechanical failure and logical failures as well. The best way to minimize them is to use high quality drive and parts in your computer.

Check Out the Big Importance of Small CPU Fan Retainer Clips

2008-07-23T13:10:00.000+05:30

In the entire computer system, every little part has a major role to play. You probably have not given much importance to the CPU fan retainer clip before, but after reading this article, you will. We will discuss the importance of quality clips in the computer.

Many people have complaints regarding their system over heating, as this effects the way their whole system operates. That is why CPU, that is; Central Processing System of the computer has a fan retainer behind its hardware which minimizes the effect of heat over the entire computer. But what if the pressure of heat is so high that it melts the CPU fan retainer clips? It will worsen the situation and damage your CPU as well. This is why, clips are considered very important for the safety of your system and are available to you by a number of internationally famous computer companies.

Earlier, most of the CPU fan retainer clips were made of plastic, but they provide safety only up to a certain limit. For instance, plastic is breakable and in certain conditions, such as intense heat, they can be damaged. Now, most of the companies including Dell and Apple are manufacturing metal or alloy based CPU fan retainer clips. These clips are least prone to damage by heat so they last much longer than the earlier clips make of plastic. CPU fans are developed in a number of designs. In turn, they influence the design of clips as well. Further, their design is also influenced by the socket in which it is inserted into. These clips are very cheap in price and can be purchased by the bunch in many places.

Many of you may not know about the required design of the clips. So, it is better to go on line to shop for them. You will have to search for a reliable company first. All leading companies deal with this product. All companies offer great discounts on the clips required for the model manufactured by them. You can easily contact your computer's company and ask them to provide the clips for your computer. Give them the model and design number of the system so that they can come up with the right clips.

Building Your Own PC! - The Motherboard is the Core of the PC

2008-07-23T13:07:00.002+05:30

The single most important piece of hardware that you will buy is the motherboard - the very core of your PC. The processor plugs into it, drives connect to it with cables, expansion cards live in special slots and everything else, from the mouse to the printer, is ultimately connected to and controlled by the motherboard. If you buy a PC from a shop, chances are you'll never think about or even see the motherboard; but when you build a system from scratch, it must be your primary consideration. Everything else follows from here.

Form factor: This is the way of describing the motherboard's size and shape, important because it involves industry-wide standards and ties in with the computer case and power supply. Form factors have evolved through the years, culminating since 1995 in a popular and flexible standard known as ATX. Not just one ATX standard, of course: there are MiniATX, MicroATX and FlexATX motherboards out there, all progressively slimmed-down versions of full-size ATX. The upside of a smaller motherboard is that you can use a smaller case and reduce the overall dimensions of your computer; the downside is a corresponding reduction in expandability. A full-sized ATX motherboard can have up to seven expansion slots while a MicroATX motherboard is limited to four.

One technical benefit of ATX over the earlier BabyAT form factor from which it directly evolved is that full-length expansion cards can now be fitted in all slots; previously, the location of the processor and memory on the motherboard meant that some slots could only take stumpy (not a technical term) cards. Another is the use of a double-height input/output panel that lets motherboard manufacturers build-in more integrated features. All in all, it's a definite improvement.

But from your point of view, the main attraction has to be the guarantee that any ATX motherboard, including the smaller versions, will fit inside any ATX computer case. That's the beauty of standards.

Chipset: The real meat of a motherboard resides in its chipset: a collection of microchips that together control all the major functions. Without a chipset, a motherboard would be lifeless; with a duff chipset, it may be inadequate for your needs. Indeed, as one motherboard manufacturer explained it to us, the chipset is the motherboard: don't ask what this or that motherboard can do -ask instead what chipset it uses and there you'll find your answer.

So what does a chipset do, precisely? Well, at one level it controls the flow of data between motherboard components through a series of interfaces. Each interface, or channel, is called a bus. The most important buses are:

FSB (Front Side Bus) The interface between the Northbridge component of the chipset and the processor.

Memory bus The interface between the chipset and RAM.

AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) The interface between the chipset and the AGP port. This is gradually disappearing from motherboards as more and more video cards are designed for the PCI Express slot.

PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) bus The interface between the chipset and PCI expansion slots. Pretty much any expansion card can be installed here, including sound cards, network cards and TV tuners. The exception is a video card, as these are, or were, designed for the higher bandwidth AGP interface. Like AGP, PCI is gradually giving way to PCI Express.

PCI Express bus The interface between the chipset and PCI Express expansion slots. There may be two separate buses determined by the bandwidth of the slots. For instance, the motherboard may have a 16-speed PCI Express slot for the video card and one or more slower slots for standard expansion cards.

IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics) bus The interface between the chipset and hard & CD/DVD drives.

SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) bus An alternative interface between the chipset and hard & CD?DVD drives which will eventually completely replace the IDE bus.

And then there are buses controlling the floppy disk drive, parallel and serial ports, USB and FireWire, integrated audio and more.

Bus bandwidths

Not all buses are equal. Far from it, in fact: they operate at different speeds and have different 'widths'. For example, the basic single-speed (lx) AGP specification has a clock speed of 66.6MHz (usually expressed as 66MHz). This means that over 66 million units of data can pass between the video card and the chipset through the bus per second. However, the AGP bus transfers 32 bits of data (that's 32 individual I's and O's) with every clock cycle, so the true measure of the bus is not its speed alone but rather the overall rate at which data is transferred. This is known as the bandwidth of a bus. In this case, 32 bits pass through the bus 66 million times per second. This equates to a bandwidth of 266MB/sec.

Just to be clear, using round figures, here's the sum:

66,600,000 clock cycles x 32 bits = 2,131,200,000 bits/sec There are 8 bits in a byte (B), so this equals 266,400,000B/sec

There are 1,000 bytes in a kilobyte (KB), so this equals 266,400KB/sec There are 1,000 kilobytes in a megabyte (MB), so this equals 266MB/sec

Looked at another way, the AGP bus transfers sufficient data to fill a recordable CD every three seconds.

It's also possible to run the AGP bus up to eight times faster, which boosts the bandwidth to over 2 gigabytes per sec. This is the kind of speed you need for playing games. By contrast, the PCI bus runs at only 133MB/sec. This is fine for many purposes but not for three-dimensional video.

Chipset architecture We needn't linger on the physical design of chipsets except to comment briefly on the terminology you are likely to encounter:

Northbridge The primary chip in a chipset, it typically controls the processor, memory and video buses.

Southbridge A second chip that typically incorporates the PCI, IDE/SATA and USB buses.

Processor and memory support The two most important questions with any motherboard, and hence computer, are which processor family and what kind of memory does it work with?

For instance, if you decide that you want to build a Pentium 4-based system, you'll need a motherboard with either a Socket 478 or a Socket 775 to house it; and if you want an AthIon-based system, you'll be looking for a Socket 939, 940 or 974. So far, so confusing. It gets all the more so when you factor in the many possible permutations of memory support, including bus speed, number of slots on the motherboard and whether it offers single-channel or dual-channel performance. We'll cover all of this in due course.

Need a further complication? Intel makes its own chipsets, which means ifs easy to compare like for like, but AMD largely relies on third-party manufacturers to come up with compatible chipsets for its processors. There's nothing wrong with AMD's stance on this - and indeed it opens the market to chipset manufacturers which would otherwise be squeezed out by Intel's dominance - but it does make motherboard comparisons slightly trickier.

Battery Failure Mode and Effects Analysis Part 1

2008-07-23T13:07:00.001+05:30

Have you ever wondered "why" your battery stops working? All batteries fail at one point or another and more importantly all batteries fail - due to different reasons. Specifically, two identical batteries that come from the same manufacturing batch, with the same identical voltage, capacity, and chemistry fail (or stop working) at different times. Why? To understand why batteries fail I will walk through the steps of a battery mode and effects analysis to discover modes of battery failure and the effects of the battery failure.

A battery mode and effects analysis is a procedure for identifying and understanding potential failure modes in a battery system. A battery mode and effects analysis contains four main steps or phases:

* Battery Mode Pre-work
* Battery Failure Severity
* Battery Failure Occurrence
* Battery Failure Detection

Battery Mode Pre-work

The Battery Mode Pre-work is an essential preliminary component to a battery mode and effects analysis and often times the one component that gets the least attention. It is a way of "starting smart" in the identification of battery failures. As an example, battery failures are often caused by shared interfaces. If an engineer, focused on a single facet of the battery's micro or macro system, glosses over the effectiveness and efficiency of interfacing components when designing, compiling and assembling a battery's system, then the failure rate and severity could dramatically increase regardless of how "correct" the engineer's portion of the system is working. A really good case study on shared interface failures is the battery interface with the device's operating system. The inefficiency of the operating system's software in a device can under or over utilize the maximum capacity and voltage of a battery and thus subsequently degrade the battery faster then normal. At the consumer level they would just say the battery is bad or "sucks" when in fact it is the device's software that is the culprit of faster than normal battery degradation.

Thus careful attention to a battery's mode pre-work is well advised. Battery mode pre-work includes a complete and detailed description of the battery's system, the battery's function, the battery's intended uses, and the probable unintended uses.

In part 2 of Battery Failure Mode and Effects Analysis I will address Battery Failure Severity and Battery Failure Occurrence.

Refilling Old Inkjet Cartridges Vs Buying New Ones

2008-07-23T13:03:00.000+05:30

Printers have no doubt made our lives very simple. Almost all the printed materials you see around you have been the gift of printers. The technological advancements in the field of printers have made printouts not only more professional but also more pocket-friendly. One of the most commonly heard name in the printer industry is Inkjet printers. Inkjet printers are versatile and require less maintenance. Their ability to be put in to multi-handed and heavy use is what makes them ideal candidate at many offices and organizations. If you are using inkjet printers or planning to install them in your office or at your home, the one thing that you should know is about Inkjet Cartridges. There are people who prefer to refill their cartridges to cut down on the cost. Others prefer using branded cartridges. Both have reasons to support their own points. Here we will discuss some of them.

The first and most obvious reason that most printer users cite for refilling their old cartridges is based on the cost. Refilling an old cartridge can be lot cheaper than buying a brand new cartridge for your printer.

The other group say that the usage of refilled cartridges affects the performance of their inkjet printers. Therefore, they prefer new and original cartridges to refilled ones. These users usually go for an inkjet cartridge of the same brand whose printer they use. For example, if they are using a HP inkjet printer, they will buy a new HP inkjet cartridge when their old cartridge runs out.

Besides being more economic, refilling your old printer cartridges is also a friendly option for the environment. This is because the plastic used in the cartridges is disposed if you are buying a new cartridge. This is the reason some people give for their prefer of using refilled cartridges.

Professionals generally don't have a choice, for they cannot compromise on the print quality. The print quality you can get from a refilled cartridge is often lower than that obtained using a new inkjet cartridge. You can not present a low quality printed document to a client. In such cases, it is advisable to replace your old cartridge with a new one, preferably from the same manufacturer as your printer. If you want to use a cartridge from different manufacturer, opt for a compatible HP inkjet cartridge, or a cartridge from some other renowned brand. They can give you the quality you need as a professional.

HP Photo Scanners - Excellence Personified

2008-07-23T13:01:00.000+05:30

If you have a photo scanner, you can easily scan the images from paper or photographs to digital forms. This type of scanners is a common find with people who scan traditional films and slides. The advantages of digitalized images are many - you can modify and print it, and you can also send it to your friends via e-mail. You will also need a digital image if you need to upload it on a website. However, there are some measures you must take into consideration if you want that your photo scanning device renders hassle-free services. Here are some tips for the usage of photo scanner you can benefit from:

* Every time you use the scanner, allow it to warm up for a few minutes. It is also advisable to wipe the scanner glass clean of dust and lint with a piece of soft cloth before every use.
* As with most sensitive electronic devices, you should place the scanner on a leveled surface. This improves its performance and increases its life.
* Don't expose your scanner to heat or moisture. They tend to damage the sensitive components inside the device.
* When you operate the device, be careful not to cause scratches on the surfaces. Also, you should be gentle on the buttons and avoid using pens or other such objects to press them. Buttons are meant to be pressed by fingers.
* The glass in a scanner should be kept clean and scratch-free. Do not touch it with hands or any such thing from which it can take up grease or oil. The presence of any smear on the glass of the scanner can lead to unwanted cloudiness in the scanned images. If you find any visible smear on the glass, you should use a soft cotton cloth to wipe it off. If a dry cloth doesn't work, try one dipped in a good-quality cleaning solution.
* Keep the photo scanner in a clean dust-free place.
* Whether you have a HP photo scanner or any other scanner, you can find a list of instructions about the operating and the maintenance of your scanner on the manual provided by the manufacturer. Read and understand it well.
* It is always good to use your scanner single-handedly. However, if you must share it with other people, like in the case of a scanner at your office, you should tell them about the proper handling of the scanning device.

Connecting Lines - Computer Networking Explained

2008-07-23T13:00:00.000+05:30

In a nutshell, computer networking is basically a cluster of computers linked together in a way that it can transmit data and share resources. These sets of connections do not necessitate that the computers bear the same operating systems (OS); it does not even require that similar types of gadgets be used. A perfect example is a personal data assistant (PDA). One may connect a PDA to a laptop over a network. Even kitchen appliances like the internet enabled refrigerator uses networking to activate its surfing functions.

How Is Networking Done?

There are various methods to link computers and other gadgets to a network. And among the plethora of ways and means, the most common networking method is the use of cables. The market provides an assortment of cables from copper-wired to fiber optics each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Copper Wire: Unshielded Twisted Pair Cable (UTP)

The UTP is one of the frequently utilized cables for a local area network (LAN) connection, which is essentially linking a few computers within a small geographical area (thus the name, LAN). Going back to the UTP, this is composed of two unshielded and insulated copper wires coiled and twisted together to diminish electrical interference. This type of cable is often opted due to its flexibility, easy maintenance and low cost. The downside, it can (and will) possibly receive severe blows from electrical interference.

Fiber Optics

Data is exchanged by sending voltages along the wire. But for fiber optics, the data is transmitted through light pulses. While the UTP has copper, fiber optics has threadlike strands of glass, or silica. The process goes like this: the laser translates digital signals into pulses of light and conveys it down the series of glass strands. Fiber optics offer rapid data correspondence, though this speed comes with a price, a pocket burning price. With that said, this kind of connection is often seen being utilized by huge internet service providers (ISP) and data centers, not in office or home networks.

Network Topology: Bus Network

Simply put, network topology is the physical formation of the network. And the bus network is the most straightforward among the various network topologies. Let us begin with the bus. All the machines link up to a linear transmission channel, or the bus.

In operation, when a computer sends off data through the bus, all connected machines can see the data, otherwise known as packet. These packets possess pieces of information tagged as packet headers. And these headers, in turn, reflect the recipient or to which computer or machine the data is intended for. The bus inspects the header: if it is for that computer then the whole packet is recognized and received, but if it is not, it will be merely ignored.

The Downside: One at a Time

Unfortunately, the bus can only handle a single data at any given time. In here, two is a crowd. Imagine what could happen if three computers in the network simultaneously transmit data. Well, you will certainly have a few network problems if this collision happens. Speaking of collision, if and when two computers concurrently send data, the main computer (or the first one that notices the collision) will transmit a blocking sign onto the bus. This will trigger a standstill among the linked computers preventing any further data exchange.

Network Interface Cards (NIC)

NICs usually control the 'to and fro' or the transmission of packets across the wires bridging the computers in a single network. It also provides a venue of communication among the computers.

Hub

Hub is intended for small-scale computer networking. The problem with this is that it does not sort packets, meaning the data may be sent to the wrong recipient. Another is that the data will be open for everyone in the network. Security wise, this is not the way to go.

Router

To speed things up, this is a network device that diffuses data packets between two networks bearing different protocols. Yes, it is that blinking box that allows you to connect to the web.

Google to Nix Browser Sync Firefox Extension

2008-06-16T15:46:00.000+05:30

Google has announced that it is going to discontinue its Browser Sync Firefox extension with the launch of the Firefox 3 browser. So, you can enjoy this extension only till around the end of this year as it will not be updated for the upcoming version of Firefox.

Google Browser Sync is a Firefox extension that synchronizes your bookmarks, Web history, browser sessions, and passwords across multiple computers by temporarily saving them to Google's servers.
The search giant explains though their blog that Browser Sync was the project of a small team, which has now moved on to other projects. Hence, it is not being maintained and there will be no updates for this in Firefox 3. The service will be available only till the end of 2008. However, those who choose to continue using Firefox 2 will get Google's support for it throughout the year.

At the same time, giving other options to replace the same, Google recommends:

- Mozilla Weave from Mozilla Labs
- Google Toolbar for Firefox
- Foxmarks Bookmark Synchronizer
- The latest version of Opera.

Nuance Announces T9 Nav Availability

2008-06-16T15:29:00.002+05:30

Nuance Communications has announced availability of T9 Nav, claimed to be a mobile discovery software that provides faster access to features, applications, and content on mobile devices in just a few key presses.

Nuance claims T9 Nav allows users bypass button-driven menu systems that often require complex combinations of key presses. The software is capable of intelligently adapting to user behavior over time; it re-orders and predicts frequently-searched terms using patented algorithms from T9/XT9 software.
T9 Nav does not change a mobile device's existing look and feel but works alongside of elements such as user interface (UI) and menu. For instance, typing "m-a" two to three inches from the home screen of the phone can take the user directly to a mapping application, a Madonna ring tone, or a contact named 'Mary'.

Sunny Rao, general manager of Nuance Communications (ASEAN and India), said, "As mobile phones get more complex, data storage capabilities are increasing. Additionally, the proliferation of phone features requires a robust retrieval system to access and manage content. Users are often confused by complex menu navigation, and cannot easily find and identify specific device features and mobile content to download. T9 Nav addresses this critical problem faced by subscribers, and we have brought to the market mobile search and discovery that is fast and simple, efficient, flexible, and adaptable to the user."

To download T9 Nav, go to www.t9nav.com and click on 'download'. The Web site will automatically launch a Nokia installer window where a Symbian S60 Third Edition handset user can click 'install', and finish installation on his/her phone.

XP Media Centre SP2 Keys

2008-06-16T14:46:00.001+05:30

C4BH3-P4J7W-9MT6X-PGKC8-J4JTM

JMQWV-9B7Y6-WQRR4-JHVQK-WG46T
BJVPG-V8HKY-38YHJ-BJTX9-JKWVQ
P8FCP-CHJFY-4P4BP-8F43G-YBXBG
CM3WF-7RB33-B764W-2K83G-K2WVY
HKDGX-MWDH2-F6H6V-TFYQF-D6F86

Microsoft xp-serials

2008-06-16T14:45:00.000+05:30

Microsoft xp-serials:
--------------------------

Windows XP oem home : JQ4T4 - 8VM63 - 6WFBK - KTT29 - V8966
Windows XP Home Edition : s/n: BQJG2-2MJT7-H7F6K-XW98B-4HQRQ or s/n: QB2BW-8PJ2D-9X7JK-BCCRT-D233Y
Windows XP Spanish : s/n: FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8
Windows XP Home Edition Upgrade : Serial: BQJG2-2MJT7-H7F6K-XW98B-4HQRQ
Windows XP Pro Corporate Final : CD Key: FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8 or XJM6Q-BQ8HW-T6DFB-Y934T-YD4YT or BX6HT-MDJKW-H2J4X-BX67W-TVVFG or C873C-PKFQP-Q7RWQ-CM688-JM6JY
Windows XP Professional Dell OEM Build 2600: s/n: XJM6Q-BQ8HW-T6DFB-Y934T-YD4YT
Windows XP Pro (Denmark) Pro (Denmark): Serial: FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8 or BX6HT-MDJKW-H2J4X-BX67W-TVVFG or C873C-PKFQP-Q7RWQ-CM688-JM6JY
Windows XP Professional : fckgw-rhqq2-yxrkt-8tg6w-2b7q8
Windows Xp Home edition 2002 : lj2lk-khgk2-khlh2-jhkl2-klkg2

Office XP 2001 Hungary : s/n: RPTYT-2B77H-3QCKR-DH2XM-XM9BY
Office XP Professional Dutch : s/n: D776T-D4282-XQR9W-C3J9D-VMP3G
Office XP 2001 : s/n: FM9FY TMF7Q KCKCT V9T29 TBBBG or s/n: MP4F9-W6C8V-HTCCT-T7M7R-Y7K3Y
Office XP Spanish : s/n: FM9FY-TMF7Q-KCKCT-V9T29-TBBBG
office xp dutch : pgvcr-gmph8-rt8p3-m8x9x-6djwx
Office XP (slovenski) : D3YGD-QJ3JK-V6JYG-G3DB9-49MQ3
Office XP 2002 : 54511-750-5147551-17201

MicroSoft Visual Basic Stand 4.0 Win95 : s/n: 411-0356356
Microsoft Visual Basic v4.0 enterp. Ed : CD KEY:411-0250176
Microsoft Visual Basic v4.0 for C++ : 666-6666666
MicroSoft Visual Basic v4.0 for C++ : s/n: 666-6666666
Microsoft Visual Basic Standard v4.0 for Windows 95: s/n: 411-0356356 or s/n: 411-0085933 or s/n: 411-1454815
Microsoft Visual Basic v4.0 enterp. Edition: CD Key:411-0250176
MicroSoft Visual Basic v4.0 for C++ : s/n: 666-6666666
Microsoft Visual Basic v5.0 Enterprise Edition: s/n: 040-0150053
Windows CE Toolkit for Visual Basic 5.0 : s/n: 111-111111
Visual Basic Pro 5.0 : s/n: 2201-1253476
Visual Basic Pro 5.0 : s/n: 5890-1530525
Visual Basic 4.0 : CD-Key: 757-2573155 or CD-Key: 411-0173307
Visual Basic Enterprise 4.0 : s/n: 411-0250176
Visual Basic Enterprise 5.0 : s/n: 040-0150053
Visual Basic for C++ 4.0 : s/n: 666-6666666
Visual Basic IDE Power Tools 2.0324 : s/n: 12311-0000000-00010
Visual Basic Project Analyzer 5.0.05 : RegKey: sibelius Password: olipakerran
Visual Basic Project Analyzer 5.2 : UnlockCode: sibelius Password1: myrkkypullo Password2: ottiatuota SuperProjectAnalyzer: hertsumanrepale ProjectPrinter: motskari ProjectGraph: kemppi ProjectNameCheck: hullukukko BackDoorPassword: UNLOCKTHEBEAST
Visual Basic Project Graph : RegKey: kemppi
Visual Basic Project Printer : RegKey: motskari
Visual Basic Super Project Analyzer : RegKey: hertsumanrepale
Visual Basic Pro 6.0 : s/n: 352-0071283
Visual Basic 4.0 for Win95 : 411-0608993
Visual Basic 5.0 Professional Edition : CD Key is 807-1530525
Visual Basic v4.0 : CD Key #/757-2573155
Visual Basic v4.0 : CD-KEY: 757-2573155
Visual Basic 6 Learning Edition : s/n: 875.0000284
Visual Basic 6 Learning Edition : s/n: 875.0000284
Visual UML Plus Edition for Visual Basic 2.6: s/n: VUML-PLV-14010214302
Visual UML Visual Basic Edition 2.01 : s/n: VUML-STV-02001602763
Visual UML Visual Basic Edition 2.02 : s/n: VUML-STV-02001602763
Visual UML Visual Basic Edition 2.04 : s/n: VUML-STV-02001602763
Visual UML Visual Basic Edition 2.05 : s/n: VUML-STV-02001602763

Windows ME Update : s/n: DFT9R-G2886-C2MDB-4FPYM-48PD2
Windows ME Final OEM : CD Key: XM39G-6FQJH-M6Q8M-7Y79W-6FFFD -OR- B6BYC-6T7C3-4PXRW-2XKWB-CYV33
Windows ME Upgrade upgrade : s/n: DFT9R-G2886-C2MDB-4FPYM-48PD2 or Serial: QW4TC-WQ4RM-7QBMK-6GDYP-3K8H4

Microsoft Windows 98 1720+ : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 Build 1723 : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 RC4 : s/n: 320DD-23GW3-2H9CJ-39FNE-3E3IS
Microsoft Windows 98 RC5 : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3
Microsoft Windows 98 1720+ : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 Build 1723 : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 RC4 : s/n: 320DD-23GW3-2H9CJ-39FNE-3E3IS
Microsoft Windows 98 RC5 : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL Dutch : s/n: GB7WP-RRQCB-HVY29-2K2PX-VGCG8
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL French : s/n: GDXPD-T99JH-82TMX-BCY9M-4RKW7
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL German : s/n: FXMKC -FF2F7-86DJY-Y86FC-824MB
Microsoft Windows 98 Hebrew : s/n: fjbmh-7h9b3-2rmw6-qcj4p-r3chb
Microsoft Windows 98 Final Retail : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3 or s/n: K8F92-DRTF8-D2T6X-R2QX6-2W46B or s/n: JHVBP-T6TMP-GX8XJ-CMGDP-K8CCX or s/n: FT9CH-XVXW7-7BFCM-RPR49-VDHYD or s/n: B4DWD-2B3KX-KT7MR-GQXVB-WFMFY or s/n: BBH2G-D2VK9-QD4M9-F63XB-43C33 or s/n: QCRFR-GG62T-V43B8-MFW
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL Upgrade : s/n: VPVDT-FVCHY-CWBP3-JP6Y6-7398Q or s/n: TKG6R-B4YBJ-Y7626-HF7CB-PG3Q3 or s/n: qjgpc-3pgvf-3xdxj-ffdgr-gryjp
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL Upgrade Italian: s/n: RJMY9-VV4TY-48JCK-MRTJD-7TGJH
Microsoft Windows 98 OEM : s/n: DMGW7-3XBTD-3VV7C-83RQD-KHX66 or s/n: M9W3X-RJD63-2WFRH-72X6G-HXD36 or s/n: XPH76-H46HM-QVF6F-H444T-QM7MW or s/n: B6G6Q-H29Y9-4KTV8-QBQG2-FMKFM or s/n: DCWVC-VFR84-TX9X4TDCWC-JWB96 or s/n: KCYY7-46C8D-2HQH7-QW92M-4WF9Q (Sony) or s/n: GFWMR-DWMTK-6G7
Microsoft Windows 98 OEM Service Release 1 Beta 1:s/n: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR Beta Refresh : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 v4.10.2126 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 v4.10.2131 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 Build 2150 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 Beta 2 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 Second edition Build 2162: CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 Special Edition RC3: CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition Full Retail: CD-Key: W7XTC-2YWFB-K6BPT-GMHMV-B6FDY
Windows 98 Full OEM German : s/n: KTCYX-QRHXX-XX7GM-FGYQJ-XDPGY
Windows 98 Chinese : s/n: JV839-M2B2Y-DW6BJ-467TK-YPGGQ
Windows 98 Dutch : s/n: GB7WP-RRQCB-HVY29-2K2PX-VGCG8
Windows 98 Final Retail : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3 or s/n: K8F92-DRTF8-D2T6X-R2QX6-2W46B or s/n: JHVBP-T6TMP-GX8XJ-CMGDP-K8CCX or s/n: FT9CH-XVXW7-7BFCM-RPR49-VDHYD or s/n: B4DWD-2B3KX-KT7MR-GQXVB-WFMFY or s/n: BBH2G-D2VK9-QD4M9-F63XB-43C33 or s/n: QCRFR-GG62T-V43B8-MFW8
Windows 98 French : s/n: GDXPD-T99JH-82TMX-BCY9M-4RKW7
Windows 98 German : s/n: FXMKC -FF2F7-86DJY-Y86FC-824MB or s/n: WGDH8-GQCTK-F7HK2-JYMPR-28QJW
Windows 98 Greek : s/n: GQ4CR-T3DQG-H7VMB-D36QX-V8KFT
Windows 98 Hebrew : s/n: fjbmh-7h9b3-2rmw6-qcj4p-r3chb
Windows 98 SE Upgrade for Windows 3.1 and Up: s/n: G6HTF-WBJPJ-QKWPH-Y6D9Q-W73FC
Windows 98 Second Edition French : s/n: VGF6G-7JJVD-KWR9J-Q62HD-RJ7M6
Windows 98 Second Edition Full Retail : s/n: F73WT-WHD3J-CD4VR-2GWKD-T38YD or s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3 or s/n: VD4WG-Y998T-3MGWX-GPW2Q-3QVC8 or s/n: PYDMY-DVJ9J-996VH-JX66P-9TWKW or s/n: T98GF-R6C7Y-3MCV2-7C9DK-VC2F8 or s/n: FQD88-4X7FK-9HV9K-Q28FF-T3JC3
Windows 98 Second Edition OEM : s/n: FT9CH-XVXW7-7BFCM-RPR49-VDHYD or s/n: PW3DW-PC9D8-Q7VMQ-8YTMY-RTR9G or s/n: M4G3G-77CGM-9FY8T-PMWBC-JJYDM or s/n: TBXVP-MB6YG-MH8W4-VXGW2-QYB9W or s/n: CMT3F-GYCQP-BP29T-TJQY6-WHBMW or s/n: F2WQC-WTPDW-TC9QC-RKPTB-PKHRT
Windows 98 Second Edition OEM Spanish: s/n: MP7TK-KPT9F-DJFH9-B3828-HFH9D
Windows 98 Upgrade : s/n: G2FGT-6HYRW-X2W2C-RT7HW-RF7WX or s/n: TFYX7-9GG6R-PHK2H-TBR44-T6Q79 or s/n: C3HJX-FPCVK-V7KKQ-3GCYQ-9Y6HP or s/n: CCW67-GWQY3-9TG6G-3P7YP-728JX or s/n: HCGYX-8Q23F-237WM-WJ6TV-9KK72 or s/n: CQKDD-TJC3J-3Y7YJ-8CG9M-22MFF
Windows 98 Upgrade Italian : s/n: RJMY9-VV4TY-48JCK-MRTJD-7TGJH
Windows 98 Norwegian Upgrade : s/n: KT2J6-P9P2G-WRW49-HV27T-PDJWC
Windows 98 Second Edition : s/n: CMGRR-XCBMG-4P8TB-DR9FW-62PFB or s/n: HMTWJ-VPPWP-9BXP8-WD73Y-GGT6M or s/n: CXTVG-6B2V9-B2M7R-XDW76-HXFPJ
Windows 98 Second Edition Turkish : s/n: C7YV4-KMT9Q-C3P66-FC97G-2YJWJ or s/n: PDWJV-B69G9-CV9MH-Y8M3C-KGWQ8
Windows 98 Build 1708 : HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Windows 98 Second Edition Dutch : s/n: FT2GG-TR8XQ-GJ8PT-TQFJ6-3Q3RW
Windows 98SE OEM Full Version : xmfrx-hf6tg-pp4b2-qm7gy-vdtpj

Windows 2000 German Update : s/n: DDC2K-Q4TY7-6YJ2M-MVD-7J-C3WRH
Windows 2000 Advanced Server Multi Language: s/n: KRJQ8-RQ822-YRMXF-6TTXC-HD2VM
Windows 2000 Advanced Server Final : s/n: H6TWQ-TQQM8-HXJYG-D69F7-R84VM
Windows 2000 Server Service Pack 1 Retail: s/n: XF7DK-7X2WM-2QRCT-Y9R23-4BHDG
Windows 2000 Server German : s/n: MWM8P-FR2YV-GMKRM-WFGTG-JVH28
Windows 2000 Server Turkish : s/n: MKD68-6FMH3-D22BY-QJGBR-CCXFQ
Windows 2000 Server : s/n: KRJQ8-RQ822-YRMXF-6TTXC-HD2VM
Windows 2000 Upgrade 2000 upgrade : CD Key: H74VQ-HRWHD-BWW3C-MXVGK-KTFC9
windows 2000 profesional Italy : xgh9j-kbpbd-fxdkq-k36xb-x9j6y

Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : s/n: 807-2414712
Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : s/n: 807-2414712 or OEM s/n: 28997-OEM-0025957-49297
Microsoft Windows NT Server : s/n: 419-0812021
Windows NT Tips Tricks and Registry Hacks Name:SpiNBalL s/n: 4CA0A9AE
Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : s/n: 807-2414712 or OEMs/n: 28997-OEM-0025957-49297 or s/n: 425-1921701
Windows NT 4.0 Final (1381) : 040-1200551
Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : CD-KEY: 09496-0009552-77303
Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : CD-KEY: 30495-0006276-08164 Name:SNiKkEL s/n: 11995-69580
Windows NT 4.0 Workstation : 425-1921701
Visual Quantify for Windows NT Product ID: 24002-030926 Serial #: 921-5125403112

Microsoft Access ADI for Windows 95 : CD-KEY: 040-4031420
Microsoft Excel UK v7.0 for Windows : 33610-062-0103145
Microsoft Excel v5.0c for Windows : 01854-055-0504633
Microsoft Excel v5.0c for Windows : 15922-020-0012191
Microsoft Excel v5.0c for Windows : s/n: 01854-055-0504633
Microsoft Excel v7.0 UK for Windows : s/n: 33610-062-0103145
Microsoft Hell Bender for Windows 95 : CD-KEY: 415-0027516
Microsoft Office 7.0b for Windows 95 : s/n: 415-0151383
MicroSoft Office Pro v4.2 for Windows : s/n: 14080-000-4203561
Microsoft Office PRO v4.3c for Windows : 28779-051-0101444
MicroSoft Office Pro v4.3c for Windows : s/n: 28779-051-0101444
Microsoft Planner for Windows : 076-051-090
MicroSoft Planner for Windows : s/n: 076-051-090
Microsoft Plus Pack for Windows '95 : 28876-057-0832465-33620
Microsoft Publisher v2.0 for Windows : 00-164-0200-80012578
MicroSoft Publisher v2.0 for Windows : s/n: 00-164-0200-80012578
Microsoft Windows 98 1720+ : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 Build 1723 : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 RC4 : s/n: 320DD-23GW3-2H9CJ-39FNE-3E3IS
Microsoft Windows 98 RC5 : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3
Microsoft Windows CE Toolkit for VB 5 : CD-KEY: 111-111111
Microsoft Windows CE Toolkit for VC++5: CD KEY: 111-111111
Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : s/n: 807-2414712
MicroSoft Windows v3.11 for Windows : s/n: 00131-002-6600743
Microsoft Word for windows 95 : 32857-113-0137987-64504
Microsoft Word NL v6.0a for Windows : 23227-020-0054534
Microsoft Word UK v7.0 for Windows : 32857-113-0137987
MicroSoft Word v6.0a NL for Windows : s/n: 23227-020-0054534
MicroSoft Word v7.0 UK for Windows : s/n: 32857-113-0137987
Microsoft Works 4.0 For Windows 95 : 33977053011175600000
Microsoft Works NL v3.0a for Windows : 16429-020-0000284
Microsoft Access ADI for Windows 95 : CD-Key: 040-4031420
Microsoft AutoRoute Express v4.0 for Windows: s/n: 32098-025-0191712
Microsoft Excel EIS Builder v1.1 for Windows: s/n: 065-501-580
Microsoft Excel v5.0c for Windows : s/n: 01854-055-0504633 or s/n: 15922-020-0012191
Microsoft Excel v7.0 UK for Windows : s/n: 33610-062-0103145
Microsoft Great Greetings v1.0 for Windows: s/n: 32521-082-0109954
Microsoft Hell Bender for Windows 95 : CD-Key: 415-0027516
Microsoft IntelliPoint v1.10 for Windows(95): s/n: 37991-025-0514927
Microsoft Office 7.0b for Windows 95 : s/n: 415-0151383
MicroSoft Office Professional v4.2 for Windows: s/n: 14080-000-4203561
MicroSoft Office Professional v4.3c for Windows: s/n: 28779-051-0101444 or s/n: 27716-102-0128344
MicroSoft Planner for Windows : s/n: 076-051-090
MicroSoft Publisher v2.0 for Windows : s/n: 00-164-0200-80012578
Microsoft Return to Arcade for Windows 95: CD-Key: 415-1712656
Microsoft SMS 2.0 beta2 For WindowsNT: s/n: 11111-11111-11111-11111-11111
Microsoft Source Safe 4.0 for Windows 95: CD-Key: 411-0173307
Microsoft Visual Basic Standard v4.0 for Windows 95: s/n: 411-0356356 or s/n: 411-0085933 or s/n: 411-1454815
MicroSoft Windows v3.11 for Windows : s/n: 00131-002-6600743
Microsoft Windows 95B : s/n: 27497-OEM-0025347-80387
Microsoft Windows 98 1720+ : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 Build 1723 : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 RC4 : s/n: 320DD-23GW3-2H9CJ-39FNE-3E3IS
Microsoft Windows 98 RC5 : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL Dutch : s/n: GB7WP-RRQCB-HVY29-2K2PX-VGCG8
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL French : s/n: GDXPD-T99JH-82TMX-BCY9M-4RKW7
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL German : s/n: FXMKC -FF2F7-86DJY-Y86FC-824MB
Microsoft Windows 98 Hebrew : s/n: fjbmh-7h9b3-2rmw6-qcj4p-r3chb
Microsoft Windows 98 Final Retail : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3 or s/n: K8F92-DRTF8-D2T6X-R2QX6-2W46B or s/n: JHVBP-T6TMP-GX8XJ-CMGDP-K8CCX or s/n: FT9CH-XVXW7-7BFCM-RPR49-VDHYD or s/n: B4DWD-2B3KX-KT7MR-GQXVB-WFMFY or s/n: BBH2G-D2VK9-QD4M9-F63XB-43C33 or s/n: QCRFR-GG62T-V43B8-MFW
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL Upgrade : s/n: VPVDT-FVCHY-CWBP3-JP6Y6-7398Q or s/n: TKG6R-B4YBJ-Y7626-HF7CB-PG3Q3 or s/n: qjgpc-3pgvf-3xdxj-ffdgr-gryjp
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL Upgrade Italian: s/n: RJMY9-VV4TY-48JCK-MRTJD-7TGJH
Microsoft Windows 98 OEM : s/n: DMGW7-3XBTD-3VV7C-83RQD-KHX66 or s/n: M9W3X-RJD63-2WFRH-72X6G-HXD36 or s/n: XPH76-H46HM-QVF6F-H444T-QM7MW or s/n: B6G6Q-H29Y9-4KTV8-QBQG2-FMKFM or s/n: DCWVC-VFR84-TX9X4TDCWC-JWB96 or s/n: KCYY7-46C8D-2HQH7-QW92M-4WF9Q (Sony) or s/n: GFWMR-DWMTK-6G7
Microsoft Windows 98 OEM Service Release 1 Beta 1: s/n: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR Beta Refresh : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 v4.10.2126 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 v4.10.2131 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 Build 2150 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 Beta 2 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 Second edition Build 2162: CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 Special Edition RC3: CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition Full Retail: CD-Key: W7XTC-2YWFB-K6BPT-GMHMV-B6FDY
Microsoft Windows CE Toolkit for Visual C++ 5.0: CD Key: 111-111111
Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : s/n: 807-2414712 or OEM s/n: 28997-OEM-0025957-49297
Microsoft Windows NT Server : s/n: 419-0812021
Microsoft Windows Plus! : Fill with 1's or s/n: 062-0805825003490
Microsoft Word for windows 95 : 32857-113-0137987-64504
MicroSoft Word v6.0a NL for Windows : s/n: 23227-020-0054534
MicroSoft Word v7.0 UK for Windows : s/n: 32857-113-0137987
Microsoft Works 4.0 For Windows 95 : 33977053011175600000
Microsoft Works v3.0 or 3.0a NL for Windows: s/n: 16429-020-0000284
Windows 2000 German Update : s/n: DDC2K-Q4TY7-6YJ2M-MVD-7J-C3WRH
Windows 2000 Advanced Server Multi Language: s/n: KRJQ8-RQ822-YRMXF-6TTXC-HD2VM
Windows 2000 Advanced Server Final : s/n: H6TWQ-TQQM8-HXJYG-D69F7-R84VM
Windows 2000 Server Service Pack 1 Retail: s/n: XF7DK-7X2WM-2QRCT-Y9R23-4BHDG
Windows 2000 Server German : s/n: MWM8P-FR2YV-GMKRM-WFGTG-JVH28
Windows 2000 Server Turkish : s/n: MKD68-6FMH3-D22BY-QJGBR-CCXFQ
Windows 2000 Server : s/n: KRJQ8-RQ822-YRMXF-6TTXC-HD2VM
Windows 2000 Upgrade 2000 upgrade : CD Key: H74VQ-HRWHD-BWW3C-MXVGK-KTFC9
windows 2000 profesional Italy : xgh9j-kbpbd-fxdkq-k36xb-x9j6y
Windows 3.11 : s/n: 00131-002-6600743
Windows 95 : s/n: 875-7215850 or s/n: 100-1208613 or s/n: 757-2573155
Windows 95 Advisor 1.0 : s/n: 002-473 or s/n: 002-794 or s/n: 030-734 or s/n: 086-215
Windows 95 Final NL : s/n: 12095-OEM-0004226-12233
Windows 95 Full : s/n: 15795-OEM-0001
Windows 95 OSR 2.5 : s/n: 24796-OEM-0014736-66386
Windows 95 Plus : s/n: 040-0073635 or s/n: 040-0081471 or s/n: 040-0081586
Windows 95B : s/n: 27497-OEM-0025347-80387
Windows 95 (build 490) : 100-1208613
Windows 95 950 r2 : 8757215850
Windows 95 950 r6 : 9754769754
WinDows 95 Advisor v1.0 for Win95 : 002-473
WinDows 95 Advisor v1.0 for Win95 : 002-794
WinDows 95 Advisor v1.0 for Win95 : 030-734
WinDows 95 Advisor v1.0 for Win95 : 086-215
WinDows 95 CD-ROM Plus : 040-0073635
WinDows 95 CD-ROM Plus : 040-0081471
WinDows 95 CD-ROM Plus : 040-0081586
WinDows 95 CD-ROM Plus : 040-0081589
WinDows 95 CD-ROM Plus : 040-0333015
WinDows 95 CD-ROM Plus : 040-0364433
WinDows 95 CD-ROM Plus : 040-0594361
Windows 95 Full Version : 15795-OEM-0001355-07757
Windows 95 OEM CD-Rom : 24995-OEM-0004361-59221
Windows 95 OEM Version : 12095-OEM-0004226-12233
Windows 95 OEM Version : 15795-OEM-0001355-07757
Windows 95 OEM Version : 16595-OEM-0001695-96524
Windows 95 OSR-2 : KEY: 05697-oem-0019164-28879
Windows 95 plus pak : 28876-062-0805825003490
Windows 95 v4.00.950 : 24264-425-4287696-06468
Windows 95 v4.00.950 : 24264-425-4287696-06468
Windows 95 v4.00.950 R2 : 875-7215850
Windows 95 v4.00.950 R2 : 875-7215850
Windows 95 v4.00.950 R3/R6 : 975-4769754
Windows 95 v4.00.950 R3/R6 : 975-4769754
Windows 95 (build 490) : 100-1208613
Windows 95 Final NL : 12095-OEM-0004226-12233
Windows 95 Full Version : 15795-OEM-0001
Windows 95 plus pak : 28876-062-0805825003490
Windows 95 v4.00.950 : 24264-425-4287696-06468
Windows 95 v4.00.950 R2 : 875-7215850
Windows 95 v4.00.950 R3/R6 : 975-4769754
Windows 95 OEM Final OEM Final Serial: 25297-OEM-0024582-00157
Windows 98 Full OEM German : s/n: KTCYX-QRHXX-XX7GM-FGYQJ-XDPGY
Windows 98 Chinese : s/n: JV839-M2B2Y-DW6BJ-467TK-YPGGQ
Windows 98 Dutch : s/n: GB7WP-RRQCB-HVY29-2K2PX-VGCG8
Windows 98 Final Retail : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3 or s/n: K8F92-DRTF8-D2T6X-R2QX6-2W46B or s/n: JHVBP-T6TMP-GX8XJ-CMGDP-K8CCX or s/n: FT9CH-XVXW7-7BFCM-RPR49-VDHYD or s/n: B4DWD-2B3KX-KT7MR-GQXVB-WFMFY or s/n: BBH2G-D2VK9-QD4M9-F63XB-43C33 or s/n: QCRFR-GG62T-V43B8-MFW8
Windows 98 French : s/n: GDXPD-T99JH-82TMX-BCY9M-4RKW7
Windows 98 German : s/n: FXMKC -FF2F7-86DJY-Y86FC-824MB or s/n: WGDH8-GQCTK-F7HK2-JYMPR-28QJW
Windows 98 Greek : s/n: GQ4CR-T3DQG-H7VMB-D36QX-V8KFT
Windows 98 Hebrew : s/n: fjbmh-7h9b3-2rmw6-qcj4p-r3chb
Windows 98 SE Upgrade for Windows 3.1 and Up: s/n: G6HTF-WBJPJ-QKWPH-Y6D9Q-W73FC
Windows 98 Second Edition French : s/n: VGF6G-7JJVD-KWR9J-Q62HD-RJ7M6
Windows 98 Second Edition Full Retail : s/n: F73WT-WHD3J-CD4VR-2GWKD-T38YD or s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3 or s/n: VD4WG-Y998T-3MGWX-GPW2Q-3QVC8 or s/n: PYDMY-DVJ9J-996VH-JX66P-9TWKW or s/n: T98GF-R6C7Y-3MCV2-7C9DK-VC2F8 or s/n: FQD88-4X7FK-9HV9K-Q28FF-T3JC3
Windows 98 Second Edition OEM : s/n: FT9CH-XVXW7-7BFCM-RPR49-VDHYD or s/n: PW3DW-PC9D8-Q7VMQ-8YTMY-RTR9G or s/n: M4G3G-77CGM-9FY8T-PMWBC-JJYDM or s/n: TBXVP-MB6YG-MH8W4-VXGW2-QYB9W or s/n: CMT3F-GYCQP-BP29T-TJQY6-WHBMW or s/n: F2WQC-WTPDW-TC9QC-RKPTB-PKHRT
Windows 98 Second Edition OEM Spanish: s/n: MP7TK-KPT9F-DJFH9-B3828-HFH9D
Windows 98 Upgrade : s/n: G2FGT-6HYRW-X2W2C-RT7HW-RF7WX or s/n: TFYX7-9GG6R-PHK2H-TBR44-T6Q79 or s/n: C3HJX-FPCVK-V7KKQ-3GCYQ-9Y6HP or s/n: CCW67-GWQY3-9TG6G-3P7YP-728JX or s/n: HCGYX-8Q23F-237WM-WJ6TV-9KK72 or s/n: CQKDD-TJC3J-3Y7YJ-8CG9M-22MFF
Windows 98 Upgrade Italian : s/n: RJMY9-VV4TY-48JCK-MRTJD-7TGJH
Windows 98 Norwegian Upgrade : s/n: KT2J6-P9P2G-WRW49-HV27T-PDJWC
Windows 98 Second Edition : s/n: CMGRR-XCBMG-4P8TB-DR9FW-62PFB or s/n: HMTWJ-VPPWP-9BXP8-WD73Y-GGT6M or s/n: CXTVG-6B2V9-B2M7R-XDW76-HXFPJ
Windows 98 Second Edition Turkish : s/n: C7YV4-KMT9Q-C3P66-FC97G-2YJWJ or s/n: PDWJV-B69G9-CV9MH-Y8M3C-KGWQ8
Windows 98 Build 1708 : HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Windows 98 Second Edition Dutch : s/n: FT2GG-TR8XQ-GJ8PT-TQFJ6-3Q3RW
Windows 98SE OEM Full Version : xmfrx-hf6tg-pp4b2-qm7gy-vdtpj
Windows Access Menu 3.5 Name: Terry Georgi: s/n: WAM354657272792047656F726769
Windows Blinds 1.21 Enhanced Name: YoKe[tCA]: s/n: WB-c2d70562
Windows CE Toolkit for Visual Basic 5.0 : s/n: 111-111111
Windows CE Toolkit for Visual C++ 5.0 : s/n: 111-111111
Windows Checkit Pro V2 : B6-019820
Windows Coloring Book 2.0 Name: Agavags: s/n: 11791390
Windows Cracker 2.0E Name: TNT!Crackers: s/n: 4369E1E4CF32DB
Windows Direction Editor v.2.0.0 : Name: Miramax Organization: The Force Team RegKey: FmAkjaG
Windows Direction Sentry v2.4.0 : Name: TheForceTeam RegKey: KlF7dr7kiC5g
Windows Draw : s/n: DV1001LXX10827
Windows draw by Micrografx : DV1001LXX10827
Windows Enforcer 3.0 : s/n: 5434343543435431354
Windows Enforcer 6.1 : s/n: 74848-ENF-623808-0001-012004-4258EMC
Windows Enforcer v4.0 : 5434343543435431354
Windows Enforcer, Version 3.0b, 1996 : 5434343543435431354
Windows Enforcer v3.0 : 5434343543435431354
Windows File Shredder 2.0.0.2 : s/n: 1002-1385-9200
Windows for WorkGroups 3.11 : s/n: 18016-010-0187302 or s/n: 19492-020-0028353 or s/n: 511807955
Windows for WorkGroups Spanish 3.11 : s/n: 872-0298-300C
Windows for workgroups v3.11 : 18016-010-0187302
Windows for worlgroups v3.11 SPANISH : 872-0298-300C
Windows for worlgroups v3.11 SPANISH : 872-0298-300C
Windows Ghost 1.0 : s/n: W9I6N6D4O4W2S2G9H8O2S9T
Windows Grep 2.1.1123 : s/n: 1675270417
Windows Help Maker II Name: Dilburt^ LSD: s/n: 2310027996
Windows Interactive Network Server PE v6.0: Enter all 1's
Windows Keylogger 5.0 : Name: GARFiELD [rA] s/n: jf5OoCvr1up2dYXg0o== or Name: Team tCA s/n: njcmNtF82Kt=
Windows Keylogger 5.02 Name: Team LAXiTY: s/n: njcmNtFE98I0BR0=
Windows Lock 2.2 : s/n: 26384094848499
Windows Logo Changer 2000.1 : Company: The Exterminators Email: tex99@gmx.net s/n: D6NRVZYRLA0M
Windows Lotto Pro 4.01 : Name: GREENBACK s/n: F7F7556C86E762EB
Windows Lotto Pro 4.02 : Name: LOMAX [DSI] s/n: 49877C05F4611AC0 or Name: UNC Team s/n: F58B8FC5D18F3F90
Windows Lotto Pro 4.03 : Name: UNC TEAM s/n: F58B8FC5D18F3F90
Windows Lotto Pro 4.04 : Name: United Cracking Force - QT s/n: 484D401F59643C08
Windows Lotto Pro 4.05 : Name: mr.FiX s/n: 46CC62C37765C0EC
Windows Lotto Pro 2000 5.33 : Name: 6E6BCDD0 s/n: 40D62025D082FDE8 (Press F2 to register, not the OK button)
Windows Lock v2.2 : 26384094848499
Windows Lotto Pro v4.01 for Win-95/NT : Name: GREENBACK Key :F7F7556C86E762EB
Windows Lotto Pro v4.02 : User: UNC Team / Serial No: F58B8FC5D18F3F90
Windows Lotto Pro 2000 5.45 : Name: B25727C4 s/n: 1051C375BF71ED0E (Press the F3 key. Do NOT click the OK button)
Windows Lotto Pro 2000 5.51 : 1) Click on the Register Now button on the opening screen 2) Enter the following User Name: 9585C5B3 3) Enter the following Unlock Code: 6FEC0AF54A70214F 4) Press the F3 key
Windows LockUp 1.4 : s/n: - 707212886CWL
Windows ME Update : s/n: DFT9R-G2886-C2MDB-4FPYM-48PD2
Windows ME Final OEM : CD Key: XM39G-6FQJH-M6Q8M-7Y79W-6FFFD -OR- B6BYC-6T7C3-4PXRW-2XKWB-CYV33
Windows ME Upgrade upgrade : s/n: DFT9R-G2886-C2MDB-4FPYM-48PD2 or Serial: QW4TC-WQ4RM-7QBMK-6GDYP-3K8H4
Windows Multi-Lock 1.2 : s/n: 2643985749399
Windows Multi-Lock v1.1 : 2643985749399
Windows Multi-Lock v1.2 : 2643985749399
Windows Multi-Lock v1.1 : 2643985749399
Windows Multi-Lock v1.2 : 2643985749399
Windows NT Tips Tricks and Registry Hacks: Name: SpiNBalL s/n: 4CA0A9AE
Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : s/n: 807-2414712 or OEMs/n: 28997-OEM-0025957-49297 or s/n: 425-1921701
Windows NT 4.0 Final (1381) : 040-1200551
Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : CD-KEY: 09496-0009552-77303
Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : CD-KEY: 30495-0006276-08164 Name:SNiKkEL s/n: 11995-69580
Windows NT 4.0 Workstation : 425-1921701
Windows Picture 1.1 : s/n: 5173e7bd17
Windows Power Tools 1.39 : s/n: cheebuch0001346
Windows Power Tools 1.58 : s/n: cheebuch0001346
Windows Power Tools 1.60 : s/n: cheebuch0001346
Windows Power Tools 1.69 : s/n: cheebuch0001346
Windows Power Tools 1.75 : s/n: cheebuch0001346
Windows Power Tools 2.85 : s/n: b87d789wnfijwefh87eyf87h
Windows Scanner 1.0 : s/n: 257-1184-WSC-32
Windows Scanner 1.50 : s/n: 257-1184-WSC-32
Windows Scanner 2.00 : s/n: 257-1184-WSC-32
Windows Scientific Calculator 4.0 : Name: bLACK tHORNE / MCC s/n: 12210743399
Windows Security Officer 3.8 : s/n: 12j956932643 or Name: Azrael [PC] s/n: DDE987000000
Windows Security Officer 98 3.6 : s/n: 9951262350
Windows Sniper 2.1 Name: Gecco [odt] : s/n: kebJmcqOPFFXeB/uD9Fn4fjXnPs or Name: PipeR s/n: UHMRxJZAmUOKMP5Vs5q8T8Eby3E
Windows Sniper 2.5 : Name: +DzA kRAker s/n: wizfoz7rjs5k4fsymtro6pjgw6i
Windows Snoop Stopper 2.0.19 : s/n: 1127-6512-9921
Windows Task-Lock 4.0 : Single: 45687897134654084487080 Multi: 418117113408700703414174
Windows Time Lapse Video 1.3 : s/n: 04391962
Windows Tools 1.21 : Name: Thigo [TMG] Email: none@none.com s/n: 4529334227284
Windows Trace Remover 2.0 : Name: Phrozen Hell 2002 EMail: Phrozen@Hell2002.com s/n: 6709944226780306 or Name: The Professional Novice Email: TPN@TPN.org s/n: 0925490611473339
Windows View Randomizer 1.0 : Name: NoStrAdAmuS s/n: 1891041337167
Windows Whistler Beta 2 Build 2419 : s/n: RBDC9-VTRC8-D7972-J97JY-PRVMG

Windows XP oem home : JQ4T4 - 8VM63 - 6WFBK - KTT29 - V8966
Windows XP Home Edition : s/n: BQJG2-2MJT7-H7F6K-XW98B-4HQRQ or s/n: QB2BW-8PJ2D-9X7JK-BCCRT-D233Y
Windows XP Spanish : s/n: FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8
Windows XP Home Edition Upgrade Serial: BQJG2-2MJT7-H7F6K-XW98B-4HQRQ
Windows XP Pro Corporate Final : CD Key: FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8 or XJM6Q-BQ8HW-T6DFB-Y934T-YD4YT or BX6HT-MDJKW-H2J4X-BX67W-TVVFG or C873C-PKFQP-Q7RWQ-CM688-JM6JY
Windows XP Professional Dell OEM Build 2600: s/n: XJM6Q-BQ8HW-T6DFB-Y934T-YD4YT
Windows XP Pro (Denmark) Pro (Denmark): Serial: FCKGW-RHQQ2-YXRKT-8TG6W-2B7Q8 or BX6HT-MDJKW-H2J4X-BX67W-TVVFG or C873C-PKFQP-Q7RWQ-CM688-JM6JY
Windows XP Professional : fckgw-rhqq2-yxrkt-8tg6w-2b7q8
Windows Xp Home edition 2002 : lj2lk-khgk2-khlh2-jhkl2-klkg2

WINDOWS95 OSR2 : KEY: 05697-oem-0019164-28879
WindowsGhost 2.0 : s/n: 966win442ghost29829f
WindowsNT Workstation 4.0 : s/n: 807-2414712 or OEMs/n: 28997-OEM-0025957-49297 or s/n: 425-1921701 or S/N: 325-3845602
Office control-easy for Windows : 33233359
Office Control-Easy for Windows : s/n: 33233359
Office Control-Easy for Windows : s/n: 33233359
Visual Arranger for Windows : s/n: 11WA00939875E
Visual Arranger for Windows 3.1 : #/11WA00939875E
Visual Quantify for Windows NT : Product ID: 24002-030926 Serial #: 921-5125403112
Visual Reality for Windows : s/n: VRW02449
Visual reality for Windows : VRW02449
Visual Slick Edit 3.0 For Windows95/NT : s/n: B59UF7M-03-WB0000
VisualAge Team v2.0 for Windows : 17H7503
Visualage team v2.0 for Windows : 17H7503
VisualAge Team v2.0 for Windows : s/n: 17H7503
MS Works 4.0 For Windows 95 : 33977053011175600000
MS Works 4.0 For Windows 95 : 33977053011175600000
MS Works 4.0 For Windows 95 : 33977053011175600000

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Microsoft-serials:
----------------------

Microsoft Win CE Entertainment Pack : s/n: 4653540603
Microsoft Access ADI for Windows 95 : CD-KEY: 040-4031420
Microsoft Autoroute Express v4.0 Win : 32098-025-0191712
Microsoft AutoRoute Express v4.0 Win : s/n: 32098-025-0191712
Microsoft Excel EIS Builder v1.1 Win : 065-501-580
Microsoft Excel EIS Builder v1.1 Win : s/n: 065-501-580
Microsoft Excel UK v7.0 for Windows : 33610-062-0103145
Microsoft Excel v5.0 : 01864-111-0366472
Microsoft Excel v5.0c for Windows : 01854-055-0504633
Microsoft Excel v5.0c for Windows : 15922-020-0012191
Microsoft Excel v5.0c for Windows : s/n: 01854-055-0504633
Microsoft Excel v7.0 UK for Windows : s/n: 33610-062-0103145
MicroSoft Flight Simulator v5.1 : 030-087-001
Microsoft general keys 4 MS products : 040-0024017
Microsoft general keys 4 MS products : 040-0212027
Microsoft general keys 4 MS products : 040-1014404
Microsoft general keys 4 MS products : 040-1035500
Microsoft general keys 4 MS products : 040-1312421
Microsoft general keys 4 MS products : 040-2016005
Microsoft general keys 4 MS products : 040-4200053
Microsoft Golf v2.0 : 00-000-00186-052V100
Microsoft Golf v2.0 : s/n: 00-000-00186-052V100
Microsoft Great greetings v1.0 for Win : 32521-082-0109954
Microsoft Great Greetings v1.0 for Win : s/n: 32521-082-0109954
Microsoft Hell Bender for Windows 95 : CD-KEY: 415-0027516
Microsoft IntelliPoint v1.10 for Win95 : s/n: 37991-025-0514927
Microsoft IntelliPoint v1.10 Win95 : 37991-025-0514927
Microsoft Internet Cache Explorer 1.29 : name/Byte Ripper #/gaggifbb
Microsoft Internet Cache Explorer 1.29 : name/Free Registered Version #/dhddicji
Microsoft Internet Cache Explorer 1.29 : name/Phrozen Crew #/bgbfaegj
Microsoft Internet Cache Explorer 1.29 : name/Plushmm [PC'98] #/jcghhaaj
Microsoft Music Producer 1.0 : s/n: 426-1234567
Microsoft Office 7.0b for Windows 95 : s/n: 415-0151383
Microsoft Office 97 : 0401-3781484
Microsoft Office 97 : s/n: 1921701-05354
Microsoft Office 97 (standard) : s/n: 4657-1931151
Microsoft Office PRO '95 : 26716-103-0145657
Microsoft Office PRO '95 : 27716-102-0128344
Microsoft Office Pro for Win95 : s/n: 425-1921701
Microsoft Office Pro for Win95 (2) : 27716-102-0128344
MicroSoft Office Pro v4.2 for Windows : s/n: 14080-000-4203561
Microsoft Office PRO v4.3c for Windows : 28779-051-0101444
MicroSoft Office Pro v4.3c for Windows : s/n: 28779-051-0101444
Microsoft Office Professional 4.2 Win : 14080-000-4203561
Microsoft Office Professional 4.3c Win : 26716-103-0145657
Microsoft Office Professional 4.3c Win : 27716-102-0128344
Microsoft Office Professional 4.3c Win : 28779-051-0101444
Microsoft Office Professional Win95 : 425-1921701
Microsoft Office v4.0 : 22860-020-0016356
Microsoft Planner for Windows : 076-051-090
MicroSoft Planner for Windows : s/n: 076-051-090
Microsoft Plus Pack for Windows '95 : 28876-057-0832465-33620
Microsoft Plus! 95 : CD-KEY: 411-2781863
Microsoft Plus! for Win95 : 411-0126066
Microsoft Plus! for Win95 : 411-2781863
Microsoft Plus! for Win95 : 411-7111936
Microsoft PowerPoint : 00-079-0300-56206755
Microsoft Products from 1997 (ALL) : CD-KEY: 5890-8957776
Microsoft Project 95 : CD-KEY: 040-0252649
Microsoft Project 98 : CD-KEY: s/n: 1634-1063641
Microsoft Publisher 95 : CD-KEY: 757-2573155
Microsoft Publisher v2.0 for Windows : 00-164-0200-80012578
MicroSoft Publisher v2.0 for Windows : s/n: 00-164-0200-80012578
Microsoft Registration HackerMSREGHACK: 123456789
Microsoft Return to Arcade for Win95 : CD-KEY: 415-1712656
Microsoft Source Safe 4.0 for Win 95 : CD-KEY: 411-0173307
Microsoft Theme Create name: jake cwc : s/n: 539-90546
Microsoft Uninstaller : I2031123
MicroSoft Visual Basic Stand 4.0 Win95 : s/n: 411-0356356
Microsoft Visual Basic v4.0 enterp. Ed : CD KEY:411-0250176
Microsoft Visual Basic v4.0 for C++ : 666-6666666
MicroSoft Visual Basic v4.0 for C++ : s/n: 666-6666666
Microsoft Visual C++ v4.0 : CD-KEY: 415-1712656
Microsoft Visual C++ v4.2 : CD-KEY: 040-0331304
Microsoft Windows 98 1720+ : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 Build 1723 : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 RC4 : s/n: 320DD-23GW3-2H9CJ-39FNE-3E3IS
Microsoft Windows 98 RC5 : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3
Microsoft Windows CE Toolkit for VB 5 : CD-KEY: 111-111111
Microsoft Windows CE Toolkit for VC++5: CD KEY: 111-111111
Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : s/n: 807-2414712
MicroSoft Windows v3.11 for Windows : s/n: 00131-002-6600743
Microsoft Word 6.0 user: rac : 01698-053-0102765
Microsoft Word for windows 95 : 32857-113-0137987-64504
Microsoft Word NL v6.0a for Windows : 23227-020-0054534
Microsoft Word UK v7.0 for Windows : 32857-113-0137987
MicroSoft Word v6.0a NL for Windows : s/n: 23227-020-0054534
MicroSoft Word v7.0 UK for Windows : s/n: 32857-113-0137987
Microsoft Works 4.0 For Windows 95 : 33977053011175600000
Microsoft Works 95 : 425-0977766
Microsoft Works 95 : CD-KEY: 425-0977766
Microsoft Works MultiMedia Edit. v3.0 : OEM-MMWRKS300
Microsoft Works NL v3.0a for Windows : 16429-020-0000284
MicroSoft Works v3.0 MultiMedia Ed : s/n: OEM-MMWRKS300
Microsoft Works v3.0 NL : 16429-020-0000284
Microsoft Works v3.0 or 3.0a NL Win : s/n: 16429-020-0000284
MicroSoft Works v4.0+ for Win95 : s/n: 33977-053-0111756
Microsoft Works v4.0b for Win95 : 33977-053-0111756
Microsoft Works v4.5 for Win-95/NT : 111-1111111
Microsoft Works v4.5 Full CD : s/n: 111-1111111
Microsoft Access ADI for Windows 95 : CD-Key: 040-4031420
Microsoft AutoRoute Express v4.0 for Windows: s/n: 32098-025-0191712
Microsoft Excel EIS Builder v1.1 for Windows: s/n: 065-501-580
Microsoft Excel v5.0c for Windows : s/n: 01854-055-0504633 or s/n: 15922-020-0012191
Microsoft Excel v7.0 UK for Windows : s/n: 33610-062-0103145
Microsoft Excel Y2k Checker v2.1 : Password: FINDER
Microsoft Golf v2.0 : s/n: 00-000-00186-052V100
Microsoft Great Greetings v1.0 for Windows: s/n: 32521-082-0109954
Microsoft Hell Bender for Windows 95 : CD-Key: 415-0027516
Microsoft Flight Sim 95/98 : s/n: 450-6160744
Microsoft Golf 98 CD SET: X03-17306 : ID: 52280-442-8850446-52065
Microsoft IntelliPoint v1.10 for Windows(95): s/n: 37991-025-0514927
Microsoft Music Producer 1.0 : s/n: 426-1234567
Microsoft Office 7.0b for Windows 95 : s/n: 415-0151383
Microsoft Office Professional for Win95 : s/n: 425-1921701 or s/n: 103-0145657 or s/n: 102-0128344
MicroSoft Office Professional v4.2 for Windows: s/n: 14080-000-4203561
MicroSoft Office Professional v4.3c for Windows: s/n: 28779-051-0101444 or s/n: 27716-102-0128344
Microsoft Office 97 (standard) : s/n: 4657-1931151
Microsoft Office 97 : s/n: 1921701-05354
Microsoft Office 97 Pro : s/n: 8089-3069692 or s/n: 9990-1456507 or s/n: 9978-1234567
Microsoft Office 97 Russian : s/n: 0701-0743365
Microsoft Office 2000 Beta 2 : s/n: BBH2G-D2VK9-QD4M9-F63XB-43C33 or s/n: MP4F9-W6C8V-HTCCT-T7M7R-Y7K3Y
Microsoft Office 2000 Developer Edition : s/n: 111-1111111
Microsoft Office 2000 Premium Final : s/n: DT3FT-BFH4M-GYYH8-PG9C3-8K2FJ or s/n: MP4F9 W6C8V HTCCT T7MR Y7K3Y or s/n: GC6J3-GTQ62-FP876-94FBR-D3DX8
MicroSoft Planner for Windows : s/n: 076-051-090
Microsoft Plus! 95 : CD-Key: 411-2781863 or CD-Key: 411-0126066 or CD-Key: 411-7111936 or CD-Key: 114-0125497
Microsoft Plus 98 Fill with 1's or : s/n: 062-0805825003490 or s/n: 512-5469263 or s/n: 512-5469211 or s/n: 512-5469236 or s/n: 468-1119513 or s/n: 411-2781863 or s/n: 450-0535503 or s/n: 419-1890091 or s/n: 814-1805966
Microsoft Project 95 : CD-Key: 040-0252649
Microsoft Project 98 : CD-Key: 1634-1063641
Microsoft Publisher 95 : CD-Key: 757-2573155
Microsoft Publisher 98 : CD-Key: 8090-3186514
MicroSoft Publisher v2.0 for Windows : s/n: 00-164-0200-80012578
Microsoft Publisher 2000 : s/n: GC6J3 GTQ62 FP876 94FBR D3DX8
Microsoft Registration Hacker MSREGHACK: 123456789
Microsoft Return to Arcade for Windows 95: CD-Key: 415-1712656
Microsoft SGML Author v1.2 Multilanguage Word95-97: s/n: 111-1111111
Microsoft SMS 2.0 beta2 For WindowsNT: s/n: 11111-11111-11111-11111-11111
Microsoft Source Safe 4.0 for Windows 95: CD-Key: 411-0173307
Microsoft SQL Server 7.0 Enterprise Edition Build 611: s/n: 111-1111111
Microsoft SQL Server Access Library for DBTools.h++ v3.1.1: s/n: 34112-09-001100
Microsoft SQL 7.0 Desktop & Server Editions FINAL: s/n: 111-11111111
Microsoft Theme Create Name: jake cwc : s/n: 539-90546
Microsoft Uninstaller : I2031123
Microsoft Visual Basic Standard v4.0 for Windows 95: s/n: 411-0356356 or s/n: 411-0085933 or s/n: 411-1454815
Microsoft Visual Basic v4.0 enterp. Edition: CD Key:411-0250176
MicroSoft Visual Basic v4.0 for C++ : s/n: 666-6666666
Microsoft Visual Basic v5.0 Enterprise Edition: s/n: 040-0150053
Microsoft Visual C++ v4.0 : CD-Key:415-1712656
Microsoft Visual C++ v4.2 : CD-Key: 040-0331304
Microsoft Visual C++ 5.0 Professional : CD-Key: 040-0433567
Microsoft Visual C++ Pro 6.0 : CD-Key: 812-2224558
MicroSoft Windows v3.11 for Windows : s/n: 00131-002-6600743
Microsoft Windows 95B : s/n: 27497-OEM-0025347-80387
Microsoft Windows 98 1720+ : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 Build 1723 : s/n: HGBRM-RBK3V-M9FXV-YCXDK-V38J4
Microsoft Windows 98 RC4 : s/n: 320DD-23GW3-2H9CJ-39FNE-3E3IS
Microsoft Windows 98 RC5 : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL Dutch : s/n: GB7WP-RRQCB-HVY29-2K2PX-VGCG8
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL French : s/n: GDXPD-T99JH-82TMX-BCY9M-4RKW7
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL German : s/n: FXMKC -FF2F7-86DJY-Y86FC-824MB
Microsoft Windows 98 Hebrew : s/n: fjbmh-7h9b3-2rmw6-qcj4p-r3chb
Microsoft Windows 98 Final Retail : s/n: K4HVD-Q9TJ9-6CRX9-C9G68-RQ2D3 or s/n: K8F92-DRTF8-D2T6X-R2QX6-2W46B or s/n: JHVBP-T6TMP-GX8XJ-CMGDP-K8CCX or s/n: FT9CH-XVXW7-7BFCM-RPR49-VDHYD or s/n: B4DWD-2B3KX-KT7MR-GQXVB-WFMFY or s/n: BBH2G-D2VK9-QD4M9-F63XB-43C33 or s/n: QCRFR-GG62T-V43B8-MFW
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL Upgrade : s/n: VPVDT-FVCHY-CWBP3-JP6Y6-7398Q or s/n: TKG6R-B4YBJ-Y7626-HF7CB-PG3Q3 or s/n: qjgpc-3pgvf-3xdxj-ffdgr-gryjp
Microsoft Windows 98 FINAL Upgrade Italian: s/n: RJMY9-VV4TY-48JCK-MRTJD-7TGJH
Microsoft Windows 98 OEM : s/n: DMGW7-3XBTD-3VV7C-83RQD-KHX66 or s/n: M9W3X-RJD63-2WFRH-72X6G-HXD36 or s/n: XPH76-H46HM-QVF6F-H444T-QM7MW or s/n: B6G6Q-H29Y9-4KTV8-QBQG2-FMKFM or s/n: DCWVC-VFR84-TX9X4TDCWC-JWB96 or s/n: KCYY7-46C8D-2HQH7-QW92M-4WF9Q (Sony) or s/n: GFWMR-DWMTK-6G7
Microsoft Windows 98 OEM Service Release 1 Beta 1: s/n: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR Beta Refresh : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 v4.10.2126 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 v4.10.2131 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 Build 2150 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 OSR1 Beta 2 : CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 Second edition Build 2162: CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 Special Edition RC3: CD-Key: C9TCH-G72Y6-G4DQK-QCQRM-K7XFQ
Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition Full Retail: CD-Key: W7XTC-2YWFB-K6BPT-GMHMV-B6FDY
Microsoft Windows CE Toolkit for Visual C++ 5.0: CD Key: 111-111111
Microsoft Windows NT Workstation 4.0 : s/n: 807-2414712 or OEM s/n: 28997-OEM-0025957-49297
Microsoft Windows NT Server : s/n: 419-0812021
Microsoft Windows Plus! : Fill with 1's or s/n: 062-0805825003490
Microsoft Word 6.0 : user: rac 01698-053-0102765
Microsoft Word for windows 95 : 32857-113-0137987-64504
MicroSoft Word v6.0a NL for Windows : s/n: 23227-020-0054534
MicroSoft Word v7.0 UK for Windows : s/n: 32857-113-0137987
Microsoft Works 4.0 For Windows 95 : 33977053011175600000
Microsoft Works 95 : CD-Key: 425-0977766
MicroSoft Works v3.0 MultiMedia Edition : s/n: OEM-MMWRKS300
Microsoft Works v3.0 or 3.0a NL for Windows: s/n: 16429-020-0000284
MicroSoft Works v4.0+ for Win95 : s/n: 33977-053-0111756
Microsoft Works v4.5 Full CD : s/n: 111-1111111
Microsoft planner : 076-051-090
Microsoft Works with Money 2001 Standard OEM: 36200-OEM-0001382-63024

01. Microsoft DOS 6.22
02. Microsoft Windows 3.11 for Workgroup : Serial Number : 00131-002-6600743
03. (1) Microsoft Windows 95 : Serial Number : 875-7215850
(2) WIN 95 : 34796-OEM-0017292-97722
04. Microsoft Windows 97 : Serial Number : 12095-OEM-0004226-12233
05. (1) Microsoft Windows 98 Second Edition : Serial Number : PYDMY-DVJ9J-996VH-JX66P-9TWKW
(2)win-98(2)//- : FFKRQ-TTT9C-7CJWC-4BT9X-PGH4D
06. Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional : Serial Number : RBDC9-VTRC8-D7972-J97JY-PRVMG
07. Microsoft Windows ME Mellienum Edition : Serial Number : BKGKD-BW79G-CD444-G4FHG-J4GFQ

Prince Of Persia 4 - Next Gen Debut Trailer

2008-06-10T17:23:00.000+05:30

Countdown to iPhone Next Begins

2008-06-09T18:43:00.001+05:30

Just two days away from Apple's much-hyped Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) to be held in San Francisco (Jun 9-13), and rumors seem to have escalated into serious overdrive.

Everyone wants to know what will happen at the WWDC? One thing everyone's agreed upon is that CEO, Apple Computers, Steve Jobs will lift the wraps on iPhone Next. And iPhone II will deploy 3G cellular network billed to transmit data much faster than the network used by iPhone I. Other rumored probables in iPhone II include: GPS capabilities else advanced geo-tagging features, in-built instant messaging, video-chat capabilities, and support for voice-activated commands.
What may also happen at WWDC is that the operating system of the iPhone and iPod Touch will get an upgrade to what is being called the 'OS X iPhone'. And 'OS X iPhone' will include an App Store integrated with iTunes allowing users purchase and install new software.

That's not quite it. It is rumored Jobs may unveil a brand new Macbook Pro external design as well as the next upgrade to OS X codenamed 'Snow Leopard'. In all probability, 'Snow Leopard' will be only 64-bit and will drive performance and stability improvements to the existing 'Leopard' OS.

Asus M930 Smart Phone Now in India

2008-06-09T18:37:00.001+05:30

Asus has released the new M930 communicator style smart phone in the country.

Sporting a mirror reflective surface, the M930 features free-stop flipping hinge that allows users adjust to any preferred angle or position.
This communicator style smart phone features two screens -- external 2-inches TFT LCD with 240 x 320 resolution and internal 2.6-inches screen with 400 x 240 resolution. In addition, the phone offers two fast and intuitive input options via the numeric keypad when closed, and the full QWERTY keyboard when open.

The M930 offers rich business features via the integrated Windows Mobile 6 operating system and full 3.5G connectivity. With Windows Mobile 6, users can utilize the ActiveSync feature to transfer data from the smart phone to a server.

For further connectivity, the phone supports GPRS, EDGE, WCDMA, HSDPA, Bluetooth 2.0, Wi-Fi, and USB 2.0. Moreover, in the absence of Wi-Fi coverage, users can convert the smart phone into a 3.5G modem with its one-step Quick Modem setting; while with the plug-and-play auto network configuration, users can simply plug in a SIM card and get connected to the Internet.

Weighing approximately 158 grams and measuring 113 x 54 x 18.7mm, the M930 incorporates a 2-mega pixels camera and 0.3 mega pixels for video telephony. According to Edward Wang, Business Head, Mobile Communication Business for Asus India, this is the only communicator with a Web cam which is called iCAM. Users can type SMS, listen to music, write emails etc simultaneously while using the iCAM.

The Asus M930 smart phone is available through India Digital Lifestyle Distributors Private Limited (IDLDPL) for around Rs 27,900.

ViewSonic Intros VX62 Series LCD Monitors

2008-06-05T20:36:00.002+05:30

ViewSonic Corp has launched its newest VX62 Series consumer LCD monitors including the 19-inches VX1962wm/p and the 22-inches VX2262wm/p. The VX2262wm/p sports a larger 22-inches display and promises even better color quality with 20000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. The LCD monitor features a 2ms response time, 1680 x 1050 native resolution, and 300-nits brightness to deliver fluid, full-motion images and optimized video performance.

The 19-inches wide-screen VX1962wm/p LCD monitor features high-definition resolution of 1680 x 1050, response time of 2ms, and dynamic contrast ratio of 6000:1 to make it an ideal choice for gaming and HD-content enthusiasts. Both new monitors include invisible stereo speakers with SRS WOW HD software that is activated by installing SRS Audio Soundbox (SAS) that comes with the monitors. Besides, they are compliant with environmental standards including TCO and ENERGY STAR, according to ViewSonic. The new LCD monitors are immediately available, and are priced starting at Rs 12,500. They enjoy a three-year limited warranty on parts and labor.

Now Send email Sans Internet!

2008-06-05T20:35:00.001+05:30

How about sending email from your mobile phone sans Internet/GPRS? It's possible, claims Bangalore-based MyDuniya Networks -- thanks to a consumer application newly-launched by the company. The application enables entry-level mobile users send emails from their mobile phones via SMS without the need for GPRS/Internet. All that users need to do is send an SMS to 53695 and then send email by saving information and sending it to an email id. They can even participate in interactive group messaging. Currently, the service is available only with Airtel in the state of Karnataka but will be extended to cover other parts of the country, says the company. Apparently, it is in dialogue with other operators for launching the service elsewhere as well. Those subscribers other than Airtel need to send an SMS to 99801-53695 to avail the service.

Windows Xp Hidden Apps

2008-06-02T14:19:00.001+05:30

To run any of these apps go to
Start > Run and type the executable name (ie charmap).

1) Character Map = charmap.exe (very useful for finding unusual characters)

2) Disk Cleanup = cleanmgr.exe

3) Clipboard Viewer = clipbrd.exe (views contents of Windows clipboard)

4) Dr Watson = drwtsn32.exe (Troubleshooting tool)

5) DirectX diagnosis = dxdiag.exe (Diagnose & test DirectX, video & sound cards)

6) Private character editor = eudcedit.exe (allows creation or modification of characters)

7) IExpress Wizard = iexpress.exe (Create self-extracting / self-installing package)

8) Microsoft Synchronization Manager = mobsync.exe (appears to allow synchronization of files on the network for when working offline. Apparently undocumented).

9) Windows Media Player 5.1 = mplay32.exe (Retro version of Media Player, very basic).

10) ODBC Data Source Administrator = odbcad32.exe (something to do with databases)

11) Object Packager = packager.exe (to do with packaging objects for insertion in files, appears to have comprehensive help files).

12) System Monitor = perfmon.exe (very useful, highly configurable tool, tells you everything you ever wanted to know about any aspect of PC performance, for uber-geeks only )

13) Program Manager = progman.exe (Legacy Windows 3.x desktop shell).

14) Remote Access phone book = rasphone.exe (documentation is virtually non-existant).

15) Registry Editor = regedt32.exe [also regedit.exe] (for hacking the Windows Registry).

16) Network shared folder wizard = shrpubw.exe (creates shared folders on network).

17) File siganture verification tool = sigverif.exe

18) Volume Contro = sndvol32.exe (I've included this for those people that lose it from the System Notification area).

19) System Configuration Editor = sysedit.exe (modify System.ini & Win.ini just like in Win98! ).

20) Syskey = syskey.exe (Secures XP Account database - use with care, it's virtually undocumented but it appears to encrypt all passwords, I'm not sure of the full implications).

21) Microsoft Telnet Client = telnet.exe

22) Driver Verifier Manager = verifier.exe (seems to be a utility for monitoring the actions of drivers, might be useful for people having driver problems. Undocumented).

23) Windows for Workgroups Chat = winchat.exe (appears to be an old NT utility to allow chat sessions over a LAN, help files available).

24) System configuration = msconfig.exe (can use to control starup programs)

25) gpedit.msc used to manage group policies, and permissions

Microsoft Windows XP Master Keys

2008-06-02T12:55:00.000+05:30

Microsoft Windows XP Professional Edition Corporate

Version: SP2

URL: www.microsoft.com

S/N: YQ7XW-QPT6C-233QF-RRXC7-VF7TY
S/N: X4PTJ-6WP7J-BFVCY-WYDJT-DMDDK
S/N: 3PX6Y-7HTR8-4PVPQ-PYFGK-GRK3P
S/N: 3FC6J-PVRYV-38KFF-B2K46-CDHH6
S/N: PM732-VDYT8-27YHH-QMMB7-CXPYW

How To get back your yahoo if its been hacked !!

2008-06-02T12:53:00.000+05:30

The solution for this is

Call the customer care Number of
Code:

www.yahoo.com

Tell them your id is hacked

Then they will ask you some questions regarding Your INFO

The info what u were keeping while making a yahoo ID

So You should remeber or else you wont get back your Id back !!

here will b questions asked by CCE ~

Q1) Whats is your secret Answer ?

Q2) Your Date Of Birth ?

Q3) Your Pin Code ?

Q4) Your Alternate E-Mail Address ?

Even if ur info is changed by the hacker who hav hacked your yahoo id

Still u will get ur yahoo Id back..

But ushould remember all this Info !!

So here is the number !!
Code:

001-408-349-1572

Samsung Cellular Phones Secret Codes

2008-06-02T12:51:00.000+05:30

You can try these in case you downloaded corrupted or incompatible Java midlets or other media, which are causing problems with the phone.
*2767*JAVA# Java Reset and (Deletes all Java Midlets)
*2767*MEDIA# Reset Media (Deletes All Sounds and Pics)
*2767*WAP# Wap Reset
*2767*CUST# Reset Custom EEPR0M
*2767*FULL# Reset Full EEPR0M (Caution)
For example : *2767*JAVA# would be keyed in as *2767*5282#
Note : Not all codes will work with SGH-C100.

Other Samsung Codes
*#06# IMEI code
*#9998*4357# Help Menu
*#9998*5282# Java menu (GRPS/CSD settings for JAVA server)
*#9999#0# Monitor Mode
*#9999# or *#9998*9999# Software Version
*#8888# or *#9998*8888# Hardware Version
*#9998*746# or *#9998*0746# or *#0746# Sim Infos
*#9998*523# or *#9998*0523# or *#0523# Display Contrast
*#9998*842# or *#9998*0842# or *#0842# Vibration On (until you push OK)
*#9998*289# or *#9998*0289# or *#0289# Buzzer On (until you push OK)
*#9998*288# or *#9998*0288# or *#0288# Battery & Field Infos
*#9998*377# or *#9998*0377# Error log
*#9998*778# or *#9998*0778# or *#0778# Sim Service table
*#9998*782# show date and alarm clock
*#8999*638# show network information
*#9998*5646# change operator logo at startup
*#9998*76# production number
*#9998*968# view melody for alarm
*#9998*585# Non-Volatile Memory (NVM)
*#3243948# Digital Audio Interference Off
*#32436837# Digital Audio Interference On

SAMSUNG T100 SECRET CODES
============================
*#06# -> Show IMEI
*#9999# -> Show Software Version
*#0001# -> Show Serial Parameters

*2767*3855# -> Full EEPROM Reset ( THIS CODE REMOVES SP-LOCK!!!! but also change IMEI to 447967-89-400044-0, you must use CHGIMEI to restore it)

*2767*2878# -> Custom EEEPROM Reset
*#8999*228# -> Battery status (capacity, voltage, temperature)
*#8999*246# -> Program status
*#8999*289# -> Change Alarm Buzzer Frequency
*#8999*324# -> Debug screens
*#8999*364# -> Watchdog
*#8999*377# -> EEPROM Error Stack
*#8999*427# -> Trace Watchdog
*#8999*523# -> Change LCD contrast
*#8999*544# -> Jig detect
*#8999*636# -> Memory status
*#8999*746# -> SIM File Size
*#8999*778# -> SIM Service Table
*#8999*785# -> RTK (Run Time Kernel) errors
*#8999*786# -> Run, Last UP, Last DOWN
*#8999*837# -> Software Version
*#8999*842# -> Test Vibrator
*#8999*862# -> Vocoder Reg
*#8999*872# -> Diag
*#8999*947# -> Reset On Fatal Error
*#8999*999# -> Last/Chk
*#8999*9266# -> Yann debug screen (=Debug Screens?)
*#8999*9999# -> Software version

SAMSUNG V200 SECRET CODES

v200 Unlock Code-> *2767*7822573738#
*#9324# Netmon (press the hangup key to exit)
*#9998*JAVA# Edit GPRS/ CSD settings (S100 Only)
*#9998*Help# Help screen/ List of codes
*#9998*LOGO# Change operator Logo
*#9998*RTC# RTC Display
*#9998*Bat# Battery Status
*#9998*Buz# Turns Buzzer ON
*#9998*Vib# Turns Vibrator ON
*#9998*LCD# LCD Contrast
*#9998*9999# Softwre Version
*#9998*8888# Hardware Version
*#9998*377# NVM Error Log (?????)
*#9998*NET# SIM Network ID
*#9998*778# SIM Serv. Table
*#9998*SIM# SIM Info
*#9998*PN# Production No.
*#9998*968# Reminder Tune
*#9998*NVM# Displays Non-Volitile Memory Status
*#9999*C# ???????????????????
*#06# Displays phones I**I No.
***/// ***/// NOTE /// *** RED COLOR , they appear serious !!! Use at
own risk !!!
*#9998*2576# Forces SIM Error
*#9998*DEAD# Forces Phone Crash
*2767*MEDIA# Resets the medis on the phone (deletes all downloaded
pics/tones)
*2767*FULL# Resets the EEPRON *DANGEROUS*
*2767*CUST# Resets the Custom EEPRON
*2767*JAVA# Resets JAV downloads (deletes all downloaded midlits)
*2767*STACKRESET# Resets Stack
*2767*225RESET# ????????????????? * Dangerous *
*2767*WAP# Resets WAP Setting & Deletes Favorites

SAMSUNG A800 SECRET CODES

The universal unlock code is *2767*637# do this with out your sim in
By default, the firmware (software) for x600 only receives java
apps and other applications like stuff by serial port.
but even for it, you have to enable the serial port, which also
causes
the closing of all other ports, even the IrDA too :-( ..
well, guess what, i have very good news for you,
do you know, you can increase the sound level,
the sound level for tones, speaker fone, etc,
can be increase even then if it is at max (level 4)
you still can do it,
just follows the instructions!

**************** HERE WE GO **************
Enter the following code:
*#8999*8378#
(You'll be shown menu, then ...)
then go to:
"H/W test"
then go to:
"Audio Settings"

then go to:
"Melody Gain"

There will you see a number.
there are five (5) Melody Levels" of it.
(and currently, you are at level 1 and after
pressing the "save" button, you will move to
level 2 and so on .........................)
you have to change the values of all the levels.
and as the resultant, it will give increase the
melody sound!, your tones will more louder,
even more louder then the max. ringing volume.
the level wise numbers are: (as its my setting :-) )

Melody Level 1: 13
Melody Level 2: 17
Melody Level 3: 18
Melody Level 4: 25
Melody Level 5: 31
you even can make your own combinations of level wise
sounding numbers that can change the sound level!.

if your combination cause more louder sound level,
then mine,
then do share it with the group! ... :-)
meanwhile, try my figured-out combination!

************ CAUTION ************
if anything goes wrong,
then you can apply the master reset code,
that will NOT delete anything, ANYTHING from your
cell fone, but set each and eveything to its
default/standard setting ...
(likes, factory settings :-) )
the master reset code is:
#*7728#

#########################################
I take no responsibility of these codes are working or not,
or its effects on your cell fone
but i have tried these codes on my cell fone.
and i bet, nothing goes wrong,
but even then of my words, be carefull!,
#########################################
The code: *#8999*8378#
as i regarded it a informative code,
will tell you each and everything about your cell fone.
and in the "H/W test",
there are lot of other Audio settings,
each of them having five (5) levels,
you can change the combination, but before doing anything,
do write the defult number sequence to some place so that
you'll be then able to invert it again! .. :-) ...
#*2558# - Time ON
#*2527# - GPRS Switching Set to class {4/8/9/10}
#*4263# - Handsfree Mode: ACTIVATED
#*53696# - [Java dnload] WAPSAR mode
#*536961# - WAPSAR enable HTTP disable
#*536962# - HTTP enable WAPSAR disable
#*536963# - SERIAL enable Others disable
#*5663351# - [Phone Model] SAMSUNG SGH-X100
#*6420# - Mic off
#*6421# - Mic on
#*7632# - Sleep mode
*#8999*523# - Main LCD Brightness
*#8999*3825523# - (?) External display
*2767*3855# - Full EEPROM reset(Reset all type of locks)also you'll
lose pictures and java not melody
Remove camera sound:
On main screen type:
*#8999*8378# --> Test mode
H/W test
Audio Settings
Melody Gain
Then replace 6 by 0, it'll show 12 but it's OK
Press back until main screen
Then press key volume to minimum and let's try !!! no more sound
tip by C-Quest

*2767*688# resets the phone
Thats all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Samsung X100 Tricks

#*0000#
#*0400#
#*1200# - AFC DAC Val
#*1300# - IMEI
#*1400# - IMSI
#*1700# - ( ) Command #*1700 Executed
#*1800# - ( ) Command #*1800 Executed
#*1900# - ( ) Command #*1900 Executed
#*2000# - ( ) Command #*2000 Executed
#*2100# - ( ) Command #*2100 Executed
#*2200# - ( ) Command #*2200 Executed
#*2252# - Current CAL
#*2255# -
#*2256# - Calibr.-Info
#*2282#
#*2285#
#*2286# - Databattery
#*2337# - ( ) Permanent Registration - Not Yet Implemented
#*2355#
#*2400# - ( ) Command #*2400 Executed
#*2474# - For CMD Set - DEBUGBATTERY in cihard.opt
#*2527# - GPRS Switching Set to class {4/8/9/10}
#*2558# - Time ON
#*2562#
#*2565#
#*2677# - AMR State: {None / Full Rate}
#*2679# - Copycat Feature: {ACTIVATED/DEACTIVATED}
#*2787# - CRTP {ON/OFF}
#*2834# - Audio path Mobile Normal
#*2836# - AVDDSS Management: {DEACTIVATED/ACTIVATED}
#*3230# - Trace Enable DCD disable
#*3231# - Trace disable DCD Enable
#*3232# - Current Mode {Trace enabled/DCD enabled}
#*3270# - DCS Support: {DEACTIVATED/ACTIVATED}
#*3282# - Data: {DEACTIVATED/ACTIVATED}
#*3333#
#*3353# - General Defence Code Erased
#*3370#
#*3377#
#*3476# - EGSM: {DEACTIVATED/ACTIVATED}
#*3676# - Flash Volume Formated
#*3683#
#*3737# - Some Codes
#*3777#
#*3779#
#*3825# - ( ) Command #*3825 Executed
#*3837#
#*3849#
#*3851#
#*3876#
#*3877# - Dump of SPY Trace
#*3900#
#*3940# - External looptest 9600 bps not available in SYSOL2
#*3940# - External looptest 115200 bps not available in SYSOL2
#*3941#
#*4200#
#*4263# - Handsfree Mode: ACTIVATED
#*4300#
#*4500#
#*4674# - IMSI| MCC:2 5 0 | MNC 9 2 | 10 11 91 83 50
#*4700# - Half Rate: {ACTIVATED/DEACTIVATED}
#*4760# - GSM: {ACTIVATED/DEACTIVATED}
#*4864#
#*5100#
#*5111# - ( ) Some Codes
#*5132#
#*5133# - ( ) Some Codes
#*5143#
#*5156#
#*5165#
#*5171# - ( ) Some Codes
#*5172# - ( ) Some Codes
#*5173# - ( ) Some Codes
#*5174#
#*5175#
#*5176# - ( ) Some Codes
#*5177#
#*5187# - L1C2G trace: {ACTIVATED/DEACTIVATED}
#*53696# - [Java dnload] WAPSAR mode
#*536961# - WAPSAR enable HTTP disable
#*536962# - HTTP enable WAPSAR disable
#*536963# - SERIAL enable Others disable
#*5376#
#*5400# - ( ) Command #*5400 Executed
#*5500#
#*5600#
#*566335# - [WAP model ID]
#*5663351# - [Phone Model] SAMSUNG SGH-X100
#*5663352# - [Java Model] SEC-SGHS300/1.0
#*5737425# - Java Serial
#*577699# - APN
#*5800# - ( ) Command #*5800 Executed
#*6100# - ( ) Command #*6100 Executed
#*6200#
#*6420# - Mic off
#*6421# - Mic on
#*6422# - Mic dep RXdata
#*6428# - Mic measurement
#*6700#
#*6837# - Official Software Version
#*6900#
#*7200#
#*7222# - Operation Typ: Class C GSM
#*7224# - ERROR
#*7247#
#*7252# - Operation Typ: Class B GPRS
#*7271# - Multi slot: Class 1 GPRS
#*7274# - Multi slot: Class 4 GPRS
#*7276#
#*7284# - Class B
#*7287# - GPRS Attached
#*7288# - GPRS Detached
#*7326# - Accessory: Vibrator
#*7337# - Some kind of Reset Settings
#*7352# - Some Kind of Debug Info
#*7462# - SIM phase
#*7524# - KCGPRS
#*7562# - LOCI GPRS
#*7636#
#*7639#
#*7632# - Sleep mode
#*7633#
#*7638# - RLC always open ended TBF: {ACTIVATED/DEACTIVATED}
#*7646#
#*7665#
#*7666# - SrCell Data
#*7673# - Sleep mode
#*7676# - Command #*7676 Executed
#*7683# - Sleep variable
#*7693# - Sleep deact
#*7728# - RSAV done->reset
#*7763# - SMS bearer CS {ACTIVATED/DEACTIVATED}
#*7825#
#*7828# - Midl Rl51
#*7957# - Command #*7957 Executed
#*7983# - Voltage/Freq {DEACTIVATED/ACTIVATED}
#*7986# - Voltage {DEACTIVATED/ACTIVATED}
#*8462# - Sleep time since SwitchOff
#*8465# - Time in L1
#*8466# - Old Time
#*8645#
#*9278# - Command #*9278 Executed
#*9795# - wtls key: reset
#7263867# - RAM Dump {On/Off}
#7465625*228# - Activa lock deactivated
#7465625*27*
#7465625*2827# - Auto CP lock deactivated
#7465625*28638# - Auto Network lock deactivated
#7465625*28746# - Auto SIM lock deactivated
#7465625*2877# - Auto SP lock deactivated
#7465625*28782# - Auto subset lock deactivated
#7465625*638*
#7465625*746*
#7465625*77*
#7465625*782*
#8999*324#
*#0*
*#0020# –
*#06# – IMEI
*#2255# - Call List
*#4777*8665# – GPRS
*#7465625# – Interrogate ( )
*#8377466# – Software && Hardware Versions
*#8888# – Hardware Version
*#8999*324# - ( ) Some Strange Numbers
*#8999*377# -
*#8999*3825523# - ( )
*#8999*523# - Main LCD Brightness
*#8999*636# - ( ) Another Strange Numbers
*#8999*8376363# - . HW, SW, + Some Code And Data
*#8999*8378# - . , , , HW SW
*#9999# – Software Version

=== : ===

*2767*xx927 - WAP . xx - . , xx=44: *2767*44WAP# xx=31: *2767*31WAP#

*2767*xx667 - MMS.

.

*2767*2877368#
*2767*2878# – EEPROM ( , )
*2767*31667#
*2767*31927#
*2767*33667#
*2767*33927#
*2767*34667#
*2767*34927#
*2767*351667#
*2767*351927#
*2767*3700#
*2767*380667#
*2767*380927#
*2767*3855# - l EEPROM ( SP- !! ) IMEI 447967-89-400044-0, IMEI ( )
*2767*39667#
*2767*39927#
*2767*420667#
*2767*420927#
*2767*43667#
*2767*43927#
*2767*44667#
*2767*44927#
*2767*46667#
*2767*46927#
*2767*49667#
*2767*49927#
*2767*66335#
*2767*688# ( ) [Unlocking Code]
*2767*7100#
*2767*7300#
*2767*73738927# = *2767*RESETWAP#
*2767*7650#
*2767*7667#
*2767*7927#
*2767*8200#
*2767*927#

=== / : ===

*335#
*663867# - mm file dumped
*7465625# -
*7465625*228# - Activa lock personalized
*7465625*27*
*7465625*2827# - Auto CP lock activated
*7465625*28638# - Auto Network lock activated
*7465625*28746# - Auto SIM lock activated
*7465625*2877# - Auto SP lock activated
*7465625*28782# - Auto subset lock activated
*7465625*638*
*7465625*746
*7465625*746*
*7465625*77*
*7465625*782*

Samsung SGH-600 and SGH-2100

2008-06-02T12:48:00.001+05:30

Secret Codes

*#06# -> Show IMEI
*#9999# -> Show Software Version
*#0837# -> Show Software Version (instructions)
*#0001# -> Show Serial Parameters
*#9125# -> Activates the smiley when charging.

*#9998*228# -> Battery status (capacity, voltage, temperature)
*#9998*246# -> Program status
*#9998*289# -> Change Alarm Buzzer Frequency
*#9998*324# -> Debug screens
*#9998*364# -> Watchdog
*#9998*377# -> EEPROM Error Stack - Use side keys to select values. Cancel and ok.
*#9998*427# -> Trace Watchdog
*#9998*523# -> Change LCD contrast - Only with version G60RL01W
*#9998*544# -> Jig detect
*#9998*636# -> Memory status
*#9998*746# -> SIM File Size
*#9998*778# -> SIM Service Table
*#9998*785# -> RTK (Run Time Kernel) errors - if ok then phn is reset, info is put in memory error. *#9998*786# -> Run, Last UP, Last DOWN
*#9998*837# -> Software Version
*#9998*842# -> Test Vibrator - Flash the screenligth during 10 seconds and vibration activated.
*#9998*862# -> Vocoder Reg - Normal, Earphone or carkit can be selected
*#9998*872# -> Diag
*#9998*947# -> Reset On Fatal Error
*#9998*999# -> Last/Chk

*#9998*9266# -> Yann debug screen (=Debug Screens?)
*#9998*9999# -> Software version

*0001*s*f*t# -> Changes serial parameters (s=?, f=0,1, t=0,1) (incomplete)
*0002*?# -> unknown
*0003*?# -> unknown

SP-unlock SGH-600 and SGH 2100

*2767*3855# -> Full EEPROM Reset ( THIS CODE REMOVES SP-LOCK!! )
But also changes IMEI to 447967-89-400044-0, To restore your old IMEI use the IMEI program found on the software page.

*2767*2878# -> Custom EEEPROM Reset

These codes has been tested with version FLD_2C6 G60SB03X of Samsung SGH-600

Nokia Cell Phones Secret Codes

2008-06-02T12:47:00.000+05:30

1 Imagine ur cell battery is very low, u r expecting an important call and u don't have a charger.

Nokia instrument comes with a reserve battery. To activate, key is "*3370#"

Ur cell will restart with this reserve and ur instrument will show a 50% incerase in battery.

This reserve will get charged when u charge ur cell next time.

*3370# Activate Enhanced Full Rate Codec (EFR)-Your phone uses the best sound quality but talk time is reduced by approx. 5%
#3370# Deactivate Enhanced Full Rate Codec( EFR)

*#4720# Activate Half Rate Codec - Your phone uses a lower quality sound
but you should gain approx 30% more Talk Time
*#4720# Deactivate Half Rate Codec

2 *#0000# Displays your phones software version,

1st Line :S oftware Version,
2nd Line : Software Release Date,
3rd Line : Compression Type
3 *#9999# Phones software v ersion if *#0000# does not work

4 *#06# For checking the International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI Number)

5 #pw+1234567890+1# Provider Lock Status. (use the "*" button to obtain the "p,w" and "+" symbols)

6 #pw+1234567890+2# Network Lock Status. (use the "*" button to obtain the "p,w" and "+" symbols)

7 #pw+1234567890+3# Country Lock Status. (use the "*" button to obtain the "p,w" and "+" symbols)

8 #pw+1234567890+4# SIM Card Lock Status.(use the "*" button to obtain the "p,w" and "+" symbols)

9 *#147# (vodafone) this lets you know who called you last *#1471# Last call (Only vodofone)

10 *#21# Allows you to check the number that "All Calls" are diverted To

11 *#2640# Displays security code in use

12 *#30# Lets you see the private number

13 *#43# Allows you to check the "Call Waiting" status of your phone.

14 *#61# Allows you to check the number that "On No Reply" calls are diverted to

15 *#62# Allows you to check the number that "Divert If Unrea chable(no service)" calls are diverted to

16 *#67# Allows you to check the number that "On Busy Calls" are diverted to

17 *#67705646# Removes operator logo on 3310 & 3330

18 *#73# Reset phone timers and game scores

19 *#746025625# Displays the SIM Clock status, if your phone supports this power saving feature "SIM Clock Stop Allowed", it
means you will get the best standby time possible

20 *#7760# Manufactures code

21 *#7780# Restore factory settings

22 *#8110# Software version for the nokia 8110

23 *#92702689# (to rember *#WAR0ANTY#)

Displays -
1.Serial Number,
2.Date Made
3.Purchase Date,
4.Date of last repair (0000 for no repairs),
5.Transfer User Data.
To exit this mode -you need to switch your phone off then on again

24 *#94870345123456789# Deactivate the PWM-Mem

25 **21*number# Turn on "All Calls" diverting to the phone number entered

26 **61*number# Turn on "No Reply" diverting to the phone number entered

27 **67*number# Turn on "On Busy" diverting to the phone number entered

Each command is prefixed with either one or two * or # characters as follows:
** Register and Activate
* Activate
## De-Register (and Deactivate)
# Deactivate
*# Check Status
© Call button

Once each command has been entered, if it is a network command (as opposed to a local handset command) it must be transmitted to the network by pressing the YES (receiver) key which acts as an enter key - this is represented here with the © character. Always enter numbers in full international format +CountryAreaNumber ( e.g. +447712345678).

Command Description Command String
Security
Change call barring code **03*OldCode*NewCode*NewCode#©
Change call barring code **03*330*OldCode*NewCode*NewCode#©
Change PIN code **04*OldPIN*NewPIN*NewPIN#©
Change PIN2 code **042*OldPIN2*NewPIN2*NewPIN2#©
Unlock PIN code (when PIN is entered wrong 3 times) **05*PUK*NewPIN*NewPIN#©
Unlock PIN2 code (when PIN2 is entered wrong 3 times) **052*PUK2*NewPIN2*NewPIN2#©
Display IMEI *#06#
Call Forwarding (Diversions)
De-register all call diversions ##002#©
Set all configured call diversions to number and activate **004*number#©
De-register all configured call diversions (no answer, not reachable, busy) ##004#©
Unconditionally divert all calls to number and activate **21*number#©
Activate unconditionally divert all calls *21#©
De-register unconditionally divert all calls ##21#©
Deactivate unconditionally divert all calls #21#©
Check status of unconditionally divert all calls *#21#©
Divert on no answer to number and activate **61*number#©
Activate divert on no answer *61#©
De-register divert on no answer ##61#©
Deactivate divert on no answer #61#©
Check status of divert on no answer *#61#©
Divert on not reachable to number and activate **62*number#©
Activate divert on not reachable *62#©
De-register divert on not reachable ##62#©
Deactivate divert on not reachable #62#©
Check status of divert on not reachable *#62#©
Divert on busy to number and activate /td> **67*number#©<
Activate divert on busy *67#©
De-register divert on busy ##67#©
Deactivate divert on busy #67#©
Check status of divert on busy *#67#©
Change number of seconds of ringing for the given service before diverting a call (such as on no answer). Seconds must be a value from 5 to 30. De-registering the same divert will also delete this change! **service*number**seconds#© (Service numbers, see below)
Call barring
Activate barr all outgoing calls (see Security to set code) **33*code#©
Deactivate barr all outgoing calls #33*code#©
Check status of barr all outgoing calls *#33#©
Activate barr all calls **330*code#©
Deactivate barr all calls #330*code#©
Check status of barr all calls /td> *#330*code#©<
Activate barr all outgoing international calls **331*code#©
Deactivate barr all outgoing international calls #331*code#©
Check status of barr all outgoing international calls *#331#©
Activate barr all outgoing international calls except to home country **332*code#©
Deactivate barr all outgoing international calls except to home country #332*code#©
Check status of barr all outgoing international calls except to home country *#332#©
Activate barr all outgoing calls **333*code#©
Deactivate barr all outgoing calls #333*code#©
Check status of barr all outgoing calls *#333#©
Activate barr all incoming calls **35*code#©
Deactivate barr all incoming calls #35*code#©
Check status of barr all incoming calls *#35#©
Activate barr all incoming calls when roaming **351*code#©
Deactivate barr all incoming calls when roaming #351*code#©
Check status of barr all incoming calls when roaming *#351#©
Activate barr all incoming calls **353*code#©
Deactivate barr all incoming calls #353*code#©
Check status of barr all incoming calls *#353#©
Call waiting
Activate call waiting *43*#©
Deactivate call waiting #43##©
Check status of call waiting *#43#©
Calling Line Identification
The following only works if CLIP and CLIR are enabled (ask your service provider)
CLIP: Presentation of the number of the incoming call
Activate CLIP **30#©
Deactivate CLIP ##30#©
Check status of CLIP *#30#©
CLIR: Presentation of one's own number to the to the called party
Activate CLIR **31#©
Activate CLIR for the actual call *31#number©
Deactivate CLIR ##31#©
Deactivate CLIR for the actual call #31#number©
Check status of CLIR *#31#©
COLP: Presentation of the actual number reached (if number called was diverted to another number
Activate COLP *76#©
Deactivate COLP #76#©
Check status of COLP *#76#©
COLR: Presentation of the original number called by the calling party (if the call was diverted to this cellphone)
Activate COLR *77#©
Deactivate COLR #77#©
Check status of COLR *#77#©

Upcoming Xbox 360 Games

2008-06-01T19:35:00.002+05:30

A couple of days back, we did a feature on Sony Gamers' Day, and to be fair to all the Xbox 360 gamers out there, we now present a small feature on all the upcoming Xbox 360 games of this year. There are some really big sequels as well some new titles. Last year was very competitive and saw some of the best games ever, but this year seems to be even bigger. Most interestingly, 2008 is big for all platforms including PC, making the competition even more intense. We'll cover the PC games next time. For now, let's have a look at the big titles for the Xbox 360.

Gears of War 2

To begin with, there's the daddy of all Xbox 360 games -- Gears of War. This is a game that sold millions of copies and gave gamers more meat to mince than any other Xbox title. The game was almost prefect in terms of visuals and sound; the gameplay was also very good and yet it was criticized for being very repetitive. However, the action freaks never complained as they went off chainsaw-crazy against the Locusts.

The sequel GOW 2 promises to have better visuals as well as more depth in the multiplayer. The single player plot will take Marcus Phoenix further down the Locusts lair and hopefully finish them off for good, unless the game sells 7-8 million units, thereby urging the developers to make another one. The game has a few new tricks including a chainsaw duel as well as the option to pick up your enemy and use him as a meat shield. The game is bound to be a major hit and add numbers to the already massive GOW community.
Too Human

A much-needed RPG for the Xbox 360, this one has been in the making for more than a decade. The game was first conceptualized and shown at E3 1999. It was later supposed to be ported to the game cube -- but that never happened. Microsoft finally picked it up in 2005 and has been developing it since then. Earlier, the game had been using the Unreal 3 engine; however, due to major issues with the engine and lack of support, the developers decided to create their own in-house engine. The game is based around Norse mythology. The player will play as a demi-god and will somehow upgrade using machines -- a rather weird but interesting concept.

Fable 2

The original Fable was quite a nice game; it was vibrant, detailed, and adventurous. The game was very successful on the Xbox and PC and has a cult following. The ability to decide your faith, be a good warrior or an evil tyrant, the visuals, all added up to make an excellent and successful game.

The sequel has been in the making for quite some time now, but the previews and trailers clearly show that this is time well consumed. The game takes place a few centuries after the original. Players will now be able to equip guns as well. In addition, the game will allow the player to be either male or female and add many family elements as well. You can own property and gain a title, and by doing so, you can eventually become the emperor.
Halo Wars

RTS games are primarily PC games; they just don't work on the consoles. But this is about to change with games like End War and Halo Wars. An RTS game set in the fictional universe of the Xbox 360 killer app called Halo, Halo Wars has been designed only for the consoles. Previous RTS games on the consoles have come under fire for their control schemes, but Halo Wars has been designed with the console gamer in mind. The idea to create a Halo-based RTS is brilliant as the game has a huge following and will attract the gamers' attention.

Ninja Gaiden 2

Microsoft's answer to Sony's Kratos is Ryu Hayabusa. The multi-award winning Ninja Gaiden has always been among the top games on the original Xbox. Ninja Gaiden 2 has many gamers excited -- this time, the difficulty has been toned down, a new arsenal of weapons has been included, and the amount of bloodshed has been increased. Ninja Gaiden is due for a worldwide release in a few days and the buzz is that this is one true sequel, with all the essentials and more. Let's hope the game releases in India soon enough so that I can post a review.
Alan Wake

We have more news on the Loch Ness monster than Alan Wake, which is turning out to be a closely kept secret. This total media blackout from the developers is frustrating most gamers. The screenshots and gameplay videos released have made the gamers more anxious. The game will be released in 2008 and is going to be a true "psychological thriller," the company claims. There's no doubt that this one is a good-looking game, but we need more details and fast.

I hope you liked our small compilation of upcoming Xbox 360 games. Since there are many more games, we would love to know about them from your comments.

The New Prince of Persia

2008-05-31T16:54:00.002+05:30

In the last week of November in 2003, a friend of mine called me up to check out an amazing game. He was the more popular guy in the gang as he owned an ATI 9800 Pro (the most amazing graphic card at that time). So, I went over to his place and found him playing the Prince of Persia: The Sands of time. The first thing I remember seeing was the "Save Game" action wherein you see the challenges up ahead in the form of a small cut-scene; I was barely able to breathe again and he showed me the time-bending abilities. In a word, I was mesmerized. The game took the first major PC gaming franchise and created something so unique that you would need a few minutes to absorb its originality and splendid artwork. The game was a humongous hit -- both commercially and critically, spawning two more sequels and an upcoming movie. A new POP is on its way, and although the Prince has changed by leaps and bounds, it still retains a quality to make you take notice. Read on.

The New Look

The first thing you'll notice in the screenshots is the look of the game; it looks like a cell-shaded title but unlike a cell-shaded tile, this one has more depth and doesn't look like an extended Cartoon Network episode. The look compliments the artwork and truly makes the characters stand out. Also, I believe these subtle but sublime textures make the gameplay smoother.

Now, everybody loved Sands of Time, so it's not hard to imagine that people will start comparing the new POP with SOT. Ubisoft has retained some of the qualities from the previous POP games and added new elements to the new game, including a totally new storyline and a new AI partner -- so no Farah. The new AI partner called Elika will not only help you overcome obstacles but also lend a hand in combat.

She is like Alyx from Half Life 2 but hotter and more acrobatic. She can jump and reach high places like the Prince. I came across little bits and pieces of news from various forums and according to them the Prince isn't a Prince at all in the game. He is a lonely street dweller, who happens to come across some sort of magical being, and as fate would have it, is entrusted to save the world. The Prince has a totally new look and abilities. The dagger of time from the previous games will not be present in the game and a totally new artifact will accompany him. As you can see in the screenshots, he is wearing a gauntlet in his hand; this powerful artifact will assist him in combat and help me in his acrobatics as well. The main plot follows the escape of a powerful evil deity called Ahriman, who was imprisoned by his brother. Elika is a member of a former clan who were tasked with keeping him in prison, but they failed and she is the only remaining member of her clan. Although Arhiman hasn't escaped his prison completely, his evil is leaking out of the cracked prison and corrupting the land. The Prince is an adventurer and takes on the task of ridding the world of the evil that is flowing out of Ahriman's prison. The corruption that is engulfing the world will act as the challenge to the Prince. The game does not include any spikes or trap doors; instead, the corruption will take on various forms to challenge the Prince.

New Combat

The new combat system is a very bold step. Unlike previous games, this time around, you don't fight 3-4 enemies; instead, you'll be fighting not more than one enemy at one time. The idea is to have one very strong and intelligent enemy. Elika will be by your side the entire time, and use magic at the right time to attack your enemy. You'll be able to control a few of her actions and command her to attack at specific times. Watch the video below; it's a CG trailer but will give you a clear idea about the game's combat, which cannot be described in words.

The game is set to release by the end of the year for PC, PS3, and Xbox 360, making it accessible to a larger audience. There are many details still remaining and as the days pass by, I am sure Ubisoft will keep teasing us with bits of information. We'll cover more about the game very soon, until then keep watching this space.

Is Resident Evil 5 Releasing Next March?

2008-05-27T14:25:00.000+05:30

May 27, 2008

While rumors are still flowing free regarding the release date of Resident Evil 5, Amazon.com has announced a tentative March 10, 2009 release for the game. Conversely, according to Capcom's CEO and president's earlier statement, the game should be out before March 2009. At the same time, recent rumors suggest that the game will be out coming November.

Capcom claims that Resident Evil 5 will revolutionize the series by delivering an unbelievable level of detail, realism, and control. The company believes that the game is certain to bring new fans to the series while expanding the world of video game entertainment to new heights.

The latest game in the franchise is set in Africa and marks its first entry in a cooperative story mode, a revamped cover, and dodge system. The game will be playable on the PlayStation 3 as well as the Xbox 360 platform.

At this point of time, there are a lot of rumors doing rounds and we could only hope that Capcom officially announces a release date very soon. Meanwhile, RE5's new trailer will be out coming May 31.

Vodafone's Chhota Credit for Prepaid Users

2008-05-27T14:15:00.000+05:30

Mobile phone users with prepaid connectivity option often face the problem of insufficient prepaid balance, because of which they sometimes cannot carry out important conversations. Also, at times people get so engaged in their conversation that they don't realize when their prepaid balance gets over; this often tends to happen when there's no recharge shop nearby, or it's the middle of the night.

Now those with a Vodafone prepaid connection need not worry about this problem. As a solution to this issue, the company has launched a new product called "Chhota Credit". Through this facility, an amount of Rs.10 gets credited to the subscriber's account by just sending an SMS to a toll free number.
Subscribers who have a balance of less than Rs. 5 can use this service by sending 'CREDIT' as an SMS to 144 to get Rs. 10 credited to their prepaid account. However, subscribers will be charged Re. 1 per transaction as service charge. This credit will have a validity of 7 days and will be adjusted against the next recharge.

The Chhota Credit service is available only to those prepaid subscribers who have completed over 3 months on the Vodafone network.

Samsung Announces the Touchwiz Phone

2008-05-26T14:11:00.000+05:30

Samsung has announced the launch of Touchwiz SGH-F480, its latest full touch screen smart phone featuring a new img4.gif user interface (UI) with specially designed widgets to customize and personalize usage of the phone.

Housed in a 11.6-mm thick credit-card sized design, Touchwiz comes with a drag and drop feature allowing users instant access to functions at one touch. The widgets menu displays functions such as clock, radio player, music player, photos, and reminders that can be dragged and dropped onto the home screen. Additionally, tactile technology gives users a tangible feedback sensation on a selection of items.

Touchwiz, sporting a 2.8-inches TFT LCD display, boasts all multimedia functions including integrated FM radio, 5 mega pixels camera with auto-focus and CMOS video lens, 240 MB internal music memory, and support for expandable memory up to 8GB. The camera offers digital SLR specific functions such as automatic face detection technology and image stabilizer. It also features a smile shot mode that enables the camera to detect when the subject is smiling and automatically take a picture.

Some other Touchwiz features include: video recording, editing and playback, video telephony, mobile blogging, mobile printing, Google Map or email or search, and RSS reader. For Internet connectivity, the new smart phone features high-speed Internet access (HSDPA) and USB 2.0 connectivity for file transfer and downloads.

Samsung Touchwiz SGH-F480 is scheduled to launch in Europe in June followed by other GSM regions. We don't still know about its India availability.

Euro 2008 (PSP Review)

2008-05-25T09:50:00.000+05:30

More than 300 million people worldwide are rejoicing as their Red Devils are crowned kings of Europe. It's good times for all football lovers, and with the Euro 2008 beginning in June, it will soon get better. Sadly and ironically, England won't be taking part this year, the reason being as I like to call it "they-messed-it-up-big-time-in-November." A team with some of the best players in the world fails to qualify for one of the most important events in football, leaving fans disgruntled. To rub it in, I received a copy of the Euro 2008 game from EA. But fanboy-ism aside, this turned out to be quite an interesting game, with a lot of content and enough game modes to keep you busy for weeks. Let's get some more details on Euro 2008 for the PSP.

Summary

Although this is a multiplatform game, we'll be looking at the PSP version. Basically, the game is a new avatar of Fifa: 08, with a few potentially good innovations. There are various game modes, ranging from a quick match to the entire Euro 2008 experience as well as mini-games. You've multiplayer in the ad hoc mode only, so make sure your friend has a copy if you want some multiplayer action.

I played most of the game with France, on medium to high difficulty settings. As mentioned before, the game feels generally similar to Fifa, including the interface and presentation. But Fifa 08 was an absolute gem of a game and any similarity is fine in my opinion. The game is quite challenging at higher difficulties, which definitely is a good thing. The controls are fairly simple; the player control with the single analog is also smooth. The game feels a bit faster in terms of gameplay than Fifa 08 -- again, not a major change but the slight difference in game speed feels great. Character animations are very well done, which is EA's forte. Something really innovative in the game is the Critical Moment feature. If the scores are tied or there is a difference of just one goal, all the key players in the team are highlighted with a red sphere. These players have a boost in performance for the remaining 10 mins, so you have a better chance to score if you pass the ball to them. The ball mechanics and control are superb. I enjoyed scoring multiple goals against Italy with the impeccable and invincible Henry (yeah, I am a big fan).

While playing the game, I realized that a faster gameplay leads to a more aggressive style of playing. In Fifa 08, you generally wait for a nice build-up that includes loads of passes. In Euro 2008, I found myself relying on passes and solo-runs. This is a good change that leads to some really exciting matches. The mini-games are nice, one of which includes holding the PSP vertically and scoring points while a player juggles the ball. The commentary is a little weak, though. The commentators are always a few seconds behind you in real time, so don't be surprised if he is still talking about a previous goal while you ready yourself for the second half.
Visuals and Sound

The game looks surprisingly good for a handheld title; it's smooth and lag free. Also, the player details are impressive. The soundtrack is amazing and features some amazing artists like Magic Numbers and Infected Mushroom. The in-game sound effects are good and create a stadium-like feel with a good pair of earphones.

Final Verdict

This is a good title to pick up for your PSP. It's a fast-paced football game with many game modes and loads of extras. The gameplay is entertaining and contains an impressive audio-visual presentation. You can always pick this up and help England qualify for the cup, or just choose your favorite team and play a quick match. This is definitely a must for your PSP.

Fuji Announces the FinePix A850

2008-05-25T09:39:00.001+05:30

If you're already having trouble zeroing-in on an entry-level point-and-shoot digital camera, here's one more to add to your indecision.

Fujifilm has announced the launch of their new entry-level FinePix A850 digital camera, with availability to be declared sometime in July this year.

The newest entrant to Fuji's A Series digital cameras will be placed between the A820 and the A900 (model number-wise) cameras that are already available in India. Meanwhile, Fuji's top model in the A Series, the A920 isn't listed on the company's India page.

The FinePix A850 features a Fujinon 3x optical zoom lens, an 8 mega pixels CCD sensor, and ISO 800 sensitivity at full resolution. The digital camera also features a 2.5-inches LCD monitor, 24Mb internal memory, power source 2x AA-size alkaline (included), 2x AA-size Ni-MH (optional), and AC Power Adapter AC-3V (optional).

The reason for featuring a 3x optical zoom lens is difficult to comprehend when the existing A820 comes with a 4x optical zoom lens, along with the A900 that also comes with a 4x optical zoom.

From the information released by the company, the only significant addition in the A850 seems to be the increased internal memory space, which again doesn't count for much when you have cheap memory cards available everywhere. But yes, this camera looks much better than other cameras in Fuji's A Series.

The A850 employs Image Intelligence processing, which is claimed to produce sharp images. Along with that, the camera features Image Stabilization, which was only found in high-end models till sometime ago.

The camera also has a movie mode, 30fps (frames per second) with mono-aural sound, and 14 selectable scene positions.

Fuji is one brand that has been overshadowed by the likes of Canon and Nikon in India. Blame it on weak promotion, the company claims. But owners of Fuji cameras tend to vouch for the brand in terms of price to performance ratio.

We couldn't get in touch with Fuji India's Sales Manager Harmeet at their Head Office in Gurgaon for the product's pricing and availability in India. Nevertheless, the company has announced that the FinePix A850 will be available through retailers this July onwards.

Intex Intros the IN3333 Multimedia Phone

2008-05-25T09:34:00.001+05:30

Riding on the success of its IN2020 and IN2222 handsets, Intex today launched the IN3333, a music and multimedia phone.

A bar-type phone, the IN3333 features a 2-inches TFT screen with 260k colors, and a 1.3 mega pixels camera along with video-recording option. It has an integrated Web cam that doubles as a USB PC Web cam. The USB port can also be used as a pen drive. Intex claims the IN3333 can store up to 1,000 contacts and 300 messages.

Other features of the phone include: FM, music player, and sound recorder. The dedicated music keys, one-touch camera, and FM key lend themselves to a superior multimedia experience. Content can be downloaded and shared via GPRS and Bluetooth functionality. As a value add, there are four exciting games and twin-language support in Hindi and English for menu display and messaging.

The bar phone is immediately available for Rs 5,000.

Brother DCP-350C

2008-05-23T14:56:00.002+05:30

Brother MFDs and printers have traditionally had a no-nonsense office look with dull colors that may only suit the office environment. But things have started to look different for the past few months -- in a bid to make them more presentable, Brother has redesigned its products. The Brother DCP-350C is one such inkjet MFD in this new lineup. Let's find out if it's just the looks that have changed or if it performs as good.

Bundle

Brother DCP-350C
4 cartridges (cyan, magenta, yellow, and black)
4" x 6" photo paper pack
Two power cables with different plugs
Software and driver CD
User manual
Quick setup guide

Brother provides two power cables with different plug types so that you are not in a fix if you are stuck up with plug-holes of any one of these types. Also, they provide a pack of 4" x 6" photo paper for you to get started with printing photographs.

Design

The DCP-350C is an MFD that combines the functions of a printer, scanner, and copier. It has a white, gray, and silvery gray color body, which gives it a sophisticated look. It is just 15 cm tall and does not occupy much space.

The input and output trays consist of a single cassette-like structure with the cassette holding the input papers with face down, while the output paper gets accumulated on top, which is the output tray. The output tray has a special bypass tray section to hold up to 20 sheets of 4" x 6" paper.

Like all Brother products, in the DCP-350C, too, the USB cable has to be weaved into the interior of the device through a canal. This has to be done by opening the MFD like the bonnet of a car.

On the right, you can see a flap that opens to expose the cartridge bay. This is very convenient, as you do not have to stick your hand inside the device to install the cartridges. As you can see, there are four separate cartridges; thus, you save a lot of money because you only have to replace the cartridge which gets empty, which is not the case when using tri-color cartridges.

The control panel is situated on the right of the swivel LCD and consists of multiple keys. This is very easy to use and lets you access different functions such as Photo Capture, Scanning, Mono and Color Copy, as well as different MFD settings by means of the Menu button. The Ink Management button shows the ink-level in each cartridge.

In addition to the PictBridge Direct Printing support, the MFD can read a number of memory card formats such as CF, SD, MS, xD, etc.

There is a swivel color 2" LCD at the center of the device at the front. You can adjust its angle to suit your viewing. The LCD shows you various functions and settings available in the MFD. It also shows the contents of the memory card when you use the MFD to print in the PC-less mode. You can view and edit images present on memory cards before printing. Scanning to e-mail, image, OCR, file, card or USB memory stick is supported in this mode too.

A panel situated at the back of the MFD comes off and lets you clear paper jams.

The scanner is of flat-bed type and is situated at the top as usual. The lid seems sturdy and is adjustable, letting you scan thicker objects like books. Overall, the build quality is good, including that of the trays.

This printer supports a color print resolution of up to 6000 x 1200 dpi and can print borderless prints. The claimed droplet size of 1.5 picoliters should help it produce nice photo prints. The scanner resolution is 19,200 dpi (interpolated) and WIA interface is supported along with the older TWAIN.

Bundled along with this MFD is the ScanSoft PaperPort -- a good document management and OCR software, which is a definite bonus because it saves you the cost of having to buy another such software. The ControlCenter3 is a control panel that puts all the functions of this MFD at a single point at your disposal.

Performance

The installation is fairly straightforward; however, you have to keep one thing in mind -- never connect the MFD to the PC and turn it on before you install the drivers. If you fail to follow the above, you may end up with installation problems and the MFD will not be accessible.

We put the MFD through a variety of tests, to test its printer as well as scanner components.

Font size printing test: We printed a page containing all the letters in font sizes ranging from large to very small. The printer had no problem in printing all the font sizes and they looked crisp.

Text print speed: We printed a page of black text in draft and normal quality to find the speed as well as quality of the print. The page took 14.1 seconds in fast mode and 27 seconds in normal, which is not so fast. The continuous printing speed in the fast mode in the first minute was 13.3 ppm and reached a maximum of 15.8 later; in the normal mode, the ppm in the first minute and subsequently were 2.7 and 3.1, respectively. The speeds in normal mode were average, while the normal mode speeds were slow. While the normal mode print quality was fine, the fast mode quality had a lot of fringing and the edges were not well-defined.

The document we used as our Presentation Document

Presentation document print speed: The presentation document consisted of a page of multi-colored graphs, text, charts, patterns, and photos. The document took just 15.6 seconds in the fast mode, while it took 40.4 seconds for best quality -- again slow speeds. The continuous printing speed in the fast mode was 7.53 ppm in the first minute, and it reached a little over 8.8 thereafter, while these speeds in the normal mode were 1.5 and 2 minutes, respectively. The quality was decent in the normal mode, but the same cannot be said about the fast mode because the colors were washed out and there was a fair amount of fringing. Thus, the fast mode was pretty much useless.

The test photo we printed

Photo print: Since this MFD has photo printing features, we printed a test photograph collage as well. It finished the job in 6 minutes 15 seconds, which leans on the slower side. The color reproduction was good, with the intricate details neatly produced; however, some amount of graininess was evident all over.

The scanner test: The scanner exhibited good performance. It could capture all the details; the color and grey shades were faithfully captured as well. It took 17.8 seconds for a preview scan -- a decent performance. Mono scans at 200 dpi for A4-size paper took just 14.2 seconds which is fast. The color scanning at 600 dpi which took just 48.6 seconds is one of the fastest we have seen so far.

The copier test: To find how well the printer and scanner components worked in tandem, we ran the printer through our copier test. A black copy took 30.2 seconds, while a color copy took 43.3. The ppm for mono copies was 2.9, while that for color was 2.3. Therefore, this is one of the faster copiers we have tested thus far in color copying, though it is comparatively slower in mono. The copy quality is good in the normal mode.

However, we had a few problems with photo paper handling -- such as the MFD was not able to lift a photo paper of 150 gsm, and we had to use a lower gsm paper for the photo print.

Final Verdict

The Brother DCP-350C is a multifunctional solution for printing, scanning, and copying for SoHo segment. Although it lacks a Fax feature, you can still connect it to the PC for PC-Fax functionality. It supports photo printing and this can be seen by the presence of the PictBridge port as well as various memory card slots. The UI is pretty simple to use and the swivel color LCD shows you the various options and status of the device as well as lets you preview images from the memory card before printing them. The print quality is pretty decent in the normal mode, but the fast mode is not usable at all because of the excessive fringing and the washed out colors (in the color printing). The color print quality is decent, though there is some amount of graininess.

The various color cartridges each cost Rs. 520 and can print 400 pages; thus, their cost per page is Rs. 1.3. The black cartridge, on the other hand, is unreasonably high priced (Rs. 900) and can print 500 pages, thereby yielding a cost per page of Rs.1.8. This is quite an economical cost of printing for an inkjet printer. The Brother DCP-350C costs Rs. 6,990 and comes with 1 year onsite warranty. With 83 service centers around the country, you should not have problems getting this MFD serviced. Because of its rather lackluster performance and a bit high price, we do not recommend this MFD.

DoT to Take Responsibility for Sensitive Data?

2008-05-23T14:42:00.001+05:30

The Blackberry issue has reared its head once again. Canada-based Research in Motion (RIM) is believed to have now agreed to pass on sensitive customer data to the Department of Telecom (DoT), provided the latter takes responsibility for loss of data of any individual.

A week ago it looked like the government was nearer a solution than ever before, with the imminent possibility of RIM allowing the Indian government to intercept non-corporate emails sent through Blackberry smart phones. In a top-level meeting reported to have taken place May 7 between the Canadian High Commissioner David Malone, RIM officials, and Telecom Secretary Siddhartha Behura, the Canadian side was said to have conveyed that RIM is considering giving access to individual users' emails to the Indian government.

Coming back to the latest development, it is imperative for national security agencies to possess both the "Public Key" (code of customers handset) and the "Private Key" to be able to legally intercept the encrypted data that is sent through Blackberry devices.

With the additional security capabilities that Blackberry devices typically afford, Blackberry customers tend to use their smart phones even for things like bank transactions and other money-related matters.

RIM officials are believed to have now asked the DoT to take responsibility as 'custodian of the Private Keys' and bear the consequences -- in the event of any loss of essential data of Blackberry customers.

HTC Touch Diamond Now in India

2008-05-23T14:40:00.001+05:30

The recently announced HTC Touch Diamond is now available in India exclusively on the Airtel network.

The Touch Diamond sports a 3D touch interface called "TouchFLO 3D" that promises animated access to people, messaging, email, photos, music, weather, and more. The device comes with a 2.8-inches VGA touch screen, 3.2 mega pixels auto-focus camera, 4GB internal storage, and integrated GPS for turn-by-turn satellite navigation, and operates on Windows Mobile 6.1.

HTC claims the phone weighs around 110g and is about 102 by 51 by 11.33mm in size. It comes loaded with a new customized mobile Web browser that promises easy viewing and effortless navigation of Web sites. Users can zoom and pan Web sites and view content made to fit the display. Turn the device sideways, and the Web page automatically rotates from a portrait to landscape view. The Touch Diamond offers a customized, HTC-developed YouTube application for viewing a variety of user-generated videos as also Google Maps for mapping data.

Specifications include:

WCDMA/HSPA 900/2100MHz, HSDPA 7.2Mbps, and HSUPA connectiviy

4GB Internal Storage, 256MB flash, 192MB RAM

Bluetooth 2.0 with EDR

WiFi 802.11b/g

GPS/AGPS

900 mAh battery

up to 4 hours talk time

up to 300 hours/100 hours standby time

Qualcomm MSM 7201A 528MHz chipset

The HTC Touch Diamond will be available through Airtel for Rs 27,500 at all authorized HTC resellers.

Bioshock (Xbox 360 Review)

2008-05-23T14:25:00.002+05:30

Bioshock is one of the best games you'll ever play in your life; it is by far the most innovative and skilled shooter game in recent history. You must have read the reviews, you must have read the world rave about it, but this is one thing you have to experience. Words can't even begin to describe the journey that is Bioshock. This game - apart from being just a game - also tells us a very compelling story, one that will mesmerize you. Read on.

The Shocking Plot

Bioshock starts off with a bang, and unfortunately, the player is a part of it: you're in a major plane crash, which you miraculously survive. After you revive from the effects of the crash you see a lighthouse and you swim toward it. There you see a bathysphere terminus. Your character - Jack - intrigued, uses it and discovers "Rapture". The game is based in the year 1960 and is a twisted tale of a man named Andrew Ryan, who, abandoning the world above, creates a city called Rapture under the sea. He wants to create a new world, void of the ills that men on the surface possess. You're introduced to Rapture in the bathysphere by an audio log that's recorded by Andrew. While you're transported, you see this magnificent city underwater, this world under the sea.

As soon as your transport docks, you see a dark room and a man walking backwards in your direction. Moments later an oddly shaped figure rips the man apart using strange contraptions that appear to be his hand. This creature then eyes you and jumps toward the bathysphere. You hear a man asking you to pick up the radio set that is inside the bathysphere. The man introduces himself as Atlas and asks you to remain clam. After a few futile attempts to dent the sphere, the creature leaves you. The man introduces you to Rapture and tell you that he'll help you survive in that underwater city - a once glorious city, now turned into a battlefield. The plot is very complex ... but I don't want to give away too much - apart from a few things that you must know.

A major aspect of the story is Adam - not another character but a substance. Adam was discovered by the scientists of Rapture - scientists who had the freedom to experiment beyond boundaries. Adam was discovered in a particular species of sea slugs. And with Adam one could genetically enhance any human ability. But with such an awesome power, things are bound to go out of hand - and they do. The city turns into a bloody mess of disfigured humans, who kill each other and act like mindless zombies.

The most unique characters in the game are the Little Sisters and their Big Daddies. Now, this isn't some rock band or a group, or drag queens, neither are they names that couples give each other during intimacy in Rapture. The Little Sisters are little girls that are armed with a big device that they use to suck Adam out of the dead citizens of Rapture. And Big Daddies are the sisters' bodyguards. Let me elaborate a little: after the discovery of Adam, almost every citizen had their bodies enhanced. Not the Pamela Anderson of Bay Watch type enhancements: there are more like Jean Claude Van Damme in Universal Solider type enhancements. These enhancements - called Plasimds - give you abilities like telekinesis, and the power to instantly freeze or ignite anyone. So these Little Sisters go around the city colleting Adam out of dead citizens. The big daddies look like huge guys in diving suits.

The plot is really twisted and creepy, but it's well executed.

Gameplay

This is one of the best FPS games ever. The gameplay is a mix of FPS with RPG elements - and yet its tuned to a level of perfection that's beyond compare. You're primarily shooting enemies. But other than guns, you've abilities or plasimds that work like a charm. Read on to know more about the gameplay in detail.

Hacking

Hacking lets you unlock safes, as well as makes turrets and cameras friendly, i.e. fight for you. If you safely hack into a turret, it will attack your enemies. You can Hack via a mini-game. You guys'd remember a simple game in which you have to make a tunnel path for flowing water from one point to another. If you successfully do it, you can hack many things in the game.

Other Abilities

There are other abilities as well that you can use, including properties that make you stronger to physical attacks, and some that make you better at hacking. You can buy all these abilities with money that you salvage from dead enemies and safes.

Adam

Every level has up to 3-4 Little Sisters. You can harvest or rescuethem to retrieve Adam from them. First you've to kill the Big Daddies - which isn't at all easy, even at the easiest difficulty. You can harvest them; or you can kill them and retrieve more Adam; or save them and get less Adam. The collected Adam can be used to buy more abilities.

Weapons

There are many weapons - all of which can be customized to suit your needs. There are pistols, rocket launchers, machine guns, crossbows, and so on. Every weapon can be upgraded via a special power-to-the-people booth, which can be found (but rarely) throughout the game. The weapons are effective enough to eliminate the various enemy types.

Plasmids

Being very useful, these special abilities dominate the combat. You can freeze enemies, burn or electrocute them, throw them away with telekinesis, use a tornado to throw them in the air - and so on. You've many abilities, which you use to eliminate enemies as well as get through tough situations. There are abilities that let you control a Big Daddy to fight for you as well for a short while. These make the game great fun to play.

AI

The AI is very smart and makes you think twice before taking any action. The cameras, the turrets, the Big daddies are all very smart and make life hell for you.

Graphics'n'Sound

The game uses the Unreal 3 engine, which basically translates into jaw-dropping visuals and great level design. The game looks better than any other FPS game released this year and as good as any other Xbox 360 title. The sound effects are amazing and creep you out at regular intervals. I especially like the soundtrack, which features classic songs, including "If I Didn't Care", made famous by Shawshank Redemption.

Final Verdict

The game will make you a part of the character in the story and make you feel his pain. Remember how close you felt to Oliver when you read Dickens' Oliver Twist for the first time in school, or watched Oskar Schindler in Schindler's list? Bioshock's transition is similar, if not better. The game lasts over 15 hours in gameplay. So go out and buy a copy today - or miss out on a great game!

BioShock will Make it to the PS3!

2008-05-23T14:24:00.001+05:30

Rumors of BioShock making it to the PS3 have finally been confirmed with the game now set for release on the PS3 by the end of this year.

Though not much is being said about how the game will be different from its Xbox 360 and PC versions except for the fact that it might include some graphical improvements. PS3 owners would only be happy to hear that the game, which was a huge success for Xbox 360 and PC, is now headed to their console.
The news has been confirmed by EGM (Electronic Gaming Monthly) -- the July issue of the magazine, which also carries the first screen-shots and information about the game.

About the game: BioShock is a first-person shootern (FPS) game set in 1960; players get to don the hat of plane crash survivor Jack who must explore an underwater objectivist-dystopian city 'Rapture', and live through attacks by the mutated beings and mechanical drones that populate 'Rapture'.

For the BioShock-inclined, you can read our review of the Xbox 360 version of the game here.

Nokia 6110 Navigator Phone Review

2008-05-16T12:47:00.002+05:30

This is no ordinary phone -- it actually has GPS turn-by-turn navigation!

The 6110 proudly boasts of being the first phone - from Nokia or any other manufacturer - to provide GPS turn-by-turn navigation; hence the name. There are many phones with GPS built in, but none that actually provide navigation.

I asked the Nokia head who handles the company's navigation profile, "Why weren't the higher-profile phones -- like the N95 or E90 -- released with this service?" I was told it was a licensing issue that has now been sorted out. So never get lost again -- provided you own a 6110!

The Bundle

Nokia 6110 Navigator
512 MB microSD card
Stereo headset
Charger
USB cable
Nokia PC-Suite
User manual
DVD with extra maps

Specifications

Network: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900
Dimensions: 101 x 49 x 20 mm
Weight: 125 gm
Screen: 16 million colors, 2.2-inch TFT (240 x 320)
Battery: 900 mAh (talktime: 3:30 hours)

Build and Design

Nokia has used the sliding form factor for the 6110 Navigator. You'll indeed feel the phone isn't the slimmest around, but isn't as bulky as the N-Series handsets. It's comfortable to hold and people won't see a lump in your pocket.

The mechanism seems pretty strong, but prolonged use could see some issues cropping up -- because the build is plastic. It's got a complete gloss finish and features a silver-black color combination, which gives the phone that neat, business-phone touch.

The layout is simple: there's a videoconferencing camera, a large 2.2-inch screen, and navigation keys on the face. The navigation keys have a 5-way D-pad in the center, and there's also a hotkey to start the GPS Navigation app. The volume controls and a camera hotkey are on one side, while the other side features the My Own Key, miniUSB port, and memory slot.

The miniUSB port and the memory slot have plastic doors (which feel fragile) for protection against dust and such. The charging port and 2.5 mm stereo headset port is at the top, while at the bottom is a loop for the lanyard and a button to release the battery cover.

At the rear, the phone features large stereo speakers and a camera with an LED flash. The camera lens and the LED are hidden behind a thin metal slider.

Sliding open the phone reveals the alphanumeric keypad, which has white back-lighting.
The Interface

This is a Series 60 v3.1 phone, and runs the latest Symbian, v9.2. The phone has the same processor as the E51 does: an ARM 11 369 MHz, with 64 MB of SDRAM. The 6110 has a reduced user internal memory; just 40 MB, but it's still OK - the phone runs pretty smooth. Navigating through the menus is smooth, and lag is considerably lower than on most Symbian phones (though it still isn't as fast as the E51).

The Nokia 6110 comes bundled with 512 MB microSD card, which is pretty sufficient for installing various software - but not for carrying around music collections (unless it's limited to a couple of albums). The phone can handle a large memory capacity, but 2 GB is the suggested max. You get an unlimited capacity for contacts and messages. Contacts have unlimited fields and also a photo option. Call log details are retained for a max of 30 days. Then there's MIDP 2.0 support and a WAP 2.0 browser.

The phone comes loaded with the GPS software, of course. The standard list of applications reads Adobe, Quickoffice, Landmarks, GPS Data, Converter, Notes, Calendar, and Calculator. Under multimedia you get the Camera, Radio, Real Player, Flash Player, Recorder, and the Music Player applications. I installed many apps on the phone and it worked pretty fine -- no issues, just that it got a little slow.

GPS Navigation

Pre-loaded on the phone are maps of India that have eight cities covered: Delhi and NCR, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, Pune, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Nokia plans to increase the list in the next couple of years. These maps have locations and details of 75,000+ km of roads, 10,000+ restaurants and hotels, and more. For more info, click here.

The selling point of the Nokia 6110 is navigation, and it has a single touch key to activate GPS navigation. The navigation experience on the 6110 is brilliant, much better than with the MapMyindia GPS Device I reviewed earlier. You just mark a spot on the map that you want to navigate to, and you get directions. The 6110 is a complete solution for navigating the world -- you only need the maps. At the moment, you only have the aforementioned cities covered; they're free for life with the purchase of the 6110, be it updates or new maps.

The first thing you do is choose your Travel Mode - Fastest Route, Shortest Route, and Pedestrian. Fastest Route picks up highways and flyovers, while Shortest Route takes you through inner roads. Pedestrian is for when you're walking, and will provide the shortest route - but not necessarily by road.

You can store addresses of your home, office, contacts, or any spot that you're often at. There's also a history of the routes that the phone navigated, so you can go back and save any, or re-use the destinations without the need to search. These points, once saved, can be sent to your friends via Bluetooth. Moreover, if your friend uses a 6110, you can directly message it to him/her.

You can view the maps in various modes - standard, night mode (where the coloring is high-contrast), and 3D perspective. You can choose from a few color schemes -- and even download more. There are options in the voice commands as well: male / female in English, Hindi, and few foreign languages.

The navigator is even more useful: it can provide traffic updates, safety cameras, and weather updates. These services aren't active right now, but in due time, we'll reap the benefits of Nokia's hard work!

The maps have lots of info points like hospitals, ATMs, fuel stations, places of worship, and more, so you can search for any of them through the Free Text search option and select it as your destination. While traveling to a point, if you need to fuel up, for example, you can search for a petrol pump along the way, and the closest one can be selected as your detour.

The phone can be easily used to commute and locate places in the cities mentioned, and you will not get lost, at worst you might find yourself going the wrong way on a one-way street; the maps aren't updated with the latest change in roads.

Multimedia

The 6110 is a decent multimedia phone. Music playback quality is pretty similar to that of the E51 we recently reviewed. The default headset provided is OK for the occasional music listener. The radio player is pretty good, with reception held well. The video playback on the large screen is good fun, especially because of its supported resolution of 240 x 320. The screen isn't sharp enough, though, for you to be able to enjoy watching a video for more than 10 or 15 minutes.

The best part about the 6110 (apart from the GPS!) is the stereo speakers at the rear. They are loud and pretty clear. In fact, I had to keep the ringtone set to a lower volume so it didn't disturb people.

The Camera

The camera is 2MP with flash assistance; max image resolution is 1600 x 1200. The flash LED helps in capturing images in low lighting. The images, though, didn't seem of the right color: those captured in daylight were much better.

Video resolution is QVGA, i.e. 320 x 240 pixels, and the video recording is good. You can capture images and also record video via the secondary camera which is on the face of the phone. The secondary camera is a QVGA, too, so max resolution of images as well as video is 320 x 240.

Connectivity

You get a decent list of connectivity options with this phone. It has Class 10 GPRS as well as EDGE. It is also equipped with HSCSD for faster GPRS and EDGE data transfer rates. The phone is 3G-ready, with 3.6 MB/s HSDPA. It has a Bluetooth 2.0 interface for wireless transfers and an A2DP profile for wireless stereo audio. The specs state USB 2.0 through miniUSB. This covers synchronization and file transfers between phone and PC. The only missing feature is Wi-Fi, which does make the Nokia 6110 an incomplete business phone.

Battery Life

The Li-Po 900 mAh battery specifies a talktime of 3:30 hours. When I used it, it lasted me just over a day and a half, which included 2 to 3 hours of turn-by-turn navigation, a little over 2 hours of talktime, and some music playback. This is surely decent battery life, but I'd have expected the battery to last a little longer considering the phone will be used for trips (the navigation could drain the battery). But then, if you're taking the phone along on a trip, you might as well carry either a spare battery or buy the car kit.

In Sum

The Nokia 6110 Navigator sells for around Rs 14,500, and comes with a one-year warranty. For now, at this price, it's a brilliant buy. There are no phones below 15K that provide GPS navigation, and think about what you get: it's loaded with maps that are free for life, with free downloadable updates. The phone does have a few negatives like its plastic build and no Wi-Fi, and the battery life is average, but it's still a brilliant buy! Well, until other manufacturers come by with GPS navigation, and offer a little more, at a few grand less...

Nokia N82 Review

2008-05-16T12:32:00.004+05:30

The N82 is the latest in Nokia's N-Series range, and the third iteration of a 5MP camera phone from Nokia. The N-Series phones are now challenging each other: there are already two that sport a 5MP camera, and here's a third. The major difference is the form factor; the Carl Zeiss optics, paired with a Xenon flash, put this one a step ahead of the cameras in the N95 and the N95 8GB.

The N82 is meant to be a value phone with loads of features.

The Bundle

Nokia N82
Stereo Headset
Data Cable
Charger
User Manual & Software CD

Specifications

Network: GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 / HSDPA 2100
Dimensions: 112 x 50.2 x 17.3 mm
Weight: 114 gm
Screen: 16 million colours; 2.4-inch TFT; 240 x 320
Battery: 1050 mAh; Talktime: 4:10 hours
Layout and Design

This phone surprised me the moment I got it out of the box. It's light, in contrast to the impression the N-series has created, but it's still bulky. The large 2.4-inch screen, however, makes you immediately neglect the fact that it's bulky. The navigation keys reminded me of the N81 -- the main difference being that the D-pad doesn't offer the touch navigation.

The navigation keys are soft, yet very tactile. The alphanumeric keypad has similar keys to the ones on the N91, which are too thin for quick texting. The face of the phone overall flashes a metallic look.

In between an unshielded microUSB port and a charging port is the memory card slot (with a dust cover) on the left, while the right side of the phone has the volume controls, two camera buttons, and speakers on either end to provide a stereo effect. The top of the phone has the power button and a 3.5 mm earphone jack, so you can connect your choice of headphones instead of having to use the standard headset.

The rear of the phone has the camera and the Xenon flash. There is a slider that opens the lens cover while also activating the camera.
The Camera

A commendable job! After the many tries at perfecting a camera phone, this one is the best Nokia has managed, and it does well to take it right up to the camera phone king Sony Ericsson. The Carl Zeiss optics with auto-focus does very well indeed. The maximum resolution offered is 2592 x 1944; for videos, it's VGA (640 x 480) at 30fps, and it delivers pretty decent results. The camera offers various modes for still images.

An image we captured in Auto mode: click here for high-res

In auto mode, you can notice that the colours are a bit washed out. The image is not too sharp, nor too blurred. It's a result of the image being over-processed -- something you'll see on all Nokia phones.

An image we captured in Landscape mode: click here for high-res

Landscape Mode, too, sees similar results because of the over-processing.

Portrait mode; click here for high-res

The portrait image is good; it is much clearer.

A Macro Mode sample: click here for high-res

In Macro Mode, a bit of blur is noticed on the object being focused if you try to get too close. The phone confirms a focus and gives a green signal to capture, so maintaining the required distance, you get good results, with good colour reproduction and more sharpness.

And finally, Sports mode: click here for high-res

In Sports Mode, the post-processing of the images is reduced to make possible the option of quickly taking the next shot. There is still a bit of blur in the image. The shutter speed is not as fast as on the K850i. For example, the image above was captured when the car just got into the range of the viewfinder; at a speed of around 50 to 60 kmph, the car was captured on its way out of the viewfinder.

The N82 with its Xenon flash is pretty good at capturing images in the dark. The camera doesn't feature an LED, though, like the one on the SE K850i, which helps while capturing a video in the dark.

Overall, the camera has outdone most Nokia camera phones. You can expect very acceptable results from the N82 -- the best from Nokia, and this is probably the best 5MP camera after the K850i.

The Interface

The Nokia N82 runs on the latest iteration of the Symbian Series 60 OS i.e. v9.2 release 3.1. The phone has a 332 MHz ARM 11 processor, which keeps the phone quick through its menus. It doesn't take too long to open apps, and switches between them quickly. A motion sensor detects the orientation of the phone and accordingly rotates the screen. Unlike the UI-rotate on the K850i / W910i (restricted to Multimedia), it's unrestricted on the N82. Leaving the Standby Screen, everything else, be it phone applications or installed applications, rotate.

The phone comes pre-loaded with Nokia Maps; the maps are more or less accurate, and you have the option to update them. Turn-by-turn Navigation isn't available; you can use the demo, which will last you only three months, after which you'll have to purchase it.

There is a new app on the N82 called Video Center. It basically groups all the video options under one app -- My Videos (videos captured through camera), Internet Videos, Nokia N-Series Video, and the option to add RSS video feeds. The N82 also supports the N-Gage gaming platform from Nokia. The games have to be downloaded, and in some instances, paid for. The N82 has another new app, Home Media. This app lets you share files over a Wi-Fi network -- something along the lines of sharing files over a LAN. The Search app makes it easy to search for files on the phone as well as over the internet; this app reduces lots of navigation through and to the File Manager.

A bit over to the business apps front: the phone has QuickOffice, which needs an upgrade if you wish to edit files. Adobe PDF and ZIP is provided. There is a barcode reader provided as well, but I don't understand the application of this software in an N-Series phone.

Multimedia

The Multimedia aspect of all the N-Series phones to date has been average; the N82 follows along similar steps. The audio player is the same, with an 8-band equalizer. Audio enhancement options -- like Loudness, Stereo Widening, etc. -- are seen on this N-Series phone as well. Visualization, though, is something not all N-Series phones share; the Visualization uses the entire screen rather than a small window, making it uncomfortable to use.

The audio quality of the N82 depends a lot on the headphones being used; especially since a 3.5mm jack is provided, it's best to use your own (good) set. The provided headset is poor if you want to listen to your music; it's OK for FM, though. The FM tuner is decent, and surprisingly, non-RDS, though it doesn't really matter at this point in India.

Video playback is really good, thanks to the 2.4-inch display. That makes the major difference -- a large screen. RealPlayer remains the default player, with the capability to play most of the mobile formats.

The N82 also has a TV-out through its 3.5mm jack, which is good, because you can display presentations etc. on a large screen. The cable for this comes with the package.
Connectivity

Loaded to the brim! The only missing connectivity option is infrared, but if you consider that obsolete, you're fine with this phone. The N82 has GPRS and EDGE Class 32 with HSCSD for fast data transfer rates. 3G connectivity is covered with HSPDA 2100 and Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g with UPnP technology. Being a multimedia phone, it has Bluetooth with A2DP profile for wireless stereo audio. The microUSB of the N82 is a USB 2.0, and the data cable transfer rates are about acceptable.

Battery Life

The 1050 mAh battery is a powerhouse, and provides the phone with at least two days of run time. The Xenon flash, Wi-Fi, and GPS, when used, do drain the battery. But if either of the three is used extensively, it still provides a decent battery life of around a day and a half with 2 to 3 hours of talktime.

Our Conclusion

The Nokia N82 sells right now for just Rs 21,000, and comes with a one-year warranty -- a great buy. Talking about the camera again, the N82 has the best 5MP camera on a phone after the Sony Ericsson K850i, but nevertheless, it's way ahead in terms of overall features. The phone just doesn't disappoint at what it's meant to do. Even though it's bulky, it surprises you with its weight -- and not at the cost of build. Just a little complaint about the keypad; otherwise, the phone is a winner.

Considering that the better camera phone, the K850i, sells for around 19K, a drop of around 1 to 1.5K in the price of the N82 will kill the competition!

"Vado" is Creative's New Pocket Camcorder

2008-05-16T12:29:00.000+05:30

Creative has launched a new camcorder, "Vado", which comes with 2GB memory and 640 x 480 VGA MPEG4 video recording at 30 fps (frames per second), the company claims. "Vado" is a pocket video camcorder small enough to fit into the palm of your hand. With two AA batteries, the device weighs all but 84 grams, according to the company.

"Vado" promises over 2 hours video recording on a single charge. It is fitted with a 2-inches LCD screen, built-in USB connector, and an A/V out-port. In-built software helps copying of videos onto your computer or vice versa. You can also drag videos directly. "Vado" is available in two colors, silver and pink, for around $100.