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Showing newest 17 of 19 posts from November 2010. Show older posts
Showing newest 17 of 19 posts from November 2010. Show older posts

Nov 28, 2010

Michael Jordan - Made it look "easy"

Michael Jordan's Response To Lebron James - What Should I Do Commercial!

I have been watching some Nike commercials that feature Michael Jordan.  I really love the commercials because it reminds you of how we perceive things as "easy" when in reality there's nothing easy about accomplishing great feats. I'm not even a sports fan, but I did see the NBA finals Bulls vs the Jazz back in 1997 and 1998. Jordan was amazing.

Michael Jordan "Failure" Nike Commercial


Michael Jordan "Frozen Moment" Nike Commercial


Michael Jordan - Love of the Game

It's not about the stupid concept of putting a ball in the basket.  It's about something else.  It reminded me of several books that I have been studying. Principles, and core elements that affect what we are and what we can become.

It's good to be inspired. But be inspired to act on the things that can maximize results.

Strengths Finder 2.0 - click on the LOOK INSIDE and check PART 1: FINDING YOUR STRENGTHS - AN INTRODUCTION - You will see the Rudy vs Michael Jordan strengths.
Talent is Overrated - Thanks to Jason Calacanis for this one.
Outliers: The Story of Success

Nov 26, 2010

Electronic Readers

I have watched so many eReaders, tons of them. I'm looking for the right and best eReader.  I will not consider a back lit screen that spits light into your eyes.  For reading long periods of text you need a system that does not irritate your eyes.

What do I need in an eReader?
Excellent screen contrast
Slim body
Ability to add files (pdf, txt, etc) other than just proprietary electronic stores
Touch screen with stylus (Adding notes and annotating is useful)
Expandable storage (SD preferred)
Battery life

The problem with eReaders:
Slow page turning
Slow stylus input for note taking

These are some that have caught my eyes.


Amazon - Kindle

What I like:
- Offers a keyboard for input
- Browser
- Dedicated book store
- Excellent battery life
- Accepts PDFs
- Use your Kindle books on PC, Kindle, mobile phones
- Super slim
- Can read out loud text in books

What I don't like:
- No touch screen
- No SD card

I have seriously considered buying one of these after having one of them in my hands.

Price:
$139 for Wifi
$189 for Wifi + 3G

Links:
Amazon.com  - Kindle Wireless Reading Device


Barnes and Noble - Nook


What I like
- Interesting touch screen idea
- Interesting "share" book option
- Long battery life
- Dedicated book store

What I don't like:
- Color screen that is slow as hell

This eReader seemed like a great system with the small touch screen.  When you try it you can view that this system is slow like a slug.  It's just terrible.  I don't think I can even write notes fast enough.

Price:
$149 for Wifi
$199 for Wifi + 3G

Links:
Barnesandnoble.com - Nook




Hanvon - WISEreader N618


What I like:
Wi-Fi and Internet Browser
Touch screen (with stylus for writing notes and annotating)
Music playing while reading
Micro SD cards!
Dictionary
Convert your hand writing to text

What I don't like:
It doesn't look as sexy
I don't think it will read books from Amazon or Barnes and Nobles

I haven't tried this one but the stylus input caught my attention.  I saw Charbax scribling the worst hand writing ever and the system could still figure out what he was writing.  Pretty impressive.  It's also faster than the Sony Digital Reader Touch Edition.

Price:
Unknown

Notes:
Hanvon's website sucks at pointing you to a place to get this system. I'm trying to get in contact with them to get more info.

Links:
Hanvon.com - WISEreader N618
Video and some Details

Sony - Digital Reader Touch Edition PRS600BC


What I like:
- Touch screen (stylus highlighting and note taking)
- Dictionary
- Expandable memory
- Long battery life
- File formats (PDF, ePub, ACS4, MP3 AAC)
- Dedicated book store

What I don't like:
Slow note taking

I tried this system a while ago but the stylus input is slow as compared to tablet computers like my Lenovo X201 tablet.  Besides the slowness this is a very affordable touch eReader.

Price:

$169.99

Links:
Sony Style - Digital Reader Touch PRS600BC




ASUS - Eee Note EA800


What I like:
- Fast pen input with pressure sensitivity
- Fast page turning
- 2 MP megapixel
- Micro SD Card slot
- Tons of formats (PDF, ePub, MP3 , JPEG, BMP, GIF, PNG, txt, doc, docx, xls, xlsx, ppt, pptx)

What I don't like:
- Shorter battery life than most eReaders (10 hours on wifi, 13.5 without wifi)
- It's a bit bigger physically than the others mentioned here
- Pricie
- Some reflection (glossy???)

The screen on this one is not the classic e-ink technology.  It's a XGA screen with 64 grayscale levels.  What attracts me about this one is that it's not the classic slow e-ink system.  It's a different type of system.

Price:
$228

Links:
They had an official page, but it was removed.
Netbook News
Computer World

So which one is the best eReader? It depends on your needs. For me it's between the Hanvon and Asus Eee Note EA800.  If I didn't care about extra features and wanted a system purely for reading the Kindle seems to be spot on.

View more eReaders



Nov 23, 2010

Gigabyte T1125 vs Fujistu Lifebook T580

Two new convertible tablets coming to the market this year (2010). What's special about each?


Gigabyte T1125

Pros:
11.6 inch screen at 1366 x 768 resolution
Capacitive screen with two touch points
Up to Core i5 Processor
Intel HD Graphics with Optimus Technology Nvidia GeForce 310M 512MB
Up to 8GB RAM
Four dual-channel stereo speakers (THX Certified)
Dedicated docking station (Adds power port, USB ports, ethernet in, DVD drive, stereo and mic)
USB 3.0 Port


Cons:
Glossy screen
No stylus input


Fujitsu Lifebook T580


Pros:
10.1 inch screen at 1366 x 768 resolution
N-Trig DuoSense - Both stylus and touch (up to 4 touch points)
Smallest Core i5 convertible tablet
Up to 8GB RAM

Cons:
Glossy screen
No dedicated docking station
No discreet graphics


What would be perfect?
11.6 inch screen at 1366 x 768 with matte finish or Pixel Qi
Both stylus and touch input
Core i5 or i7
Up to 8GB RAM
Switchable graphics with discreet graphics
Excellent speakers (The T1125 has got them)
Docking station option
2MP webcam

Sources:
Fujitsu T580 Datasheet
Gigabyte Press Release

The Gigabyte T1125 should be out any day now and the Fujitsu T580 will be in the USA by Decemeber, 2010.

Note: Gigabyte also sells their tablets on Amazon, so the T1125 will probably become listed there.


Nov 19, 2010

The Most Bad-Ass Portable Workstation Ever - The Lenovo Thinkpad W701ds



I'm a tech geek.  I have seen dual screens laptops, touch screens, multi-touch touchpads, trackpoints, small screens, big screens, durable frames, and hardcore specs.  I have seen all of those parts in different laptops, but I have never seen them on a single system...  until now.  The system on the image above is the Lenovo Thinkpad W701ds.  The most hardcore "portable" workstation.

Oldish commercial, specs have been improved now.

Features:
Core i Series CPUs (Up to Core i7-920XM which has 8M Cache, 2.00Ghz)
Nvidia Quadro FX graphics (Up to FX 3800M 128-core CUDA with 1GB dedicated)
Dual screens - 17 and 10.6 inch screens
Up to 16GB RAM PC3-10600 at 1333Mhz (4 DIMM)
5 USB Ports (1 USB 3.0, 4 USB 2.0)
Display Port, DVI and VGA to connect more displays
120mm x 80mm Wacom® palm-rest digitizer and pen
Ultranav + Number Pad + Fingerprint Reader + X-Rite Pantone Color Sensor + Wacom Digitizer w/Stylus
2MP Web Camera
Dual drives (160 GB SSD main and 128GB SSD secondary)
Multi Recorder Optical Drive
Express Card Slot (34mm) + Compact Flash
9 Cell Battery
Bluetooth w/ antenna
Intel Centrino Advanced-N + WiMax 6250
Thinkpad W700 Mini Dock 2.0
6.97 pounds

Uses for this system?

You can have this awesomely powerful system that can replace all alien technology for the low price of $5,823!  That is if you add the SSDs and the other bells and whistles.  The base W701ds goes for $3,299.  Well that's quite a bit... maybe in another five years the price will be closer to my budget of $1000 to $2000 max. As of right now my 12 inch Lenovo X201 tablet is doing almost everything that I need and it's a heck of a lot cheaper and portable.

Walkthrough by Lenovo

Links:
http://shop.lenovo.com - Info
http://shop.lenovo.com - Shop
PDF Info
GottaBeMobile Hands On Video - (oldish system)
Lenovo's tech guy gets laid W700ds commercial
Lenovo X201 Blog



Nov 18, 2010

OnLive - The End of Game Consoles?


In the beginning there were gaming consoles...  These consoles evolved from low specs to higher specs.  Their storage mediums also evolved from chips in cartridges to CDs, CDS to DVDS, DVDs to Downloads, and Downloads to.... It seems like streaming.  OnLive is here.

After testing OnLive with my Lenovo X201 tablet I can see the huge potential.  There's no needs for "hardcore" system specs.  All you need is an internet connection.



Pros:
The most hardcore games will play on your low spec computers
Small gaming console or use OnLive with a computer
Free 30 minute trials on a lot of games (play full versions before buying!)
"Green" - No discs, boxes and plastics to be manufactured
Stop buying expensive gaming systems

Cons:
Internet issues - If your Internet is slow then it's not worth it
No local gaming (no internet = no games)
Buy a game, and you cannot resell it

Systems age, and people must buy the "brand new" console that will later on become old.  With game streaming the system's age won't matter.  Games could use peripherals to create new gaming experiences.

Gaming consoles take a lot of resources to develop and manufacture. Sony has lost tons of money on their PS3 and they are just barely making profits per console sold. Microsoft, Nintendo and Sony will eventually have to create a new console. With technologies like OnLive they might not need to spend so much.

Links:
http://www.onlive.com
http://gizmodo.com/5692903/onlive-microconsole-streams-cloud+rendered-games-to-your-tv
http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/18/onlive-microconsole-official-at-99-we-go-hands-on/

Nov 17, 2010

Simple Life - Tiny Houses


Thanks to CNN

More is better right?  Sometimes yes and sometimes no.   My guess is that it really depends on what you need.

The bigger the house the more work it needs for maintenance, property taxes, utilities, and so on.  If you want simple, tiny houses offer it.  Don't expect to have the "biggest" home parties. ;)



Nov 16, 2010

Tons of combinations with the NeoCube



I saw the video three times... then during the night I dreamed about this thing. I know it's kind of a cool toy and all but why would it stay in my head so much? There's a bit of "subliminal" something going on. At 0:47 there's still image that is "out of the ordinary". It doesn't fit so it got stuck in my head. These types of advertisements have been banned in the USA from mainstream television, but they are out there on the Internet.

I know about subliminal messages thanks to Derren Brown. They are effective as I was ready to buy one of these sphere magnets. Maybe the product is just cool.

Since I got the reminder of the subliminal messages... I should have added subliminal messages to my S10-3T videos and sold tons more... hahaha. ;)

Checkout their website:
http://www.theneocube.com

Why I hate Commission Junction


In order to get some coupons for my Lenovo X201 blog I joined with Commission Junction (again) and I have to say that it's still the same.

Why I hate it:
Signing up for each company
Cannot reuse the same email if you cancel an account
Coupons expire and you don't get commission
Tons of emails come to your Inbox

What I like:
Can find tons of different companies and products

I wanted to like you Commission Junction but I'm canceling you. There's a lot of companies that use CJ for their referral systems, which is sad. CJ is just not worth the hassle.

What I prefer:
Amazon Associates - individual links, and product widgets
Chitika - I'm just starting with this one

I cannot use Google Ads because they banned me when I was 16 due to posting on a friend's forum. People began clicking a lot and they canceled my account. I also cannot make any money through advertisements in other Google services like Youtube. Even though I have been requested to join by their automatic system for several of my top videos they never forgive you. So... I have to use other systems.

Nov 15, 2010

Bose AE2 Audio Headphones - Unbox, Details, Opinion, and vs Triport

Introducing the Bose AE2 Audio Headphones.  Light as a feather!

Intro
I love Bose products. Bose delivers great sound, and yes their products are a bit pricey. The first Bose product I ever heard was a FM radio/Alarm clock and I thought my dad was listening to a CD.  I was super surprised how deep and clear the sounds felt considering it was FM radio.  Ever since that experience I have tried to get my hands on Bose products.

The first Bose product that I bought were the Bose Triport Around Ear headphones and they were great.  My first pair broke during some military movements, so I learned that they aren't that sturdy and can break. Once replaced I was a bit more careful and my second pair have gone with me to many places, including a deployment in Iraq during 2009.  Everyone that has ever been in a military knows how we manhandle everything, so device need to be sturdy enough.  While the Triport have been great headphones delivering great sound and a bit of that neat bass, they have aged quite a bit.  The cable is the first thing that wore off, they are thin and do break. I fixed that by cutting and soldering the cable.  Then the 3.5 jack has worn out and now I have to tweak it.  The last bit of trouble has been because I accidentally dumped them in water. (I swear it was an accident!)  Since my audio on the right speaker has been a bit cracky they are no longer enjoyable.  It's time for a new set.

Yesterday I saw the new Bose AE2 Audio Headphones and after trying them out I just had to get them.  My Triport have been with me for many years, but it's time to let them go.  I now welcome the new Bose AE2 into my daily use.  I spend a lot of continuous hours listening to tons of music, podcasts, and videos.   Let's see if these AE2 are up for my daily tasks.






Bose AE2 Unbox and Mini-Review Video:

I hate that type of packaging so much. I always fear that I'm going to cut myself when I open these terrible and sharp plastic cases. They are simply awful.  Learn from Apple packaging Bose!

In The Box

  • Bose AE2 Headphones
  • Bose AE Owner's Guide
  • Limited Warranty Card
  • Bose Carrying Pouch


Box content.






Details
The moment I tried these headphones I knew that they were going to be my next headphone set.  But then  I tried some of the Beats By Dr. Dre HD and those have great sound.  If you are into massive bass those are the ones for you.  I really can't take that massive amount of bass going into my head for too long.  Bass is good in situations, but not for constant listening.  You will go insane.  The Beats by Dr. Dre models I tried were also way more expensive than the Bose AE2.  I also considered some Sennheisers as I know that company rocks when it comes to audio,  But they never have a display at any store that I have been were you can try their high quality headphones.  Bose seems to always have a functioning audio display for their products and that's what really makes people say "wow" and in the end spend money.  Most of the headphone/earphone companies market their audio via shity pamphlets, websites and videos, or some specs that mean nothing.  Headphone companies, if you want to sell product please have your product on display and for people to try out.  Your headphones might be the best in the world, but if people can't try them they are not.  I always start going in weird directions when I write.  Back to Bose AE2 details.

 The ear-cups are big enough so my ears are not crushed

Audio Quality
First of all these headphones are light and comfortable.  They also provide very balanced audio with a bit of bass in them.  It's not like "club like" bass, but it's very smooth.  It seems as if audio comes out without any "harshness" and that allows long periods of listening to just about every music genre out there.  This is worth a lot to me as I spend tons of hours listening to a whole variety of audio.  Sometimes I listen to electronic music, game music, rock, audio books, movies and shows, and the list goes on.  I need a good balance to not drive my ears insane and keep me doing what I do.

If you need hardcore bass then go for something like the Beats by Dr. Dre.  The AE2 do have bass, but it's not a very intense bass.  It's the type of bass that you can listen for many hours.  I'm not going to go into Bose AE2 vs Beats by Dr. Dre discussion here.

If you have the volume up enough audio will come out of these and the rest of the world can hear what you are listening to.  This might be something to consider if you need a high level of audio to hear properly and you work at a quiet environment.  There's nothing worse than listening to comedy jokes that make you laugh but offend someone else...   It happens.  As audio can come out, audio also goes in.  These are not noise cancelling headphones.  Airplane noise will get through.  They do block a little bit of audio, but you can still hear what's going on around you.  If you want to pretend that you can't hear someone else's conversations you can fake it...  They are Bose headphones.






Silver and black colors.  These are not your circus show Skullcandy headphones.

Appearance
Like I mentioned above these are not Skullcandy like "cool" headphones.  I always thought Skullcandy are for high school kids.  The look on the AE2 are what I consider sophisticated.  If you take the AE2 out in public you won't feel like you have massive and ridiculous looking giant headphones.  At the end of the day the appearance of your headphones are your choice, with the AE2 you get what's shown on the pictures.  To me they look good and pass the "appearance" test.

Build Quality
The ear-cup padding are really good and the combination of the frame help make these very comfortable.  Even if you wear glasses these headphones won't make your glasses dig into your skull.  Try them at your local Best Buy and you will see.  I mentioned that they were light, and they are, but this lightness makes the headphones feel "cheap".  This lightness makes them feel like you can break them easily.  So far I have dropped them once and they are still intact.  On their website Bose claims that these are very good solid materials that will last.  Only time can tell.

 The secret to great comfort and audio? ;)


What I like:

  • Very Comfortable
  • Light weight
  • Good size (not huge)
  • They look very "respectable"
  • One side cable
  • Great balanced audio (no super bass, but there's just enough)
  • Can be worn for many hours (it will take a very long time to fatigue your ears)
  • Audio cable length ( 5 feet )
  • Swappable/detachable audio cable
  • Rotating ear-cups


What I don't like:

  • Light materials make these headphones feel cheap/easy to break  (I'm not testing this)
  • If you up the volume audio escapes and other people can hear your music/audio book/podcast/radio
  • No noise canceling - audio will go in
  • $150 price is quite a bit
  • They still heat up my ears a bit (not super uncomfortable as with tighter headphones)


My brother's Bose AE2 audio headphones test and opinion

I think he approves!






Specs and Features:
Triport acousitc headphone structure
Bose acoustic equalization
Around-ear headphone design
Adjustable headband - allows approximately three inches of adjustment in length
Fold flat ear cups
Detachable cable
Drawstring carry bag

 Padded frame ensures head comfort.  The frame is flexible and it also extends.

Headphones Dimensions
7.5"H x 6"W x 1.5"D ( 19.1 cm x 15.2 cm x 3.8 cm )
Ear Cushion Dimensions
3.8"H x 2.9"W ( 9.6 cm x 7.4 cm )
Weight With Cable
4.9 oz (140 g)
Cable Length
5 foot

 5 foot cable with 3.5 mm jack hooks to one side and the cable is detachable.

Official Accessories and Replacement Parts at Bose's website:



This feature makes me happy. Detachable cable for easy replacements if needed.

I don't want to solder headphone cables ever again.  I would rather just get a quick replacement and the AE2 headphones allow it. Good job Bose!






Warranty Details
Who is covered:
The warranty is extended only to the original end-use purchaser or the person receiving the product as a gift, and shall not be extended to any other person or transferee.

What is covered/For how long:
Unless a different warranty period is stated in the Owner's guide provided with your Bose product, for a period of 1 year (2 years EU) [5years for any non-powered speakers that may be incorporated into this product] from the date of retail purchase by the original end-use purchaser, Bose warrants that this product, when delivered to you in new condition, in original packaging, from a Bose authorized reseller and used in normal conditions, is free from any defects in manufacturing, materials and workmanship.

What is not covered:
This warranty does not cover defects resulting from improper or unreasonable use or maintenance; failure to follow operating instructions; accident; excess moisture; insects; lightning; power surges; connections to improper voltage supply; unauthorized alteration or modification of original condition; damages caused by inadequate packing or shipping procedures; loss of damage to or corruption of stored data; damages caused by use with non-Bose products; product that requires modification or adaptation to enable it to operate in any country other than the country for which it was designed, manufactured, approved and or authorized or repair of products damaged by these modifications; and products purchased from unauthorized dealers.

The limited warranty goes on and on, but it pretty much covers any defect that might be on the product when originally purchase it.  If you inflict damage to your headphones then it's your problem.  They do have replacement plans were you can exchange the damaged headphones for a "fee".  Bose is a good company at this and I have used the service before.  It does take a bit of time but it's worth it if you love your headphones.

Bose Support
http://www.bose.com/controller?url=/customer_service/index.jsp

Fold the ear-cups to safely store your Bose AE2






Conclusion
As it seems on the videos I might be a bit excited like a newlywed during honeymoon phase, and therefore a bit bias.  The truth is I like these headphones. They look good, they are light, and they deliver great audio. I know some people like more bass, some like less. I personally like a good balance that won't make my hears hurt.  I am a bit tone deaf after lot's of hard bass parties, and exposure to loud noise in military vehicles, guns (M16s, AK47s, hand guns, SAWS, 240 machine guns, 50 cals)  and grenade and bomb explosions.  I am not an audio expert, but still manage to hear tons of detail with these headphones.  I wish I had ears of pre military times to fully hear the sounds that these headphones produce.  I can still hear a good amount of the spectrum, so I still hear fine, I just have to up the volume a bit more.  When I get older I'll fit the perfect deaf grandpa role.  :)  hahaha.   After a few hours of use I think I made a good buy and hope to have these headphones last me for many years.

Bose AE2 Audio Headphones Vendor Video


CNET's Bose AE2 Headphones Video Review


Links:



Support my blog:




AE2 vs Triport
How do the AE2 compare against the Triport Around Ear headphones?  Besides the price difference there are several improvements on the AE2.  Enjoy the photos.  Make sure to click on them to get the full resolution image.

 Fold ear-cups?  - AE2 + 1

Similar but the ear-cup size is larger on the AE2 (left side) -  AE2 + 1

Sexier ear-cup?  AE2 + 1  (my opinion!)

3.5 mm design? this is to be determined but the 90 degree Triport ones have gone bad.
I'm not sure if the new design will last longer.

That's the spot where my first Triport broke at.  On the Triport they are held by a single screw on each side.
The AE2s has two on each side..  It seems sturdier.  AE2 + 1

The frame is what keeps these together.  The AE2 is a bit thicker.  AE2 + 1

Engineered in the USA, assembled in China.  -1 to the both of them for being unpatriotic... but everything is made in China these days so it might not matter.

I really believe these Bose AE2 are better than the Triport.  Again everyone has different opinions to what is "best", these are my thoughts.


Note: I have had the headphones on for about 7 hours.  Pretty impressive since my ears feel like they can take many more hours.  But it's time for me to go to sleep.  Caffeine does some amazing stuff too.




Nov 12, 2010

External Graphic Cards for Laptops - The Enclosures


Before I got the ViDock4 I researched many different devices. Some are out in the market today, some are exclusive to specific products, and some never came to the market.  If you are a tech person and are looking for a solution check the ones below. Some graphics cards need extra power and some do not, some solutions have them and some dont.  Enjoy my little research!

Fujitsu Amilo
This is the first one I ran into. It got me interested in the possibility of hooking an external graphics to my Lenovo X201.


My gosh... can they make a more cheesy video?

This is the first one I ran across and got me interested.

Features:
One of the first external solutions
Run up to 3 external displays
Two additional USB 2 ports
ATI Radeon HD 3870 (it's an ok card)
Easy switching between graphics

The problem
It's for compatible ATI GXP Connector laptops only (Like the Amilo SA 3650)

Did I buy it?
NO

Link:
http://ts.fujitsu.com/home/products/notebooks/amilo_graphic_booster.html





ViDock
The second one I ran into. What got me interested in ViDock is that it's actually out there.


Pros:
In the market
Multiple versions
Supports some high end graphics cards
Some systems accept easy graphics switching

Cons:
Expensive and expensive shipping
Terrible documentation
Some systems do not accept easy graphics switching

Did I buy it?
YES - ViDock 4

Village Instruments cons:
Website looks like 1998
Terrible documentation
OK Customer Service

Links:
http://www.villagetronic.com/
http://www.villagetronic.com/vidock2/index.html






ATI XGP Technology
This is basically the Amilo, but they could have licensed this to other companies.


Links:
http://www.amd.com/us/products/technologies/ati-xgp/Pages/ati-xgp.aspx


Asus XG Station
I could not find a place where they sold this solution, so I'm going to assume that it didn't come to the market.


Links:
http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/08/hands-on-with-the-asus-xg-station-external-gpu/





PCI-Express Box by Magma
Another solution. This one is up for order.


Pros:
It's on the market

Cons:
55w internal power (you can't have some of the latest GPUs)
The most expensive solution ($730 to $750)

Did I buy it?
Hell no

Links:
ExpressBox1
ExpressBox2





MSI Graphics Upgrade Solution ( GUS )
This is one of the coolest looking ones.


Pros:
Looks sexy

Cons:
Limited to card power supply needs
Good luck finding one

Did I buy it?
No. I needed more power for my HD 5770

Links:
http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/laptops/2010/05/21/computex-2010-preview-msi/1







Do it Yourself ViDock (DIY ViDock)
There are "home made" versions. They can be good if you put the time and effort.  You will also have to figure out the power needs for your card.



Links:
http://www.harmonicinversion.com
http://forum.notebookreview.com/gaming-software-graphics-cards/418851-diy-vidock-experiences.html#post5324240





Some Chris Pirillo Spam - External Video Cards
Chris makes videos that don't exactly resolve the problem.  He's one of the kings of capturing keywords to increase view count and traffic to his websites.  But he's got a few good words in this video so I'll add it.



So what did I buy?
The ViDock 4. It offered the solution for the power needs of my ATI Radeon HD 5770.
http://www.jessebandersen.com/2010/11/vidock-4-unbox-hardware-setup-software.html

Did I miss any? ;)



Nov 11, 2010

Nike+ for Nano 6G - Unbox, Icon Detail, Tune Belt Sensor Pouch, Settings, Online Stats and Example

Also posted at nano6g.com


I have been using my Nano 6G for my every other day runs. I ditched my bigger Palm Pre for the Nano 6G, at least for workouts. The current Nano 6G tracks your steps, time, and estimated calorie count. I want to track more details and with the Nike + I can do it.

What's new with the Nike+iPod?
Workouts by
- Basic by music
- Time
- Distance
- Calories
Pace Detail
Distance Detail
Tracks specific music played during workouts
Online statistics + social features



Unbox and Fitness Icon (Nike+iPod features)

It sucks that it doesn't come with one of those shoe pouches. Obviously Nike wants you to buy the official shoes. I'm not buying so I'll go for a Tune Belt Sensor Pouch.

Tune Belt Pouch for Nike+ Sensor

Keeps your Nike+ Sensor safe and on the shoe.

[update]
I just realized that I inserted the sensor wrong... I should have flipped it. My bad!



Nano 6G Nike+ Settings

You get some extra settings when you attach the Nike+ sensor to your iPod Nano 6G.

Nike+ Online Details

You get tons of features by going online. If you are a run fanatic this is a great tool.



Little Running Example

I wish the Nike+ stuff was on the devices by default. I'm a runner and want to keep track of my workouts, and Nike+ helps doing that.

Info Links:
iPod Nano 6G
Nike+
Nike+ Running Site
Nike + iPod Info by Apple

Support my blog:
iPod Nano 6G
Nike + Sports Kit
Tune Belt Sensor Pouch
Polar Wearlink + Transmitter


Nov 10, 2010

Lot's of iPads turned into Netbooks/Netvertibles


It seems that there's a lot of cases out there today for the iPad.  A lot of these new cases convert your iPad into something that resembles a netbook with a touch screen (nervertible?).  There are a lot of these cases.  Does this mean that the virtual keyboard is "no bueno"?  I think people want the iPad to do some of the tasks that can be accomplished with normal laptops, one of them typing long messages.  There are several netbooks with touchscreens out there, but none have the smooth interface that you do get with some iPad apps.  That would be the problem with current netbooks or netvertibles, programs in Windows 7 usually fall way behind on touch as compared to the iPad.  So, let's combine a bit of both technologies and we have a more useful iPad.

Some of the keyboard cases:
Crux360 Case
Kensignton KeyFolio
Aidacase Folio Deluxe
iPad Case with Keyboard by Solid Line Products
tyPad Case
Menotek iPad Keyboard Case

I still think that convertible tablets are the way to go, but they don't get the smooth touch programs. Based on my little Netbook of the Future post the system does need a keyboard.

Check Gizmodo's comments for tons of brilliant statements:
http://gizmodo.com/5686359/so-you-want-to-turn-your-ipad-into-a-netbook-eh
More at Netbook News

Nov 8, 2010

ViDock 4 for Sale (SOLD)


eBay Link:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200541350274

You are bidding on a Village Instruments ViDock 4.  This is basically an external graphics card for your PCI-Express Card enabled laptop.  I'm selling it because I don't need it anymore.  I got it for the purpose of testing it with a Lenovo X201 tablet, and it worked.  I used it in combination with a ATI Radeon HD 5770 which I'm also selling.

Some details:
Accepts desktop PCI-Express Graphics Cards
Plugs into laptop PC's ExpressCard Slot

What's in the box:
ViDock 4 unit
Power Adapter
Original Box
5 year warranty

Condition:
Used - Like new

Shipping:
Continental US only

Payment Method:
Paypal

If you have questions please send me a message

Jesse B Andersen
http://www.jessebandersen.com



 Two USB ports that can be used for mouse and keyboard, or any other USB device.


 6 pin power connection for graphics cards

Everything on this auction

More details at:
http://www.jessebandersen.com/2010/11/vidock-4-unbox-hardware-setup-software.html
http://www.villageinstruments.com/tiki-index.php?page=ViDock


Compatible Cards Chart:

eBay Link:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200541350274

ATI Radeon HD 5770 for Sale (SOLD)


eBay Link:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200541342691
Get a ATI Radeon HD 5770 today at Amazon

You are bidding on a XFX ATI Radeon HD 5770 with 1GB DDR5. I used this card for my ViDock4 testing. I have not used it since. I have other projects to focus on, so I cannot keep this unit. I bought this unit through eBay, it's about 6 months old and it's fully functional.

What's in the box:
1 XFX ATI Radeon HD 5770 with 1GB DDR5
Cross Fire Adapter

Condition:
Used - bought from eBay

Details:
From ATI
From Amazon

Shipping:
Continental US Only

Payment Method:
Paypal

If you have any questions please contact me.

Jesse B Andersen
http://www.jessebandersen.com


eBay Link:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200541342691
Get a ATI Radeon HD 5770 today at Amazon

Goldeneye 007 Wii Version with Classic Conflict Mode Code for Sale (SOLD)


eBay Link:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200541337355

I used this game disc once.  I'm borrowing a friend's game so I don't need this extra copy.  The game also includes the Classic Conflict Mode unlock code which comes with the Bundle Version.

What's in the box:
Goldeneye 007 2010 Wii Version Disc
Classic Conflict Mode Unlock Code
Instruction Booklet
Original Box

Condition:
Used once (like new)

Shipping:
US Only

Payment Method:
Paypal

If you have any questions please ask.  Thank you!

Jesse B Andersen
http://www.jessebandersen.com


eBay Link:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=200541337355

Get a brand new one at:
Amazon.com

Nov 7, 2010

DCA - The Cure for Cancer?



Glenn Beck on DCA


It's no surprise that some of the greatest inventions and developments die due to either massive regulations or simply the lack of funding. I hope this one doesn't die since it seems that cancer is here to stay and maybe increase it's count on people affected over time. The drug is DCA (Deoxycholic Acid). Find more

Links:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deoxycholic_acid
DCA at abc News
Google - DCA for cancer
Cancer.org - How Many People Have Cancer?

Thanks to Franco Fiori from Facebook.

Nov 4, 2010

E-King's S700 Electronic Notepad

The E-King S700

Slate tablet computers like the iPad don't do it for me. The system is big enough to read a few things for a few minutes, but then you want to put the system down because it gets uncomfortable. I need something smaller that I can carry around easily, read my news and books and write notes. What is a solution? The E-King's S700 e-notepad.

Some neat E-King S700 features:
7 inch color display (resistive touch and stylus)
Integrated 3G
Fingerprint scanner
3MP camera
Internet surfing and Email
Document reading and note taking
Music player, some games, and instant messaging
Stylus - for note taking, hand written emails, sketching
3 MP camera can collect name and business card information
Book store for books, magazines, and newspapers


Use it as a RSS feed, email notifications, calendar, photo frame, clock monitor.  Get the ideas flowing.


As of right now I have a:
X201 Tablet - Portable, Powerful, and Dockable - My main computer now.
Nano 6G - For audio listening (books, radio, podcasts, and music)
Palm Pre - Cell phone, texting, quick web browsing, 3G hotspot, contacts

One thing that I do wish I had was something small that I can use for note taking and reading for long hours. Writing notes with your fingers on slate tablets is awkward and stylus provide great precision. Based on how many hand written notes I have taken with the Lenovo X201 vs note taking with my S10-3T and iPad I can say that the stylus matters a lot. I have written tons of notes with the X201's stylus and Windows Journal. Most of the new slate tablets (Android based, or Win 7 based, or Meego based) have capacitive touch screens which means that they only allow finger touch input. Capacitive is fine for lot's of multimedia applications, but not for writing notes.

It also allows finger touch.

The price estimate for the E-King S700 is around $600 (ouch!).  Now let's see if I can get a sample unit from them.  It would totally rule.

If you would like more info on the E-King S700 check:
http://www.youbaonet.com/?product-48.html
ekingumpc.com
http://www.engadget.com
No one will assume that you have a mini computer with this cool case.  It's portable.

Other links:
Lenovo S10-3T
iPad (1,2)
Lenovo X201 Tablet