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Western Digital My Book Essential 1 TB USB 2.0 Desktop External Hard Drive WDBAAF0010HBK-NESN Sale-$99.00!
List Price: $129.99 Amazon Price: $99.00 |
Western Digital My Book Essential 1 TB USB 2.0 Desktop External Hard Drive WDBAAF0010HBK-NESN Description:
The world’s best-selling external hard drive now features a new, smart, visual backup solution that protects your data automatically. Smaller, sleeker, more streamlined design - WD has made these award-winning drives even smaller, sleeker, and more elegant. As always, this book-like shape takes up less space on your desk and allows two or more My Book drives to nestle neatly together like volumes on a shelf. WD SmartWare - A control center for your drive that gives you the power to: Protect your data automatically - Relax. Your data is secure. Automatic, continuous backup will instantly make a second copy whenever you add or change a file. See your backup as it happens - Seeing is believing. Visual backup displays your content categories and shows the progress of your backup. Bring back lost files effortlessly - Retrieve your valuable data to its original location whether you’ve lost all your data or just overwritten an important file. Take control - Customize your backup, set drive security, run diagnostics, manage the power settings, and more from the WD SmartWare control center. Drive lock - Gain peace of mind knowing that your data is protected from unauthorized access or theft with password protection and military-grade 256-bit hardware-based encryption. Illuminated capacity gauge - See at a glance how much space is available on your drive. USB 2.0 interface - A simple connection that offers convenience and compatibility among multiple computers. Power miser - My Book external drives are designed to save energy. WD GreenPower Technology lowers internal drive power consumption by up to 30%, a sleep mode reduces power during idle times, and a power-saving feature turns the drive on and off with your computer. Planet friendly - We designed a small box to minimize waste and used recycled material. We encourage you to recycle it. Ready to plug-and-play with Windows PCs - if you’re a Mac user, check out our Mac version of this product.
- Amazon Sales Rank: #579 in Consumer Electronics
- Size: 1 TB
- Color: Black
- Brand: Western Digital
- Model: WDBAAF0010HBK-NESN
- Format: CD
- Original language: English
- Dimensions: 7.94″ h x 6.90″ w x 5.56″ l, 2.97 pounds
- Memory: 2000MB SDRAM
- Hard Disk: 1TB
- Processors: 1
Features
- Automatic, continuous backup
- Visual drive control center
- Password protection and 256-bit encryption
- Illuminated capacity gauge
- USB 2.0 interface
Customer Reviews:
What in the hell is wrong with Western Digital
If you are just looking to add an additional drive for storage, don’t buy this new version of My Book Essential. Especially if you plan to buy more than one (which you of course should unless it’s purely a backup drive). You will regret it unless you are a newbie who only wants a drive that will back up your system (and even then you should get a Seagate now instead).
Western Digital is now installing a “virtual drive” software that CANNOT be disabled, ejected (unmounted) or deleted. You will have an extra drive entry for each one of these you install. If you use up to 8 drives, as I have, that would mean 16 separate drive entries. WD has flat out said you cannot remove this functionality. Even reformating won’t do it, because the included software is in firmware. If you do use the backup and security functions, they are part of this software, and your drive capacity will ONLY be about 770GB, not the full 930GB that is normal (you can still access the drive directly via another drive letter for full capacity). The software that comes on these drives is not professional level backup software. Neither is the security software. If you are serious about protecting your data, you will buy pro-level software anyway. But you are apparently forever stuck with this software on these drives.
Western Digital’s drives have about the same reliability as the Seagates. Both make external drives that aren’t fan-cooled, so weaker components from the manufacturing process fail, requiring these types of units to be replaced frequently (that’s why you never buy only one, or never keep your only copy of data on it). That’s just part of owning these drives for most people. Seagate will replace your drive for free for 5 YEARS. WD will do the same for 1 YEAR. It is virtually guaranteed that 1 or 2 drives out of 10 of these will require replacement. I prefer to have 5 years to do so rather than 1.
I’ve bought 12 external USB drives, both brands. More of the Seagates than the WD’s. I just returned two of these I bought yesterday, and from this point on, there will be no more WD’s coming home with me, having discovered that I cannot remove WD Smartware. With the Seagates, I plug it in, the computer sees it as a DRIVE, not software. I delete the software that Seagate puts on the drive, and I start using it. That’s how I want it to be.
Beware of WD’s SmartWare software!!
BUYER BEWARE….This is a great hard drive, except for one fatal issue. Western Digital includes their backup software, “SmartWare” on this drive. That’s normally not an issue, you reformat and partition the drive and it’s gone. However, WD included a special virtual CD (VCD) partition as part of the enclosure or firmware, which is NOT accessible to the user. I’ve tried all the utilities in OS X, Windows, and Ubuntu Linux to destroy this VCD, but no luck. I contacted Western Digital inquiring about a removal utility or firmware flash, and they gave me a run around answer and basically said no, we have no plans to do that.
The VCD automatically mounts on your machine when the drive is inserted, which gets annoying very quickly. I found a workaround in OS X and Windows, to keep the VCD partition from mounting, but it shouldn’t have to be this way.
If you’ve ever had to deal with the horrid U3 software on a SanDisk flash drive, then you’ll know what I’m talking about. At least SanDisk provides a utility to remove their software, and gain back the full capacity of the drive. This SmartWare VCD uses almost 1GB of the drive. A drop in the bucket, yes, but I don’t like being told how to use my storage space by Western Digital.
Aside from that, it functions and is built quite well. My only other complaint is that the barrel plug for the power adapter, and the USB cable sit pretty loosely in the back of the drive when they’re connected and are prone to falling out if you move the drive around too much.
Otherwise, a good hard drive.
Meant for the most basic of users only
Update (as of 10/11/09)
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Instead of returning the drive I thought I would do a favor for a somewhat computer-illiterate friend by selling her the drive along with assisting her in installing and configuring the SmartWare software to backup her data.
The laptop running WD Smartware is about three years old and contains a single-core chip. Well, I discovered that this software is a resource PIG. WD advertises the fact that SmartWare is always running in the background to backup any files the moment they changes. The trade-off is that the SmartWare background service routinely spikes the CPU to 95%-100%, bringing a single core Windows computer to its knees. It’s just not worth it.
In the end I uninstalled Smartware completely from the laptop (the 1TB drive is still accessible despite the Windows XP Device manager complaining of an unknown device) and built a backup job that runs daily using the free Comodo Backup software.
WD SmartWare is not even good for newbies unless they have current, multicore computers able to handle the hour-by-hour spike in CPU usage from this service. In my opinion WD really stumbled with this product.
Summary (original review)
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In my opinion this device is not meant for any but the most limited-skilled computer user. The few dumbed-down options that cannot be deactivated in their included software combined with the instability of the current device driver (at least for Win7) makes this drive too inflexible and unreliable for anyone looking for an external hard drive to store data and backups from their own, proven backup strategies.
Background
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As an owner of the previous generation 1TB and 500GB MyBook Essential external drives, I needed another 1TB drive to store rolling backups of my OS partition images, my digital media (stills, videos, and MP3s), and software install DVD/CD ISOs. I turned to this drive based on a) my previous good experience with the MyBook models, and b) the hopeful fact that this drive was an improvement in reliability, speed, and power consumption since it was a next-generation of the models I currently have.
As an advanced computer user who developed several automated backup and drive imaging jobs using other, more robust backup solutions I did not need the WD SmartWare backup software that comes with this drive. I would soon learn that this drive does not operate properly without out the WD SmartWare software installed, nor did it operate reliably with the software installed.
WD Smartware
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The WD Smartware is meant to be an all-in-one console for managing the drive settings and health, as well as managing backup/restore jobs. I didn’t like the fact that upon creating a backup job that this software was constantly running behind the scenes and backing up every changed file in my backup set immediately after the files changed. This is backup-overkill, in my opinion, but I certainly understand that there are computer users who don’t fully grasp the concept of backing up data - again, for this user category WD SmartWare will simplify implementing recurrent backups.
Since the price was within USD $1.00 of the previous generation model I assumed I could purchase this drive and use it without having to install the WD SmartWare software - I was wrong and I am regretting this purchase, for now I have to return it and either purchase the previous generation or another brand.
Cons
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1) As pointed out by the first reviewer, plugging in this drive results in a virtual CD (VCD) containing the SmartWare installation routine and product manuals being mapped to one of your computer drive letters. I tried several different tactics to dismount this VCD to free up my limited drive letters but I could not do so. This is just plain arrogance on the part of Western Digital to assume that they could grab a drive letter with the install software location and not allow the user to dismount the VCD.
For the most basic computer user perhaps this is a non-issue but anyone with a home network, attached media card readers, and USB flash drives will quickly discover that drive letters cannot be kidnapped by a VCD that is not even usable beyond the initial install of the WD SmartWare software.
2) Unlike the previous generation model, this external hard drive’s driver must be installed (at least to a Windows Vista or Windows 7 OS) from the VCD. It is not simply plug-and-play for the OS does not have the proper driver to access the device. WD does provide instructions on their website on how to install just the drive’s driver from the VCD without having to install the entire SmartWare utility, but the source of the install is that dreaded VCD mentioned in my point (1) above. This means that as of this review date there is no way to install the most current driver WD release, leading to my third CON point:
3) The current driver for this device causes blue screen of death (BSOD) error 0×0000008E in Windows 7 (a moderately rigorous troubleshooting effort by me costing a few hours of my time isolated this driver as the root cause). I am running Windows 7 release candidate/build 7100, which is supposed to be close to the RTM version about to come out on 10/22/09. I was forced to uninstall the driver due to the instability this driver introduced to my Win7 OS environment. With Win7 so close to release, I would have expected a stable version of the device driver to be available to the public but that does not seem to be the case.
(note, I would accept that perhaps this RC version of Win7 might also contain some code that is interfering with the WD driver and that the RTM version coming out in a couple of weeks will resolve this problem, but my first two CONS still make this drive a no-deal for me.)
Pros
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1) For the most basic computer user WD SmartWare will simplify your backup needs and give you a way to quickly establish proper data backups.
Amazon.com Product Description
Our best-selling My Book external drive is an elegant, high-capacity storage solution for all the chapters of your digital life. Our latest edition now features visual, easy-to-use, automatic, continuous backup software and drive lock security protection. At last, beauty, brains, and simplicity together.
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Elegant design. This book-like shape takes up minimal space on your desk and allows two or more My Book drives to nestle neatly together like volumes on a shelf. |
See your life safe in one place. WD SmartWare software - A visual control center with a single screen view of all your data. From it you can back up, retrieve, and secure your files. |
Password protection. An extra level of security with password protection and 256-bit hardware-based encryption. |
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Smaller, sleeker, more streamlined design - We’ve made these award-winning drives even smaller, sleeker, and more elegant. As always, this book-like shape takes up minimal space on your desk and allows two or more My Book drives to nestle neatly together like volumes on a shelf.
WD SmartWare™ - A control center for your drive that gives you the power to:
– Protect your data automatically - Relax, your data is secure. Automatic, continuous backup will instantly make a second copy whenever you add or change a file.
– See your backup as it happens - Seeing is believing. Visual backup displays your content in categories and shows the progress of your backup.
– Bring back lost files effortlessly - Retrieve your valuable data to its original location whether you’ve lost all your data or just overwritten an important file.
– Take control - Customize your backup, set drive security, run diagnostics, manage the power settings, and more from the WD SmartWare control center.
Find out more about WD SmartWare™
Drive lock - Gain peace of mind knowing that your data is protected from unauthorized access or theft with password protection and 256-bit hardware-based encryption.
Illuminated capacity gauge - See at a glance how much space is available on your drive.
USB 2.0 interface - Powered directly from the USB port on your PC. No separate power supply is needed*.
* An optional cable is available for the few computers that limit power from the USB port.
Power miser - My Book external drives are designed to save energy. WD GreenPower Technology™ lowers internal drive power consumption by up to 30%, a sleep mode reduces power during idle times, and a power-saving feature turns the drive on and off with your computer.
Planet friendly - We designed a small box from recycled materials to minimize waste. We encourage you to recycle it.
Ready to plug-and-play with Windows PCs - If you’re a Mac user, check out our Mac version of this product.
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Ideal For
- Protecting your data with automatic, continous backup
- Retrieving lost data effortlessly
- Adding extra storage space for photos, videos and music
- Securing private or sensitive data
Compatibility
Formatted NTFS
Windows® XP, Windows Vista®, Windows 7
Mac OS® X Tiger®, Leopard®, Snow Leopard™ (requires reformatting)
Note: Compatibility may vary depending on user’s hardware configuration and operating system.
What’s in the box
External hard drive, WD SmartWare software, USB cable, AC adapter, Quick Install Guide.
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Backup software you’ll really use � WD SmartWare Five great reasons to love it: |
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1. It’s easy - Data backup can be a chore, but it’s your family photos, your movies, your music - your life - and it’s important to protect it. So we made this software extra easy because we really want you to use it. |
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2. You can see your life safe in one place -
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3. It’s always on the job - WD SmartWare is always watching your computer, so when you change a file and save it, create new files, add new pictures, movies, or songs, WD SmartWare will instantly back them up. |
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4. You can bring back lost files effortlessly - If you ever accidentally delete an important file, or need to get an earlier version of a file, you can find and retrieve it in seconds with this easy-to-use interface.
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5. You’re in control - WD SmartWare software is also a control center for your external drives. From it you can:
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Sennheiser HD 202 Headphones Discount.
August 6th, 2010 by tommy5492461|
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Sennheiser HD 202 Headphones Discount.
Compare & Purchase Sennheiser HD 202 Headphones at Amazon by clicking here! List Price: $39.95 Amazon Price: $24.88 |
Sennheiser HD 202 Headphones Description:
The Sennheiser HD202 closed, dynamic hi-fi stereo headphones feature good insulation against ambient noise and a deep bass response. This makes them the ideal companion for DJs - or anyone who likes to listen to modern, powerful music without disturbing others. The high-efficiency drivers deliver maximum performance. 1/8 inch connector with 1/4 inch adapter. Impedance: 32 ohms. Frequency range: 18Hz - 20kHz.Sennheiser At A GlanceFor 60 years, the name Sennheiser has been synonymous with top-quality products and tailor-made complete solutions for every aspect of the recording, transmission and reproduction of sound. In 1945, Dr. Fritz Sennheiser together with seven engineers and technicians set out on the venture to found a new company. The research and development specialists converted their university institute, which had been moved during the war to the small village of Wennebostel, into what became known as ‘Labor W’, and it was there that they began to build measuring instruments. Less than a year later, microphones were added to their product range, and soon the resourceful team became extremely successful in numerous fields of audio technology.Those were the humble beginnings of Sennheiser electronic, now a worldwide group of companies with more than 1,600 employees and one of the world’s leading manufacturers of complete audio solutions. Still a family-owned company, Sennheiser has made a name for itself above all in the development and manufacture of high-quality microphones, wireless RF technology and headphones. Conference and information technology, infrared systems, products for the hearing impaired and aviation headsets round off the comprehensive product portfolio. The Sennheiser Group also includes the studio microphone specialist Georg Neumann GmbH, Berlin, K+H Vertriebs- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft (loudspeakers and studio monitors) and the Denmark-based joint venture Sennheiser Communications, which develops h
- Color: black
- Brand: Sennheiser
- Model: HD 202
- Original language: English
- Number of items: 1
- Dimensions: 8.00″ h x 4.00″ w x 7.00″ l, 1.00 pounds
Features
- Closed, dynamic, supra-aural headphones
- High efficiency drivers
- Wind-up belt clip for excess cable
- 10 foot Y style cable
- Replaceable leatherette ear pads
Customer Reviews:
great deal
I do not like small earphones that go into the ear. After a very short time I find them very uncomfortable. I also hate anything pressing on my head.
I was looking for a set of over the ear phones which were light weight, comfortable, had excellent sound fidelity, a longish cord so I can be comfortably away from my stereo, and effectively blocked outside sounds. My primary motivation for buying these phones was so that I could listen to opera and really hear the phrases. I wanted all this for under $30.00
These head phones delivered. As soon as they arrived, I tested them on a variety of music types at a variety of volumes. The phones are very comfortable and except for a bit of warming of my ears, which was rather pleasant, I barely noticed them. The cushion on the crosspiece is thick enough so that you don’t really feel it.
Sound fidelity is excellent. I was actually able to hear parts of music and instruments that I had never noticed before. This was especially true with classical, opera and jazz. The balance between bass and treble was very good, although if you really like loud thumping base, you may be a bit dissappointed.
I was not able to get the volume up loud enough to notice any distortion before it was too much for me, so I can’t really say that there will be no distortion if you like really loud music.
If you are looking for headphones that are a good bargain for the money and have a limited budget, these are it.
Unbeatable Budget Headphone for Traveling with iPod
I own a couple of pairs of headphones for different purposes, the Sennheiser HD202 is for listening to my iPod. I’m living in a city where mobile-zombies are addicted to incessant cell phone chatting in the public. The headphones’ ability of providing isolation from outside annoyance is of utmost importance when I consider purchasing a pair of headphones for travelling purpose. The HD202, sealed in design, excels in that functionality. Most noises are decently blocked away from my listening pleasure. The HD202 is mid-sized, and I don’t find portability a burden. The headphones are circum-aural, for my average-sized ears, which contributes a lot to the good isolation. The pleather ear-pads and cushion under the head-band are comfy, no complaints for extended wearing for me.
Sound-wise, I found the HD202 performing unexpectedly well for headphones in this price range. These cans could be driven by the iPod with ease. Judging by listening impressions, I found the HD202’s frequency response even and flat, with a little emphasis on the bottom and a bit roll-off on the high end. Bass-heads might found its lows less then head-bombing, but it’s just adequate for me, allowing mids and highs passing through to paint a balanced sound profile. Since the HD202 is a sealed-type design, notes above the mids are not as open and airy as its open counterparts. Details are of cuz not as good as the Sennheiser HD600, my reference phones, but it’s totally acceptable for a pair of travelling cans. The Grado SR-60 has more details, but its highs are, surprisingly, harsher than the HD202, and it just fails to block any noise from outside which defeat the very intention of evading the roaring of the zombies.
My listening spectrum is broad, ranging from classical, operas, chansons francaises, jazz, old rock, psychedelic, indies, metal to trip hop. Although not perfect (what could be anyway?), the HD202 performs satisfactorily in every genre I have tried through it, and favors music with heavy beats, like Portishead and Morcheeba. It also sounds good with Doors, Cream, Deep Purple and Black Sabbath. It’s best for dance, pop and rock. For classical fans, the HD202 could also bring smile on your face. It’s not the smoothest phones in the world, but its shortcomings (a bit dry and inability to retrieve full details) are forgivable and it could let you forget hi-fi and dive into musical nirvana. Gieseking’s Debussy piano readings from his 78r/m era are just magical, and the pluckings of the double-bass in Munch’s “Symphonie Fantastique” (1954 version) are tangible and rich. The HD202 also “Rings”, pun not intended, well with Wagner. The Bayreuth acoustics are understated, yet remains beautiful, through the HD202. I enjoy every bow across the strings and the “Ho-jo-to-ho!” by the Walkures. For jazz, both vocals (Lady Day) and instrumentals (Monk and Coltrane) swing.
For durability, the HD202 doesn’t score too high. The cord on the left can has developed bad contact after 2 years’ service. Since the cords are non-detachable, the ailment could not be remedied. I thought of buying a new set of HD202 but was bitten by the up-grade bug and bought a HD212pro instead. And boy what wrong I have done and feel regreted for my conversion. The HD212 might have deeper bass, but it doesn’t come close to the HD202 regarding naturalness which I place high regarding music listening. It has TOO MUCH bass for my taste. Sounds are richer but somewhat artificial in the 212. I much prefer the 202 to the bass-exaggerated, unnatural and over-rated 212pro.
For listeners not obsessed with bass fetishism and hi-fi-similacrum who want to enjoy music on the road, Sennheiser HD202 is highly recommended.
Fine earphones
I bought a set of Sennheiser HD-202 headphones through Amazon a few days ago, paid the $5.00 for 3 day shipping (couldn’t find anything else to boost the total past $25.00) and the phones arrived today–well packed. I’m not an audiophile and can’t say but that the headphones sound simply splendid, whether listening to CD’s, tapes or radio, including FM transmitted XM radio reception. The bass is there, but not overwhelming. The overall experience of listening through these phones is remarkably different and richer than hearing the same music through radio or small boombox speakers. The balance and enhancement of the frequency range is just unique–though this is probably a quality of most any good headphone.
I plugged the smaller jack into a variety of radios, a stero system and a boom box–all with fine, sound altering effect. The radios included a Tecsun PPL-550 and Grundig Satellit 800. It worked beatufully in a second-hand Sony CFD-S38 boombox and a new Panasonic stereo system. And it sure enhanced the TV audio.
They fit comfortably, fit well over my ears and do not completely mask even subtle outside sounds–unless you turn them way up, which I’m inclined to avoid doing. The HD-202 headphones also enhance stray sound artifacts from less-than-ideal recordings or poor radio reception–but that’s not the fault of earphones that seem to allow you to hear everything more clearly. All in all, a good product, so far, for a little over $20.00.
Amazon.com Product Description
These closed, dynamic, supra-aural stereo headphones are built for the demands and expectations of the DJ. They come with removable, leatherette earpads. These lightweight phones will be appreciated by someone who wears phones for long periods of time. A specially designed damping perforation ensures powerful bass response, while a lightweight diaphragm material with turbine embossing transfers low bass sounds. The ten foot Y-style cord can be connected to a belt and features a take-up system for on the move listening. The headphones come with a two year warranty.
What’s in the Box
Headphones and a two year warranty.
From the Manufacturer
The HD 202 closed, dynamic hi-fi stereo headphones are the ideal partner for DJs and powerful modern music, providing good insulation against ambient noise and a vivid, crisp bass response. The rugged lightweight headphones have a secure fit and can be used for both mobile sources and home (mini) hi-fi systems. When out and about, a convenient cord take-up lets you adjust the headphone cable to the required length.
Features
- Closed, supra-aural, dynamic hi-fi stereo headphones
- For DJs, ideal for both mobile sources and home mini hi-fi systems
- Good attenuation of ambient noise
- Ear cups can be removed from the headband
- Specially designed damping perforation ensures powerful bass response
- Lightweight diaphragm material with “turbine” embossing for extremely low bass
- Powerful neodymium magnets and lightweight diaphragms for high sound levels
- Powerful bass and increased signal levels for modern rhythm-driven music
- Clips to the belt: cord take-up for adjusting the cable length when listening on the move
- Extremely comfortable to wear due to ultra-lightweight design, even for extended listening
- Rugged outdoor design with extremely flexible headband
- 3m highly conductive OFC copper cable
- Replaceable leatherette ear pads
- 2-year guarantee
Aluratek ADPF07SF 7-Inch Hi-Resolution Digital Photo Frame Sale-$29.00!
August 6th, 2010 by tommy5492461|
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Aluratek ADPF07SF 7-Inch Hi-Resolution Digital Photo Frame Sale-$29.00!
List Price: $89.95 Amazon Price: $29.00 |
Aluratek ADPF07SF 7-Inch Hi-Resolution Digital Photo Frame Description:
More than just a digital photo frame, Aluratek raises the bar with its Digital Lifestyle Device (DLD). View high-resolution pictures easily by inserting your digital media card directly onto Aluratek’s (DLD). Pictures will automatically start in a slideshow function. With Aluratek’s (DLD) share all your digital pictures. Whether it is at work or at home, let the fun begin!
- Size: 7-Inch
- Brand: Aluratek
- Model: ADPF07SF
- Format: CD
- Original language: English
- Dimensions: 2.75″ h x 7.50″ w x 11.00″ l, 1.45 pounds
- Native resolution: 7
- Display size: 7
Features
- Sold Individually
Customer Reviews:
Good Resolution, Basic Features, Some Limitations
This frame has a very good screen resolution (800×480) for its price range. Also has very simple controls and operations. If you are looking for a feature-rich frame with sophisticated on screen menu, this frame is not for you, but if you are looking for high resolution frame with basic features at a reasonable price, this frame fits the bill.
While the majority of digital cameras shoot with the aspect ratio of 4:3, this frame as well as almost all other frames are wide-screen, with the aspect ratio of 5:3. I don’t understand why there should be some conflicting standards for two items that go hand in hand, it reminds me of the packaging buns and hot dogs. In any case, this frame shows the pictures in landscape only. If you want your landscape pictures to be shown in full with no white space around them, you have to manually crop them to give them a 5:3 aspect ratio before you put them on the memory card. Otherwise, you have to use the frame’s Mode button to use either of its three display modes (Full, Auto-fit, Pan-scan). The Full mode will stretch the picture to fit the width of the screen, thus to some degree distorts the image. Auto-fit shows the whole picture, therefore showing a 4:3 picture on a 5:3 screen will leave white space (actually black space) on both sides. Pan-scan, which is the default mode, matches the width of the image with the width of the frame, thus to show a 4:3 picture, the fame crops from the top and bottom of the image to bring it to 5:3 aspect ratio, so the crop is done automatically, but not at your discretion.
It has auto slide-show with nice random transitions to show pictures at three preset speeds. The default is fast (6 seconds on each picture). By pressing the Time button on the back of the frame, you can switch to medium (15 seconds), or slow (30 seconds). For the slide-show, if you want the pictures to be shown in a specific order, there is no control for that. To achieve that, you have to copy the pictures to the memory card one by one in the order you want them to be shown, because the frame shows the pictures based on the copy date/time stamp.
The frame can only show pictures in JPEG format, but for many that shouldn’t be a problem, as this is the most popular format. However, you need to know something that I learned the hard way. I had many JPEG pictures that this frame could not show. These are normal JPEG images that can be shown by all browsers and graphic program in the computer, yet the frame could not show them. I played with their resolution and other properties, to no avail. Finally, it turns out that if an image has been saved by a photo editing software (I use PhotoImpact), although it is saved in JPEG, the frame cannot show it. The frame can only show the images that come directly from a digital camera, or saved by Microsoft Paint program. So when I called the images the frame could not show into Windows Paint program and saved them with Paint, they could be shown in the frame. I contacted Aluratek’s technical support, but they responded that they do not have any solution for this problem yet.
Another thing that I learned by experience is the that Off button (holding the Play/Pause button for 3 seconds) turns off the screen, but does not reset the circuits. In few cases the frame showed a distorted image. I turned the frame off using this button, to no avail. When I unplugged the frame and plugged it back in, everything turned out OK.
Another behavior about this frame which I do not like is that when you turn it off (unplug it) it looses all its setups and when you turn it back on, everything goes back to the default. For example, if you change the transition speed to medium (15 seconds) or slow (30 seconds), when you turn it off and on, it is back to fast (6 seconds).
Overall, in my view if you can live with a few small flaws, it is a good frame with very good resolution at a reasonable price.
Not as Advertised
I just got this frame and it’s nothing like in the picture above, I’m very disappointed.
I’ll try to include real pictures in “share your own pictures” section.
Made of plastic, with rounded edges, it looks very cheap, almost like a toy.
The screen resolution is not 800×480 as described in the other review, it’s actually 480×234.
I regularly buy stuff from Amazon, and this is the first time that a product was falsely advertised.
Actual viewing area NOT 7″.
I was disappointed at the size of this frame. The ENTIRE frame is 7″, while the screen is only about 5″. It cuts the tops of the heads off of most of my photos. Clear picture, and very easy to use, but screen is too small.
Marware MicroShell for iPad Carbon Sale-$39.99!
August 5th, 2010 by tommy5492461|
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Marware MicroShell for iPad Carbon Sale-$39.99!
Compare & Purchase Marware MicroShell for iPad Carbon at Amazon by clicking here! List Price: —- Amazon Price: $39.99 |
Marware MicroShell for iPad Carbon Description:
The MicroShell for iPad offers thin shell protection with a gorgeous smooth, metallic finish (color versions only). The flexible one-piece design alleviates stress points when putting the case on or taking it off, while still allowing for an extremely thin solution that preserves the form factor of the iPad. A colorful array of choices offers many fun options, or for those who prefer to still see the iPad clearly, the crystal clear version is a great fit. An elegant, minimalist approach to protection for the iPad.
- Color: Carbon
- Brand: Marware
- Model: 602956006725
- Dimensions: .75 pounds
Features
- Ultimate thin shell protection with smooth, metallic finish coating (color versions only)
- Unique, flexible design minimizes stress points when removing iPad
- Multiple color options available (clear, black, pink, etc)
- Stress-resistant, flexible design keeps shell from being brittle
- Includes: Shell case
Customer Reviews:
SanDisk SDSDHV-016G-A15 16GB Video HD SDHC Card Black Lowest Price!
August 5th, 2010 by tommy5492461|
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SanDisk SDSDHV-016G-A15 16GB Video HD SDHC Card Black Lowest Price!
Compare & Purchase SanDisk SDSDHV-016G-A15 16GB Video HD SDHC Card Black at Amazon by clicking here! List Price: $75.99 Amazon Price: $53.99 |
SanDisk SDSDHV-016G-A15 16GB Video HD SDHC Card Black Description:
The SanDisk Video HD memory card is a high-capacity, high-performance solution you can trust for capturing and storing beautiful, detailed video content. With the flexibility to record at multiple levels of quality, up to and including HD, and the capacity to let you keep recording memories, SanDisk Video HD is the card you can trust to capture all your precious moments in high quality video. Included jewel case and labels for storage options to let you easily label and organize all your video content so you can create your very own digital video library.
- Brand: SanDisk
- Model: SDSDHV-016G-A15
- Dimensions: 2.36″ h x 1.57″ w x .39″ l, .22 pounds
Features
- High-quality video memory card you can trust with your precious, beautiful and detailed memories
- Ideal memory card for capturing HD video
- Can capture all type qualities of video, including High-Definition 1080i format so you can be sure it will suit your needs
- Ideal for flash-based camcorders
- Jewel case and labels are included so you can organize your video library
Customer Reviews:
Does what it’s suppose to
It’s reliable and it’s fast enough for my AVCHD camcorder that has a 17mbts/second data stream. What else could I ask for? Not one problem after at least 3tb of read/write.
Great product
Excellent product, I received a class 6. This card is perfect for my Canon HF200.
Great Card!!!
This is a wonderful card for camcorders!!!!! Who wants hard drives? They just make your camcorder heavier. This card is the way to go!!! Save money on a camcorder and use these cards!!!
Intel Core i7 860 Processor 2.80 GHz 8 MB LGA1156 CPU I7-860BOX-Retail $322.99! Sale Only $279.99!
August 5th, 2010 by tommy5492461|
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Intel Core i7 860 Processor 2.80 GHz 8 MB LGA1156 CPU I7-860BOX-Retail $322.99! Sale Only $279.99!
List Price: $322.99 Amazon Price: $279.99 |
Intel Core i7 860 Processor 2.80 GHz 8 MB LGA1156 CPU I7-860BOX Description:
Specifications: Mfr Part Number: BX80605I7860, Process Type: Intel Core i7 Processor i7-860, Frequency: 2.80 GHz, Bus Speed: 2.5 GT/s, Cache: 8 MB, Process: 45 nm, Socket: LGA 1156, Power Consumption: 95 W, Package: Retail, This processor is a Quad Core Processor, This processor supports Enhanced Intel Speedstep Technology, This processor supports Hyper-Threading Technology, This processor supports Extended Memory 64 Technology (EM64T), This processor supports Intel Virtualization Technology, This processor supports Enhanced Halt State (C1E), This processor supports Execute Disable Bit
- Brand: Intel
- Model: BX80605I7860
- Format: CD
- Original language: English
- Dimensions: 4.00″ h x 7.00″ w x 8.00″ l, .85 pounds
- Processors: 1
Features
- Quad Core Enhanced Intel Speedstep Technology
- Hyper-Threading Technology
- Intel EM64T 2 Intel Virtualization Technology
Customer Reviews:
Awesome Performance and Efficiency
If you’re looking high-performance CPU that is also energy efficient and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg then look no further.
The i7 860 has all the horsepower you’ll need for fast picture editing and even editing AVCHD videos. But what really is cool is how little power it uses when your only checking e-mail and on the web. I built my desktop PC with this CPU and a Gigabyte GA-P55A-UD4P mother, Corsair 620HX power supply and a Western Digital 640GB “Blue” HD. For light duty task like web browsing it consumes just 65 Watts! When it really kicks in high gear for serious number crunching it goes to 110 Watts. This is the result of Intel’s Turbo technology that can turn off cores that are not in use. Plus if you give it a really good cooling system it can even drive the clock rate up to the thermal limit. This ability to save power is so important as it translates into less electricity, less wasted heat and noise and increased reliability. For me this was ideal since I wanted a computer that was super quiet when running basics tasks but had the muscle for demanding applications when needed.
This is a great CPU that will can handle anything you can through at it and won’t be obsolete in a few years.
very pleased
using w/ gigabyte p55ud4p MB. started flawlessly. very stable. set the bus speed to 140, and the mb adjusts the clock according to work load. seems to be the best compromise between power savings and performance.
Excellent CPU
Not a lot to say here. This is a great, powerful CPU that overclocks well. Easily can be pushed to 3.8Ghz on air cooling, while maintaining acceptable temperatures.
It was a huge upgrade over an E8400 (overclocked to 3.6Ghz), in gaming as well as multitasking in apps like Photoshop, Visual Studio, and SQL Server.
Turbo mode on these chips is excellent when using single thread apps. The performance of the Turbo mode is better than the 1366 socket brothers and sisters. If you’re an avid overclocker, this means nothing, because you’ll likely have that option turned off to manually handle it.
It’s a beast of a chip that will definitely increase all of your benchmarks in an upgrade form previous technology.
From the Manufacturer
The Intel Core i7-860 processor is the midrange iteration of Intel’s flagship i7 family. It combines the power of four 2.80 GHz computing cores into a single processor, guaranteeing enough processing power for the most demanding applications. With 8 MB of smart cache, the Core i7-860 processor ensures that you get maximum responsiveness from your system, even when several intensive programs run simultaneously. Compatible with motherboards based on the Intel X58 Express chipset, the Core i7-860 processor takes your computing and gaming experience to the next level.
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With four cores in one processor, users will experience better multitasking and multithreaded performance. |
The Intel Core i7-860 processor delivers outstanding performance for demanding tasks. View larger. |
Powerful New Microarchitecture Eliminates Slowdown
With the Intel Core i7-860 processor, Intel engineers have introduced a radical new style of architecture. They replaced the front side bus — a longtime staple of processor design — with a new interconnect technology called Direct Media Interface (DMI). Using DMI, the Core i7-860 processor achieves superior levels of bandwidth, and can use its four computing cores to their maximum potential.
To put it simply, users will enjoy faster and more streamlined processing than ever before. Your computer will handle multiple projects and applications without the slowdown you’d experience with a lesser processor.
Extremely intensive programs like high-definition media editors will run more smoothly and responsively. And you’ll be able to experience next-generation games without frame-rate hiccups and slowdowns.
New Technologies Boost Performance
The Intel Core i7-860 processor also makes use of several other cutting-edge technologies:
- Turbo Boost Technology allows the processor to run up to 133 MHz faster when it’s operating below power/thermal limits.
- Hyper-threading Technology enables more efficient use of processor resources, making the most of highly threaded software like media players and next-generation games.
- Smart Cache Memory increases available RAM resources, leading to less lag while multi-tasking.
Media Editing and Sharing Easier than Ever
Whether editing high-definition videos, touching up family photos, or splicing up music, the Intel Core i7-860 processor provides the processing power needed. The processor’s four cores are optimized to keep up with the most advanced digital editing software. It also accelerates DVD encoding and compression, allowing you to easily share your HD home videos with everyone.
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Unparalleled Gaming Performance
With the advent of next-generation games, PC gaming is more immersive than ever. The latest games are taking advantage of multi-threaded programming, allowing for more realistic graphics, physics, and artificial intelligence (AI). But you’ll need more than just a good graphics card with high GPU output to fully experience all these effects. Underlying the visual realism and advanced AI scripts are thousands of high-speed calculations that your CPU must process.
Fortunately, the Intel Core i7-860 processor is specifically designed to handle these calculations. Using multi-thread architecture, it has the ability to process thousands of graphical characteristics at once, resulting in a smooth and lag-free experience. Intel worked closely with CryTek — the developers of the advanced game engine behind such games as Crysis and Far Cry — to guarantee that gamers have an immersive and lifelike experience.
The Intel Core i7-860 processor is backed by a three-year limited warranty.
| Intel Core i7-800 and Core i5-700 Processor Series | |||
| Core i7-870 Processor | Core i7-860 Processor | Core i5-750 Processor | |
| Processor Frequency | 2.93 GHz | 2.80 GHz | 2.66 GHz |
| Intel Smart Cache | 8 MB | 8 MB | 8 MB |
| Intel Turbo Boost Technology | Single-core performance up to 3.6 GHz | Single-core performance up to 3.46 GHz | Single-core performance up to 3.2 GHz |
| Number of Simultaneous Threads | 8 (With Intel HT Technology) | 8 (With Intel HT Technology) | 4 |
| Processor Integrated Memory Controller | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Number of Memory Channels | 2 (DDR3 1333 MHz) | 2 (DDR3 1333 MHz) | 2 (DDR3 1333 MHz) |
| Intel P55 Chipset Motherboards | DP55KG, DP55SB, DP55WG, DP55WB | DP55KG, DP55SB, DP55WG, DP55WB | DP55KG, DP55SB, DP55WG, DP55WB |
| Socket | LGA1156 | LGA1156 | LGA1156 |
Amazon Kindle DX Leather Cover Fits 9.7″ Display, Latest Generation Kindle DX Sale-$49.99!
August 4th, 2010 by tommy5492461 |
Amazon Kindle DX Leather Cover Fits 9.7″ Display, Latest Generation Kindle DX
Product: Amazon Kindle DX Leather Cover Fits 9.7″ Display, Latest Generation Kindle DX Sale-$49.99! List Price: —- Amazon Price: $49.99 Add to cart to see low price@ Availability: In Stock Usually ships in 24 Hours Free Shipping Available |
Compare Prices on Amazon Kindle DX Leather Cover Fits 9.7″ Display, Latest Generation Kindle DX
- Brand: Amazon
- Model: A00600
- Released on: 2009-06-10
Features
- Official book cover designed by Amazon for Amazon 9.7″ Display, Latest Generation Kindle DX
- Secure 9.7″ Display, Latest Generation Kindle DX in place with patent-pending cover hinge
- Sturdy and stylish genuine black leather exterior protects 9.7″ Display, Latest Generation Kindle DX
- Soft charcoal grey suede interior protects screen from scratches
Good solid cover, comfortable to hold, BE CAREFUL to open cover only from the front, though or it can crack your Kindle!
This is the same cover design that is currently used for the Kindle 2. Since I also own the Kindle 2, I did not hesitate to order this cover again for the Kindle DX. (For the record, I own both which and the cover arrived this morning along with my new Kindle DX)
The thing that made me go for this cover over the M-Edge series is that it has discreet clips that fasten directly into the kindle and are very secure. It is similar to the mechanism that Sony uses for the PRS-505 and I find it very unobtrusive without having to deface the Kindle with velcro etc.
HOWEVER it should be cautioned that this hinge mechanism has the potential to crack your the front faceplate kindle if you do not open the cover from the front (don’t try to open it from the back as the hinge only allows the cover to open fully one way). However, the people that had this problem with the Kindle 2 were reported the problem to Amazon and they replaced the Kindle. I personally have not had this problem, though but it is something to be aware of.
The thing I really like about this cover is the feel of the inside which is what you wind up holding the most while you are reading. It is a very soft luxurious feeling grey flannel. The front cover folds back on itself (like a paperback) so you wind up just holding something that is just as wide as the kindle itself (i.e. not “double-width” like an open binder). The flannel lining sounds like a little thing. However, reading is often about the “curling up with a good book in a cozy chair” experience and the flannel reminds you of your most comfy flannel PJs and the lining adds to that perception.
The leather of the cover, itself is not of great quality but it looks decent. There are also firm foam inserts inside the front and back cover to keep the screen protected.
All in all, I’m very satisfied with the cover.
[NCJAR]
It works well
I wouldn’t call the leather on the cover high quality by any means. To my eyes it looks like cheap leather. However, the cover does what it’s supposed to do well. And there are no cheaper alternatives. There are a couple of sleeves that are cheaper but these leave the DX unprotected when you are reading.
The DX cover has a strong magnet that keeps it shut (no need of straps etc). Also unlike the competing M-edge cover that sells for the same price this locks along the hinge instead of using straps at the four corners which I think lead to a much cleaner and nicer looking interior. The hinge system is very easy to use and I recommend that you don’t buy other covers that don’t have this technology. The DX has a relatively big footprint so I like the minimalist nature of the cover, it doesn’t really increase the footprint of the device any more than it has to and fits nice and tight.
The cover can be folded back completely if you want to read one handed (although the DX is quite heavy and not easy to hold with one hand unless you lean it on your arm).
The interior is a nice soft suede material and feels nice on the hands. This is great when you’ve folded the cover on itself, something that I like to do.
I give it four stars rather than 5 because the look and feel of the leather is not that good, it looks a little plasticky. But this is still, in my mind the best available option as a cover.
nice, much improved
This is a nice simple leather cover that I would recommend. The leather has an attractive texture and the construction and stitching is neat. It does not smell noxiously like the Kindle 2 cover (does have a faint plastic chemical smell, but not that noticeable unless you hold it to your nose).
The biggest improvement comes from the magnets that 1) hold the Kindle to the back cover and 2) keeps cover shut. It doesn’t take a lot of force to open, but holds it shut securely enough in normal situations.
I read the other reviews about the weight of the cover, but disagree. The cover itself is actually fairly light weight. I have a hard time imagine it being any lighter unless it’s made out of a different material or made smaller. It’s basically just leather, thin padding, and a felt-like inner surface plus the magnets and the clasps. While the DX is much heavier than the Kindle 2, most of that weight is from the DX itself and not from the cover.
I like this cover for its simple and understated design. The padding is thin, but thick enough to protect the DX. The felt-like inner surface is soft and won’t scratch the screen or backing.
Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse for Notebooks Black Sale-$63.72!
August 4th, 2010 by tommy5492461 |
Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse for Notebooks Black
Product: Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse for Notebooks Black Sale-$63.72! List Price: $66.99 Amazon Price: $63.72 Add to cart to see low price@ Availability: In Stock Usually ships in 24 Hours Free Shipping Available |
Compare Prices on Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse for Notebooks Black
Simplify life on the road with the ultra-portable Logitech VX Nano Cordless Laser Mouse for Notebooks. It’s always ready for use, thanks to the world’s smallest USB receiver. Plug it into your notebook’s USB port just once, and then forget about it.
- Amazon Sales Rank: #529 in Consumer Electronics
- Color: Black
- Brand: Logitech
- Model: 910-000253
- Platform: Windows
- Format: CD
- Original language: English
- Number of items: 1
- Dimensions: 2.35″ h x 7.10″ w x 8.30″ l, .85 pounds
Features
- Plug-and-forget Nano-receiver: Plug this tiny, unobtrusive receiver into your notebook’s USB port just once and forget about it
- Cordless freedom: Expect a robust wireless connection with advanced 2.4 GHz cordless technology.
- Hyper-fast scrolling: Fly through long documents at hyperspeed with the nearly frictionless scroll wheel, or shift instantly to precise scrolling.
- Laser precision: Experience smoother cursor control on virtually any surface.
- Forward/backward buttons: Effortlessly navigate the Internet with forward and backward buttons.
The Logitech VX Nano - *Almost* Perfect Laptop Mouse; Best For Those With Small Hands
The Logitech VX Nano Laser Mouse is a very good product that fills a big need for mice: a powerful and convenient wireless mouse for mobile use. You can use this mouse for your desktop, but it’s really ideal for your laptop on the go. Sure you can take any mouse with your laptop, but the short receiver, small size and included travel case make this mouse extra portable.
Over the past year of using this mouse, I have come to further appreciate its good features as well as become more aware of its short-comings. This is still one of the better laptop mice you can get, but the size means it will be more ideal for women and smaller children than for men. After using it for hours at a time, I have found that even though I have small hands for a man it’s just not as comfortable as some of the larger models.
PROS:
+ The tiny receiver works great! Leave it in your USB port or store it in your mouse!
+ Great optical mouse lets you use it anywhere; no mouse-pads!
+ The side grips have a nice dimpled texture for moving your mouse in comfort
+ The included buttons (L-click, R-click, forward, back, slow) are just enough for most users
+ The buttons can be reprogrammed, though only the *slow* button behind the scroll is worth possibly changing
+ The LED light on top alerts you to a weak battery and when turned on or off
+ The premium scroll wheel switches from normal to turbo with a quick press; can be used to “click” or “hyper-scroll” for normal to superfast scrolling
+ Nice convenient storage compartment for USB receiver inside the mouse
+ Convenient On / Off button for conserving battery power when not in use
+ The AAA batteries are convenient and will last a few months between replacements
+ Great comfort for those with small hands, like women and teens
+ The mouse works for right and left handers; lefties need to click the forward / back buttons with their ring finger or pinkie
CONS:
- The size of the mouse will be too small for extended use by those with medium sized or larger hands, including most men; might be OK for short stints, but over time it becomes tiresome
- The forward / back buttons are placed in a strange location on the top but still off to the side; this actually is more comfortable with the left hand than the right hand
- Logitech’s Setpoint software is often the source of complaints, though it has improved with updates over the past year
- The lack of extra function keys limits this mouse from power users
- The list price is in the ball-park, but not a great value
INSTALLATION AND SET UP
This mouse generally works upon plugging it in. The software that comes with it allows you to customize the buttons, but for this mouse I didn’t have a need to do that. Only the center button behind the scroll wheel is worth customizing. By default it’s set to *slow scroll* mode where you move your mouse to control the direction and speed of scrolling. The rest of the buttons are standard and probably don’t need to be changed.
FEATURES
This mouse is sleek and fits nicely in your hand. It’s got all the standard buttons, and the scroll button is head over heels above all others. The extra *forward* and *back* buttons are now basically standard requirements.
The VX Nano uses 2 AAA batteries, which means no you can use regular or rechargeable batteries and can replace them when they fail. I burned through my first set after about 3 months of usage. I have found since then that I sometimes need to change batteries every month. Sometimes I can get about 2 months out of a set with light usage.
Even when your batteries are dying, you can squeeze out some more time by switching the batteries or turning the mouse off and on again. Turn it off when it’s not in use to preserve power. The power button is on the underside of the unit. The mouse also comes equipped with a slot to store the USB plug on the bottom.
In fact, the best feature of this mouse is that USB plug, which is almost flush with the back of my computer when plugged in. Most other wireless mice have plugs that stick out 1-2 inches. This receiver only sticks out about a quarter of an inch. This is the first wireless mouse plug I don’t have to worry about forgetting in my laptop. I just toggle it on and off on the bottom and go!
Unfortunately, the forward / backward side keys are in a weird spot, particularly when using this right-handed. You have to move your pointer finger over in such a way as to be uncomfortable. Left-handers can click the forward / back buttons with their ring finger or pinkie, which is much more comfortable. You can even use your middle finger if you are *left-clicking* with it, which is the same as *right-clicking* with your right hand. So if you are ambidextrous, it’s better to use this left-handed.
I found the placement of those buttons to be less than ideal when using either hand. They are so small that it’s difficult to find them, and after not using them much it’s easy to forget they are even there when you need them. They do work a little better left-handed, but in general I wish they were bigger and not so far off to the side.
CONCLUSION
This is a very good mouse that is great for mobile computing. The discrete USB plug makes it convenient for laptop users on the go. The small size means that over time those with medium or large sized hands will want to step up to a larger version. Some may decide that the nano-receiver is not worth the smaller mouse and choose the Logitech MX Revolution Cordless Laser Mouse or the Logitech VX Revolution Cordless Laser Mouse instead. Logitech has been adding to their lineup of mice that use the smaller mini USB receiver. That includes the Logitech V450 Nano Cordless Mouse- Black and the Logitech V550 Cordless Laser Mouse, among others. So unlike at the time I got the VX Nano, you do have other options.
Enjoy!
Logitech VX Nano vs. VX Revolution
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R2G5PN3MSKU3QG I’ve been using both the VX Nano and Revolution for several months now. In the end, I prefer the feel/design of the Revolution.
Here’s why I prefer the Revolution:
- The size is just perfect and easier to get a grip.
- The scroll wheel is also larger/durable - hyperscroll works better.
- Has a real middle button (The Nano uses the middle button to toggle between hyperscroll/regular scroll)
- Two more extra buttons (zoom in/out)
- Back/forward button is located near the thumb (whereas you have to use your index finger for the Nano)
- Uses just one AA battery (The Nano requires two AAA batteries)
- VX Revolution can be suitable for desktop use also.
- USB receiver can be easily stored and removed (for the Nano, you have to open the battery cover to store the receiver [but then again, one really doesn't need to store it for the Nano, since it's already convenient to keep it attached on the laptop forever]
Pros about the Nano:
- Obviously the receiver is the biggest selling point. It’s nice to keep it on the laptop and really just forget about it.
- You can alternate between hyperscroll/regular scroll just by pushing down on the scroll wheel. (However, this could also be a con for some because you end up sacrificing a real middle mouse button. For the Revolution, you have to move a switch on the back of the mouse)
- It comes with a case and USB extender (for desktop use [although the design/size of the Nano is really more for laptops)
- Suitable for both left/right hands. (Left handers were left out [no pun intended] on the Revolution.)
I’m sure most people will find the Hyperscroll really awkward at first; I certainly did. However, once you get used to it, there’s no going back. It ’s just so much better with less effort to scroll than the “old generation” scrolling techniques. It almost makes it feel like your computer becomes faster, since you can navigate long folders, websites (especially forums), and email effortlessly.
My main problem with the Nano, being a much smaller design than the Revolution, is the scroll wheel. The wheel on the Nano is almost half the size of the Revolution. It just doesn’t seem as durable and actually requires more effort to spin. Unfortunately, the hyperscroll on the Nano stopped being so “hyper” after awhile. The hyperscroll is supposed to spin the mouse wheel continuously with just one thrust of the wheel. However, it only spins for about a second now before the wheel stops completely (for the Nano). I sent it back to Logitech and it was a painless effort to get a new replacement (they even paid for postage). I was happy with getting a new Nano with a working hyperscroll again. However, after a few weeks of using it, I’m getting the same problem again. Logitech really should look into this design flaw. Whatever the mechanism part is, which allows the hyperscroll (many seem to state it is the small rubber ring inside), seems to not last the test of time. I’ve yet to have this problem with the VX Revolution (I guess the larger rubber rings last a little longer?).
Both has it’s pros and cons, but in the end, I really prefer the Revolution. If you plan on using the mouse for laptop and desktop, definitely go for the Revolution (assuming you’re right handed) - no question. Ultimately, it would be great to have a VX Revolution mouse with the nano receiver (and for the hyperscroll to last forever).
Not enough superlatives! (One problem with a MacBook)
If you’ve ever had to replace your computer mouse, then you know that Logitech covers a wide range of the market, from wireless to corded, from tiny to ergonomic, from no-frills to bells-and-whistles. The VX Nano Cordless was designed specifically for use with laptops, although it can be used on desktops.
The “Nano” refers not to the size of the mouse (it is *not* one of those ultra-portable mini mice) but of the wireless USB transmitter. When plugged in, the transmitter extends a mere 1/4 inch; you can leave it attached, slip your notebook into your case, and carry it away without worrying about snapping it off. If you choose not to leave it attached, the mouse itself has a storage compartment underneath that locks in place so you don’t lose it. The mouse itself is 3 3/4 inches long, with contoured, rubberized sides for a comfortable grip. The mouse might prove to be too small for large hands, although most people won’t want anything larger for their laptops. It beats the mini mouse I have and rarely use.
The tracking sensitivity of the mouse is excellent, and the scrolling feature is lightning quick. Although you can plug in the Nano and start using it right out of the box, you need to download the installation software to take advantage of the more advanced features such as internet search (really cool!) and browser back/forward at a touch. (Mac users have to download the appropriate installation software at the Logitech site, while Windows users can use the enclosed CD.)
The VX Nano comes with two AAA batteries, a soft case, a Windows installation CD, and an adapter for desktop use. The adapter is primarily for computers that do not have a USB connector at desk level; it consists of a USB connector at the end of a cord, with a port for the transmitter. The port is lightweight and can be easily skewed by accident, but its flat bottom keeps it from tipping over. I have an older Mac desktop, with a low-speed USB port on the keyboard, and I was able to plug the transmitter directly into the keyboard to use the mouse.
This device works as well on my MacBook as it does on a Windows laptop. Going online to download the Mac driver doesn’t take any longer than it does to slip a CD into the drive and install from there. The only flaw I discovered occurred when I opened the back of the mouse while the transmitter was still plugged into my laptop’s USB port, which turned off the mouse power; my laptop displayed a message that it needed to be rebooted, and the screen was completely frozen, disabling the normal restart/shut down menus. I learned quickly that I had to remove the transmitter *before* opening the storage/battery door.
I own two other Logitech mice, but this is by far my favorite. However, no-nonsense laptop users who plan to navigate documents only might find this mouse too pricey. I, however, have already packed mine in my laptop case, where it will travel from home to work and back again.
Sandisk 32GB ULTRA SDHC SD Card Class 4 SDSDH-032G Hassle Free Packaging Review.
August 4th, 2010 by tommy5492461|
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Sandisk 32GB ULTRA SDHC SD Card Class 4 SDSDH-032G Hassle Free Packaging Review.
List Price: $149.99 Amazon Price: $89.99 |
Sandisk 32GB ULTRA SDHC SD Card Class 4 SDSDH-032G Hassle Free Packaging Description:
When speed really matters, serious photographers choose SanDisk Ultra II SDHC. So fast, you’ll never miss a shot. So rugged, environmental conditions are never a problem.. This card is perfect for advanced photographers who require high-performance cards to quickly shoot many high-resolution images. It is ideal for photos of moving cars or trains, sporting events, sprinting animals or any other event that requires fast snapshot and recovery time.In advanced cameras, these cards have been developed to save large image files to the card as quickly as possible so the camera will be ready to take the next picture.This memory card comes in easy open packaging that minimizes using PVC and difficult-to-open plastic blister packs normally found in traditional retail packaging. (This card is not in a retail package)
- Brand: SanDisk
- Model: SDSDH-032G-bulk
Features
- The most popular, most compatible memory format for digital cameras
- Get the best from your high end camera or camcorder with better performance and higher storage capacities
- Fast read/write speeds of up to 15MB/second
- Ensures all your memories are a safe and secure
Customer Reviews:
Sandisk 32GB ULTRA SDHC SD Card
To date, the Sandisk 32GB ULTRA SDHC SD Card is the largest SD Card available for space-conscious users. This card will work well for simple powershot cameras, recorders, mp3 players, and much more. In fact, we use this card specifically with a Canon EOS Rebel T1i 15.1 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 3-Inch LCD and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens.
Unfortunately, this model is 15MB/s, which is rather slow for higher-capacity devices, like the Edirol R-09HR High-Resolution WAVE/MP3 Recorder. When using this device, we used to get the message, “Memory Card Slow.” However, after switching to a faster card, such as the 30MB/s, which is offered at 16GB: SanDisk 16gb Extreme® III 30MB/s Edition SDHC High Performance Card, our recorder worked perfectly. Note that most electronic devices will not encounter slow-errors, but the possibility was worth mentioning.
San Disk sdhc class 4 card for use in hd camcorder
I used this card in my canon vizio HD camcorder. I had only great video and pictures with no problems at all. I would recommend this card highly for anyone wanting to use it for video or still photos.
Lots of room & dependable too
I’ve never once had any issues with any sandisk cards. Never had any pictures or videos lost. I bought this because I intend to increase the amount of video I shoot. I thought the price was right for the quality I’ve always gotten.
Update 4/15/2010
I used this card on a recent trip to Disney World. I recorded full parades, illuminations, the festival of the lion king and the Osborne family spectacle of dancing lights. This was used in my Canon Powershot sx10is. All videos and pictures turned out just fine. I’ve never had any problems using any sandisk ultra 2 cards.
Belkin Laptop Sling Bag Jet/Cabernet Review.
August 3rd, 2010 by tommy5492461|
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Belkin Laptop Sling Bag Jet/Cabernet Review.
Compare & Purchase Belkin Laptop Sling Bag Jet/Cabernet at Amazon by clicking here! List Price: $49.99 Amazon Price: $23.95 |
Belkin Laptop Sling Bag Jet/Cabernet Description:
Take the traditional back pack to the next level with a slim sling bag. The Sling Bag has compartments for everything from pens, business cards, credit cards, power supply and your other notebook accessories. Also, there is a separate removable pouch for your power supply coordinates with your bag and contrasts for easy identification. The cell phone pocket provides quick access while providing protection with plush scratch-free fabric whereas the shoulder strap and back-side of the sling bag has extra padding and breathable mesh for maximum support and comfort. A SnapClip is used that allows quick access to your sling bag. There is also a convient headphone grommet that provides access to your MP3 player while keeping it safe and stored in a secure pocket. The Sling Bag also features a plush fabric in the notebook compartment to prevent scratches and damage to your notebook’s surface.
- Color: Jet/Cabernet
- Brand: Belkin
- Model: F8N052-BR
- Format: CD
- Original language: English
- Number of items: 1
- Dimensions: 6.00″ h x 14.00″ w x 17.00″ l, 2.10 pounds
Features
- Fully padded compartment keeps your laptop isolated and safe from bumps and scratches
- Fits laptops with screens 15.4 inches or smaller
- Available in two colors: jet/cabernet and chocolate/blue
- Separate pouch inside stores your power cords and other accessories; cell phone compartment on shoulder strap
- Exterior dimensions: 18 x 12.5 x 5 inches; notebook compartment dimensions: 17 x 11.5 x 2 inches
Customer Reviews:
Lightweight but with plenty of utility
I originally went looking for a neoprene case for my laptop to make it easier to lug back and forth from work. However, I’m glad that I stumbled across a recommendation about this bag somewhere on a web user forum, because this bag is excellent. It provided me all the weight savings I was looking for, without forcing me to make compromises about storage pockets or a shoulder strap, and it did it all without costing an arm and a leg. The bag is very lightweight; it weighs next to nothing on its own (though obviously a bit more than a plain neoprene case with only a handle and no pockets). It fits my MacBook Pro perfectly, and the included power supply carrying case is a nice touch. Inside the bag, there are plenty of pockets for pens, business cards, USB flash drives, etc. I can fairly easily carry a couple of spiral-bound notebooks with my laptop and power cord, but the bag really isn’t meant to carry tons of stuff. The point I want to make is that if you want to carry your laptop *and* accessories, you can, which is more than can be said of most lightweight slim bags. The shoulder strap is fairly comfortable, and padded, and has a standard clip to facilitate easier removing of the bag rather than pulling it over your head. Unfortunately, the included pocket on the strap is too tight for me to put my iPhone in it, and I think the only thing that would fit comfortably is a RAZR or something smaller. I will point out that I’ve never had a bag fit me quite so nicely. I honestly think I could jog somewhere with my laptop on my back, and not feel awkward that I’m struggling to keep the bag on my back. I do agree with some of the other reviewers that there were a few stray threads here and there, but nothing I would consider to be a problem, and at $44, I’m willing to overlook that regardless. Overall, in my opinion, this bag rocks, and I wish it were easier to find in stores so that more people would know about it. You should get this bag if you’re looking for a lightweight bag with room for a few extra things and like the idea of a sling strap.
Not for the well-endowed.
I love the bag itself. It is compact and the laptop, cord and mouse fit in nicely with enough room left over for a book or two. Not huge like other backpacks I have seen. I didn’t like the “sling” feature as much as I thought I would. It was awkward to hold just over the shoulder unless you put it on properly which is to unclip it and put it around your left shoulder and clipping under your right arm. I am rather large busted and this was extremely uncomfortable and quite frankly, hilarious looking on me! I returned this bag for Belkin Laptop Backpack which is exactly the same bag, except two straps instead of the one sling strap.
Just right….trendy and well made.
Exactly what it should be, a stylish, padded shoulder-tote for a laptop. Comes with several small but useful inner pockets and a neat little bag to put the AC adaptor in.
But the the bag is not really designed for too much more than laptop and adaptor. You can fit in a mouse and some papers, but a real backpack or large laptop bag would be better if you need to carry a lot of stuff. Because it’s only got one strap, a heavy load could cause some backstrain if you are prone to that. Consider it a more a portable bag for “quick-toting”.
Amazon.com Product Description
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Slide your laptop into the padded interior. There’s still plenty of room leftover! View larger. |
With a unique design, the Belkin Laptop Sling Bag (Jet/Cabernet) protects your computer and offers a large storage capacity in a small and light bag. The Sling Bag is a traditional-style backpack for exceptional comfort but has extra features that make it geared for the mobile professional. A fully padded compartment can hold up to a 15.4-inch computer and keeps it isolated and safe from bumps and scratches. A separate, removable pouch holds power adapters and cables.
Belkin’s Made-for-You organization provides a place for all of your essentials, including MP3 players, cell phones, pens, and business cards, as well as other accessories. The bag is made of a high-quality 100-percent polyester fabric that is durable and weatherproof, and features contrasting colors for an elegant look, and the strap and back panel use a breathable fabric that maintains comfort even when it gets hot.
The bag features a Quick Release shoulder strap, making it quick and easy to take off the bag. For added convenience, the shoulder strap features a built-in phone compartment. Attention to detail can be seen in the headphone cord grommet and the zippers that have molded, easy-to-grip pulls that match the color of the bag. The Belkin Laptop Sling Bag is backed by Belkin’s Lifetime Warranty. The bag is available in two colors: jet/cabernet and chocolate/tourmaline.
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| Take your fun and work with you wherever you go. A smaller pouch for essentials also is included, and the back panel is made of breathable fabric. | ||