Backup your blog

Related Utility: Blog2Blog
This tool migrates a blog from online line Blog systems. It uses the public API of LiveJournal, Blogger, WordPress, and Spaces to extract data and create equivalent entries in a different account.

Back up blogger/blogspot blogs - Content Text and Images
Easy Way
Blogger Backup
Google System Article
Hard Way
Blogger Help Article

Back up Wordpress blogs - Content Text and Images

Mcdermott's article Tutorial WordPress: How to Backup Wordpress To backup your database you can either opt to do it the easy way or the hard way. This tutorial details methods both and lets you decide which option to use. Easy Option 1. Down Backup plug-in Download the back plug-in from here 2. Upload Plug-in to your Plug-ins folder Unzip the file and ftp the folder to your Word-press Plug-ins folder 3. Log-in to Site Admin To check that the Plug-in has been successfully installed log-in to Site Admin and activate the Plug-in from the Plug-in’s Tab 4. Configure Backups From the main menu select the Manage menu tab and then select the Backup sub menu. From here you configure and add any extra tables into the backup and also select a location for the backup file 5. Go ahead and backup Click backup and when asked choose a location to save the zip file (if you opted to download the file to your computer as most people will do) 6. BLOG Backed up Congratulations you have backed up your BLOG Hard Option 1. Download all files Download all the files in your Word-press installation folder by using an FTP programme such as filezilla 2. Select database in phpMyAdmin Access your phpMyAdmin account and select your database (make sure you are selecting the correct sql database for your Word-press BLOG) 3. Export database Click “Export” to get a copy of your database paying attention to the Word-press tables, making sure they are all there 4. Configure Export options Under the section called Structure tick: * Add Drop Tables * Add AUTO_INCREMENT * Enclose table and field names with backquotes Under the section called Data make sure nothing it ticked 5. Download sql database Select to save the file wherever you would like to download it too Congratulations you have backed up your Word-Press BLOG. Remember to repeat this procedure often ! VIA

Back up Typepad blogs - Content Text and Images

Typepad Help Article It is a good idea to periodically back up your account content, including weblog posts, TypeLists, images and files. While TypePad does have some tools available to help, you may want to take a few extra steps to ensure your backup is complete. Backing Up Your Weblogs TypePad features an Export tool that allows users to download their weblog posts as a plain-text file. This is the most important aspect of backing up your weblogs. You can find more information on this in Exporting Your Weblog Content. Exporting your weblog content does not backup any of the templates associated with your account or files inserted into your posts. There is not a way to backup Basic templates currently, but users with Advanced Templates may want to copy and paste their existing templates into new text files. Files that have been uploaded in weblog posts are available via the File Manager in Control Panel > Files. Click through your weblog's folder and look for the "files" folder. From there, you can right click and "Save target as" on each file's link to download the file to your computer. Backup your blog 1. Log in to your TypePad account. 2. Click on the name of one of your blog accounts (or the only one). You should now be at this location: TypePad home > Your Weblogs > [Blog name]. 3. Above the blog name towards the top of the page, you'll see a row of links. The one you're looking for says "Import/Export."Click on that. 4. Location: TypePad home > Your Weblogs > [Blog name] > Post > Import/Export. 5. Scroll to the very bottom of the page, where you'll see a link called "Export Posts from your TypePad Weblog: [blog name]." 6. In Windows, right click on that link and choose "Save link as..." (Firefox) or "Save target as..." (Internet Explorer). 7. Choose a place on your compouter to save the file. 8. The file downloads, and you're done. A couple of things to note. The default filename the backup has is post.htm. If you get a similar name, you'll need to do at least one thing - change the file extension to .txt as it's not an HTML file, just plain text. Then you'll likely want to give the file a more meaningful name. Lastly, you may want to save copies of the pages themselves as an additional backup. Go to each of the archive pages in your browser and go to File > Save As > Web Page Complete to save copies to your computer. This can include any files in your posts depending on your settings when saving your pages. You may want to try using a third-party extension or tool that can automate this task for you. Here are a few links that can be helpful: * ScrapBook: a Mozilla Firefox extension. * GetLeft: a PC utility. * Site Sucker: a Mac utility. Backing Up Your TypeLists As with posts, you can also export your TypeList content to an OPML file. You are able to export notes from Links, People, Albums and Books TypeLists. The exception in this case is Notes TypeLists. There is not a way to export your items at this time but it may be helpful to copy and paste all notes into a text file for future reference. You can find more information under Exporting TypeList Content. Backing Up Your Photo Albums Currently there is not a way to easily backup your Photo Albums. To work around this, view each page in your browser and from the browser menu go to File > Save As > Web Page Complete to save copies of each page to your computer. The best option right now is to keep copies on your computer of photos you upload so that you can upload them again if need be. Restoring Your Content To restore your posts, you can Import your previously created Export file back into TypePad. You can find more about this in Importing Weblog Content. This option would only import the text of your posts though. You can refer to your previously saved pages to recreate your templates. For TypeLists, you can also import them using your previously created export files. You can find more on this under Importing TypeList Content. Finally, for your Photo Albums, you can upload your images again. A speedier solution may be to upload your photos in a zip file or using uploading tools available for both Windows and OS X. Blurb Blurb is a service that allows you to publish a book that contains your weblog content.

Back up blogs and websites on your own Windows computers or Mac Computers with Free software offline browser-

For Mac OS X users. Download this free application called WebGrabber. WebGrabber is a utility that you can use to mirror, copy, synchronize, download, scrub or "steal" a web site. (Be sure to check the "Stay on specified site" box so you don't go downloading every page you link to from your blog, too.) For Windows users. Download this free application called HTTrack WebSite Copier. HTTrack is a free (GPL, libre/free software) and easy-to-use offline browser utility. It allows you to download a World Wide Web site from the Internet to a local directory, building recursively all directories, getting HTML, images, and other files from the server to your computer.

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Iomega ScreenPlay Multimedia

Iomega ScreenPlay 360 & 500 GB USB Multimedia Drive (Standard)(Picture)
New Iomega ScreenPlay Multimedia Drive Brings Digital Content to Any TV or A/V System With No Computer Needed

Iomega® ScreenPlay™ Multimedia Drive is a portable hard drive with built-in multimedia playback capability that makes it a digital media jukebox for photos, songs and video files that can be used with virtually any TV or A/V receiver-without the need for a computer.

When connected to a TV or A/V system, the ScreenPlay Multimedia Drive becomes the media jukebox of the digital age. It streams popular video formats directly to TV via its S-Video or composite video connectors; compatible with the latest media formats such as MP3, AC3 (Dolby® Digital Encoding), WAV, WMA, MPEG-1, MPEG-2 (AVI/VOB), MPEG-4 (AVI/DiVX 3.11, 4.x, 5.x/XViD) and JPEG. It also can handle JPEG photos of up to 8 megapixel resolution, motion JPEG files at 15 or 30 frames per second (digital camera movies), and MP3 digital audio files.

Pocket-Sized Mobile 60 Gigabyte Drive Adds Portability to Digital Video, Music, Photo Albums and Work Files (Picture above)60GB Iomega ScreenPlay is the pioneer release in November 15, 2005SPECS HERE

Iomega ScreenPlay Pro (Picture above}More
The Iomega ScreenPlay™ Multimedia drive can be purchased at www.iomega.com or from select online and web retailers.
360GB ScreenPlay™
500GB ScreenPlay™ HD
Iomega ScreenPlay Digital AV player - HD 60 GB
Iomega ScreenPlay Pro Multimedia Drive 750 GB

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FlashPoint ShareDrive

ShareDrives
USB flash drives are a new wave in portable data storage. ShareDrives takes this technology one step further…….data on FlashPoint pen Drives can be copied from one pen drive to another. With the ShareDrives technology a user does not need a computer, laptop or palm computer to copy files on the go. Upload and download files and folders from a thumbdrive to a ShareDrive. Unlike existing pen drives, ShareDrives do have a battery integrated inside…….this provides the power to transfer data from one ShareDrive to another ….but it is an extremely small battery which occupies virtually no room in the pen drive.




SharePlayersThe enhanced FlashPoint SharePlayer can be used for MP3 audio books, and for many other applications as class assignments, legal documents or in the process of learning a foreign language.

With the MP3 SharePlayer by Xmultiple, the user connects their device directly to another users MP3 Player without the need for a PC. The MP3 SharePlayer has components no other MP3 possesses. Now, as never before, a user can upload and download songs straight form the MP3 Player to another MP3 Player without a computer or electrical outlet.

Attach ShareDrives/SharePlayers to digital camera's and cellphones which are USB enabled. ShareDrives work With All types of USB Devices

The FlashPoint not only has the capabilities to down-load to another flash drive. It can also be used to transfer (dump) files from a host of peripheral products, one being digital cameras. If you are at the maximum capacity of your cameras memory, just plug the FlashPoint into the camera and hit the transfer button. All files would be down-loaded (dumped) into the FlashPoint. This gives the user the flexibility to do whatever is needed with these files using a standard USB connection.The Motorola E680 cellphone has a USB inteface and can be directly attached and used with FlashPoint ShareDrives. View your pictures on the E680 and then download them onto a FlashPoint ShareDrive via a USB connector. No need for a PC and no need for an electrical outlet.

Possible Applications:

- The ability to exchange MP3 files with other MP3 players.
- Copy photos from your digital camera's USB port. Freeing up camera memory needed.
- Download pictures/data from a USB enabled cell phone.
- Transfer files between the FlashPoint SharePlayer and another USB flash or micro memory drive via the FlashPoint's connectivity, all without the aid of a computer.
- View which files you wish to transfer from the SharePlayer or you wish to copy from another drive. All transfer information seen through the SharePlayer's LCD screen using our SOTG technology.
- Supports MP3 & WMA file formats.
- Supports e-books. Book mark your chapter or page for later listening.
- Solid state, NAND flash memory (no HDD crashing or power issues.)
- Built-in FM receiver.
- Record FM broadcasts.
- Re-charging of its lithium battery through a standard USB connection.
- Combination of MP3 Player, USB Bridge and Flash Memory drive, all rolled up into one.
SharePlayer Brochure
SharePlayer Specifications
Xmultiple Worldwide
FlashPoint ShareDrive Online Purchase
Contact Infomation

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The Economist Series

The Economist is a weekly news and international affairs publication owned by “The Economist Newspaper Ltd” and edited in London, UK. It has been in continuous publication since September 1843. Although printed in London, in the USA (where it is largely sold) this publication is reputed to be the best in its field.



Continue at The Economies Series 2 for May 30th 2009 edition onwards.

* Print edition May 23rd 2009
Good news from India
The voters of the world's
biggest democracy have given
their government a precious
second chance.

* Print edition May 16th 2009
Three trillion dollars later
There is no single big remedy
for the banks' flaws. But better
rules—and more capital—could
help.

* Print edition May 9th 2009
Europe's economies
A new pecking order

* Print edition May 2nd 2009
The pandemic threat
How scared should you be?

* Print edition April 25th 2009
A glimmer of hope?
The worst thing for the world economy would be
to assume the worst is over:

* Print edition April 18th 2009
Africa's next Big Man
If Jacob Zuma avoids becoming a caricature of African leadership, he could
change the whole continent for the better:

* Print edition April 11th 2009
A concern without thermonuclear weapons
A nuclear-free concern haw never become about, but there crapper be country in trying:

* Print edition April 4th 2009
Under attack
Going for the bankers is tempting for politicians?and dangerous for everybody else

* Print edition March 28th 2009
Learning the hard way Barack Obama may at last be getting a grip. But he still
needs to show moreleadership, at home and abroad.

* Print edition March 21st 2009
How China sees the world
And how the world should see
China.

* Print edition March 14th 2009
The jobs crisis
It's coming, whatever governments do; but they can make it better or worse.

* Print edition March 07th 2009
How to stop the drug wars
Prohibition has failed; legalisation is the least bad solution.

* Print edition February 28th 2009
The bill that could break up Europe
If eastern Europe goes down, it may take the European Union with it.

* Print edition February 21st 2009
The collapse of manufacturing
The financial crisis has created an industrial crisis. What should governments do about it?
Extra: Audio Section: 1) The world this week - Politics
2) The world this week - Business

* Print edition February 14th 2009
To the rescue: The trouble with Obama's plan.
This week marked a huge wasted opportunity in the economic crisis.
Extra: Audio Section: 1) The world this week - Politics
2) The world this week - Business

* Print edition February 07th 2009
The return of economic nationalism
A spectre is rising. To bury it again, Barack Obama needs to take the lead.

* Print edition January 24th 2009
Inside the banks
Blank cheques, bankruptcy,nationalisation: the options
are dire, but governments must choose between them.

* Print edition January 17th 2009
Renewing America
George Bush has left a dismal legacy, but Barack Obama can
do much to repair the damage.

* Print edition January 10th 2009
The hundred years' war
How growing rejectionism, the rise of religion, a new military doctrine and a new cold war keep peace at bay.

* Print edition January 3rd 2009
Gaza: the rights and wrongs
Israel was provoked, but as in Lebanon in 2006 it may find this war a hard one to end, or to justify.

* Print edition December 20th 2008
Why we love music
Biologists are addressing one of humanity's strangest attributes, its all-singing, all-dancing culture.

* Print edition December 13th 2008
China and India
Asia's two big beasts are shivering. India's economy is weaker, but China's leaders
have more to fear.


* Print edition November 29th 2008
Terror in India
A dangerous new front-line in the global war against terrorism.

* Print edition November 22nd 2008
All you need is cash.
The increasingly desperate search for the stuff is changing modern management—not
always for the better.

* Print edition November 15th 2008
Redesigning global finance.
Government leaders cannot rewrite the rules this weekend. But they can still do some
useful things.

* Print edition November 8th 2008
Great expectations Barack Obama has won a famous victory. Now he must use it wisely.

* Print edition November 1st 2008
It's time America should take a chance and make Barack Obama the next leader of the free world.

* Print edition October 25th 2008
Into the storm
How the emerging world copes with the tempest will affect the world economy and politics for a long time.

* Print edition October 18th 2008
Capitalism at bay
What went wrong and, rather more importantly for the future, what did not.

* Print edition October 11th 2008
Saving the system
At last a glimmer of hope, but more boldness is needed to
avert a global economic catastrophe.

* Print edition October 4th 2008
World on the edge
Whatever happens in Congress, the crisis is now global; that means governments must work together.

* Print edition September 27th 2008
I want your money
No government bail-out of the banking system was ever going to be pretty. This one
deserves support.

* Print edition September 20th 2008
What next?
Global finance is being torn apart: it can be put together again.

* Print edition September 13th 2008
Cancer and stem cells
A theory linking cancer to stem cells offers hope; it also shows the value of general scientific research.

* Print edition September 6th 2008
Europe stands up to Russia
The European Union has wobbled woefully, but Russia too will eventually lose from its Georgian adventure.

* Print Edition August 30th 2008
Bring back the real McCain
The Republican candidate is fighting hard, but he needs to do more to separate himself from George Bush

* Print Edition August 23rd 2008
The hard road ahead
Barack Obama still has a lot todo

* Print Edition August 16th 2008 Russia Resurgent
The war in Georgia is a victory for Russia. The West's optionsare limited, but it needs topursue them firmly.

* Print Edition August 9th 2008 Speaking truth to power
Alexander Solzhenitsyn's example—and the heirs who failed him.

* Print Edition August 2nd 2008China's dash for freedom
China's rise is a cause for celebration—but despite the Beijing Olympics, not
because of them.

* Print Edition July 26th 2008Unhappy America
If America can learn from its problems, instead of blaming others, it will come back
stronger.

* Print Edition July 19th 2008Twin twisters
The financial crisis claims another two victims—and once again the taxpayer picks up
the pieces

* Print Edition July 12th 2008Club Med
The Mediterranean, north and south, is forming a single economic unit. Europe should
make it a powerful one

* Print Edition July 5th 2008What a way to run the world.
Global institutions an outdated muddle; the rise of Asia makes their reform a priority for the West


* Print Edition June 28th 2008The meaning of Bill Gates.
As Bill Gates' reign at Microsoft comes to an end, so does the era he dominated


* Print Edition June 21st 2008The future of energy.
A fundamental change is coming sooner than you might think: leader


* Print Edition June 14th 2008Iraq starts to fix itself.
The gains are fragile, but Iraq is doing a lot better than it was only a few months ago.


* Print Edition June 7th 2008America at its best.
The primaries have left the United States with a decent choice; now it needs a proper debate about policies.



* Print Edition May 31st 2008Recoil. Painful though it is, this oil shock will eventually spur enormous change. Until then, beware the hunt for scapegoats


* Print Edition May 24th 2008Inflation's back...but not where you think
Double-digit price rises are about to afflict two-thirds of the world's population

* Print Edition May 17th 2008 Barbarians at the vault Western finance is under attack. Yet the banking system has done much better than itis given credit for

* Print Edition May 10th2008On the cover Barack Obama deserves the nomination;
it is not yet clear whether he deserves the presidency

*Print Edition May 3rd 2008 On the cover: The recent glimpses of a resentful, snarling China should scare the country's government as much as the world

*Print Edition April 26th 2008 On the cover: The Gulf countries are
managing their wealth better during this oil boom than they did during the last one:

*Print Edition April 19th 2008 On the cover: Why food is in crisis—and what
to do about it:

*Print Edition April 12th 2008 On the cover: America's recession may not
be as severe as many fear, but the recovery could take longer—and that is dangerous:

*Print Edition April 5th 2008 On the cover: Fixing finance-Crises are endemic to financial systems. Attempts to regulate them away may do more harm than good:
*Print Edition March 29th 2008 On the cover: All Change?-Whether it is Clinton, McCain or Obama, the world will still quarrel with America:
*Print Edition March 22th 2008 On the cover: Wall Street-
What went wrong in the financial system—and the long, hard task of fixing it:
* Print Edition March 15th 2008 On the cover: The New Colonialists- China's hunger for natural resources is causing more problems at home than abroad:
*Print Edition March 8th 2008 On the cover: What's holding India Back-India's achievement is at risk because it has failed to reform its public sector:
* Print Edition March 1st 2008 On the cover: The Trouble with Russia's Economy- Russia's new president, Dmitry Medvedev, faces an unpalatable legacy:

Lessons From Credit Crunch The Economist

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Lessons From Credit Crunch The Economist

The subprime mortgage crisis is an ongoing economic problem manifesting itself through liquidity issues in the banking system owing to foreclosures which accelerated in the United States in late 2006 and triggered a global financial crisis during 2007 and 2008. The crisis began with the bursting of the US housing bubble and high default rates on "subprime" and other adjustable rate mortgages (ARM) made to higher-risk borrowers with lower income or lesser credit history than "prime" borrowers. Loan incentives and a long-term trend of rising housing prices encouraged borrowers to assume mortgages, believing they would be able to refinance at more favorable terms later. However, once housing prices started to drop moderately in 2006-2007 in many parts of the U.S., refinancing became more difficult. Defaults and foreclosure activity increased dramatically as ARM interest rates reset higher. During 2007, nearly 1.3 million U.S. housing properties were subject to foreclosure activity, up 79% versus 2006. As of December 22, 2007, The Economist estimated subprime defaults would reach a level between U.S. $200-300 billion
VIA

The Economist October 20th 2007
PDF | 2.4MB Download Mirror

The Economist is a weekly news and international affairs publication owned by “The Economist Newspaper Ltd” and edited in London, UK. It has been in continuous publication since September 1843. Altough printed in London, in the USA (where it is largely sold) this publication is reputed to be the best in its field.


Economic View: U.S. mortgage market woes just the latest cautionary tale about debt March 20, 2007


Mortgage market needs $1 trillion, FBR estimates
Without that, prices of securities will fall, raising interest rates on home loans
March 7, 2008

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DivX Pro

DivX Pro for Windows is a package that includes utilities, and documentation that you need to play DivX files, the DivX Pro Codec, DivX Player, DivX Web Player and the DivX Converter, providing all you need to create, play, manage and burn DivX videos. The most advanced version of DivX® video compression technology, the DivX Pro™ codec includes a suite of powerful encoding tools enabling the highest levels of visual quality, compression and control. DivX Pro plugs into your video software to produce high-quality movies (at one-tenth the size of a DVD) for viewing on your PC or, with DivX® Certified DVD players, right on your TV.




What's new in the latest DivX Codec:
» Up to 12% faster decoding for smoother playback
» Over 10% faster encoding in “Insane” mode
» Up to 7% better compression for HD capture in "Fastest" mode
» Experimental support for SSE4 on new Intel Penryn CPUs

=== This DivX Pro package includes ===

DivX Codec (6.8.0):
• Play and create DivX video files with 3rd party applications
• Encode videos at resolutions up to 1080p
• Enjoy smooth playback of HD video

DivX Player (6.6.0):
• Play every DivX file ever created (just not all at once)
• Optimized for DivX HD and interactive DivX media files
• Ear drum rocking surround sound
• Upload videos directly to DivX Stage6

DivX Converter (6.5.1) (including the MPEG-2/DVD plug-in):
• Drag and drop your videos into DivX video in one step
• Create videos with menus, subtitles and other advanced features
• Batch convert multiple files into DivX video
• Create DivX videos to play on more than 90 million DivX Certified devices

DivX Web Player (1.3.1):
• Play DivX video in your web browser
• Post DivX videos directly on a web page
• Experience cinema-style PC viewing with the desktop dimmer
• Watch DivX videos with subtitles and multiple audio tracks

Homepage: http://www.divx.com
DivX Pro 6.8.0.19 part1
DivX Pro 6.8.0.19 part2

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NOD32 Antivirus with ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite

NOTE-ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite works great with NOD32.Tested and these two antiviruses are friendly to each other stopping EVERY VIRUS,MALWARE,SPYWARE THERE IS!!Zone Alarm improve their AntiVirus protection buying license from KASPERSKY.
With NOD32 and this suite you dont have to wory about those threats any more.


NOD32 AntiVirus BUSINESS EDITION (Eset Nod32 Homepage)

Built on the award-winning ThreatSense® engine, ESET NOD32 Antivirus proactively detects and disables more viruses, trojans, worms, adware, phishing, rootkits and other Internet threats than any program available. * Support for Windows 2000/XP/Vista * Full integration with Windows Security Center * Improved graphical interface * Improved cleaning - automatically removes detected threats. * Even faster scanning ESET NOD32 Antivirus provides: ****************************** Proactive Protection ******************** The award winning ThreatSense technology combines multiple layers of detection protecting you from Internet threats before it is too late. Precise Detection ***************** ESET accurately identifies known and unknown threats. It consistently wins top awards from testing labs and is recognized for having zero false positive.1 Lightweight Design ****************** Requires less memory and CPU power, allowing your computer to run fast, making more room for games, web browsing, and emailing. Fast Scanning Speeds: Highly efficient program ensuring fast file scanning and product updates. It runs quietly in the background. Proactive, precise, lightweight and fast. You won’t find a better antivirus program. ******************************************************************************************************************* ******************************************************************************************************************* The Business Edition of ESET NOD32 Antivirus is an incredibly scalable solution, accommodating businesses with anywhere from five to hundreds of thousands of seats. It includes all the features and benefits described above, but has additional functionality and flexibility that every growing business requires: Server Installation: ESET NOD32 Antivirus Business Edition may be installed on servers as well as workstations (the Home Edition can only be installed on workstations). This is a critical feature for the competitive business as servers are just as vulnerable to attack as workstations. Should your servers be unprotected, one virus can take down your entire system. Remote Administration: Monitor and administer your security solution from anywhere in the world with the ESET Remote Administrator. This is an absolutely necessary feature for the business with more than one location, or the systems administrator who works remotely or travels. “Mirror” Capability: ESET’s mirror functionality enables your IT administrator to conserve bandwidth by creating an internal update server. This prevents each employee from having to access the Internet for updates, which not only conserves resources, but also reduces overall susceptibility to threats.

ZoneAlarm Internet Security Suite(For VISTA and XP)

ZoneAlarm® Internet Security Suite(For VISTA and XP)Includes antivirus, anti-spyware, anti-spam and anti-phishing, identity theft protection and much more. All enhanced with the world's top rated network/program firewall and operating system firewall. Antivirus(KASPERSKY ENGINE) ********* New engine delivers the best virus protection with significantly enhanced detection and removal capabilities. Hourly signature updates, expanded coverage, and faster detection to find and remove even the most recent and aggressive viruses. -Anti-Spyware ************ More robust detection and removal functions perform deeper scans at every level and purge spyware from your PC. Ability to remove even the most persistent, hard-to-find spyware that infiltrate your PC at the core level -Anti-Spam & Anti-Phishing ************************* Stops spam with automatic spam blocking that automatically adapts to the latest spamming techniques. Protects against phishing emails that attempt to steal your money or identity. -Identity Theft Protection ************************* While ZoneAlarm continues to secure your identity information on your PC, these new Identity Theft Protection services also prevent identity theft over the Internet and even in the physical world. Learn More Stops pre-approved credit card offers, which contain sensitive financial data often used by criminals for identity theft (offered via a credit industry service - US only) Detects theft by monitoring both cyberspace and stolen credit card lists from vendors, consumers, and the underground. Alerts you if your credit cards are stolen Provides a low-cost, public records report to alert you of fraud, such as phony DMV records (US only) Assists identity theft victims with personal telephone counseling to guide them through resolution and recovery (US only) Offers identity theft education and tools to help you prevent, detect and recover from identity theft -Network and Program Firewall **************************** Delivers proactive firewall protection with multiple layers of security that stop inbound, outbound, and program attacks while remaining completely invisible to hackers. Guards the network perimeter from inbound and outbound threats with the world's #1 firewall Prevents spyware and other malicious programs from sending your personal information across the Internet Full stealth mode to keep you concealed from anyone on the Internet Protects your programs from malware -Operating System Firewall (OSFirewall™ ************************************** This additional layer of security prevents hard-to-remove spyware, including rootkits and kernel-level threats, from getting onto your PC and causing damage. Identify and filter over 100,000 applications for constant protection against threats Monitor program installation, registry changes and file access down to your PC's core Monitor additional program actions for more thorough protection Prevents malicious software from damaging files in your core Windows operating system Auto-Learn ********** Allows hassle-free computer operation from the moment of installation by hiding unnecessary security alerts, thereby drastically reducing interruptions during the first two weeks as the product learns the programs you typically use. Automatically configures security settings, and rates threats according to level of potential damage they represent. -Game Mode ********* One-click control temporarily suppresses most security alerts and prevents them from interrupting your fun while maintaining maximum protection for your PC. -Wireless PC Protection ********************** Automatically detects wireless networks and secures your PC from hackers and other Internet threats wherever you're connected - at home or on the road. SmartDefense™ Service Provides your PC with real-time security updates, improved response to breaking spyware threats, and new attack protection capabilities. SmartDefense Advisor automatically adjusts your security settings for maximum protection against the latest virus and spyware outbreaks Includes DefenseNet, an early warning system that gathers data from the ZoneAlarm user community on the latest spyware and malware outbreaks Leverages this vast user knowledge by including it in signature updates that protect your PC from the latest spyware attacks Superior Performance & Compatibility Allows your PC to run quickly and smoothly. Windows 2000/XP Users Also Get: -Spy Site Blocking ***************** Prevents spyware from getting on your PC by blocking its primary source: spyware distribution websites. Blocks you from accidentally visiting or being redirected to websites that distribute spyware Prevents spyware already on your computer from contacting websites to exchange information, give out your personal data, or get updates Privacy Protection Manages and blocks pop-up ads, online profiling, cookies, cache, and scripts so you can surf in peace. -IM Protection ************** Protects your instant messages - even those sent between different services - so they can't be monitored. Secures your IM sessions from spyware and virus infiltration Prevents IM spam Restricts your kids to IM'ing only to known, trusted people -Email Security *************** Quarantines suspicious attachments to help defend against unknown viruses; automatically halts outbound messages to keep you from accidentally infecting others. Parental Control Prevents children from viewing inappropriate content on Web sites. Blocks inappropriate Web sites with over 30 categories to filter including pornography, violence, and freeware Scans uncategorized Web sites before they load onto the Web browser to determine appropriateness

For convenience disable On-Access Scanning & operate on manual scanning. Always remember to manually scan all USB drive first before opening. It always safer to right click to open USB drives instead of double clicking!! Disable Amon in Nod32 the resident (running in operating memory at all times) file system monitor [Untick "Enable automatic startuo of Amon" & enable move newly created infected files to Quarantine. Similarly with ZoneAlarm® Internet Security Suite disable Antivirus (Advanced Options) On-Access Scanning. And enable both Antivirus & Anti-Spyware (in Automatic Treatment) as "Alert me-do not treat automatically"

Download:-
NOD32 AntiVirus BUSINESS EDITION v3.0.621.0. Part1 Part2

Download:-
ZoneAlarm® Internet Security Suite
ZoneAlarm® Internet Security Suite Addon
--- Read Me First
ZoneAlarm® Internet Security Suite Addon Mirror
Download hotfix kb943232 ---When updating ZASS to 8.0 apparently Hotfix kb943232 is required.

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TechSmith Camtasia Studio

Camtasia Studiothe smart, friendly screen recorder and more.Imagine being able to show exactly what's on your screen to anyone, anywhere. Imagine that it's easy. Now you've imagined Camtasia Studio.With the smartest screen recording tools on the planet, Camtasia Studio makes everything from training videos to PowerPoint presentations to lectures look better, reach more people, and pack more punch. Which makes you look even smarter, too.

New in Camtasia Studio 5Streamlined recorder for swifter capture
Streamlined recorder for swifter capture

The streamlined Camtasia Recorder makes selecting an area to record both fast and easy. There's just one button, no confusing choices. And the clever, new crosshairs makes it child's play to select a region, object, window, or the whole screen.

SmartFocus: freedom to capture now, decide later

Don't worry about the final product, just relax and record your whole screen. Camtasia SmartFocus keeps track of where the action happens during your recording. It automatically creates editable zoom-n-pan points that keep the important parts visible with razor-sharp clarity...even if you produce the video for iPod-sized screens. Fully automatic, very freeing. You've never seen anything like this.

ExpressShow: sleek Flash + simpler sharing

Kiss supporting files goodbye. TechSmith ExpressShow creates a single, beautiful Flash SWF file that can be easily embedded into any Web site, blog, or multimedia project. With a glossy thumbnail image, full-screen playback option, and floating table of contents, this is Flash video that makes you look good. Very good.


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Camtasia Studio 5 projects are now edited at 30 frames per second. With more frames to choose from, it’s easier to cut—and keep—precisely what you want, and with greater project stability.
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Camtasia Studio 5 lets bloggers record and publish to Screencast.com, and blog about it in minutes. Or using the built-in FTP support, moving videos to your own server can be just as painless.
An experience you can count on
Now with Project Settings and an accurate preview, you can edit your video and see exactly what it will look like before you produce it. And the new AutoSave protects your edits in the event of a crash.
System Requirements
Camtasia Studio Home
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Related Article: Replay Video Capture

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Nimzy Vibro MAX

Nimzy Vibro MAX
It succeeds the Vibro Blaster by offering more power (claiming 20W RMS instead of 15) and a supplied remote control that includes bass and treble adjustment and a loudness setting.


Digital Info Technology (DIT) debuts the new & powerful Nimzy Vibro MAX that transform flat surface into a speaker. Be amazed!

Place the innocent looking cube on flat surface and be amazed at what it can do! Connected to any sound source, the Nimzy Vibro MAX turns the flat surface into a speaker.

Designed to go beyond conventional speaker technology, the Nimzy Vibro MAX uses an advance patented electro acoustic technology, projecting audio vibrations on to solid surface to produce sound. Crystal clear sound is produced through hard surface like wood, plastic or glass.

Integrating digital amplifier, volume control and on/off buttons all in one tiny cube, the Nimzy Vibro MAX is more powerful than any of its precedent. It comes with a handy slim remote control with adjustable bass, treble and volume.

Exuding an air of elegance, Nimzy Virbo MAX is aluminum alloy encrusted and is available in piano black.

The Technology Behind

Nimzy Vibro Max is composed of Giant Magnetostrictive material which is an alloy mainly composed of terbium, dysprosium and pure iron. It has the ability to generate great magnetostrictive force as they expand and contract under a magnetic field. When a magnetic field is applied, it provides proportional and repetitive expansion in microseconds.

When placed on hard surface such as wood, glass, plastic or acrylic, it projects the vibration to the surface to produce TRUE sound in any frequency.

It's quite amazing how effective it is. If you were to place it on one side of a desk and rest your ear close to the other end it would sound like you're pressing your head against a giant speaker. It's only when you lift the Vibro Max off the surface that you realise how much work it's doing as sound is reduced to a quiet, tinny rattle. There's a distinct 'wow' factor, then, in the capabilities of the device as an innovative new technology, but once the initial excitement has subsided you're going to need good quality sound to do justice to your audio.

Homepage
Related Article:- Nimzy Vibro Blaster the portable speaker

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Nimzy Vibro Blaster the portable speaker

The amazing new Nimzy Vibro Blaster turns any flat surface into a speaker. Hear to believe!
So compact and portable, this amazing small wonder, turns any flat surface into a speaker! With Nimzy Vibro Blaster, bulky speakers become a thing of the past.

Utilizing a patented electro acoustic technology, Nimzy Vibro Blaster transforms sonic signals into sonic mechanical vibrations to produce sound. Boasting better sound quality, it transmits clear sound or music through any flat object, be it wood, stone, plastic or glass.

Attach it to your laptop, MP3 player or any audio devices, Nimzy Vibro Blaster serves as an alternative to earphones or conventional speakers whereby quality of sound is often dependent on the size of speakers.

Pros
Portability.Stick the sucker onto a window, wall, anything flat, and then the Vibro Blaster supposedly rocks the object into musical nirvana. works well with a variety of MP3 players (it makes the perfect partner to the SanDisk e260, especially in black) as well as laptops and it just works well whatever you throw at it.

Cons
Its frequency response is 220-10,000 Hz, which is not exactly high fidelity, but might sound good enough to listen to talk radio. You can get much better sound from traditional fixed speakers at a lot less money.

Homepage

Related Article: Nimzy Vibro MAX

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Desktop vs. Notebook

Notebook (laptop)computer

Mini-tower style desktop computer


Desktops have the advantage over laptops that the spare parts and extensions tend to be standardized, resulting in lower prices and greater availability. Another advantage of desktops is, that power consumption is not as critical in a desk top because a desktop is not powered by a rechargeable battery and there is more space to remove the heat. Due to this, both Intel and AMD manufacture special CPUs for mobile computers (i.e. laptops) with lower power consumption that also have lower performance levels.


Desktop Advantages:-

- Best value: typically, more speed, memory, and storage for a lower price.
- Relatively difficult to steal.
- Lower probability of failure for comparable quality machine vs. notebook.
- Relatively easy to expand or modify as needs change.
- Less costly expansion products such as large hard drives, additional memory, and special purpose cards.
- Flat screen LCD monitors are now reasonably priced, reducing desk space requirements and making storage/shipping easier.

Notebook Advantages:-

- Small System Dimensions
- Takes up little desk space.
- Portability When Required
- If wireless network is available, adding a wireless card provides easy free access network and Internet in many locations . Newer notebook computers may have built-in wireless networking ability.
- Can be shipped to manufacturer or taken to dealer for service.
- Lower Power Consumption


Notebook Disadvantages:-

- Much more easily stolen.
- More easily dropped or broken.
- Somewhat more prone to failure than stationary desktop computers of comparable quality.
- Significantly more expensive for comparable speed and capacity.
- Limited expansion and add-on capabilities.



The Future

The popularity of these smaller systems is growing rapidly, but a shift that is occurring right now. Previously much of the development was from the enthusiast market looking for smaller desktop systems, but this is now dwindling in favor of desktop equivalent notebooks. The real growth is in the mini PC market. The ability to build small brick sized computers that can be hooked into home theaters systems or tucked neatly inside of a desk are what many consumers would like over larger desktop systems.

Power consumption by computers is also becoming a large issue. With energy prices steadily climbing up, the full powered desktop computer systems generally use much more power than the user really needs. With the mini PCs focusing on using energy efficient notebook components to provide solid computing capability without large energy consumption or heat production, they are becoming much more attractive. This is going to greatly benefit the average consumer in the long run.

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Alienware Area-51m15x gaming notebook

Alienware Area-51® m15x – 15.4-inch Widescreen

The most powerful 15.4-inch gaming notebook ever
Laptop Editor's Choice : March 10, 2008

CNET - Area-51 m15x : March 2008
CNET EDITORS' RATING 8.1/10 Excellent

The good: Top-of-the-line components; backlit keyboard is a cool touch; highest resolution we've seen in a 15-inch display; one of the fastest laptops on the planet right now.

The bad: Still not as slick looking as it should be; thick, clunky chassis; touch pad hard to use.

The bottom line: Alienware's amazingly powerful flagship Area-51 m15x has the insides down, but our finicky aesthetic sense isn't sold on the look of this otherwise awesome 15-inch powerhouse of a gaming laptop.

Alienware engineered the Area-51® m15x notebook from the ground up for both performance and portability. Expert design, superior performance and innovative software are only the beginning.
System Highlights

* First 15.4-inch notebook with Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme
* First 15.4-inch notebook with NVIDIA® GeForce™ 8800M GTX
* Up to 4GB of 667MHz DDR2 Memory
* Dual Hard Drives with Smart Bay Technology
* Extreme-High Definition Video (1200p) and HD Audio
* Command Center with AlienFX® Lighting Control
* Stealth Mode Power Management


Alienware USA
Customizable Online
USD1,799.00 package
*15.4" WideXGA+ 1440 x 900 LCD (720p) with Clearview Technology
*Alienware® AlienFX® System Lighting(Color choices)
*256MB NVIDIA® GeForce® 8600M GT
*Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T7100 1.8GHz (2MB Cache 800MHz FSB)[Up to Intel® Core™ 2 Extreme X9000 2.8GHz (6MB Cache 800MHz FSB) [+$900 or $27/mo.] ]
*Windows Vista® Home Premium
*Without Media Center Remote Control or TV Tuner
*2GB Dual Channel DDR2 SO-DIMM at 667MHz – 2 x 1024MB
*160GB 7200 RPM (8MB Cache)
*None Smart Bay(2nd Hard Drive)(Upgradeable)
*8x Dual Layer Burner (DVD±RW, CD-RW)
*Internal Intel® Wireless 4965 a/b/g/Draft-N Mini-Card
*Internal High-Definition Audio with surround sound (Upgradeable to External Creative X-Fi Xtreme Audio Card)
*Exclusively Designed Non-Illuminated Keyboard



Alienware Australia
Customizable Online
Area-51® m15x Ranger

Advantage

* Intel® Core™2 Duo 2.2GHz
* NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GS
* 1 GB 667MHz DDR2 Memory
* Alienware Command Center
* WideXGA+ (1080p) Video and HD Audio

Standard Features

* 7-in-1 Media Card Reader
AUD3,401.88
Before all applicable rebates.
Price is Inc GST and excluding freight.
*15.4" WideUXGA 1920 x 1200 LCD (1080p)
*Alienware® AlienFX® System Lighting(Color choices)
*256MB Nvidia® GeForce™ Go 8600M GS[Up to 512MB Nvidia® GeForce™ Go 8700M GT [ +$174.54 ]]
*Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T9300 2.5GHz (6MB Cache 800MHz FSB)[Up to Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T9500 2.6GHz (6MB Cache 800MHz FSB) [ +$379.69 ]]
*1GB Dual Channel DDR2 SO-DIMM at 667MHz – 2 x 512MB [up to 2GB Dual Channel DDR2 SO-DIMM at 667MHz – 2 x 1024MB [ +$33.26 ]]
*Microsoft® Windows® Vista Home Premium
*80GB 7200RPM HDD SATA
*None Smart Bay(2nd Hard Drive)(Upgradeable)
*8X Dual Layer CD-RW/DVD±RW Burner
*Internal Intel® Wireless 4965 a/b/g/Draft-N Mini-Card
**Internal High-Definition Audio with surround sound (Upgradeable to External Creative X-Fi Xtreme Audio Card [ +$112.31 ])
*Exclusively Designed Non-Illuminated Keyboard

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Maximum PC Magazine January 2008

Download

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Sony A300 and A350 DSLRs

A300 and A350, Sony's First Live View DSLRs

The α350 and α300 D-SLR cameras are available in Asia Pacific from March and April 2008 respectively.The 10-megapixel Sony Alpha A300 will retail for USD699 with the 18-70mm lens. The 14-megapixel Sony Alpha A350 will sell for USD799 body only and USD899 with the 18-70mm lens.

Both feature a Smart Teleconverter fubction for 1.4X and 2X magnification with no reduction in image quality. However, the image file size is reduced though.

The latest additions to Sony’s D-SLR family feature new Quick Auto Focus Live View technology, 2.7-inch variable angle LCD screen and up to 14.2-megapixel resolution.

Unique to Sony, Quick AF Live View technology fuses the convenience of live image previews with Through-The-Lens (TTL) phase-detection autofocusing.

Optional extras include the powerful new HVL-F42AM Flash unit, with wireless control and bounce/tilt head, and the VG-B30AM Vertical Grip, which allows comfortable handling in portrait or landscape shooting positions. The grip holds up to two NP‑FM500H Rechargeable Battery Packs for an extended shooting stamina of up to 1460* images (820 images in Live View mode) from a single charge. The grip is compatible with A200, A300 and A350.

Digital SLR Camera - DSLR-A350 Specification

Sony A300 specifications A300 Body color Black Sensor • 10.2 million effective pixels • 23.6 x 15.8 mm CCD sensor • 1.5x FOV crop • RGB primary color filter Anti-dust measures • Sensor shake system • Static-free anti-dust coating Anti-shake • Super-steady shot in-camera stabilization Image sizes • 3872 x 2592 (Large, 10.0 MP) • 2896 x 1936 (Medium, 5.6 MP) • 1920 x 1280 (Small, 2.5 MP) • 3872 x 2176 (Large, 8.4 MP, 16:9) • 2896 x 1632 (Medium, 4.7 MP, 16:9) • 1920 x 1088 (Small, 2.1 MP, 16:9) Image quality • RAW • RAW + JPEG • JPEG Fine • JPEG Normal Color space • sRGB • Adobe RGB Lens mount • Sony Alpha lenses (also compatible with Minolta A-type bayonet mount lenses) Autofocus • 9-point AF with center cross Lens servo • Single-servo AF (AF-S) • Continuous-servo AF (AF-C) • Automatic AF-S/AF-C (AF-A) • Manual focus (M) AF Area mode • Wide • Spot • Local AF Assist Pop-up flash strobes Exposure mode • Programmed auto (P) with flexible program • Shutter-priority auto (S) • Aperture priority auto (A) • Manual (M) • Auto and 7 scene selection modes Metering Multi-pattern metering: • 40 Segment • Center weighted • Spot Exposure compensation • +/- 2.0 EV • 1/3 EV steps AE Lock Exposure locked at detected value with AEL button AE Bracketing +/- 1/3EV or +/- 2/3EV Sensitivity • Auto • ISO 100 • ISO 200 • ISO 400 • ISO 800 • ISO 1600 • ISO 3200 Shutter • 30 to 1/4000 sec (1/3 EV steps) White balance • Auto • Seven manual modes with 7-step fine-tuning • Daylight • Shade • Cloudy • Tungsten • Fluorescent • Flash • Color temperature/color filter • Preset white balance WB fine tuning Yes Image parameters • Preset modes: Standard, Vivid, Portrait, Landscape, Night view, Sunset, B&W, Adobe RGB (All others are sRGB) Viewfinder • Optical fixed eye-level • Pentamirror type • Frame coverage 95% (approx.) • Viewfinder magnification approx. 0.74x with 50mm lens at infinity; -1.0 m-1 • Spherical Acute Matte focusing screen LCD monitor • 2.7" tilting TFT LCD • 230,000 pixel • Features automatic defeat via Eye Sensor Built-in flash • Auto pop-up in Auto, Vari-program modes • Manual pop-up in P, S, A or M modes • Guide number approx. 12 at ISO 100 Flash mode • Auto • Fill-flash • Rear flash sync • Slow sync • High speed sync • Wireless off-camera flash (with HVL-F56AM or HVL-F36AM) Shooting modes • Single frame shooting (S) mode • Continuous (C) mode: approx. 3.0 frames per second • Bracket single (press shutter 3 times) • Bracket continuous (hold shutter = 3 shots) • WB bracket, Lo/Hi Continuous buffer • JPEG: Limited only by storage • RAW: Approx. 6 frames (shooting continues at a slower rate) • RAW+JPEG: Approx. 3 frames (shooting continues at a slower rate) Self-timer 2 or 10 sec Video output NTSC or PAL selectable Connectivity • USB 2.0 (Hi-Speed) • Video Power Lithium-Ion battery pack NP-FM500H (7.2 V, 1600 mAh) Battery life Approx. 740 shots (CIPA standard) Approx. 730 shots (CIPA standard) Dimensions 130.8 x 98.5 x 74.7 mm (5.2 x 3.9 x 2.9 in) Weight (no batt) 582 g (1.28 lb) Supplied accessories • Rechargeable Li-ion Battery NP-FM500H • BC-VM10 battery charger • Video and USB cables • Shoulder strap with eyepiece cap and Remote Commander clip • Body cap • Software/USB driver Optional accessories • CompactFlash card (NCFB1G) • External flash (HVL-F56AM) • External flash (HVL-F36AM) • Vertical grip (VG-B30AM) • AC adaptor/charger (AC-VQ900AM)

When shooting in live view mode, an advanced 1200-zone metering system uses the dedicated live view image sensor to evaluate light levels and colour distribution to achieve optimum image exposure. In addition, the Smart Teleconverter function applies zoom scaling on images with no reduction in image quality, achieving an equivalent of 1.4x or 2x magnification with a push of a button. High Mega-pixel CCD, BIONZ Image Processing Engine, D-Range Optimizer and High ISO Sensitivity The α350 features an effective 14.2-megapixel APS-C size (23.5mm x 15.7mm) CCD sensor while the α300 incorporates an effective 10.2-megapixel APS-C size (23.6mm x 15.8mm) CCD sensor. Powered by the BIONZ processor, the enhanced D-Range Optimiser ensures more natural, evenly-exposed pictures, particularly when shooting high-contrast and strong backlit scenes. Image exposure and tone are automatically adjusted according to shooting conditions to give rich shadow and highlight detail. D-Range Optimiser is now applicable in all formats (including RAW) and metering modes.Both cameras also offer high ISO 3200 sensitivity for faster shutter speeds to reduce blurring and increase handheld shooting opportunities in low-light environments. The High ISO Noise Reduction feature activates at ISO 1600 or ISO 3200 to minimize “noise” on the final image. Super SteadyShot and Anti-Dust System The popular body-integrated Super SteadyShot image stabilization system delivers enhanced anti-shake performance in the α350 and α300 with improved control algorithms, enabling users to shoot at shutter speeds of 2.5 to 3.5 steps slower. This prevents blurring caused by camera shake and enables handheld shooting of scenes that usually require a tripod or flash.Similar to previous α series models, the α350 and α300 have a special anti-static coating on their low-pass filters to prevent dust build-up. In addition, the Super SteadyShot anti-vibration mechanism activates to dislodge dust each time the camera is turned off. Combined, both methods minimize dust formation in the camera body, therefore reducing the need to manually clean the camera or edit spots on images. Enviromental Friendy The body caps of the α350 and α300 use renewable polyamide 11, a vegetable-based plastic derived from castor oil. Increased use of vegetable-based plastics can lead to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and saving of crude oil resources. VIA

Sony A300/A350 Swiveling LCD The LCD can be tilted down for overhead shots. Sony Swivel LCD. Though it doesn't face more angles, the Sony A350 and A300's LCD is very sturdy, while most Live View digital SLR cameras don't even have a swiveling LCD; certainly none in this price range.

Retail Shop locator Singapore
Shop online Sony USA for Sony α (alpha) DSLR-A300X
Shop online Sony USA for Sony α (alpha) DSLR-A350
Comparison

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Digital SLR or Compact Camera?

The most important two groups are fixed lens and interchangeable lens. The fixed lens cameras tend, with a few exceptions, to be smaller, lighter and more pocketable, therefore you are more likely to have it with you when you need it. The down side of these SLR cameras is that you very soon end up with quite a heavy bag of gadgets and are less likely to carry it everywhere with you.

DSLR’s ((Digital, Single, Lens, Reflex)) is define as cameras that have removable lenses, that have a reflex mirror which allows live optical viewing through the lens taking the image. ie DSLR’s use a mirror that allows you to see the image you’re about to shoot through the view finder - when you take the shot the mirror flips up allowing the image sensor to capture the image.

Lenses - Do you want the ability to change lenses? If so, a digital SLR is the only way to go. Sure, you can get the screw in versions for the compact cameras, but it's just not the same. Plus, with an SLR you can get lenses that compacts can't touch - extreme wide angle, life size macro, and super telephoto.

On the other hand, many compact cameras have a very adequate range with their built in lens. In fact, most high-end compact cameras have a lot more lens than what's included with an entry-level digital SLR. So, if you go SLR, you'll probably end up buying more lenses, a problem that really doesn't exist for compacts.

Focusing - Here's where an SLR is going to shine. They generally focus faster, more consistently, and more accurately than compacts. The larger viewfinder helps you spot misfocusing more easily, and manual focusing is far simpler than with a compact (assuming said compact allows any kind of manual focusing to begin with).

Display - Here's one for the compacts. You know how on the back of a compact digicam you see a "live" presentation of what's going on? You just hold the camera out, and when the scene on the screen looks good, you take the photo. With a digital SLR you are actually looking through the lens with a traditional viewfinder - no live video displays. If you like the live display, go compact.

Oh, don't worry - a digital SLR still has the little screen on the back so you can look at the photos once you take 'em.



Flash - This could be a tie. Many SLRs and all compacts have built in flashes. Every SLR can take an external flash and move it off camera (good-bye red-eye). Some compacts can do the same trick, but SLRs will probably have a slight advantage here. They tend to have more sophisticated flash metering capabilities and you'll probably see better results.

Size - Score one for the compacts. When it comes to big things in small packages, these own the market. With an SLR, you have to lug around lenses, possibly a flash, and even the camera itself is bulky. If ease of carrying is high on your list, you gotta go compact.

Manual Options - This is almost a tie. Most compacts have the same manual overrides as SLRs (exposure compensation, manual mode, aperture priority, etc). I would say that an SLR might have a slight edge in this category due to control layouts, but only by a nose.

Imaging Options - This is SLR territory. If you're into reading histograms, shooting in RAW, having oodles of white balance options, then you'll love most digital SLRs. Sure, some compacts include these features, but the majority do not have them on the same scale a digital SLR does. On the other hand, if you just want to take a snapshot at the next birthday part, go compact.

Ease Of Use - lets give a slight nod to the compacts in this category. You generally turn 'em on and use 'em. Right out of the box they tend to be ready to go. A digital SLR will likely have more controls and may require a short learning curve for you to adjust to it - but they can be just as automatic as a compact once you find auto settings .

Response - Our final category goes solidly to the SLRs. If you want a camera with cat-like reflexes, you want an SLR. They "warm up", focus, zoom, and generally respond quicker than their compact counterparts. If you shoot any kind of action on a regular basis, this is the way to go.

Overall, if you want control, lots of options, and different lenses, you gotta go SLR. If you're more into taking snapshots, like a smaller camera, and aren't interested in lots of lenses and accessories, then a compact is the way to go.

Should you buy a DSLR or a compact point and shoot digital camera?
Despite point and shoot cameras now coming with up to 10 megapixels their quality level is not necessarily has good as a DSLR with only 8 or so.The main reason for this is that the image sensor used in point and shoot digital cameras is generally much smaller than the image sensor used in a DSLR.This result in that the compact camera work at slower ISO levels which means that they produce ‘noisier’ (or more grainy) shots.Smaller sensors significantly reduce the quality of an image.

DSLR Strengths:-Due to the larger size of image sensors in DSLRs which allows for larger pixel sizes - DSLRs are generally able to be used at a faster ISO which will lead to faster shutter speeds and less grain. DSLR can be fitted with many high quality lenses ranging from wide angle to super long focal lengths depending upon what you are photographing (and of course your budget). Add to this a large range of other accessories (flashes, filters etc) and a DSLR can be adapted to many different situations. It should be noted that when it comes to lenses that the diversity in quality of lenses is great. Image quality is impacted greatly by the quality of the lens you use. DSLR’s are generally pretty fast pieces of machinery when it comes to things like start up, focussing and shutter lag. Due to the reflex mirror DSLR’s are very much a what you see is what you get operation. ISO range varies between cameras but generally DSLRs offer a wide array of ISO settings which lends itself to their flexibility in shooting in different conditions. In manual mode, a DSLR is designed in such a way that it is assumed that the photographer using it will want to control their own settings. While they do come with good auto modes the manual controls are generally built in in such a way that they are at the photographers finger tips as they are shooting. DSLR models do not get updated quite as often as point and shoot models (which can be updated twice a year at times). The other factor in favor of DSLRs is that the lenses you buy for them are compatible with other camera bodies if you do choose to upgrade later on (as long as you stay with your brand). This means your investment in lenses is not a waste over the years. One of the things about DSLR is the versatility that it gives in many areas, especially depth of field. This is really an extension of it’s manual controls and ability to use a variety of lenses but a DSLR can give you depth of field that puts everything from foreground to background in focus through to nice blurry backgrounds. In general the lenses that you’ll find on a DSLR are superior to a point and shoot camera. DSLR lenses are larger (more glass can add to the quality) and many of them have many hours of time put into their manufacture (especially when you get into higher end lenses).It is advisable to buy the best quality lenses always where possible.

DSLR Weaknesses:- DSLR’s are generally more expensive than point and shoot digital cameras. The desire to add more lenses later and that this adds to the cost of a DSLR. DSLRs are heavy and sizable and when you add a lens or two to your kit bag you can end up with quite the load! Maintenance in cleaning your image sensor is cumbersome in that every time you change lenses you run the risk of letting dust into your camera.However this problem that is being rectified in many new DSLRs which are being released with self cleaning sensors. DSLRs are designed for manual use this of course means you need to know how to use the tools that they give you. However nowadays all DSLRs have fully Automatic mode and many have the normal array of semi-auto modes that point and shoot digital cameras have. In many DSLRs the only way to frame your shot is via the optical viewfinder though that is changing with more and more new DSLRs having a ‘Live View’ LCD which enables you to frame your shots without looking through the view finder.

Point and Shoot Digital Camera (Compact) Strengths :- They are mostly slim and light. It is so quiet that even subjects don't even notice shots have been taken of them at times. In auto mode or one of the other preset modes, the quality of images produced in point and shoots in general shoot quite well. In general point and shoot digital cameras are cheaper. Point and Shoots always come with LCD Framing and some even come with ‘flip out’ screens that enable their users to take shots from different angles and still see what they’re shooting.

Point and Shoot Digital Camera(Compact) Weaknesses:- Point and shoots generally have small image sensors which means that the quality that they produce is generally lower. However - that if you’re not planning on using your images for major enlargements or in professional applications that the quality of point and shoot cameras can be more than enough for the average user. In general ISO ranges are more limited in point and shoot cameras - this limits them in different shooting conditions. Point and shoot digital cameras were always notorious for their slowness, particularly their ’shutter lag’ (the time between pressing the shutter and when the image is taken. Most point and shoot cameras have view finders but they are generally so small that they are almost useless. Some models don’t have viewfinders at all (increasingly a trend). Many point and shoot cameras do have the ability to play with a full array of manual settings and controls(‘aperture priority’ and ’shutter priority’ modes) but quite often the manual controls are hidden in menu systems and are not as accessible as on a DSLR (if they are there at all). They are generally not very adaptable. What you buy when you first get them is what you are stuck with using for years. Some do have lens adapters to give you wider angles or longer zooms but generally most people don’t go for these accessories.

Finally, remember that although the camera helps, it's the photographer who makes the photos. There are fantastic images from both compact cameras and digital SLRs. It's the person behind the camera that makes great photos - you just have to decide what style is right for you.


The Two Classes of Digital Cameras

Film vs. Digital Cameras

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Dell XPS M1730 Laptop

Dell Inspiron XPS Extreme
Gaming Notebook

The Gaming PC is spouting a new hybrid of computer - it
is not exactly portable in the sense of a traditional notebook
and it's not exactly a desktop computer or even a desktop
replacement. It's more of a 'moveable or mobile desktop'!


These machines are not meant to be portable (as in frequent
traveling) but simply a moveable desktop that can be transported
very quickly over short distances. Unlike traditional notebooks,
battery life and weight are not as important in the 'moveable desktop'
- what really counts is performance. Big Emphasis on performance.

These computers are maxed to the limit in regards to technical
performance - the faster the better. Graphics, visuals, and audio
are given center stage and tweaked to perfection. The entertainment
value rules the day.

Inspiron XPS Extreme is Dell's entry into the Gaming 'mobile
desktop' market. The emphasis is on graphics and power - supplied by
Dell Singapore(Customizable Online)
Dell XPS M1730 Laptop
E-VALUE CODE : R510355
Online Store Price
SG$ 3,898.01
(Price shown is inclusive of GST and delivery)

a) Graphics Card:- Dual 256MB NVIDIA® GeForce® 8700M GT graphics with NVIDIA SLI Technology (Upgradable to Dual 512MB NVIDIA® GeForce® 8800M GTX graphics with NVIDIA SLI Technology
b)Processor:- Intel® Centrino® Processor Technology - Intel® Core™2 Duo Processor T7500 2.2GHz, 4MB Cache,800 MHz FSB (Upgradeable to :- Intel® CoreTM 2 Extreme Processor X7900 <2.80GHz,4M L2 Cache,800MHz FS>) or
Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T7700 <2.40GHz,4M L2 Cache,800MHz FSB>}
c) Memory:- 2GB DDR2 SDRAM (Upgradeable to 4GB 2 Dual Channel 667MHz DDR2 )
d) Hard Drive :- 160GB* Hard Drive
(Single Drive:
Up to 250GB configured with a single 5400 RPM SATAII hard drive.
Up to 200GB configured with a single 7200 RPM SATAII hard drive.

Dual Drive: (RAID 0)
Up to 500GB configured with (2 x 250GB) 5400 RPM SATAII hard drives.
Up to 400GB configured with (2 x 200GB) 7200 RPM SATAII hard drives.

Dual Drive: (RAID 1)
Up to 250GB configured with (2 x 250GB) 5400 RPM SATAII hard drives.
Up to 200GB configured with (2 x 200GB) 7200 RPM SATAII hard drives.

Solid State Drives:
64GB4 configured with a Solid State hard drive. )

(Over clock the M1730 up to 3.4 GHz with the Intel® CoreTM 2 Extreme Edition X79008.)

As supplied by Dell USA
XPS M1730 Starting Price $2,399
Intel® Core™ 2 Duo T8300 (2.4GHz/800Mhz FSB/3MB cache)
Memory
2GB2 Shared Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 667MHz
Hard Drive
Speed: 120GB4 SATA Hard Drive (7200RPM) Free Fall Sensor
Video Card
NVIDIA®GeForce®8700M GT graphics
17" HD Widescreen
(Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Extreme Edition X7900, capable of overclocking to 3.4GHz)

AGEIA PhysX - the M1730 is the world's first notebook to offer a physics processing unit

The display on this Dell notebook computer is a 17.0" UltraSharp™ Widescreen WUXGA (1920x1200) TFT Display with TrueLife™ - resulting in
super crisp images.

Sound is handled with internal speakers and a subwoofer. (5.1 channel output with for true surround sound experience with no external decoder required.
2 speakers with 2 18mm transducers per speaker enclosure providing 10 watt output power.Premium Digital Array microphones for enhanced voice and communication applications.)




Size: Weight: Starting at 10.6 lbs7 (4.81 kg)
Width: 16.0" (406 mm)
Height: 2.00"

Inspiron XPS Extreme is a passable Gaming Machine. Gamers should consider this one in their top list of machines.



Dell XPS M1730 - Hard Disk Upgrade and RAID Setup

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