Best New Technology Honda C-ABS

Sportbike pilots usually have no interest in anti-lock brakes, believing they can do a better job of quickly bringing a motorcycle to a stop than a computer. But they probably haven't yet sampled Honda's new Combined ABS as found on the 2009 CBR600RR and CBR1000RR as a $1,000 option. With this new combined system, there is absolutely no mechanical link, or otherwise, between the front and rear. It is entirely up to the electronic control module to determine when more than one brake set is required. Not only does the ECM regulate pressure to each brake set, it also can “combine” front and rear brake sets based upon established parameters, and it does it seamlessly. We now have the first brake-by-wire system available commercially on sportbikes. Innovative!

Dealer network in Germany launches sale of new Gran Turismo

Effective immediately, demonstration cars will be on display at authorized dealers in Germany; fixed purchase agreements with delivery promises and dates can then be signed.
Along with the 911, Cayenne and Boxster/Cayman, the Panamera is the fourth Porsche model and will first be available for delivery in three versions. The Panamera S disposes of a 400 HP strong fuel efficient eight cylinder motor, which drives the rear wheels via a manual six-gear transmission. 
The base price in Germany amounts to 94,575 Euros(S$196,165.55) including 19 percent VAT. At request, the Porsche PDK dual-clutch transmission with seven gears, which further improves the fuel consumption, can also be delivered. The PDK is also a standard feature of the 400 HP strong Panamera 4S, which also disposes of the intelligent PTM all-wheel drive and costs 102,251 Euros including 19 percent VAT. 
The top model is the Panamera Turbo with a 500 HP eight cylinder, PDK dual-clutch transmission as a standard and PTM all-wheel drive. The price including 19 percent VAT and a country-specific configuration amounts to 135,154 Euros. Later the entry-level model with a V6 engine and a Panamera with a hybrid drive will follow. 
Panamera sales will also begin in the rest of Europe, South America and parts of Asia in the course of September. North America and Australia will follow in October and China in early 2010.

McLaren reveals the MP4-12C

The new car is expected to be priced in what McLaren calls the 'core sports car market’, taking aim at the likes of the Ferrari 458 Italia when it goes on sale in early 2011.
Conceived under the codename P11, the MP4-12C uses a carbon fibre skeleton which McLaren calls the Carbon MonoCell, an unusually light one-piece structure. While the material is expensive, this allows for a much quicker, cheaper production method, and the whole tub weighs just 80kg. McLaren claims that the MP4-12C weighs around 1300kg in total, helped by further weight-saving measures like forged aluminium hubs for the brakes. 
The new supercar is powered by a 3.8-litre V8 mounted 90 degrees, producing around 600bhp, developed in-house by McLaren themselves and fitted with twin-turbos. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, and the V8 engine has a dry sump and a flat-plane crank like a race engine, to lower the centre of gravity and allow a higher rev limit of 8500rpm. 
Performance figures are still unclear at the moment, but 100km/h is expected to come up in around three seconds, while the MP4-12C will clear 320km/h with ease. There will also be several electronic technologies to allow the car to harness its power properly.
One of them is Brake Steer, which uses the stability control to dial out understeer by braking the inside rear wheel. This is achieved by having an aerodynamically sound body to help keep the MP4-12C planted, with no protruding spoilers or air vents and a flat underfloor. 
At the rear, the MP4-12C's rump is dominated by the V8's cooling needs; the diffuser aids rear downforce, twin exhausts exit high and central and most of the back end is left open to extract hot air, while the rear lamps are cleverly hidden in the top two horizontal black bars. An air brake pops up at speed to improve stopping ability. 
The other new technology is the twin-clutch gearbox, which McLaren dubs the Seamless Shift Gearbox, or SSG. It has two wet clutches and something called Pre-Cog, which works when the driver half presses or pulls the paddle to warn the car before a gear change, and then changing into the desired gear. 
The flip-up doors are activated through touch pads, into an interior that is characterised by snug sports seats, with a 7-inch multimedia screen dominating the centre console. Launch Control prepares the car for a quick launch from rest, while drivers can pick Normal, Sport and High Performance settings for throttle response, gearshift speed and damper settings. 
McLaren expects to sell just 1000 MP4-12Cs worldwide when it is launched in 2011, which it says is 3.5% of the core sports car market it is intending for the car to compete in.

SanDisk slotRadio

Do you want to work out and not have to think about which songs you want to take with you on your music player? How about if you just want some music to “chillout” to? If either of these sounds like it could be your nirvana, then the SanDisk slotRadio Player may be the device for you.

We first brought word of the SanDisk slotRadio Player back in January and previously reviewed the slotMusic Player, which features the same slotMusic playback mechanism.

Now the slotRadio Player is shipping and we’ve been putting it through its paces for a few weeks and have detailed our experience below.

The SanDisk slotRadio Player is a music player that comes with a slotRadio mix card that’s preloaded with 1,000 songs from artists on the Billboard charts. The slotRadio mix card is actually a specialized microSD card so you can use your own microSD card, too, once you’re done listening to the 1,000 tunes (more on that later).he slotRadio Player itself is a very cool looking device. It’s made from die-cast aluminum and features a 1.5-inch OLED screen. It also offers a built-in FM radio which can display the song and artist as well as call letters from participating radio stations. As for navigating the player, you are presented with left and right navigation controls that can be triggered by pressing to the right or left of the screen. This allows you to go through different genres / playlists. Once you find a genre you like you can pause the song in that genre or skip the song entirely. You can also navigate left or right again to switch to a different genre. The slotRadio Player also has a clip built-in for clipping it to yourself for working out, walking around, or just enjoying your music and ships with both a USB cable and a plug that lets you charge the slotRadio Player in a standard AC outlet.

Whatever mood you’re in, there’s already a playlist ready and waiting to be listened to. If you want additional music you can purchase another slotRadio Mix card or make your own on a microSD card–it’s just that easy.

The slotRadio Player is currently $99 and comes with 1,000 songs. At that price it’s a bit pricey but when you consider that it comes with 1,000 songs, and also allows you to use your own microSD card, it’s not too hard to stomach.

WiFi detector

WiFi sniffing dogs at the airport, but we suspect that somewhere there is a small group of individuals dedicated to training such useful helpers. Until these canines are trained and domesticated we have a device that can assist in "sniffing out" the presence of WiFi. It's a nice unit that offers several improvements on currently available WiFi detectors.

Your typical WiFi detector will only show the presence of a signal and relative signal strength - not very helpful. This Digital WiFi Detector has a backlit LCD screen that provides information on signal availability and strength as well as essential network information, including SSID, security status and channel. When multiple networks are present, the LCD will allow you to scroll through information for each network. Also has these great features...   It is..

Backlight LCD screen shows signal strength, network ID (SSID), encryption status and channel

Provides specific information about each network when multiple networks are present 

Detects Encryption (WEP and WPA)

Shows channel used (1-14)

Coverage: Up to 200 feet (60m) open environment

Identifies 802.11b and 802.11g networks

Dimensions: 2.5" x 2.75" x 1" thick (65mm x 70mm x 24mm)

Batteries: 2 x AAA (included)

CE approved and FCC compliant

Auto power off

New eX-L 18 laptop

Maingear new eX-L 18 laptop is currently the fastest in the world.. it even has glowing go faster graphics on the top. The 18.4 inch laptop uses a Intel Core 2 Extreme quad processor and has dual NVIDIA GeForce GTX 280M graphics cards.

The eX-L introduces a new level of extreme gaming notebooks. With two integrated NVIDIA GeForce GTX 280m video cards working together with NVIDIA SLI technology, this notebook offers incredible system performance and game-dominating power. Sporting Intel’s new Mobile Intel Core 2 Extreme and Core 2 Quad processors, you are able to experience the world’s highest performing mobile processors. Featuring add-ons such as dual hard disk drive support with RAID 0 and 1 capabilities, Next-Generation 802.11n wireless with an Intel® WiFi Link 5300 series wireless adapter, 2GB IntelTurbo Memory support, and including built-in features such as Bluetooth 2.0, Biometric Fingerprint Security, Backlit Keyboard with Numeric KeyPad, 7-in-1 Card Reader.

2009 Suzuki GSX650F Review

Suzuki has presented the 2009 GSX650F, a sporty road bike destined to those who turn to motorcycling as a result of increasing gas prices and not only. Economical and practical, the bike relies on the Bandit 650 engine and shares most features with the previous model year. 
Introduction
Featuring an ideal balance of sportbike excitement and all-around versatile performance, the bike offers enough power even for an experienced rider and crisp handling, so you can turn any winding road into a ride to remember. Suzuki’s strategy was to fill the gap between the decent GS500F and the powerful GSX-R 600 in order for a complete lineup to turn any aspirant into a Suzuki owner.

Genius Bluetooth Mouse

Genius, a brand from KYE Systems Corp, has rolled out the Traveler 915 BT Laser Bluetooth Mouse. The mouse sports an advanced high precision 1600 dpi laser sensor that can track on polished or wood-grain surfaces. It also includes a 1600/800 dpi switching system, which allows the users to choose the resolution they require. It has a metal cover finish and 4D scrolling.
This new product can be used as a mouse and as a presenter. The user has the ability to switch between them by simply pressing the switch mode button. The presenter component sports controls like:
‘Laser Pointer’, ‘Page up/down’ , ‘Esc’, and ‘F5’. The mouse requires 2 AAA batteries to work and has a battery charge indicator and a power switch that can extend the battery life.

Epson PX650

Epson has announced its new high-definition all-in-one photo printer - Epson Stylus Photo PX650, which specially designed for digital photography enthusiasts. The new Epson PX650 allows users to scan, copy and print photos that exceed lab quality. In addition, the printer comes with a 2.5-inch LCD screen which makes it an easy task for the user to perform minor edits before printing. Moreover, it also comes with a memory card slot, support PictBridge, printing photo in approximately 12 second. Apart from that, a 1200dpi resolution photo scanner captures the fine detail of original prints, whilst the Hi-Definition Epson Claria Photographic Ink creates high quality glossy photos which be able to prints that last up to 200 years. The PX650 can also print directly onto suitable CDs and DVDs.
Features of Epson Stylus Photo PX650:View and print photos directly from memory card using the 2.5-inch LCD screen,Scan, copy, and print photos that exceed lab quality,Personalize your CDs and DVDs by printing directly onto suitable discs,Print 10×15cm photos in approximately 12 seconds,Epson Claria Photographic Ink for glossy, long-lasting photos,Save money with individual inks – only replace the color used,ENERGY STAR® qualified.The new Epson Stylus Photo PX650 will be available on September 1st, 2009 from starting price $215 in the UK. Each purchase comes with a pack of photo paper.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro

While the wraps have been off the test mules of the 2010 Camaro for some time, Chevy has been mum on the final configuration of its reborn pony car until now. And what it has announced and shown is fairly in line with what we reported in our July issue.
The Camaro will be offered in two trim levels, RS and SS, the former powered by a 3.6-liter overhead-cam direct-injection V-6 making upward of 300 bhp, which can be equipped with either an Aisin 6-speed manual or GM's 6L50 6-speed automatic. The SS will sport two pushrod 6.2-liter V-8s ranging from 395 to 420 bhp.
Those who choose the Tremec 6060 manual will get the LS3 from the Corvette, while buyers opting for the 6-speed automatic will get the L99 V-8 with active fuel management, which cycles back and forth between four and eight cylinders to boost fuel economy. The LS3 is expected to make about 420 bhp and 408 lb.-ft. of torque, while the L99 is estimated at 395 bhp and 395 lb.-ft. of torque. The V-6 will run on regular unleaded gasoline, while both V-8s are specified to take premium.
The Camaro rides on a 112.3-in. wheelbase and measures 189.6 in. overall, just slightly larger than the current Mustang, although it's just over 8 in. shorter than the Dodge Challenger. Like the Mustang, the Camaro seats four, while the Challenger has five positions.
Based on the Holden-developed Zeta platform, the Camaro is equipped with a multilink independent rear suspension. The V-6 models come with the FE2 package that includes a 22.2-mm front and a 21.7-mm rear anti-roll bar and 18-in. wheels, while 19- and 20-in. wheels are optional.
The base tire is a P245/55R-18 BFGoodrich all-season tire. The FE3 suspension features 23.0-mm anti-roll bars and comes with 20-in. wheels shod with P245/45 front and P275/45 rear Pirelli P Zero rubber.
Likewise, there is a difference in brake packages from V-6 to V-8: The RS has single-piston calipers with 12.6-in. front and 12.4-in. rear discs, while the SS is equipped with 4-piston calipers clamping on 14.0-in. front and 13.6-in. rear rotors.
Chevy puts the Camaro's curb weight at 3750 lb. with a 52/48 front/rear distribution. Production will begin to ramp up late this year for a first quarter launch in 2009. Coupes will be produced first, with a convertible slated about 10 months later.

Samsung NV9

Samsung leaders in digital imaging, is building on the success of the ground breaking NV series with the launch of a new premium compact camera. Continuing the winning combination of innovative technology and user-friendly features, the NV9 boasts a 5× Optical Zoom lens, an Intelligent 2.7” LCD screen and a highly sensitive ISO 3200 to deliver optimum image quality in a slim, stylish package.
The NV9 is a 10.2 megapixel digital compact camera and includes Samsung’s improved processing technology. It features Dual Image Stabilisation – by integrating Optical Image and Digital Image Stabilisation the user obtains vastly improved image quality and outstanding pictures without the blur. The camera also features Auto Contrast Balance (ACB) which will correct shadows making it perfect for daytime or evening shots.
One great new feature on the Samsung NV0 is the easy to read Mini-Dashboard status gauges. The Mini-Dashboard gives the user important easy to read information about the camera’s battery and memory status. The NV9 has MJPEG Movie recording at 30fps which allows users to edit and zoom during filming.
Samsung’s new slim NV camera features an inbuilt MP3 player and a Portable Multimedia Player (PMP) to watch downloaded movies. Other features include Samsung’s Perfect Portrait System which contains a range of features: “Face Detection”, which locates the subject’s face within the frame and automatically adjusts auto focus and auto exposure to ensure better composition and image quality for portraits: in “Blink Detection Mode” the camera will take a series of shots when closed eyes are detected, to ensure subjects are captured with their eyes open: in “Smile Mode” a picture is automatically taken when smiles are detected: in “Beauty Shot” mode facial skin is retouched for a brighter and smoother skin tone.

Ford Mondeo Titanium X Sport

The multi-award winning Ford Mondeo is set to extend its premium sporty appeal with the introduction of a new flagship - the Titanium X Sport. Visually exciting, packed with standard equipment and powered by new premium diesel or five-cylinder petrol engines, the new Titanium X Sport is the most desirable Mondeo yet.
Created in response to the recent surge in retail demand for top end versions of Mondeo, the new Titanium X Sport combines superb dynamics with premium luxury and a sportier new look.
Available in five-door hatchback and estate body styles, Titanium X Sport models are designed to stand out from the crowd. Aggressively styled 18in alloys fill the wheel arches while twin chromed exhaust tailpipes and body-coloured side skirts complete the picture.
The interior is also themed with sporty red stitching on the leather/alcantara seats, leather steering wheel and gear shift lever. Aluminium trim detailing is replaced with stylish piano black inlays. Customers can choose from two powerful and efficient powertrains. Existing five-cylinder 220PS 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol, or the new diesel, which is expected to account for the majority of sales.
With 35PS more than its 2.0TDCi sister, the new 175PS 2.2-litre TDCi engine is among the smoothest units of its type combining swift, quiet acceleration of 0-62mph in 8.4 seconds and a top speed of 139mph with a combined economy figure of 45.6mpg. C02 emissions are low too at 165g/km.
Generously specified, the Mondeo Titanium X Sport’s standard equipment includes in-dash Sony six CD player, voice control, rain sensing wipers, automatic headlights, front and rear park assist, dual-zone climate control and Ford Power start button.
Additional upgrades over the standard Titanium include advanced Bluetooth connectivity, bi-xenon lights, alloy pedals and sports suspension.
Both engines come with six-speed manual gearbox and insurance groups are 12E for diesel and 14E for petrol models. Available to order now and priced from £23,355 (5 door) and £26,605 (estate) on the road, Titanium X Sport adds more premium appeal and choice to Ford’s popular Mondeo.

Compaq Presario CQ2009F

Compaq's energy-efficient CQ2009F desktop computer.
There are lots of websites that will talk about the exciting scientific research moving forward on powering our homes with fuel made from algae or other exotic substances.
Hey, I like algae as much as the next guy, but in the meantime, we get most of our energy from ‘dirty’ sources like oil, coal and nuclear.
So…what really gets me in a tizzy is when manufacturers makes quantum leaps forward in terms of efficiency, materials and affordability.
My last desktop computer was a Compaq. I bought it around late 2001 or early 2002. I spent around $1000 on it. It weighed approximately 27 lbs and (as I found out when I reviwed the Kill-a-Watt last year) used between 70-109 watts of electricity.
That old Compaq performed admirably for a while, even if it did look clunky and take up a significant chunk of my workspace. But then it started suddenly turning itself on and off without warning. And this thing was loud. It’s not fun to be wakened in the middle of the night by the giant ‘whoosh/click/whirrr’ of your computer coming to life.
I had two choices – hire a computer exorcist or buy a new machine.
After looking high and low, I surprised myself by settling on another Compaq.
Compaq doesn’t get much respect these days. Businesses are focused on brands like Dell and Lenovo. The hipsters all love their Apples or maybe their Acer eee box.
But I think the Compaq CQ2009F surpasses them all. Here’s what I like:
1. Energy efficiency. My old desktop needed 70-109 watts of electricity. As measured by the Kill-a-Watt, the CQ2009F so far seems to draw only 29-32 watts no matter what it’s doing. That’s an efficiency improvement of approximately 60-70 percent!
Another view of the compact CQ2009F desktop computer
2. Size/materials. As mentioned, my old desktop weighed approximately 27 lbs and took up a massive amount of desk space. The CQ2009F is much smaller (4.41″ x 10.71″ x 9.69″). It weighs only 7 lbs and requires much less space on the desk. That’s a 74 percent weight reduction! So this desktop obviously needs much less in the way of raw materials – and since those raw materials tend to be made of plastic (oil) or metal, less is certainly better from an environmental standpoint.
3. Noise pollution. The CQ2009F is much quieter and unobtrusive than my old machine. Less noise pollution is always a good thing.
4. Features. Energy efficient machines are always great, but they’re especially impressive when their feature set matches what other machines can do. In this case, I really wanted the ability to read and burn DVDs. The Asus eee box and some of the other tiny desktops don’t have any DVD/CD drive, but the CQ2009F has one built in. It also has a handy little card reader so I can take the SD card right from my digital camera and plug it into the desktop without worrying about finding a USB cable.
5. Design. Remember when PCs used to be boring beige or grey boxes? The CQ2009F is sleek and sexy, slightly curvaceous, but not outrageous.
6. Price. It’s nice when someone builds a great eco-friendly product, but if that product is out of reach for all buy a few millionaires (i.e. the Tesla electric car), then the practical environmental benefit is minimal. What’s so beautiful about the CQ2009F is that it costs less than $300 (not including monitor)! That’s a very competitive price these days and far less than I paid for a much less efficient machine just 7-8 years ago.
Why would anyone in the market for a desktop PC buy any other machine? I can think of just a few reasons:
- You’re a serious gamer or video producer and need more RAM/power for your PC. (The CQ2009F has plenty of juice for typical home word processing and Internet browsing, but probably not enough for heavy gaming or video editing.)
- You want the smaller size and more efficient energy use (20 watts, according to Asus) of the eee box and you don’t care about having the DVD drive.
- You’re a Mac user, in which the Mac mini is probably your best eco-friendly bet (as discussed on Metaefficient).
Incidentally, the Dell Studio Hybrid also looks like a good eco-friendly option for PC fans, but it is a bit more pricey than the Compaq CQ2009F and according to the same Metaefficient article, a bit more power-hungry (26-44 watts).

Bluelounge Refresh Charging Station

We have seen a lot gadget-charging contraptions that involve setting it on a platform and forgetting about it, such as the Wildcharge and the Powermat. Just in case you are wondering, the BlueLounge is not one of them, and has nothing to do with Bluetooth.
If you look closely, you can see the wires charging your favorite mobile devices. The purpose of the BlueLounge is to give your gadgets their own space so they spend a lot less time cluttering your room. As if your mobiles aren’t dominating your space already.
The BlueLounge Refresh comes with six built-in connectors including two regular USBs, one Mini USB, a micro USB, and then two for the iPod/iPhone. Of course, there are more connectors available to buy separately, like Nokia and Motorola products, not to mention the Nintendo DS Lite or Sony PSP, for those of you who like mobile gaming.
So, the BlueLounge Refresh apparently isn’t the wireless place to put all of our mobiles, but does it really have to be? Most of these wireless chargers seem to require some adapter that I have to put on my device, so I think we are a long way away from just putting our devices on a little shelf and just forgetting about them until they power up.

Sony VAIO VGN-AR730E/B - Core 2 Duo 2.1 GHz - 17 " - 3 GB Ram - 320 GB HDD from Sony in Notebooks

Black, Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium, 8.4 lbs, Lithium ion battery 2.5 hour(s), 16.4 " x 11.8 " x 1.3 "
Lay your eyes on the beautiful VAIO AR730 notebook, a multimedia powerhouse featuring a spacious 17" widescreen display with XBRITE-ECO LCD technology and a BD-ROM drive for Blu-ray Disc HD video playback. This beautifully designed notebook boasts HDMI output for single-cable HD connectivity and a built-in 1.3 megapixel camera and microphone so you can video chat with friends, family and co-workers. Backed by Intel Centrino Duo processor technology and featuring an Intel Core 2 Duo processor, this super-powerful notebook is the ultimate desktop replacement. Enjoy the convenience of a CD/DVD burner and the spectacular new look, instant search and automated security features of the Windows Vista operating system.
$860 new, $685 used from 14 sellers

2011 Yamaha FZ1 engine to feature cross-plane crank

According to French motorcycle magazine Motorevue, Yamaha is preparing R1’s cross-plane crank engine for the 2011 FZ1. Together with it, upgraded suspension, six-pot brakes and a new R1-inspired half-fairing will make the line between supersport and sport-touring even thinner.
Ever since the 2006 revamp, when the FZ1 go fuel-injection for its “previous generation” R1 engine, the bike carried on being produced without any significant upgrades and it seems that the need was felt for some new technology. While we have nothing against that, looking at this very plausible rendering made by the friends at Motorevue, we can’t help noticing the dramatically sportier riding position, which is in total contradiction with FZ1’s reputation.
Expect to see the new Yamaha FZ1 at 2010 bike shows around the world.

Mercedes CL-Class

Mercedes presented the CL-Class back in 1998 (with this moniker), and since then it knew three different generations: first between 1998 to 2000, seconds from 2000 to 2006 and third from 2007 to present. But even if the third generation was just launched, Mercedes is working on the fourth generation.
With design cues taken from the F700 unveiled last year at the Frankfurt Motor Show, the 4th generation CL-Class is scheduled to be launched in 2011 and sales will begin in 2012, same time with the next generation S-Class.
Even if the F700 Concept is not a beautiful car, it really show the future design of the entire Mercedes line-up.As previously announced, the F700 is a preview version of the 2012 S-Class, but we’re pretty sure the they won’t stop here!
Like the current generation CL-Class, the 2011 model will be powered by the same range of V8 and V12 engines for the AMG versions. Mercedes might also put under the hood the Diesotto engine used in the concept. It is a four-cylinder engine with a displacement of only 1.8 liters that combines the strong points of the low-emission gasoline engine with the consumption benefits of the diesel drive.
Mercedes F700
The maximum output is 238 hp, the electric motor pitches in another 20 hp, and the system’s maximum torque is about 400 Newton meters. Its CO2 emissions of a mere 127 grams per kilometer correspond to consumption of only 5.3 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers (44.3 mpg), extremely low for a vehicle of this class. A hybrid version might be also under consideration.
Also the 2012 CL-Class will use the new active PRE-SCAN suspension, a system that scours the road ahead using two lasers and automatically adjusts the suspension to suit.
Regarding design, the next generation CL-Class will feature fully retractable side windows (no B-pillar) while the chromed radiator grille will blend seamlessly with completely new styling details.

2010 Ferrari F450 Preview

Ferrari has begun the development for the successor of their best seller compact mid-V8 supercar. Following a line of respectable ancestors, like the F355, 360 Modena or the currently in production F430, the new car is expected for not sooner than 2010. With a supposed displacement of 4.5 liters, the new Ferrari is expected to be named F450.
Spy photographers have caught in tests several mules that point clearly that a replacement for the F430 is in development al Maranello. Driving on the Fiorano race-track and disguised as F430 Challenge Stradale, the test cars show a medium development stage for the smallest Ferrari.
Early rumors pointed that the new car will be equipped with a V10 engine, in order to be successfully compete against the Lamborghini Gallardo. The changes made to Formula 1 regulations, that nowadays require the use of V8 engines, make this step irrational; therefore it is logical for Ferrari to stick with the traditional V8 configuration.
The main competitor, the child of the other Italian supercar producing house, the Lamborghini Gallardo uses a 5.0 liter originated from Audi. One might expect that Ferrari will improve their new comer displacement up to the same value in order to provide the same level of performance.
2010 Ferrari F450
But, Ferrari is known to offer some of the best power per displacement ratios; therefore they are expected to produce 500 or more bhp, by only increasing the displacement to 4.5 liters. The rest of the power gain will be due to an increased maximum rev limit, of up to 10,000 rpm, improved air flowing and cooling.
Design lines will not be a revolution, but will be changed in order to keep up with the technical advances. All of the air intakes will be enlarged to ensure an increment in the cooling required by the improved engine and brakes. At the rear there is a possibility to see middle mounted exhausts, inspired by the Challenge Stradale.

Nissan GT-R

After nearly a year of speculation and spy shots, it's official: the Nissan GT-R SpecV has arrived. The limited edition GT-R is a subtle evolution of the super coupe that's set the world on fire after its introduction last year, and Nissan claims that it offers race car-levels of performance in a street-legal vehicle.
The body mods consist of a carbon fiber rear spoiler, grille and brake ducts, along with an exclusive Ultimate Black Opal paint job. On the inside, a set of carbon fiber Recaro buckets are fitted up front, while the rear seats have been nixed to save a few pounds. Carbon fiber also adorns the center storage box, instrument panel and replaces the majority of the interior trim.
The only substantive engine modification is a new high gear boost controller that increases the amount of compressed oxygen entering the twin-turbo'd 3.8-liter V6 to deliver more torque in mid- to high-range revs. A titanium-coated exhaust and a reworked suspension is fitted underneath, and carbon ceramic brakes hide behind 20-inch NISMO wheels that conspire to reduce unsprung mass and improve braking performance.
Sales begin in Japan at seven pre-selected dealers, with pricing set at 15,750,000 yen. There's no word on whether the GT-R SpecV will make the trek across the Pacific, but we're not holding our breath just yet.
The GT-R SpecV's new exterior features include a carbon fiber rear spoiler, a carbon fiber grille, and carbon fiber brake ducts. The SpecV is available exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal (RP) body color. Inside, the SpecV's unique two-seat interior (non-SpecV GT-R models also include a two-place rear seat) offers special Recaro carbon fiber bucket seats, while carbon fiber insets embellish the rear center storage box, instrument panel and other trim areas.
Performance is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which momentarily increases boost of the engine's twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide a more powerful feeling of acceleration, while also allowing the engine to operate at a lower speed for improved fuel economy. Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system and carbon-ceramic brakes that provide powerful stopping performance.
The GT-R SpecV is also equipped with lightweight, racing-style forged aluminum wheels that were developed for this model and have been sold by Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) since September 2008. The lighter unsprung weight provided by the new wheels, together with the enhanced braking capability, an exclusive suspension and high-grip tires, combine to deliver the SpecV's exceptional performance.

Pentax K10D Digital SLR

Pentax Imaging Company announced today the Pentax K10 D digital SLR camera with 10.2 effective megapixels and a host of advanced technologies including a Pentax-developed Shake Reduction system and a weather resistant body. Designed to deliver high quality digital images and responsive operation for advanced photo enthusiasts, the K10D features an array of Pentax innovations in image capture and camera functionality.
A Pentax developed Shake Reduction systehm that effectively offers a 2.5 and 4 stop advantage for sharp, blur free images even under difficult shooting conditions, such as macro and telephoto photography or low light settings without a flsh. The SR mechanism is designed to minimize camera shake by oscillating the CCD image sensor vertically and horizontally at high speed using magnetic force, while adjusting the speed of oscillation in proportion to the amount of camera shake detected by built-in sensors. As a result the system does not require special anti-shake lenses.
A new Dust removal system incorporating Pentax Original Special Protect coating to help keep the CCD surface dust-free, and a shift mechanism to shake dust off the CCD. A dependable dust-proof, weather-resistant body construction featuring 72 seals throughout the camera to allow photographers to continue shooting even in dusty or rainy environments. “Advanced photographers will not find another 10 megapixel digital SLR that offers features such as a weather-resistant body, shake reduction, and great ergonomics at any price,”. Said Ned Bunnell, director of marketing, Pentax Imaging Company. “With the K10D introduction, Pentax is now able to offer digital SLR’s for two important users- the first time SLR customer who can buy the K100D and now the K10D for the more advanced users.”

Lenovo A58 and M58 e

Despite economic recession and declining sales in the computer industry, the company Lenovo has announced a couple of new models of desktop computers. A58 and M58e, from ThinkCentre series, designed primarily to deal with office tasks.
Computers are equipped with processors series Core 2 Duo / Core 2 Quad CPU, graphics processing is integrated into a motherboard chip. To store data used by hard disks, which it can be as high as 1 terabyte. Depending on customer requirements,

A58 and M58e reading drive can be equipped with Blu-ray discs. The maximum amount of RAM is 4 GB.Series A focuses on the small business sector, in turn, M-series computers are designed for office use and partly for the performance of the media functions.
The kit contains a proprietary keyboard with integrated fingerprint scanner. Lenovo Computers come with a three-year warranty and a set of proprietary tools from Intel (for the M-series). The cost of desktop configurations, A58 and M58e starts at $ 400.

Epson Unveils Stylus R390 Printer

Epson has announced the launch of the Epson Stylus Photo R390 printer, designed for photo enthusiasts looking for direct printing.
The Stylus Photo R390 crunches print jobs at speeds of up to 30 pages per minute for both black text and colour prints. For photo prints, the speed is 4R-sized photographs in 13 seconds each. The Stylus Photo R390 comes with a generous, super bright, 3.5-inch LCD screen for easy viewing. To make printing straightforward, the photo selection controls located on both sides of the screen enable hassle-free navigation and printing options. The advanced printer is able to operate as a stand-alone, and supports printing without a PC. Backed with ports for PictBridge devices, USB Direct Print, IrDA, and optional Bluetooth, wired and wireless printing is achieved with similar efficiency. In addition, the card slot bay accepts all popular memory card formats. The printer incorporates the Epson Claria Photo System, a twin system consisting of Claria PhotoEnhance software and Claria Photographic inks. While the Claria PhotoEnhance software automatically corrects colour and lighting imperfections in digital images, Claria Photographic inks help in bridging the gap between home printing and photo lab printing. The new inks offer richer colour tones, excellent depth, stunning clarity, and improved glossiness. The printer includes Epson's award-winning Micro Piezo system for reliability and consistency in printing. Paired with Epson's Advanced Variable Sized Droplet Technology (VSDT), ink droplets in five different sizes can be procured, starting from 1.5 picolitre. The new printer is already available for a price of 450$.

Logitech Keyboard, Mouse Combo

Logitech has introduced the Logitech Cordless Desktop S520 that offers a keyboard and mouse combination to match a wide variety of computer setups.
“The compact, contemporary design of the Logitech Cordless Desktop S520 makes it a perfect companion for flat-screen monitors, completing your stylish setup while offering advanced features such as programmable keys and buttons, a high-performance corless laser mouse, and extended battery life”, said Subrotah Biswas, Country Manager India & SAARC, Logiitech.
The keyboard-mouse combination comes in mate-black and grey and provides up to eight months of battery life for the mouse and 15 months for the keyboard. With one-touch access to Word, Excel and browsers - users can instantly get to their favourite applications. Four additional programmable F-keys lets users customize their keyboard the way they want it and a full set of media and volume controls make managing media, photos and music easy.

dsc p10 digital camera

Sony Electronics Inc. is well known for its consumer camcorders, notebook computers, and other multimedia products, blazing a long trail of innovations, including the first electronic still camera -- the Sony Mavica -- released in 1981. Over the last couple of years, they've developed a dominant position in the digital still camera market, with one of the broadest product lines in the industry.
In the "subcompact" camera market, they've developed a unique line of cameras with a thin, elongated profile. This shape lets them slide easily into small pockets, yet gives U.S.-sized fingers plenty to grab onto. With rugged metal cases, an appealing design, and strong feature sets, Sony's subcompacts have enjoyed wide popularity.
The latest addition to the series (as of this writing in June, 2003) is the P10, with a 5.0-megapixel CCD, 3x optical zoom lens, and an expanded range of seven preset Scene modes to choose from. The P10 offers a limited amount of exposure adjustments, but more than enough to adapt it to most common shooting situations, and the 3x zoom lens (with Macro mode) is great for recording a wide range of subjects, from close-up portraits to scenic vistas. Overall, a very functional camera with excellent image quality, in a tiny package.
Camera Overview
The DSC-P10's shape and compact size rank it among the smaller Sony Cyber-shots on the market, perfect for travel and leisurely outings. The camera definitely passes the "shirt pocket" test, and would even fit into a rather small handbag. The P10's compact shape isn't all the camera has to offer though. A 5.0-megapixel CCD and an all-glass, 3x zoom lens deliver sharp, clear pictures, suitable for printing as large as 8x10 inches. There's also an email size option that creates smaller-resolution files for sending over the Internet. Plus, the handful of preset Scene modes handle a wide range of common exposure situations, from beach scenes to night shots.
The P10's 3x optical zoom lens has a focal range from 7.9-23.7mm, the equivalent of a 38-114mm lens on a 35mm camera. Focus ranges from19.7 inches (50 centimeters) to infinity in normal focus mode, with a macro setting that lets you get as close as 3.9 inches (10 centimeters). Although the camera does not have a manual focus option, it does offer a range of fixed focus settings, from 0.5 meters to infinity. The three-area Multi-Point AF system bases focus on one of three areas in the center of the frame. Through the camera's Record menu, however, you can opt for Center AF mode, which bases focus on the very center of the frame. Also available, through the Setup menu, are three AF operating modes: Single, Monitoring, and Continuous. In Single AF mode, focus is set whenever the Shutter button is halfway depressed. Monitoring mode adjusts focus before the Shutter button is halfway depressed, which locks focus. Continuous AF mode also adjusts focus without a half-press of the Shutter button, but continues to adjust the focus even after the Shutter button is halfway held down, so that you can "track" a moving subject. The camera's AF illuminator helps the camera focus in dark conditions, and works well with the Twilight scene modes. In addition to the 3x optical zoom, the P10 also features up to 4x Smart Zoom, Sony's current implementation of "digital zoom." Unlike most other digital zoom functions, Sony's Smart Zoom does not resample the image, so no image deterioration occurs as a result: Pixels are simply excised from the central portion of the sensor's image, and packaged as a separate file. When the optical zoom reaches 3x, Smart Zoom takes over, if enabled in the Setup menu. The maximum total magnification available for 3.1M images is 3.8x, 1.M is 6.1x and VGA is 12x. (Note though, that as a result, "Smart Zoomed" images will always be restricted to sizes smaller than the camera's full resolution.)
The P10 has a real-image optical viewfinder and a 1.5-inch color LCD monitor for framing shots. An information display on the LCD monitor reports a handful of camera settings (including aperture and shutter speed) and features an optional live histogram display as well. The histogram graphs the tonal distribution of the image, giving you a quick idea of any over or underexposure.
Exposure is automatically controlled on the P10, great for novices and casual photographers looking for simplicity. An On/Off button on top of the camera powers the camera on, and an adjacent Mode dial selects between Playback, Automatic, Program, Scene, Setup, and Movie modes. The Automatic setting takes away all user control, with the exception of flash, macro, and resolution. Program mode also automatically sets aperture and shutter speed, but gives you control over a number of other exposure variables. Scene mode offers a range of preset exposure modes, including Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Beach, Snow, Fireworks, and Fast Shutter. Both Twilight modes optimize the camera for low-light shooting by allowing shutter times as long as two seconds, while Landscape mode sets the camera up for shooting distant subjects. Snow mode enhances saturation and adjusts exposure, to prevent loss of color in bright white snowscapes, while Beach mode ensures that blue tones are recorded accurately in lakeside or seaside photos. Fireworks mode preserves color in shots of fireworks or other night light displays by fixing the lens aperture at f/5.6 and setting the exposure time to the 2-second maximum. Fast Shutter mode captures fast-moving subjects by biasing the exposure system toward higher shutter speeds.
By default, the P10 employs a Multi-Metering mode to determine exposure, which reads the exposure from various sections across the frame. For higher-contrast subjects or more pin-pointed readings, the P10 also offers a Spot metering mode through the Record menu. Exposure Compensation is adjustable from -2 to +2 exposure values (EV), in one-third-step increments. You can also adjust the camera's sensitivity to 100, 200, or 400 ISO equivalents, or use the Auto setting. The P10's adjustable White Balance setting offers Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Fluorescent, Incandescent, and Flash modes, handling a variety of common light sources. Under the Picture Effects setting, you can record images in sepia monochrome, or select the Solarize or Negative Art options. The camera also offers Sharpness, Saturation, and Contrast adjustments. The DSC-P10's flash operates in Forced, Suppressed, Auto, Red-Eye Reduction, and Slow-Sync modes, and an intensity adjustment controls flash output.
In Movie exposure mode, the camera captures either 640 x 480-, or 160 x 112-pixel resolution moving images with sound for as long as the memory card has available storage space. The P10 also offers Clip Motion and Multi Burst modes. Clip Motion records a series of up to 10 images that are automatically saved in a single GIF file, and that can be played back as an animation sequence (a feature I enjoyed on previous Cyber-shot digicams). Multi Burst mode captures an extremely rapid 16-frame burst of images, at a selectable rate of 7.5, 15, or 30 frames per second. Multi Burst shots are played back as a slow-motion animation on the camera, but appear as a single large file with 16 sub-images in it when viewed on a computer. (This would be a fun way to catch someone crossing a finish line during a race, or to analyze golf and tennis swings.) A Self-Timer mode provides a 10-second delay between the time the Shutter button is pressed and the time that the camera actually takes the picture, giving the photographer time to run around and get into the picture. Also available on the P10 are Burst 3 and Voice Record modes. Burst 3 records three images in quick succession, with one press of the Shutter button. Voice mode records a short sound clip to accompany an image, useful for attaching voice captions.
Images are stored on Sony's Memory Stick media (a 16MB stick is included, although higher capacity cards are available), and they can be downloaded via a speedy USB 2.0 connection to a PC or Macintosh computer. An AV cable is also provided for viewing images or slide shows on your TV. The P10 is powered by a Sony InfoLITHIUM battery pack (NP-FC10 or NP-FC11 model), and comes complete with an AC adapter and battery charger. I like the InfoLITHIUM batteries because they communicate with the camera to tell you how much running time is left on the battery pack, but I always (strongly) recommend buying a second battery, and keeping it charged and ready to go, especially when the AC adapter isn't close at hand. The P10 is pretty dependent on its LCD display (a large power drain), and you can't pick up extra batteries at the corner drug store.
Basic Features
5.0-megapixel CCD.
3x zoom lens (equivalent to a 38-114mm lens on a 35mm camera).
3.2x [no data] digital Smart Zoom.
Real-image optical viewfinder.
1.5-inch color LCD monitor.
Automatic exposure control.
Built-in flash with five modes and an intensity adjustment.
Sony Memory Stick storage (16MB card included).
USB computer connection.
InfoLITHIUM battery system (AC adapter included).
Software for Mac and PC.
Special Features
Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Landscape, Beach, Snow, Fireworks, and Fast Shutter preset shooting modes.
Movie (with sound) recording mode.
Clip Motion animation and Multi-Burst slow motion modes.
Email and Voice Memo capture modes.
Shutter speeds from 1/2,000 to two seconds [no data] (with automatic Noise Reduction from 1/2 to two seconds [no data]).
Aperture range from f/2.8 to f/5.6.
Creative Picture Effects menu.
Image Sharpness, Saturation, and Contrast adjustments.
Self-timer for delayed shutter release.
Macro (close-up) lens adjustment.
Spot and Multi-Metering modes.
Adjustable AF area and three AF modes.
Auto ISO setting or 100, 200, and 400 ISO equivalents.
White balance (color) adjustment with six options.
DPOF (Digital Print Order Format) printing compatibility.
Design
The Sony DSC-P10 is compact, stylish, and ready to go anywhere, with a body style nearly identical to most of the other compact Cyber-shots, including the P8 and P9. Its streamlined, silvery metal body is only slightly longer than a typical business card, and nearly the same height, top to bottom. Measuring just 4 1/4" x 2" x 1 7/16" (108 x 51.5 x 35.8mm) and weighing only 6.9 ounces (197 grams) with the battery and memory card installed, the P10 fits easily into small pockets or purses. When not in use, the telescoping zoom lens retracts neatly inside the body, and a small metal leaf shutter automatically closes over the lens to protect it. Outfitted with the accompanying wrist strap, it's quick on the draw and easy to hold.
Despite its small size, the P10's elongated shape provides plenty of room to extend two average-size fingers comfortably across the front and top of the camera, without blocking the lens or any camera controls. By making the camera thin but long, Sony kept the P10 very compact, and avoided the lack of finger space that plagues many ultra-small digicams. The 3x, 7.9-23.7mm zoom lens (equivalent to a 38-114mm zoom on a 35mm camera), dominates the right side of the front of panel, with a small orange lamp just above and to the right of it, to help with focusing in low-light conditions. (This lamp also blinks when the self-timer is in use, to let you know when the camera is about to snap the picture.) A slightly larger window for the optical viewfinder comes next, followed by the built-in electronic flash. A large, raised vertical chrome ridge on the right side (as viewed from the rear) serves as a finger grip, making for a much more secure grip on the camera..
The right side of the camera (as viewed from the rear) houses the battery and Memory Stick compartment, protected by an easy to open, hinged plastic door. Above it is a small eyelet for attaching the wrist strap.
The left side has no controls, only a smooth, rounded surface to following the contour of the lens barrel.
The camera's top panel includes a Mode dial with five settings (Setup, Movie, Playback, Automatic, Program, and Scene modes) and a Shutter button in the middle, as well as a small Power button on the left of the Mode dial. Just to the left of the Power button is a small microphone, for recording sound clips and movie audio.
The camera's rear panel holds the remaining camera controls and function buttons, along with a 1.5-inch color LCD monitor for previewing and playing back images, and the optical viewfinder window. The LCD display reports a variety of camera and exposure settings, including the aperture and shutter speed settings (a nice bonus for those interested in how the camera will expose the image). The optical viewfinder is located above the top right corner of the LCD monitor, and has three LED lamps along the right edge of the window, each of which reports the current status of various camera functions. The camera's Zoom control is in the upper right corner, conveniently located next to a series of small bumps for better thumb traction when holding the camera. In the center of the back panel is a Four-Way Arrow pad, with small arrows pointing in four directions (Up, Down, Left, and Right). Each serves multiple functions, navigating onscreen menus scrolling between captured images in playback mode, or activating different camera functions (Flash, Self-Timer, Quick Review, and Macro).
Surrounding the Arrow pad are the LCD Display On / Off, Menu, and Image Resolution / Erase buttons. Just below these are the three connection jacks (DC In, A/V Out, and USB), all covered by a single plastic door, tethered by a flexible retention stub.
Finally, the P10's flat bottom holds the threaded (plastic) tripod screw mount and a speaker for audio playback. While most users of the P10 probably won't care, I was pleased to see that I could change the battery and memory card without removing my tripod mounting plate from the camera's bottom.