Dec 30 2007

Korea Gets First Ever USB Type Credit Card

Korea Gets First Ever USB Type Credit CardETNews of Korea reports on Shinhan Card rolling out Korea’s first ever USB type credit card on Thursday, December 27.

ETNews further writes, “The USB credit card provides the online and contactless payment function and works the post-paid transportation card as well. The built-in IC chip includes the public authorization and the internet credit payment programs.

During the online payment, users do not need to insert the credit card number. Rather, they can pay by connecting the USB to the slot. At the franchise stores with the IC card reader, it enables the no-touch payment.

The card also supports the information inquiry and the automatic log-in service using the public authorization and the built-in internet payment programs. However, it is limited for users to delete or save data so that the USB itself cannot be used as a portable storage device.” More at ETNews.


Dec 17 2007

DisplayLink Enables Windows Vista Aero on Multiple USB Displays

DisplayLink Enables Windows Vista Aero on Multiple USB DisplaysPALO ALTO, Calif — Dec 17, `07 –BUSINESS WIRE– DisplayLink today announced immediate availability of its DisplayLink Virtual Graphics Card (VGC) software version 4.3, which allows all DisplayLink-based network display systems, including USB graphics adapters, universal docking stations and USB-enabled monitors, to support the Windows Vista Aero 3D interface.

It is the first network display technology to support Aero, which is the visual interface that provides the 3D “glass effect” for Windows Vista and which looks even more stunning in a multiple display environment.

DisplayLink’s industry-leading network display technology enables simple and high quality connections between devices and screens via standard USB connections while maintaining nearly instantaneous mouse and keyboard response, DVD-quality video, and high-resolution graphics.

Compatible with all DisplayLink-powered hardware and virtually every Windows Vista PC, the new software enables users to add up to six displays to a single Windows Vista PC. Products that are compatible with the new DisplayLink Software v4.3 include universal notebook docking stations from Kensington and Toshiba, USB-enabled monitors from LG and Samsung, and USB graphics adapters from a variety of DisplayLink partners.

DisplayLink VGC Software v4.3 can be immediately downloaded from the DisplayLink Web site at DisplayLink.com/downloads.


Dec 17 2007

LG Expands Distribution of DivX Certified HD Televisions

LG Expands Distribution of DivX Certified HD TelevisionsSAN DIEGO & SEOUL, Korea –BUSINESS WIRE– Dec 17, `07 — DivX and LG today announced the launch of two additional models in the DivX Certified Time Machine TV Series specifically targeted for South America.

The two new models of LG’s DivX Certified Time Machine TV Series join millions of DivX Certified devices on the market today that play back high-quality DivX video content.

The two additional models, the 42LB9RT and 32LB9RT, are LCD offerings that deliver high image and audio quality for digital content using much less bandwidth than regular analog devices. These devices boast a simultaneous watch-and-record function and the ability to transfer high-quality DivX content directly to the TV through the USB port.

Maintaining the exceptional standards of the Time Machine TV Series, these models include a built-in 80 gigabyte hard disc drive for Time Shift function and recording as well as a USB 2.0 port, for backing up recorded content and enabling the direct playback of MP3, JPEG and DivX formats. More here.


Dec 06 2007

LaCie Accepting Pre-Orders for Its Designer 320GB External Hard Drive

LaCie Accepting Pre-Orders for Its Designer 320GB External Hard DriveDec 06, ‘07 — LaCie is accepting pre-orders for its user-friendly 320GB External Hard Drive, which is designed by Neil Poulton.

Here’s what LaCie says about its newest addition: LaCie Hard Drive, Design by Neil Poulton adds sophisticated style to your desktop yet its presence is quiet and unobtrusive. It has a unique distinguishing feature - a cool, blue LED strip on its underside that creates an ambient glow.

Its subtle, all-black design blends perfectly into dark home entertainment setups and workstations. Very small for its vast capacity, this lightweight, compact drive has a fashionable, mirror-polished finish. The smartly engineered design allows for heat dissipation and near-silent, fanless operation.

You can pre-order one for $119.99 at LaCie.


Dec 03 2007

Western Digital Intros 320GB WD Passport Portable Hard Drive

Tag: Gadgets, Hard Drives, Peripherals, Storage, TechLuver, USBJack @ 7:58 AM

Western Digital Intros 320GB WD Passport Portable Hard DriveWestern Digital Intros 320GB WD Passport Portable Hard DriveLAKE FOREST, Calif — Dec 03, ‘07 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Just in time to make a perfect holiday gift, Western Digital today announced that its new 320 GB capacity WD Passport Portable Drives are now available for $229.99 at select retailers and this week at WD’s online store ShopWD.com.

At less than five ounces, this lightweight drive fits neatly in a pocket or backpack and is the perfect gadget to back up today’s increasingly large files.

WD Sync software allows consumers to take desktop content with them by simplifying the synchronization of essential personal files and
Microsoft Outlook data on a PC. Should owners misplace the drive, they know their data is protected with 128-bit encryption. Google software on the drive allows users to quickly locate files with the Google Desktop Search search tool, manage photos with Picasa photo organizer software and simplify Web searches with the Google Toolbar search bar.


Nov 29 2007

SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Promoter Group is Looking for Additional Contributor

Tag: Formats, Standards, TechLuver, USBJack @ 8:51 AM

SuperSpeed USB 3.0 Promoter Group is Looking for Additional ContributorBEAVERTON, Ore — Nov 28, ‘07 — The Universal Serial Bus (USB) 3.0 Promoter Group is looking for additional contributors to its initial draft of the group’s proposed specification with a goal to have it completed by the first half of 2008.

SuperSpeed USB 3.0 will create a backward-compatible standard with the same ease-of-use and plug-and-play capabilities of previous USB computer connection technologies, ports and cabling. The personal USB interconnect is targeting to deliver over 10 times the speed of today’s connection and will be optimized for lower power and improved protocol efficiency.

The USB 3.0 Promoter Group public Web site usb.org/usb30 outlines the process to become a contributor to the specification. A company must be a USB Implementers Forum member in good standing and sign a USB 3.0 contributor agreement.

Once a company has joined, it will obtain access to the current draft of the specification. The site also includes a URL for Contributors to supply comments. The group plans to review the specification with contributors at a meeting in Las Vegas on Jan. 14-15.

The USB 3.0 Promoter Group, consisting of HP, Intel Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, NEC Corporation, NXP Semiconductors and Texas Instruments Incorporated, is committed to preserving the existing USB device class driver infrastructure and investment, look and feel and ease-of-use of USB while continuing to expand this technology’s capabilities. More at USB.org (in pdf)


Nov 28 2007

USB to SATA / eSATA with 5 USB Hub

Tag: Computers, Hard Drives, Hub, Peripherals, Storage, TechLuver, USBJack @ 5:51 PM

USB to SATA / eSATA with 5 USB HubNov 28, ‘07 — Brando is offering this USB to SATA / eSATA with 5 USB Ports Combo Hub turns any SATA or eSATA mass storage device into a convenient external USB 2.0 High-Speed drive.

This adapter supports 2.5″ and 3.5″ SATA hard drives, SATA CD/DVD drives and eSATA drive enclosure. It is a great test bench device perfect for technicians or anyone needing to copy or offload files from one hard drive to another. In additions, it contains a 5-Port hub, it is more convenience to use.

Get yours for $33 or $43 with power at Brando.com.hk


Nov 25 2007

Teac Exhibits the HD-R1 Recorder/Player That Uses Compact Flash as the Recording Media

Tag: Flash, Gadgets, Media, Music, TechLuver, USB, USB MemoryJack @ 8:19 AM

Teac Exhibits the HD-R1 Recorder/Player That Uses Compact Flash as the Recording Media

Inter BEE 2007 – CHIBA CITY, Japan –BUSINESS WIRE– Teac exhibits the HD-R1 recorder/player that uses Compact Flash as the recording media, at Inter BEE 2007, an international broadcasting equipment exhibition, in Makuhari. The device supports recording in MP3 and PCM (up to 96 kHz) format. It also supports control via LAN or RS-232C. A USB host feature enables playback of sound files in USB memory.

The SS-CDR1 recorder/player with Compact Flash and CD-R/RW drives supports recording in MP3 and PCM (up to 48 kHz) format. It also supports dubbing between CDR and Compact Flash media, continuous recording, and playback.

As with the HD-R1, the SS-CDR1 is a recorder/player that uses Compact Flash as the recording media. The supported recording formats are MP3 and PCM (up to 48 kHz). Photo Credit: SweetWater.

The HD-R1 can be yours for $1100 at SweetWater


Nov 23 2007

Buffalo Intros 320GB External Hard Drive

Tag: Gadgets, Hard Drives, Storage, TechLuver, USBJack @ 12:00 PM

Buffalo Intros 320GB External Hard DriveBuffalo has surprised everyone this week in becoming the first company to market with a 320GB portable external hard drive, says TrustedReviews.

TR further writes, “Despite its gold medal win, the ‘MiniStation TurboUSB’ (HD-PS320U2) is no slouch either with Buffalo admirably having chosen to go down the quicker 5,400rpm route - a decision which means the drive will boast transfer rates up to 64 per cent faster than the traditional 4,200rpm speeds with which the latest high capacity portable HDDs usually debut.

Furthermore, the PS320U2 has security covered too with the Buffalo’s own ‘Secure Lock Ware (SLW)’ utility which offers drive and file encryption to protect data with up to 256bit AES Encryption. On top of this data can be protected further with the bundled ‘Memeo AutoBackup’ software (Windows only) which offers additional options such as scheduled backup and password protection. The PS320U2 launches in December with the cutting edge premium price tag of $319 (£155).” More at TrustedReviews.


Nov 17 2007

Duracell PowerSource Mobile 100: Portable Backup Power for All Your Mobile Needs

Duracell PowerSource Mobile 100: Portable Backup Power for All Your Mobile NeedsEver wished you had some way to magically extend the battery life of your most frequently used gadgets when you need them most? You can now do so with the new Duracell PowerSource Mobile 100.

The Duracell PowerSource Mobile 100 is the portable, rechargeable AC and USB power solution for all your mobile needs. It will extend the runtime of all of your mobile electronics such as an iPod, BlackBerry, video camera, cell phone and more. It will provide up to two hours of extended run time for your laptop. The Duracel® PowerSource Mobile 100 has one AC outlet and two USB charge ports, so you can run or charge multiple devices simultaneously. You no longer have to carry extra cords, chargers and device-specific batteries.

Get yours for $100 at Amazon.


Nov 06 2007

Sony Ericsson Releases K660 & W380 Cellphones, MD300 USB Mobile Broadband Modem and HBH-PV703 Bluetooth Heaset

Sony Ericsson K660 HSDPA CellphoneSony Ericsson W380 Walkman PhoneSony Ericsson MD300 USB HSDPA ModemSony Ericsson HBH-PV703London, UK and Raleigh, NC — Nov 06, ‘07 — Sony Ericsson today announced the launch of the K660, an HSDPA (‘mobile broadband’) enabled phone, W380 Walkman phone, MD300 USB Mobile Broadband Modem and HBH-PV703 Bluetooth Headset. All four products will be available in Q1 of 2008.

K660:
- HSDPA/UMTS: 2100 MHz
- GSM/GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
- 2″ 240×320 QVGA Display
- 2 MP camera
- Bluetooth Stereo (A2DP)
- Access NetFront Browser, RSS Feeds
- FM Radio
- GSM: Talk time: Up to 9 hrs, Standby Up to 330 hrs
- UMTS Talk time: Up to 4.5 hrs, Standby Up to 330 hrs
- 104×47x14.7 mm, 3.4 oz
W380a:
- GSM/GPRS/EDGE: 850/1800/1900
- 1.9″ 176×220 TFT LCT
- Bluetooth stereo (A2DP)
- Audio Formats: MP3/AAC/AAC+
- FM Radio
- 1.3 MP Camera
- RSS Feeds, WAP 2.0 XHTML
- 512MB M2 Memory Stick
- Talk time: up to 7 Hrs, Syandby 300 Hrs
- 92×49x16 mm, 100 g
MD300:
- HSDPA/UMTS: Triple band 850/1900/ 2100 MHz
- HSDPA up to 3.6 Mbps
- EDGE/GPRS: Quad band 850/900/1800/1900 MHz
- USB 2.0 Mobile Broadband Modem
- Compact size: 70×32.5×15 mm
- Integrated antenna design
- Supported OS: MS Windows 2000, XP, Vista, MAC-OS X
HBH-PV703:
- Bluetooth 2.0
- 61×18 mm, 14 g
- Talk time: Up to 10 Hrs, Standby: Up to 350 Hrs

More at SonyEricsson here, here and here!


Nov 05 2007

Sierra Wireless Introduces Apex 880 USB HSUPA Modem

Sierra_Wireless_Apex_880_HSUPA_USB_ModemVANCOUVER, B.C.– Nov 05, ‘07 — Sierra Wireless today introduced the newest addition to its USB modem product line, the Apex 880 USB modem. Smaller than previous models and sporting a new, innovative design and features, the Apex 880 USB modem is expected to be available for shipping in January, 2008.

The Apex 880 is designed to provide a high-performance, reliable wireless connection with the most flexible usage options available. The rotating connector hinge accommodates both horizontally and vertically oriented USB ports. In addition, a laptop clip and USB extension cable is included for those who would prefer to attach the modem to the top of the screen for improved reception or easier use.

To simplify setup and configuration, the Apex 880 also offers TRU-Install, a seamless installation experience that requires no CD – just plug the modem into the computer’s USB slot and the drivers and client software will be installed directly from the modem itself.

The Apex 880 USB modem supports the latest HSUPA network technology, offering theoretical maximum data speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps (megabits per second) on the downlink, and up to 2.0 Mbps on the uplink. It offers tri-band HSPA/UMTS connectivity (850/1900/2100 MHz) and quad-band EDGE/GPRS connectivity (850/900/1800/1900 MHz) for use worldwide, making it a valuable tool for international travelers.

More at Sierra Wireless.


Nov 02 2007

The Industry-First Ultra-Small Solid-State Drive for Embedded Storage Applications from SiliconSystems

Tag: Flash Memory, Storage, TechLuver, USB, USB MemoryJack @ 5:37 AM

SiliconDrive USB Blade from SiliconSystemsALISO VIEJO, Calif., October 30, 2007 — SiliconSystems, Inc today announced its new SiliconDrive USB Blade solid-state storage product.  SiliconDrive USB Blade is a breakthrough storage solution in an environmentally-rugged and ultra-small form factor. With an innovative industry-first form factor, SiliconDrive USB Blade is based on SiliconSystems’ next-generation storage technology platform which includes advanced versions of the company’s patented PowerArmor, SiSMART and SiliconDrive Secure technologies.

SiliconDrive USB Blade is ideally suited for space-constrained designs and as a boot drive, for operating system storage or in event and data logging applications. Dedicated to solving the needs of next-generation USB embedded systems, SiliconSystems collaborated with Samtec, Inc., a leading designer and manufacturer of rugged connectors, to develop a space-saving and secure latching connector solution for the SiliconDrive USB Blade.  The innovative edge connector has spring-loaded snaps at either end of the slot to ensure the SiliconDrive USB Blade is held securely in place, allowing installation either vertically or at a right angle when space is a major design concern.

SiliconDrive USB Blade evaluation units and host developer tool kits will be available in December 2007.  Initially SiliconDrive USB Blade will be offered in capacities of 512 MB, 1GB & 2GB. More at SiliconSystems.


Oct 31 2007

USB to DVI Adapter from Sewell Direct

Tag: Accessories, Gadgets, TechLuver, USBJack @ 3:29 PM

Sewell Direct_USB to DVI AdapterOct 31, ‘07 — Adding a quality DVI or VGA high resolution display through your USB port used to be science fiction, but is now science fact with the USB to DVI-A adapter.

It used to be that you could add a display via a USB port, but the refresh rate and video quality lacked. With this USB to DVI display adapter, complete with VGA adapter, you can add either a DVI or VGA display that behaves just like a monitor connected to a standard video card, operating at a high resolution of 1600 x 1200.

The secret is the 256 MB of onboard RAM inside this little power house. The adapter essentially acts as an external video card carrying a heavy payload of RAM that most mid to high range standard video cards these days carry. The large amount of memory allows the adapter to perform like a standard video card, and the USB pipeline (maxing out at around 480 mbps) is more than enough bandwidth to provide top-notch video connectivity.

Tested In-House

As excited as we were for the release of this model, we tested it right when they came in. The unit performed with flying colors while using two simultaneously. Tested on an unimpressive Dell Latitude D520 Centrino Duo with 512 RAM, it easily handled 2 (probably could handle a couple more) USB to DVI adapters, driving 19 inch flat screens, while also using the auxiliary display port on the laptop’s docking station, for a total of 4 simultaneous beautful displays, including the laptop’s built-in display.

Windows Vista Compatible

The USB to DVI/VGA adapter is completely Windows Vista compatible with the included driver CD for both mirroring and extending your desktop. It also performs both mirroring and extended desktop with Windows 2000 SP4, and XP SP2 perfectly (32-bit systems only). Its available for $150 at SewellDirect.


Oct 27 2007

Mirror Finish CR201 CD Player by Marantz

Tag: Coolstuff, Designer, MP3 Player, Music, TechLuver, USBJack @ 9:05 PM

Marantz CR201Marantz CR201Marantz CR201 RemotesLook at this awesome looking, mirror finish, stand alone CD player by Marantz which can play CD/CD-R/CD-RW in MP3/WMA format and comes with an USB port and round remote. It can be yours for $759 at AudioCubes. More details and pics at (google translated) Marantz Japan


Oct 25 2007

Trend Micro to Acquire Provilla for Global Data Leak Prevention

Trend Micro to Acquire Provilla for Global Data Leak PreventionTrend Micro to Acquire Provilla for Global Data Leak PreventionTrend Micro will augment content-security solutions with the addition of innovative data leak prevention experts, technology and products.CUPERTINO, Calif. and TOKYO, Oct. 25, ‘07 /PRNewswire/ — Trend Micro Incorporated , a leader in network antivirus and Internet content security software and services, announced today a definitive agreement to acquire Provilla, Inc., a leading provider of fingerprint-based intelligent endpoint solutions for data leak prevention (DLP) in organizations. Under the agreement, Provilla will operate as a subsidiary of Trend Micro’s U.S. affiliate. Provilla’s data leak prevention experts as well as technology and products will enhance the Trend Micro portfolio of easily deployed and managed multi-layered content-security solutions for business customers.

Organizations of all sizes are vulnerable to data leaks that expose them to security, intellectual property, monetary, privacy and compliance threats. On-the-move workers, equipped with unsecured, unprotected mobile computers, may inadvertently or intentionally expose confidential company information via wireless networks. With an ever increasing array of USB-based devices, all corporate desktops are now also at risk. An organization’s time, money, and reputation are at risk when such a data leak occurs, with security professionals urgently attempting to recover sensitive data and mend the leak.

Enterprise security professionals are in constant battle: Even when old leaks are controlled, new data leaks frequently occur through a plethora of other endpoints. Provilla technology intelligently controls leaks at multiple endpoints. The technology also lets organizations know the exact locations of sensitive data for active and effective control. Provilla products also educate and sensitize end users to corporate policies and regulatory requirements.

“As demand for DLP solutions has ramped quickly, we have been able to meet the need with a steady stream of innovative products and advancements primarily because of a stellar group of Provilla technologists,” said Shu Huang, chief technical officer, Provilla. “Our people are excited by the opportunity to join forces with the Trend Micro team, which is known for a commitment to technical innovation and to customers globally that starts at the top and permeates the ranks. We see this as an opportunity to build a complete data leak prevention product suite that fits with Trend Micro’s philosophy of central security management.” Trend Micro will continue to offer Provilla’s stand-alone products for the near term as well as gradually integrate Provilla’s capabilities into its own enterprise, small and medium business solutions. Provilla products are deployed in North America, China, Taiwan, Europe and Japan.

 More at Trend Micro


Oct 25 2007

SanDisk Sues 25 Companies to Enforce Patents

SanDisk Sues 25 Companies to Enforce PatentsLOS ANGELES, Oct 24, ‘07 - SanDisk said it filed three patent infringement actions on Wednesday against 25 companies that make, sell and import USB flash drives and other products. The actions, filed in the United States District Court in the Western District of Wisconsin and with the United States International Trade Commission allege the defendants have infringed SanDisk patents.

The company seeks damages and a permanent injunction as well as a permanent exclusion order from the ITC banning importation of the products into the United States.

More at Reuters


Oct 22 2007

SanDisk Intros Sansa TakeTV Video Player, Fanfare Video Downloads

SanDisk Logo Store Your World In OursSanDisk Sansa Take TV 4GB 8GBFinally, there’s an exceptionally easy way to move video from your PC to your TV. Says SanDisk. MILPITAS, CA - October 22, 2007 - SanDisk today announced the U.S. availability of the Sansa TakeTV video player along with the public BETA version of Fanfare, a dynamic Web-based service that enables consumers to download television shows, movies and other premium video content to portable devices.

Sansa TakeTV Specs:

- 4GB and 8GB
- $99.99 and $149.99
- USB 2.0
- DivX(Home Theater profile), xVid, MPEG-4
- 720×576 Resolution, NTSC and PAL

SanDisk Fanfare Video Downloads Service

Fanfare Video Downloads:

- Content Partners: CBS, Jaman.com, Showtime, Smithsonian Networks, Weather Channel, TV Guide, Survivor China, Dexter and Sleeper Cell
- Combination of free(ad supported) and paid episodes
- Will gain additional features when the full version is launched early next year
- Future plans include video being transferred via SanDisk mobile cards
- TrustedFlash–DRM (developed by SanDisk, IBM & Extend Media)
- Needs Sansa TakeTV to extract content for TV playback

More at SanDisk here and here


Oct 20 2007

Verizon Releases UM150 EV-DO Rev-A USB Modem

Verizon Wireless UM150 EV DO USB ModemOctober 19, ‘07 — BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Verizon Wireless today announced the immediate availability of the UM150 USB wireless modem through business sales channels and online at Verizon. The UM150 USB modem will be in Verizon Wireless Communications Stores, including those in Circuit City, on November 2.

Designed to work with any computing device equipped with a Type A USB port, the UM150 USB modem is optimized for Verizon Wireless’ Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO) Revolution A (Rev. A) network and the company’s BroadbandAccess service, which provides average download speeds of 600 kilobits per second (kbps) to 1.4 megabits and average upload speeds of 500-800 kbps.

UM150 features a high-performance, retractable antenna and a Y-shaped extension cable for added performance and convenience. In addition, the UM150 serves as a mass storage device with its built-in microSD™ memory slot which has a minimum capacity of 4 GB. VZAccess Manager Software is included to simplify set-up and navigation through the UM150’s features.

Pricing and Availability
The UM150 USB modem is available for $79.99 after a $50 mail-in rebate and new two-year agreement. Customers can get BroadbandAccess service for Internet browsing, e-mail and intranet access for $59.99 monthly access with a new one- or two-year customer agreement.

More at Verizon here and here


Oct 19 2007

Awsome Hard Drive USB Docks At GeekStuff4U

Tag: Accessories, Hard Drives, TechLuver, USBJack @ 6:14 PM

Hard Drive USB Dock By GeekStuff4UGeekSyuff4U have this awsome hard drive USB docks just for $47. This is as simple and convenient as it gets to connect a HD to a PC or Mac.

You can get one at GeekStuff4U


Oct 03 2007

Designer Medusa PC Hub at ThinkGeek

Tag: Designer, Fire Wire, Hub, PC Hub, TechLuver, USBJack @ 6:11 AM

medusa_hub.jpgThinkGeek has a designer solution to the desktop clutter. In their words ” Too many devices, not enough ports, and way more personal style than you know what to do with. The perfect desktop accessory for you has flown out of the deep blue sea - launched from the depths by underwater French nuclear tests. Mutated and hideous, and at the same time beautiful, the eight-legged sea creature made solid can now take its place on your desktop, deftly switching data between its arms in Firewire, and USB. The mini fan keeps you cool while the tiny light lures in tiny prey - erm, we mean illuminates your workspace. ”

It includes 4 USB 2.0 ports, up to 480Mbps, 2 Firewire 400 ports, up to 400Mbps, USB Fan & USB Light

More at ThinkGeek…