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March 14th, 2011

Published by: VR-Zone

VR-Zone.com | Stuff for the Geeks!

VR-Zone | Stuff for the Geeks is a bi-weekly publication covering the latest gadgets and stuff for the geeks.

The Daily VR-Zone News Summary - 14 Mar 2011 Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/the-daily-vr-zone-news-summary--14mar-2011/11581.html March 14th, 2011

In today's news roundup: ASRock shows off some new motherboards in Germany; BIOSTAR's new board featuring the P67 chipset, the TP67XE, gets taken out for a review; InsideHW offers its opinion about the current MicrosoftNokia partnership; Famed hacker Comex has already found a way to jailbreak the iPad 2 and is said to be working on a consumer-friendly version of the exploit for public distribution; Sony is reportedly porting over a variety of PlayStation 2 titles over to its Xperia Play smartphone, and Japanese game publishers are suspending various game services and have announced several contributions and cash donations in an attempt to support their country's recovery efforts Hardware News: Asus Radeon HD 6950 & 6970 @ Hardwareoverclock.com Description: Hardwareoverclock.com has just posted another video card review. Last week we have taken a look at the Asus Radeon HD 6950 and 6970 video cards.

Evercool Transformer 4 CPU Cooler @ TestFreaks Description: Hello, today I‘ve got another CPU cooler for review. It’s the Transformer 4 from Evercool, and it’s huge but it performs very well. This cooler is one of the best I’ve tested lately and it’s also one of the quietest as well. The Transformer 4 can be a bit tricky to install, and if you have large style ram in your computer it might not fit at all. Anyway, read on to learn more…

March Madness Video Card Giveaway @Hi Tech Legion Description: HiTech Legion is celebrating March Madness with a video card giveaway. HiTech Legion will be giving away

two video cards, an EVGA GTX 460 SC and a Sapphire Toxic HD 5870. Visit HiTech Legion to get all the details.

Antec Six Hundred v2 Gaming Case @ Benchmark Reviews Description: Antec has been in the PC enclosures business for over 25 years. They have many unique and creative cases such as the LanBoy and Skeleton. However, nothing is more iconic than their "Hundred" series gaming cases, from the lowend Antec One Hundred to the Antec Twelve Hundred full tower. In order to keep up with competition, Antec has been massively updating their line of products. This time it's the Six Hundred's turn. Out of the seven "Hundred" series gaming cases, the Antec Six Hundred V2 is the most balanced. It was designed to be simple but effective. Benchmark Reviews will test the Antec Six Hundred V2 and see where it stands among the fierce competition.

Thermaltake V9 BlacX Edition Case Review @ Tweaknews Description: When I first got an opportunity to look at an example of Thermaltake's V9 series, I was less than impressed.

This new BlacX entry has some nicely executed features and displays very good cooling numbers. However, the interior design is definitely getting long in the tooth and, frankly wasn't that good to start with. The chassis itself is thin and flimsy, cable management is virtually non-existent and the expansion card tool-free clips are, in word, horrible.

ASRock Motherboard Preview 2011 Description: ASRock invited to a Fatal1ty P67/H67 event in the Holiday Inn hotel Ratingen, Germany and presented some of their current motherboards. However, their motherboards were not only shown in this presentation, because the wellknown gamer Johnathan aka Fatal1ty also visited this product presentation. ASRock has developed the ASRock Fatal1ty P67 Professional in cooperation with Fatal1ty, so it suggest itself, that Fatal1ty presented the product Live in this presentation.

Quake was extremely fast, or lets say it was definitely too fast for the opponent ;-) Coolermaster & Corsair 700-750W 80+ Gold PSU Shoot-out @ Madshrimps Description: Have you just put together your brand new gaming monster but are you still missing the equivalent strong power supply to match it. In this article we're putting the Coolermaster Silent Pro Gold 700W power supply unit against Corsairs Professional Series Gold AX750. Two quality build 80+ Gold power supplies in the ~700W market segment, did we get double Gold?

BIOSTAR TP67XE Intel LGA 1155 Sandy Bridge Motherboard Review @ Legit Reviews

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Description: BIOSTAR isn't one of the big names in motherboards today, frankly that's a shame. Throughout our testing today, the BIOSTAR TP67XE motherboard has kept me happy. It may not have been top performing board across all of our tests today. It did however, do a great job overall.

What did impressed me the most was the overclocking ability of the BIOSTAR TP67XE. As we saw on the overclocking page we were able to overclock our Intel Core i5 2500K to 5GHz on this motherboard...

Consumer Electronics and Software News: Nokia & Microsoft: The Finnish giant in American jeans @ InsideHW Description: With the release of N95, Nokia was on seventh heaven - with no obstacles in sight, it was resting contentedly on its laurels, basking in the domination it had over any other mobile phone manufacturer. The income was such that the company could afford buying a giant such as Navteq, just because they thought that it would be an excellent feat to offer GPS navigation as a standard feature in mobile phones. Money was being invested boundlessly into the American market, where Nokia has never managed to gain a foothold, and the entire thing went as far as financing films where Nokia phones would exclusively be the ones displayed. The fact that the company had been practically recycling phone models for a while, with no significant innovation taking place as far as user interaction is concerned, went unnoticed to many...

Lenovo ThinkPad X220 Ultraportable Notebook Review Description: Living up to its reputation, I've generally been pleased with Lenovo's overall build quality and performance.

The recently reviewed IdeaPad U260 was a real work of art and excelled in nearly every category except for one -- it narrowly missed Intel's Sandy Bridge processor refresh which would have offered even better all-around CPU and GPU performance. Today we'll be looking at our first notebook based on Intel's second generation Core processors, the ThinkPad X220. The X220 was just introduced this month and represents Lenovo's latest ultraportable ThinkPad. RAZER Anansi Expert MMO Gaming Keyboard Review @ Madshrimps Description: The Anansi from Razer is a membrane-based keyboard, with a nice customizable LED effect, over 100 programmable keys, on-the-fly macro recording and an unique feature: the 7 thumb modifier keys right under the Space Bar which help to perform even more complicated macros or can aid in various productivity applications.

Speedlink MYST Touch Scroll Mouse Review @ Vortez Description: The MYST Touch Scroll mouse (abbreviated to MYST from now on), as the name suggests, includes touch sensitive scrolling. This is a very novel feature not seen widely across the PC market yet. The MYST is a small and light mouse, aimed primarily towards users on the move. It comes in both wired and wireless flavours, and in black or white colours.

Today, I'll be looking at the white, wireless version.

ECO Sound Engineering V268 Wireless Bluetooth Headset @ TestFreaks Description: What can you get for $10 these days? Not much really, but if you check over at Wireless Ground you can get a Bluetooth headset for $9.95! is it worth it? Well maybe it

Published by: VR-Zone

is, that is if you’re looking for a throwaway type headset and not too worried about sound quality and comfort. The product is the ECO Sound Engineering V268 Wireless Bluetooth Headset. I’ve never heard of Eco Sound before until now, and at $10 I wasn’t expecting much, but for the price it’s not that bad.

BenQ XL2410T LED Review - XSReviews Description: Despite the high prices of certain internal hardware like Graphics cards, mobos and CPUs, one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make as a hardware enthusiast or gamer is your display. The monitor, the device you use to view all the content your internals pump out; it’s important. iPad 2 already jailbroken Description: Renowned iOS hacker @Comex has posted photographic proof that he has already jailbroken the justlaunched Apple iPad 2. According to @Comex’s Twitter feed, previously used iOS exploits were locked down and he had to use a new exploit to get around the new measures. The details of the hack have not yet been made public, although he is already working towards releasing the hack for the public.

Gaming News: PlayStation 2 Games For Tegra 2 ?

Description: Some of the PlayStation titles to look forward to on Xperia Play include Wild Arms and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night etc however, Nvidia’s Tegra 2 dual-core processor could probably do much more than that.

Final Fantasy XI and XIV Servers Temporarily Closed Due To Quake Description: Square Enix have their Final Fantasy XI and XIV servers temporarily closed, in a move to conserve energy in Japan. Square explains the temporary closure to “continuous quakes occurring in the eastern regions of Japan”.

Japan's Publishing Community Donates to Earthquake Relief Description: Faced with the ongoing tragedy in north eastern Japan, game publishers have been stepping up with contributions of varying forms.

Report: AMD's 28nm mobile GPU roadmap Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/report-amd-s-28nm-mobile-gpuroadmap/11591.html March 14th, 2011

Back in December, DonanimHaber revealed the codenames of AMD's next-gen mobile GPUs - Wimbledon, Heathrow, Chelsea and Thames. Three months on, DonanimHaber has posted AMD's 28nm mobile GPU roadmap. Much of the details from Decemeber still apply, with some additional information. The first GPUs, Heathrow, Chelsea and Thames are set to be produced starting Q4 2011, with a release expected in November 2011. The flagship, Wimbledon, will release a few months later, in Q2 2012.

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Published by: VR-Zone

in 80mm and 120mm sizes, they come in manual or PWM variants.

Thanks to the emergence of the APU, the 28nm product lineup sees a significant redefinition of the categories. The "Value" segment will be completely absent, presumably taken over by the GPU part of APUs, with legacy/refresh products satisfying the exceptional cases. Instead, the first GPU will be a mainstream/performance GPU, Thames, with 128-bit memory bus and twice the performance as Seymour, i.e.

Radeon HD 6400M. The thermal envelope will be 15W-25W, which is a fair bit higher than the 10W associated previous entry level mobile GPUs. The division between the mainstream and performance GPUs will be blurred, with TDPs and perhaps performance being very close between Thames and Chelsea. The Enthusiast segment is where the future of discrete GPUs lie. First up, will be Heathrow, sporting a 128-bit or 192-bit memory bus, with TDP of above 35W. The flagship, Wimbledon, will release in Q2 2012, featuring a 256-bit bus. DonanimHaber also suggests an MXM solution and a blistering 65W TDP. Presumed to be the Radeon HD 7000M series, the some 28nm mobile GPUs might end up with TSMC, while others may be fabricated at Globalfoundries. Certainly, neither NVIDIA nor AMD were pleased with TSMC's 32nm cancelation and 28nm delays, and a second option will be worth developing.

There's still a long way off to the first 28nm releases - due in 6 months' time. Between now and then, a lot could change.

Enermax Introduces New 80mm and 120mm T.B.Silence Case Fans

Enermax has expanded its series of T.B.Silence fans with the addition of four new fans, the UCTB8A, UCTB12A, UCTB8P, and UCTB12P. The fans boast twister-type bearings with a MTBF of 100,000 hours, detachable Batwing blades, and "modular frames with aluminum rings" for stability. Available in 80mm and 120mm sizes, they come in manual or PWM variants.

Product details: • UCTB8A (80mm / manual control) | 800 - 2500 RPM (speed) | 10 dBA (minimum sound output) | €6.99 • UCTB12A (120mm / manual control) | 800 - 1500 RPM | 10 dBA | €10.99 • UCTB8P (80mm / PWM) | 500 - 2200 RPM | 8 dBA | €8.99 • UCTB12P (120mm / PWM) | 500 - 1500 RPM | 8 dBA | €12.99

Scythe Launches New Card Reader Kama Reader Jr Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/scythe-launches-new-card-readerkama-reader-jr/11587.html March 14th, 2011

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/enermax-introduces-new-80mmand-120mm-t.b.silence-case-fans/11588.html March 14th, 2011

Enermax has expanded its series of T.B.Silence fans with the addition of four new fans, the UCTB8A, UCTB12A, UCTB8P, and UCTB12P. The fans boast twister-type bearings with a MTBF of 100,000 hours, detachable Batwing blades, and "modular frames with aluminum rings" for stability. Available

Japanese cooling-specialist Scythe has introduced the Kama Reader Jr. card reader (model no: SCKMRDJR), adding on to its line-up of PC accessories. Measuring 101 x 25.5 x 9mm, the 3.5" reader features an USB 2.0 connector and supports a myriad of memory cards on the market. It is available through major retailers and e-tailers at a MSRP of €7.50 (excluding VAT).

SCYTHE PRESS RELEASE

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Published by: VR-Zone

Card, Mini SD (requires adapter), Mini SDHC (requires adapter), MultiMedia Card (MMC), RS-MMC (requires adapter), MMC Micro (requires adapter), Memory Stick Micro, Micro SD, Micro SDHC • Compatible OS Windows XP Vista 7 • Connector USB 2.0 intern • Mounting 3.5" internal For more information, visit this page.

Swiftech Unveils Polaris 120 The Japanese manufacturer Scythe Co. Ltd. expands its portfolio of PC accessories with a card reader called Kama Reader Jr. The Kama Reader Jr. is a compact multi-format card reader which can be installed into a 8.89 cm (3.5 inch) drive bay. It is suitable for quick reading and writing of virtually any memory card on the market. Kama Reader Jr. is also equipped with a front USB port. Kama Reader Jr. is now available for a MSRP of 7,50 € (excluding VAT Tax).

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/swiftech-unveilspolaris-120/11586.html March 14th, 2011

Swiftech, leader in high-end thermal solutions for the PC, has announced the Polaris 120, targeting overclockers.

Product Details • Model Name Kama Reader Jr. • Item Number SCKMRDJR • Manufacturer Scythe Co., Ltd. • Dimensions 101 x 25.5 x 9 mm 4.04 x 1.02 x 3.74in (WxHxD) • Compatible media • Memory Stick (PRO, ROM), Memory Stick (DUO, PROROM), Compact Flash, Micro Drive, SD Card, SDHC 4

March 14th, 2011

Published by: VR-Zone March 14th, 2011

G.Skill has announced its latest Sniper series designed specifically for PC gamers and modding enthusiasts. Extensive compatibility tests have been conducted on a wide range of Intel and AMD platforms, which guarantee the best performance, quality and reliability. The Sniper series is available in dual-channel and triple-channel kits, up to 24GB. Taipei, Taiwan - March 14th 2011 - G.Skill, the worldwide leading memory designer and manufacturer, has announced the newest concept and development of new Sniper series designed specifically for PC gamers and modding enthusiasts.

Extensive compatibility tests are conducted on a wide range of Intel and AMD platforms, which guarantee the best performance, quality and reliability.

The New Sniper series is designed for ultra low voltage operation, down to 1.25V. Such low voltage kits can save up to 10% power, allowing for better system energy efficiency and smooth gameplay without any heat problems.

High capacity memory kits are necessary as gaming consumes a lot of memory. The G.Skill Sniper series not only fulfils your needs, but also maximizes your gaming experience with its line-up of memory kits from 4GBx2 to 4GBx6.

Measuring 135 x 91 x 152mm and weighing 849g, the tower cooler boasts five 8mm direct-contact heatpipes, a dense array of "nicked" aluminum fins, and is equipped with a 120mm fan operating at speeds of 750 ~ 1,500 RPM. It is expected to ship come end March at a MSRP of US$59.95.

News via [Techpowerup]

G.Skill launches Sniper memory kits for PC gamers and modding enthusiasts Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/g.skill-launches-sniper-memory-kitsfor-pc-gamers-and-modding-enthusiasts/11585.html

The Sniper series comes in two stylish colors: unique pitchblack and metallic army green. "Its unparalleled PC gaming 5

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style can enrich all kinds of computer gears. G.Skill is ready to pull the trigger, are you?"

All G.Skill memory products come with lifetime warranty and the G.Skill technical team is always ready to provide consumers with complete technical support via online forums, Facebook, telephone and email.

Source: G.Skill Press Release

Published by: VR-Zone

some additional CPUs once Intel has cleared out its inventory of older first generation Core i processors.

Asus' U30s second generation Core i notebook gets reviewed early Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/asus-u30s-second-generation-core-inotebook-gets-reviewed-early/11583.html March 14th, 2011

Intel launches first mobile Sandy Bridge Celeron Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/intel-launches-first-mobile-sandybridge-celeron/11584.html March 14th, 2011

Intel has added its first budget mobile Sandy Bridge processor to its already wide range of processors higher up in the range.

The new model is simply called the B810 and it's the most basic and feature stripped Sandy Bridge based mobile CPU to appear. This is good news for those that want a really affordable Sandy Bridge notebook, although be aware that this 35W CPU might feature reduced functionality graphics compared to its higher-end siblings, just like the upcoming desktop Celerons.

Intel has added its first budget mobile Sandy Bridge processor to its already wide range of processors higher up in the range.

The new model is simply called the B810 and it's the most basic and feature stripped Sandy Bridge based mobile CPU to appear. This is good news for those that want a really affordable Sandy Bridge notebook, although be aware that this 35W CPU might feature reduced functionality graphics compared to its higher-end siblings, just like the upcoming desktop Celerons.

Notebooks with Intel's second generation Core i processors are slowly starting to trickle out into the market, but so far we've only seen 14 and 15.6-inch models from Asus. However, an early review of one of its upcoming 13.3-inch models the US30s which is an interesting mix of portability and features.

This is likely to be Asus' budget 13.3-inch model judging by the features, so we can expect a higher-end version to be announced at some stage as well.

Notebooks with Intel's second generation Core i processors are slowly starting to trickle out into the market, but so far we've only seen 14 and 15.6-inch models from Asus. However, an early review of one of its upcoming 13.3-inch models the US30s which is an interesting mix of portability and features.

This is likely to be Asus' budget 13.3-inch model judging by the features, so we can expect a higher-end version to be announced at some stage as well.

The U30s should be a direct replacement of the current U30Jc model, but with several key feature changes beyond the CPU and chipset. The chassis actually appears to be mostly identical to the older U30Jc which means that the U30s still packs an optical drive, something that results in it being a rather chubby 13-incher. The model on review came with a Core i5-2410M processor; although we'd expect it to be available will several CPU options.

So what we're looking at here is a relatively slow 1.6GHz dual core CPU with 2MB of L3 cache which doesn't seem to compare too favourable to the current “high-end� Celeron P4600 which is clocked at 2GHz. That said, the improved CPU architecture should make up for some of the clock speed difference, but it's too early to tell as yet if this is the case or not. The main advantage that the B810 might have is better graphics performance, but as Intel has as yet to add it to its product pages. The B810 is priced at $86 in quantities of 1,000 units, the same as the P4600.

Intel is also expected to launch a ULV Sandy Bridge based Celeron processor at some point in the future which should be called the B847 with a TDP of 17W and a clock speed of a mere 1.1GHz. It's as yet unclear when this model will arrive. Intel has also as yet to announce any new mobile Pentium models based on Sandy Bridge, so it's pretty clear that we can expect

The U30Jc featured Nvidia's now almost antiquated GeForce 310M graphics and this is where the U30s really improves on things with a GeForce 520M. In as much as this is an entry level solution from Nvidia, it should still be a huge step up from the old 310M. Asus has also built in support for Nvidia's 6

March 14th, 2011

Published by: VR-Zone

Optimus graphics switching technology which switches over to the Intel HD graphics when the additional power of the GPU isn't needed.

What Asus missed to add was USB 3.0 support which is a real shame, as the U30s doesn't feature an eSATA port so the fastest interface for peripherals is USB 2.0. Bluetooth 3.0 has been thrown in for good measure though, although this is becoming an increasingly common feature on notebooks, but doesn't add much in terms of actually being useful as there are still very few devices that utilizes Bluetooth 3.0.

Battery life is said to be good for up to 6h of light usage and about 4.5h watching HD videos on it. Not amazing by today's standards, but still decent enough battery life for what's expected to be Asus' most affordable 13.3-inch model, at least for now. Pricing is estimated to end up sub â‚Ź1000 (S $1770) including tax fully kitted out with 8GB of RAM and a 500GB 7,200rpm hard drive. In will be interesting to see what else Asus has coming over the next few months as the U30s is really just an upgrade of an old model, but we're hearing that we can expect some interesting announcements at Computex in May.

Rumour: WiFi-only version of Galaxy Tab to launch on April 4?

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/rumour-wifi-only-version-of-galaxytab-to-launch-on-april-4-/11580.html March 14th, 2011

The rumour mill appears to have been working overtime to produce news about a WiFi-only version of Samsung's Galaxy Tab, and it seems that yet another juicy bit of information regarding the aforementioned device has started making its rounds in the vast depths of the Internet. Anyone fancy guessing how much the device will reportedly sell for once it hits retail? Well, read on to find out.

Everyone knows that having quick access to a mobile broadband network is one of the key features that no tablet OEM can afford to skimp on today, and for good reason. After all, tablets are meant to be used as a replacement for netbooks under certain circumstances, and the availability (or lack of it) of WiFi hotspots is still a very real issue for those who need an uninterrupted connection to the Internet at all times, even when on the train or on the bus.

With that in mind, how much will the average consumer be willing to fork out of a tablet that only supports online connectivity via WiFi? Well, rumour has it that Samsung has plans to introduce a WiFi-only version of its Galaxy Tab tablet in April 4 this year, and that the device will reportedly retail for US$399.

Sure, it sports a low price tag, but one must also take note that there are going to be various issues and circumstances working against Samsung if the Korean electronics giant intends to use its WiFi-only version of the Galaxy Tab as a ticket to winning over potential tablet consumers. For one, the WiFi-only Galaxy Tab is rumoured to be shipping with version 2.2 (Froyo) of the Android operating system, which is at least two releases away from the current version of Android known as Honeycomb (v 3.0).

More importantly, one must also take into consideration that Samsung is due to launch its Galaxy Tab 10.1 tablet soon, and that alone is going to put a strain on its previous-generation Galaxy Tab tablets. After all, consumers usually tend to hold off purchases in favor of what they perceive as a newer and technologically superior product, especially where consumer electronic devices are concerned, even if it means paying a little more for such luxuries.

Last but definitely not least, the rumoured price tag of US $399 for the WiFi-only version of the Galaxy Tab puts it in direct competition with Apple's first-generation iPad, which is now currently going for sale at the same price level. While Samsung is undoubtedly one of the largest manufacturers of consumer electronic devices, the truth remains that it lacks the same brand recognition and loyalty that Apple enjoys. As such, consumers are more likely to choose Apple's products over Samsung's, especially if price is no longer a factor.

That being said, the aforementioned details about pricing and release date are still but products of the online rumour mill, so readers should take this information with nothing short of a truck's load of salt.

Source: Ecommerce Journal

VueCube 4GTV broadcast trials starts Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/vuecube-4gtv-broadcast-trialsstarts/11576.html March 14th, 2011

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Vue Networks has announced the commencement of their VueCube 4GTV broadcast trials over 4G network in Singapore.

The trial will start with multiple channels including 24/7 streaming, VOD and 3D content broadcasting over the ZiiMAX high speed 4G network.

Vue Networks, a regional content creation and media technology company based in Singapore, announced today the commencement of VueCube 4GTV Broadcast Trials over 4G network. The trial will be bringing the concept of TV Anywhere to Singapore.

Published by: VR-Zone

like AMD isn't aiming to take on anything from Intel beyond its Sandy Bridge processors based on details in a leaked slide.

According to Xbitlabs we have four initial Bulldozer models to look forward to (currently codenamed Zambezi), the quad core FX-4110, the six core FX-6110 and the two eight core models, the FX-8110 and FX8130P. Each core will have 1MB of L2 cache and as such the FX-4110 has 2MB L2 cache and so forth.

The L3 cache is listed as up to 8MB and might as yet not have been set in stone. All four models will support DDR3 memory with speeds of up to 1866MHz, although we're fairly certain that faster memory will be supported via overclocking.

The 4GTV Broadcast Trial follows the awarding of a Niche IPTV License to Vue Networks by the Media Development Authority of Singapore. The Broadcast Trial will kick-off with multiple channels including 24/7 streaming, VOD and 3D content broadcasting over the ZiiMAX high speed 4G network.

ZiiMAX is the 4G WiMAX service of QMax Communications Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Creative Technology Ltd.

With MIMO technology, 4G WiMAX offers wider coverage and enables smooth content delivery. The objective of the VueCube Broadcast Trial will be to assess and finalise the technical infrastructure necessary to provide consumers with unrivalled entertainment on the move.

The public will be able to get a sneak preview of VueCube’s 4GTV on Creative’s ZiiO tablets exclusively at the Creative PlayChinese Expo from 11 to 20 March at Creative Resource.

AMD Bulldozer details start to trickle out Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/amd-bulldozer-details-start-to-trickleout/11579.html March 14th, 2011

So far not too much have been known about AMD's upcoming Bulldozer processors, but now new details have leaked onto the web that reveals at least some of the details that many of us have been waiting for. Although the actual clock speeds of the upcoming AMD processors have as yet to be unveiled, it looks like AMD isn't aiming to take on anything from Intel beyond its Sandy Bridge processors based on details in a leaked slide.

All four models are apparently "Black Edition" CPUs which in AMD speak means that they're completely unlocked, unlike Intel's K series models which now have locked base clock, something we wouldn't expect to see from AMD. Of course you're looking at support for AMD's second generation of Turbo Core which will allow for dynamic overclocking and under clocking/power saving depending on the CPU load.

Apart from the FX-8130P all models have a 95W TPD whereas the FX-8130P has a TDP of 125W and all four models do of course utilize the AM3+ socket.

It's a surprisingly small launch line-up from AMD, as the four CPUs are set to take on Intel's Core i5 and Core i7 LGA-1155 processors which currently consist of seven models, not counting the T and S SKUs. Judging by a slide posted by Xbitlabs AMD is pitching its eight core model against Intel's Core i7-2600 models and the quad and six core against the Core i5's. Below that AMD is positioning its Fusion models currently codenamed Lynx which are either dual or quad core models with Integrated graphics.

So far not too much have been known about AMD's upcoming Bulldozer processors, but now new details have leaked onto the web that reveals at least some of the details that many of us have been waiting for. Although the actual clock speeds of the upcoming AMD processors have as yet to be unveiled, it looks 8

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The slide details the upcoming Lynx models as well, which again consist of four models, the entry level dual core E2-3250 with Radeon HD6370 graphics with 160 shaders, the A4-3350 dual core model with Radeon HD 6410 graphics and 160 shaders, the quad core A6-3450 with Radeon HD 6530 graphics with 320 shaders and finally the quad core A8-3550 with Radeon HD 6550 graphics with 400 shaders. It's quite clear from the graphics shader count that Intel isn't going to stand a chance with its Pentium and Core i3 models in terms of graphics performance, but it'll be interesting to see if AMD can offer equivalent or better CPU performance.

Lego launches 'official' Lego thumbdrive Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/lego-launches-official-legothumbdrive/11577.html March 14th, 2011

Published by: VR-Zone

LEGO-inspired devices are a dime a dozen in various online shopping sites, but the fact remains that most, if not all of the aforementioned devices do not have a license from the LEGO Group to make use of the likeness of its popular toy construction bricks. However, it seems that the LEGO Group has finally started to realize that there is a market for LEGObranded products featuring its likeness, and has since moved to launch its own line of thumbdrives based off the Minifigure often found in its construction bricks.

We may have spoken about a few thumbdrives that feature designs inspiration by the coloured toy construction bricks known as Lego, but it does not change the fact that none of the aforementioned devices are officially recognized by the Lego Group. However, that is all set to change with the introduction of an 'official' Lego thumbdrive.

According to the official LEGO online store, the Classic LEGO Minifigure USB thumbdrive sports a capacity of 2GB and comes preloaded with a copy of the LEGO Ninjago video clip for your viewing pleasure. Last but definitely not least, using the Classic LEGO Minifigure USB thumbdrive on your PC is also a snap; all you have to to is to yank its legs off, as shown in the image below.

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Apple's iPhone 5 will not support NFC technology Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/apple-s-iphone-5-will-not-support-nfctechnology/11574.html March 14th, 2011

If this thumbdrive has tickled your fancy, you might be interested to know that the LEGO-branded thumbdrive is available for sale at the online LEGO store for the handsome price of US$24.99. Well, that is the price one has to pay for official LEGO products, no?

Apple iPad 2 selling at an outrageous US$2,000 in Hong Kong Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/apple-ipad-2-selling-at-an-outrageousus-2-000-in-hong-kong/11578.html March 14th, 2011

When so many websites devoted to sniffing out rumours about Apple's upcoming products seem to agree on a certain point, it is almost always the truth, right? Well, apparently not: the rumour that Apple will be supporting NFC in its upcoming iPhone 5 has seemingly been debunked by reports claiming that the Cupertino giant has gone round to carriers to inform them that it has no plans to support the technology, at least for now.

Yep, you read the headline right. After months of speculation about the various kinds of technology Apple may support with their upcoming smartphone, the iPhone 5, it seems that the latest turn of events have proven once again that the truth can sometime hurt. Apparently, all the rumours about the iPhone 5 featuring a Near Field Communications (NFC) module has been overturned, thanks to a news report made by the Independent.

If you think US$900 for the first spot in line to buy the Apple iPad 2 is ridiculous, in Hong Kong, the tablet device is going for US$2,000. (The 64GB Apple iPad 2 Wi-Fi+3G is selling for US$829).

According to the report, several large mobile operators in the UK have disclosed to the Independent that Apple has confirmed the lack of NFC support on the iPhone 5, with the Cupertino giant attributing its reluctance solely to the "lack of a clear standard across the industry".

The Apple iPad 2 went on retail last Friday in US, and within a day (or two), Hong Kong has begun selling parallel imports of the popular tablet. The electronics stores in the Pearl of the Orient are selling the iPad 2 from HK$7,980 to HK$15,000 (US$1,024 to US$1,925). The most expensive model is the white 64GB iPad 2 with 3G and Wi-Fi connectivity. According to reports, a shop with 100 Apple iPad 2s arrived on Sunday morning and all but 20 were sold by the end of the day.

Ironically, Apple has been said to be working on its own implementation of NFC which will allow an upcoming version of its smartphone to link purchases via its iTunes software, and is likely to be a proprietary implementation at that.

Report: AMD FX-Series Lineup Revealed Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/report-amd-fx-series-lineuprevealed/11575.html

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Published by: VR-Zone

March 14th, 2011

Xbitlabs have revealed a tentative lineup of four incoming Bulldozer chips, to be branded AMD FX-Series. The top-ofthe-line flagship will be AMD FX-8130P, featuring 4-module, 8-core, 2MB L2 cache per module (total 8MB), 8MB shared L3 cache, and a TDP of 125W. The launch clock speed is estimated to be as high as 3.50 GHz. Following the 8130P is the FX-8110, which is presumably a lower clocked version of the FX-8130P. Interestingly, it features a reasonable TDP of 95W. FX-6110 will be a six-core, three-module CPU. Finally, the Bulldozer line-up will be rounded off by the FX-4110, a quadcore CPU. The six-core CPU is likely to be harvested from the 8-core Orochi die. However, whether the quad-core CPU is a heavily crippled 8-core or a native quad-core is unclear. If it is a 8-core with 4 cores locked, it could end up being the unlocker's delight the Phenom II X2 series was.

All FX-Series CPUs fit into the AM3+ socket, feature an unlocked multipler (Black Edition) and Turbo Core 2, and are fabricated at Globalfoundries' 32nm SOI process. AMD's 900 series chipsets are due to launch in Q2 2011, although motherboard manufacturers are starting to release 800 series boards featuring AM3+ support.

While the above four CPUs are due in June, AMD will introduce a refresh in Q4, possible minor speed bumps across the platform.

Samsung Factor clamshell phone announced

With large-display smartphones coming to market, there are lesser focus on non-smartphone (or also known as dumbphone) devices, especially the traditional clamshell ones.

However, it seems like Korean manufacturer Samsung has not given up on this line of dumbphones. Recently, the Samsung Factor has been announced with a clamshell design and lowerspecification hardware components.

The Samsung Factor is equipped with a VGA camera, Bluetooth, supports web email and messenging, GPS and hands-free speaker design. Boost Mobile will retail the Samsung Factor from as low as US$49.99.

Sandy Bridge-based Pentium G840 processor shows up in China Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/sandy-bridge-based-pentium-g840processor-shows-up-in-china/11573.html March 14th, 2011

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/samsung-factor-clamshell-phoneannounced/11572.html March 14th, 2011

A low cost, clamshell entry level Samsung phone has been announced. Known as Samsung Factor, it features VGA camera, web email access to your Gmail, MSN and Yahoo and instant messaging on Yahoo, AIM and MSN.

A month ago, we posted information that Intel was planning to release up to seven new processors based off the new Sandy Bridge microarchitecture sometime in May this year, and that one of these processors would be marketed under the Pentium brand. Well, guess what: screenshots of what appears an evaluation model of that Pentium CPU have been spotted in China.

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Published by: VR-Zone

Do you remember the news we posted about some time back in February this year, where Intel was reportedly planning to release a bunch of processors based off the Sandy Bridge microarchitecture in March? Well, if you did, you would have realized that one of the processors mentioned in that article was supposed to be marketed under the budget 'Pentium' brand, and that the Sandy Bridge version of this processor will be known as the Pentium G840.

level chips once again: by intentionally disabling certain features on its mainstream processors.

That being said, it appears that evaluation samples of the Pentium G840 have started making their way around the world, for a Chinese IT website known as Inpai has reportedly got its hands on one such evaluation sample, and have posted both a photograph of the chip and a CPU-Z screenshot about its specifications on its webpage, as shown below.

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/logitec-launches-industry-s-smallestethernet-hub-for-japanese-market/11571.html

Logitec launches 'industry's smallest' Ethernet hub for Japanese market March 14th, 2011

While most of Singapore was caught up in the various discounts and offers taking place at the annual IT Show held at Suntec City Convention and Exhibition Centre, a company in Japan known as Logitec was busy launching a new product that ought to change the way we look at the humble Ethernet hub. Does anyone fancy getting their hands on a palm-sized hub that can house up to eight Ethernet ports?

How big is an Ethernet hub supposed to be? Well, various manufacturers often have differing ideas on what the ideal size for this particular networking device should be, but it seems that they all share one common characteristic: they are not meant to be the kind of portable devices that a user can conveniently slip into his or her pocket and walk around without any loss to comfort.

However, if you are the kind of person who simply needs to have the best of both worlds in terms of size and functionality when it comes to Ethernet hubs, you might be interested in what a Japanese company known as Logitec has to offer.

Apparently, while most of Singapore was caught up in bargain hunting over at the just-ended IT Show, Logitec was showing off its new palm-sized Ethernet Hub, the LAN-SW/PS series, over in Japan.

Inpai also claims on its webpage that, based on the specifications found on the Pentium G840, the former is technically identical to its Core i3 sibling, the i3-2100. The only difference between the G840 and the i3-2100 is that Intel merely dropped the clock speed on the latter and disabled Hyper-Threading to produce the specifications found in the former.

As this screenshot contains information about a prerelease version of Intel's CPU, we'd strongly encourage readers to exercise discretion and regard the aforementioned information with a pinch of salt. Still, if Inpai is correct, it would seem that Intel is taking easy way out with its budget-

According to the official press release, the LAN-SW/PS series of Ethernet hubs will be available in three different sizes: the smallest version, known as the LAN-SW03, features three Ethernet ports and measures a mere 73.3 × 42.0 × 13.5mm.

Those who need a little more connectivity options can opt for the slightly larger LAN-SW05, which comes with five Ethernet ports; alternatively, users needing an Ethernet hub for more than five concurrent connections have the LANSW08 (pictured below), which is a little larger (68.0 × 107.5 × 13.5mm), although the eight available Ethernet ports for use sort of makes up for the increased size.

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Sony PlayStation 2 games coming to Tegra 2 mobile devices?

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/sony-playstation-2-games-coming-totegra-2-mobile-devices-/11570.html March 14th, 2011

In addition to its size (or lack of it), Logitec also claims that the new Ethernet hubs are capable of energy savings of up to 82%, while 'N' versions of the LAN-SW/PS line of hubs can even power themselves off a PC's USB port, thus making it suitable as a mobile Ethernet hub for establishing impromptu LAN connections.

With more Android devices being powered by dualcore Nvidia Tegra 2 processors, you can expect to see better resolution games available. And Sony Computer Entertainment will also be extending its PlayStation games for these devices, and maybe PlayStation 2 games too.

The Sony Xperia Play (formerly known as PlayStation Phone) has attracted a lot of attention. Not just because it features a similar PSP Go gaming controls, but also it is equipped with the PlayStation Suite to offer excellent PlayStation gaming experience.

Last but definitely not least, Logitec also claims that all the hubs in its LAN-SW/PS series make use of Ethernet ports which support automatic MDI and MDI-X switching, so users do not have to worry about having to bring both straight and crossover cables in order to set up a working LAN connection.

Prices for the new hubs are as follow:

Recently, Nvidia has announced that the PlayStation Suite will not just be made available on the Xperia Play; it will also be available to all future mobile devices running the Tegra 2 dualcore processors.

The PlayStation Suite is an upcoming software framework to provide downloadable PlayStation content and PlayStation gaming experiences for Android devices. Some of the titles to look forward to include Wild Arms and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night etc, and Xperia Play was the only smartphone to offer this.

Because of the powerful performance of Tegra 2 dual-core processor, it was said that the devices could also be able to run PlayStation 2 games. This will no doubt be a good news for Android users, especially when there aren't many emulators out there that can run PS2 games very well.

Europe to get universal smartphone charger Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/europe-to-get-universal-smartphonecharger/11569.html

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How does the idea of being able to use a single universal charger to power all the smartphones in the world sound like?

Well, such an ideal solution might probably come much sooner than we have expected it to: the EU has seemingly taken on the initiative of rolling out such a charger, and several wellknown smartphone OEMs have reportedly agreed to make their devices compatible with it.

Published by: VR-Zone

and as such the EU has reportedly deemed it fit to continue its campaign to make sure that every single manufacturer eventually plays nice with the universal charging port.

Curiously, Apple's name shows up in the list of original signatories who have agreed to support the universal charging standard in spite of having been using its own proprietary cable for a long time already. Then again, the specifications for the universal charger explicitly allow for the use of adaptors.

Interesting.

US Nuclear experts deployed to Fukushima We all love our smartphones for what they are capable of, but that fondness can, and usually quickly turns into one of loathing when the aforementioned device decides to run out of battery juice at the most inconvenient moment possible, and the charger your friend uses is incompatible with your device.

Yep, that sounds like one of the most common ways to ruin your entire day.

However, it seems that the EU is all too keen on ensuring that such situations never happen again, at least in its own territories. To that end, the EU Commission has rolled out an initiative that will see the adoption of a universal charger for popular data-enabled smartphones sold in the region and is expected to be available for consumer use by the end of 2011.

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/us-nuclear-experts-deployed-tofukushima/11567.html March 14th, 2011

While Japan is well prepared to brace itself against earthquakes, the tsunamis which followed were responsible most of the damage done. As the Japanese pick themselves up after the earthquake, Japan might be facing it's greatest challenge yet in a decade.

The US Nuclear Regulatory Commission said that it has sent two experts to Japan, where authorities were seeking to calm fears of a reactor meltdown. The 8.9-magnitude earthquake damaged the nuclear reactor's cooling systems, and workers are now pumping seawater into the reactor in an attempt to cool it down.

Authorities said that an earlier explosion was not due to a meltdown. Instead, it was due to a buildup in gas pressure as workers pour water onto the reactors.

The two experts sent are experts in boiling water reactors, which are used at the Fukushima nuclear power plant.

Of course, this might be much ado over nothing, since the aforementioned 'universal charger' consists of little more than the standard micro-USB port which most smartphone OEMs currently make use of for their devices today. However, not all OEMs have adopted micro-USB as the charging port of choice,

Boiling water reactor 14

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Published by: VR-Zone March 14th, 2011

A nuclear meltdown occurs when a severe failure of a nuclear power plant system prevents proper cooling of the reactor core. The nuclear core heats up to an extent that it melts through its container. A meltdown is considered very serious as radioactive materials could be released into the environment.

Lost City of Atlantis Possibly Found Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/lost-city-of-atlantis-possiblyfound/11568.html March 14th, 2011

More than a day after being by an earthquake and subsequent tsunamis, telecommunications systems in Japan remain severely disrupted.

Users in a wide area of Eastern Japan are either unable to access cellphone services at all or face difficulties in connecting their calls as base stations are currently overwhelmed.

It looks like Atlantis, the legendary eighth continent on Earth, have been found. According to news, a U.S.-led research team may have found the lost city in southern Spain. Read on to find out more.

Japan's three major cellular carriers have sent mobile base stations to the region to alleviate the situation as base stations in the region were either damaged or destroyed. The base stations connect to the telecom network via satellite and are able to provide coverage in a small radius. Retail outlets of the cellular carriers are providing recharging services.

Internet services appear to be largely unaffected. Several wireless internet hotspot providers are also doing their part in disaster relief. Fon, Livedoor and Softbank has announced that their networks and access points will be open to public access and remain free-of-charge throughout the weekend. Doing so enables communications through the internet.

Woman sells her first spot in Apple iPad 2 queue for US$900 Atlantis, the famous lost city of lore, might have been found in Southern Spain by a team of U.S.-led research team. Believed to have been eliminated by a tsunami strong enough to wipe out the city located 60 miles (roughly 97 kilometers) inland, the team's findings will be unveiled in "Finding Atlantis", a new National Geographic Channel special.

"This is the power of tsunamis," head researcher Professor Richard Freund from the University of Hartford, Connecticut, told Reuters. In wake of the recent Japanese earthquake, the recent discovery stands as testament to the fearsomeness of Mother Nature.

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/woman-sells-her-first-spot-in-appleipad-2-queue-for-us-900/11566.html March 14th, 2011

If the Apple iPad 2 is going to be selling at a store near you, will you queue and later sell your spot for cash? Well, one college student did, after waiting in line for approximately 41 hours, and for US$900.

Japan phone networks remain disrupted Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/japan-phone-networks-remaindisrupted/11565.html

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US$900 was the price for the first spot in the queue for Apple iPad 2, which college student Amanda Foote sold after being in line at the Apple store in New York for 41 hours. And Foote plans to use the money to but tickets for Lady Gaga's concert.

The buyer of the spot isHazem Sayen, an app developer, who said that he wanted to bring the iPad 2 with him when he leaves for his busienss trip; the Apple iPad 2 starts at US$499.

Apparently, Foote isn't the only one who is being paid for her trouble: there are offers ranging from US$100 to US$999 to stand in line or sell their spot. (Looks like there's a good market for this isn't it?).

Japan Earthquake Shortens the day Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/japan-earthquake-shortens-theday/11564.html March 14th, 2011

Update : Pardon for the mistake, we missed out the bottom part of the cooler which is about a slot thick so GeForce GTX 590 is still a dual slot card. The lenght is 297mm which is similar to its older counterpart GeForce GTX 295. Anyway, the card is still slated for March 22nd launch. The performance driver closest to the launch is version 267.52 and you can find this string in the inf file : NVIDIA_DEV.1088.01 = "NVIDIA GeForce GTX 590". NVIDIA seems confident that this card will win the Radeon HD 6990. Specs will be finalized next week.

IT SHOW 2011 Coverage It may be unnoticable, but Friday's earthquake off the coast of Japan did shorten the day by a tiny bit. Read on.

NASA geophysicist Richard Gross was able to calculate that due to the shift in the Earth's mass after Friday's earthquake, the Earth's rotation about it's own axis was sped up by 1.6 microseconds. Shortening each Earth day by 1.6 microseconds.

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 590 Cooler Cover Exposed Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/nvidia-geforce-gtx-590-cooler-coverexposed/11563.html March 14th, 2011

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/it-show-2011-coverage/11543.html March 14th, 2011

IT Show Singapore 2011 is upon us, and needless to say there are going to be lots of IT-related offers awaiting the bargain hunters who have waited months for this day. As usual, VRZone headed down to the exhibition grounds at Suntec City Exhibition and Convention Centre to bring you the coverage of the event.

Update : Pardon for the mistake, we missed out the bottom part of the cooler which is about a slot thick so GeForce GTX 590 is still a dual slot card. The lenght is 297mm which is similar to its older counterpart GeForce GTX 295. Anyway, the card is still slated for March 22nd launch. The performance driver closest to the launch is version 267.52 and you can find this string in the inf file : NVIDIA_DEV.1088.01 = "NVIDIA GeForce GTX 590". NVIDIA seems confident that this card will win the Radeon HD 6990. Specs will be finalized next week.

The M1 booth can be located on level 2 Ballroom Foyer.

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Published by: VR-Zone

The 1box available for rent from M1 with a minimum of 6 months subscription.

M1 also started to offer Internet TV services. With the '1box', users can stream media, surf, shop and socialize all at the comfort of their couch.

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Published by: VR-Zone

Home 5Mbps 8Mbps 10Mbps 15Mbps 30Mbps100Mbps Broadband Monthly $25.20 $36.40 $40.60 $42.90 $53.90 $76.70 Subscriptions Upload 512kbps 1Mbps 1Mbps 2Mbps 4Mbps 10Mbps Speeds Up To Mobile 1Mbps 2Mbps Broadband Monthly $13.45 $23.23 Subscription Data Unlimited Bundle

4Mbps $30.82

7.2Mbps 21Mbps $41.58

$59.40

IT SHOW 2011 - Babes Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/it-show-2011--babes/11552.html March 14th, 2011

A picture speaks a thousand words therefore in this article, we will let the pictures do the talking. Get ready...the show babes of IT Show Singapore 2011.

M1 is bundling thier mobile broadband plans with Android tablets.

M1 Broadband Offers Fiber 25Mbps 50Mbps100Mbps150Mbps200Mbps 1Gbps Broadband Monthly $39 $49 $59 $79 $99 $399 Subscriptions Upload 25Mbps 50Mbps 50Mbps 75Mbps100Mbps500Mbps Speeds Up To

<3 <3

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lovely

Published by: VR-Zone

the lovely show babes from Casio booth

Trend Micro babes are pretty too !

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March 14th, 2011

Published by: VR-Zone

i like her smile ^_^ Sony is hot and sexy

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March 14th, 2011

Published by: VR-Zone

lovely babe from A.C. Ryan ^^

her friend joins in

<3 hot razer babe with lovely keyboard Did you manage to 'capture' any booth babes in IT Show Singapore 2011 on your camera ? Share with us your photos and we will be adding it to our booth babe article along with ours.

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Credits will be given, based on your forum nickname.

Published by: VR-Zone

• GE • Headphones Gallery : AKG, JVC, Shure • HTC

IT SHOW 2011 Price Lists, Flyers, Brochures, Promotions Roundup Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/it-show-2011-price-lists-flyersbrochures-promotions-roundup/11502.html March 14th, 2011

• Iomega • iSmart • Jabra • Joby • Jubby • Linksys • Lowepro • Manfrotto • McCoy : JooJoo, Gavio, Viliv, iTwin, DiVoom, Aiptek • Nokia

Check out the latest IT SHOW 2011 Price List, Flyers, Brochures, Promotions including brands like Acer, AC Ryan, ASUS, Blackberry, Brother, Canon, Cisco Linksys, Dell, DLink, Epson, Fujifilm, Fuji Xerox, HP, Lenovo, Lexmark, LG, Microsoft, MSI, Nikon, Olympus, Panasonic, Philips, Samsung, Seagate, Sony, Toshiba, Western Digital.

• Sony Playstation

Newly Added IT SHOW 2011 Price List

• Toshiba Portable HDD

If you are an exhibitor and would like your company's price list/flyer to be on our site, then email us at press@vrzone.com.sg March 10th 6pm

• Sony Battery • Sanyo Battery • SingTel • Targus

12pm • Acer • Altec Lansing • Astone

• Aigo

• ASUS

• Alcatel

• Brother

• Apple

• Canon

• Audio House

• Edifier

• AVG

• eGear

• Belkin

• Fujifilm

• Blackberry

• Fujitsu

• Case Logic

• HP

• Casio

• Lexmark

• Creative

• LG

• Cybermind

• Logitech

• Dell

• M1

• Drobo

• Norton

• Edimax

• OKI

• Epson

• Olympus

• Eubiq

• Plantronics

• Freecom

• Prolink

• Fujifilm

• Samsung

• Gaincity

• Sennhesier 22

March 14th, 2011

Published by: VR-Zone

• SingTel

• Fuji Xerox

• Sony

• Garmin

• Sony Ericsson

• Powerlogic

• TDK

• Sensonic

• Viewsonic

• Sonicgear

• Western Digital • Zyxel

12.00am • East Gear : Galactio, Powerex • Go Rock

March 9th

• McGear

8.30pm • Hitachi

March 8th

• Imation

7.30pm

• Kingston • Lexar • Microsoft Hardware • Microsoft Xbox • Palit • Sapphire

• EnGenuis • Garmin ASUS • Razer • SMC 2.30pm

• Viewsonic

• A4 Tech

• X-mini

• Avira

• xShine

• Cyberlink

6.30pm • D-Link • Filco • Thermalright, Noctua, Prolimatech • Steelseries 3.30pm • Buffalo • Marbella • Wacom 2.30pm • A.C. Ryan • InFocus

• Energizer • ESET • Kaspersky • KJC Tech : iTech, Mili, MLabs • Lau International : Clic, Hama, Kowa, Konus, Speed, Vanguard, Velbon • Palladine • Ranger

The Daily VR-Zone News Summary - 11 Mar 2011 Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/the-daily-vr-zone-news-summary--11mar-2011/11562.html March 14th, 2011

• SanDisk 12.30pm • Aztech • MSI 11.30am • Crazy Pricing

In today's news roundup: Kingston's high-speed, high capacity HyperX T1 8GB (4 x 2GB) 2133MHz DDR3 memory kit gets reviewed; Sapphire's Radeon HD 6870 FleX graphics card, which comes with its own integrated DisplayPort adapter on its PCB, gets reviewed; Samsung is reportedly planning to test 23

March 14th, 2011

production of 32-inch OLED television sets in the second half of 2012; The annual Pwn2Own competition sees iOS's Safari and RIM's Blackberry browser getting compromised, and The PS3 ban imposed on the Netherlands has finally been lifted Hardware News: Kingston HyperX T1 8GB (4 x 2GB) 2133MHz DDR3 Memory Kit Review @ Bigbruin.com Description: The Kingston HyperX T1 8GB (4 x 2GB) 2133MHz DDR3 memory kit is definitely worth considering by those looking for a high speed, high capacity kit to take their system to the next level. An XMP profile at 2133MHz makes the whole process extremely simple, and anyone with a compatible motherboard should be up and running in no time.

Exceleram EP3001A 3 x 2 GB DDR3-1333 MHz CL9 review at Tweak.dk Description: The EP3001A modules have a speed of DDR3-1333 MHz with CL9 timings, and a tRAS-value of 24. The CRT-timing can be adjusted to 1T, which gives you extra performance. Exceleram have chosen to spare the heatsinks, to minimize the price. The overclocking potential is big, and by loosening the timings, it is possible to hit speeds over DDR3-2000 MHz. We compare the modules in various benchmark tests against kits from both Exceleram and Kingston.

Sapphire Radeon HD 6870 FleX Video Card Review @ Rage3D.com Description: Sapphire's Radeon HD 6870 FleX edition integrates an active DisplayPort adapter onto the PCB to allow three non-DisplayPort monitors for Eyefinity gaming - while retaining the two mini-DP outputs of the reference design.

We check out single and crossfire HD 6870 performance in 1080HD and Eyefinity 3 resolutions.

Thermaltake Jing CPU Cooler Review @Hi Tech Legion Description: The Thermaltake Jing CPU Cooler is Thermaltake's newest addition into the silent operation market. The Jing is positioned to offer high performance cooling with a noise level of only 16dBA. There are 41 0.5mm large aluminum fins and 5 6mm heat-pipes. The fins, base, and heat-pipes are nickel plated for better heat transmission.

The Jing comes with 2 custom made fans for push/pull configuration.

Xigmatek Loki CPU Cooler Review @ Tweaknews Description: Xigmatek's Loki is a terrific little cooler that packs a lot of performance into a compact package that's easily installed and should fit on just about any board and in most cases. Widely available online for as little as $25 US, Loki is also very reasonable and represents an excellent value.

Computing on Demand: Nexus Real Silent CPU Cooler FLC-3000 R2 Description: Many of today's users seem to look towards a peaceful experience in front of the keyboard instead of the days when we thought having a computer that sounded like a hovercraft was cool. A few companies have made a name for themselves by offering peripherals and devices that marry performance with peace and quiet. Nexus thinks they have the proper balance with their new FLC-3000 (R2).

Antec Sonata IV Computer Case @ Benchmark Reviews

Published by: VR-Zone

Description: Antec has been making computer enclosures for as long as I can remember. When I think of popular computer chassis, one case from Antec almost always comes to mind: their Sonata line of cases. Antec has provided Benchmark Reviews the opportunity to review their latest iteration of their Sonata line, the Sonata IV. The Sonata IV is marketed as being a Quiet Mid Tower case. It aims to bring the Sonata line of cases up to date with such features as a front USB 3.0 port, a spot for a 2.5" SSD drive, and silicon grommets to reduce hard drive vibration. Also included with the Sonata IV is a 620 watt power supply. Can the Sonata IV live up to its predecessors and the Antec name? Read the full review to find out...

Antec Six Hundred Review - XSReviews Description: When it comes to building a killer rig, there are many important components you have to consider, the case being a big one. You want a case that looks great, is quiet and keeps all of your hardware nice and cool. With this in mind today we look at the Antec Six Hundred.

Corsair Hydro series H60 Watercooling kit Review @ Madshrimps Description: I was surprised that Corsair launched another complete liquid cooling model, the H60. The H50 being perfect for tiny spaces and moderate cooling demands. The H70 was able to cope with our overclocked Gulftown setup, crushing the H50's performance. It's beefier radiator and dual fan setup was a big step forward for higher cooling demands. Corsairs new H60 is the first new release of it's new partnership with the CoolIT company.

BitFenix Shinobi Review @ Vortez Description: As tradition would have it, we are here again with the first review of a new case from BitFenix, named Shinobi. Shinobi is a mid-tower case that differs from its bigger brothers the Survivor and Colossus cases by bringing a touch of sleekness and elegance to the table. Available in two variants - window version (being reviewed today) and nonewindow version this case features 2 pre-installed fans, toolless mechanisms throughout and of solid steel construction.

Lamptron Fan-Atic 5-Channel Fan Controller Review @ Legit Reviews Description: The Lamptron Fan-Atic 5-channel fan controller controls 60W per each channel with 3 different voltage output - 12VDC, 5VDC, and Off, which correspond to Full RPM, Low RPM, and Off setting on the fans connected to the controller.

So you get full speed cooling capacity or low speed quietness at a flip of the switch. Read on to see how this fan controller performs when we put it to the test!

Consumer Electronics and Software News: Samsung to begin test production of 32" OLED TVs in 2H 2012, will start investing in a Gen-8 fab in 3Q 2011 Description: There are reports that Samsung plans to begin test production of 32" OLED TVs in the second half of 2012.

The company will start to invest in Gen-8 OLED TV production lines in 3Q 2011. LG will be able to make 30" OLED TVs be the end of 2011, and (as we know already) plans a Gen-8 fab for 2011. Sony meanwhile seems to be focusing on professional OLED monitors, and doesn't have any active consumer OLED TV program.

Google Adds Click-to-Call to Gmail Voice Calling 24

March 14th, 2011

Published by: VR-Zone

Description: Google has enhanced its voice calling feature in Gmail with an ability to click on phone numbers and call them instantly instead of having to type in the number manually.

over the reference GTX 460, clock speed upto 700 MHz and subsequently, shaders up to 1400 MHz. The 2Win features 2 GB GDDR5 at 3.6 GHz.

Forget Apple, the money is in Android Description: While the Apple App store is packed full of software and has a better reach, a top developer has pointed out that he makes much more cash from writing Android code.

Visually, the 2Win is identical to the EVGA Dual-GPU prototype shown at CES 2011. Thought to be a dual-GF110 card, we reported the PCB footprint suggesting a dual-GF114 card. Now we know that the prototype from CES 2011 was indeed the GTX 460 2Win.

Google, Bing Have White Lists Of Sites Not To Be Impacted By Algo Changes Description: Both major search engines admitted today they have 'white lists' of sites that won't be impacted by changes to their algorithms. During the Spam Police session at SMX, Google's Matt Cutts and Bing's Sasi Parthasarathy both confirmed this, the UK Register noted. "Google has admitted that it uses whitelists to manually ...

Google Brings Instant Previews to Mobile Description: The concept of Google Instant, which could give you results before you were even done typing, was further enhanced with the presence of Instant Preview. Instant Previews allows users to click on a magnifying glass while in the search page and get previews of the first few results. Now, four months after the original release of Instant Previews, the concept is coming to mobile.

Pwn2Own day 2: iPhone, BlackBerry beaten; Chrome, Firefox no-shows Description: On day two of the Pwn2Own competition, Apple's iPhone and RIM's BlackBerry Torch 9800 were both put in the spotlight, and were both successfully compromised.

Meanwhile, contestants scheduled to attack Android and Firefox failed to turn up, leaving those platforms unscathed.

Gaming News: PS3 Ban Lifted in Netherlands Description: The dispute between Sony and LG has taken another twist, with the ban on imported PS3s being lifted in the Netherlands.

Jurassic Park: The Game Q&A - Back from extinction Description: We find out a few more details from Telltale Games about its upcoming dinosaur action adventure game.

EVGA announces dual-GF104 GTX 460 2Win Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/evga-announces-dual-gf104gtx-460-2win/11561.html March 14th, 2011

Remember the much rumoured dual-GF104 cards from way back in May 2010? After several unreleased prototypes, EVGA has finally taken the step of announcing the first retail dualGF104 card, the EVGA GTX 460 2Win. To put it simply, the GTX 460 2Win puts two GTX 460 GF104 1GB on one PCB. EVGA goes an extra step by giving the 2Win mild overclocks

It is a dual-slot card, featuring three fans. The card uses 2x8pin power, with a TDP somewhere between 300W and 375W. It is a long card - at 11.5" it is nearly as long as the Radeon HD 6990.

In terms of performance, the EVGA article paints a rosy picture against the GTX 580 - the GTX 460 2Win winning both 3DMark 11 and Unigine Heaven benchmarks comfortably.

However, these are synthetic benchmarks which scale almost perfectly with SLI. In real world gaming tests, the GTX 460 2Win may struggle to keep up with the single GTX 580.

Certainly, the 2Win will be annihialted by the HD 6990 and the upcoming GTX 590.

The 2Win has a trick up its sleeve, however, featuring 4 display outputs - 3xDVI and 1x mini HDMI. This makes it the first single NVIDIA card to feature multimonitor gaming, supporting 3D Surround. Previously, two cards in SLI were needed to enable 3D Surround. It will surely be the cheapest single NVIDIA card to support 3D Surround (the other, GTX 590, will be a lot more expensive), and this is something EVGA seems to be actively marketing.

Considering the specifications of the GTX 460 2Win, surely a GTX 560 2Win would allow for better performance in the same thermal envelope? This suggests that the 2Win - like several other dual-GF104 prototypes - have been in development for a long time and are now being released.

The most important thing now, for EVGA, is the pricing. With the single GTX 460 1GB cards now selling at around $170 (after rebates), the GTX 460 2Win, if priced right, could be an interesting alternative to the HD 6970 or GTX 570. However, if the pricing is off, it will be a simple case of too little, too late.

Availability hasn't been mentioned either.

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March 14th, 2011

Published by: VR-Zone

White Apple iPhone 4 coming in April. For real?

Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/white-apple-iphone-4-coming-inapril.-for-real-/11539.html March 14th, 2011

The white version of the iPhone 4 was rumored to launch for the longest time and until now, there has not been any official word from Apple about this. The last known news was that it should be available around end February, but it looks like that the phone will be delayed until next month, according to some sources.

The recently announced iPad 2 has gotten lots of attention, though there has been no news of the next iPhone 5. However, it seems that the white version of iPhone 4 is still getting people excited. Some online sources said that Apple would launch the white iPhone 4, but was later denied, probably because of design issues.

Recently, Concord Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has told some online media that the white iPhone 4 will be launched next month, and it will be a GSM version. If the news is to be true, then the wait is finally going to be over.

But if the new iPhone 5 is going to be announced soon, would you go for the white iPhone 4 or the newer iPhone 5?

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