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AnandTech – Zotac Z68ITX-A-E Wifi Review – Mini-ITX meets Z68
610 days
by TwiddleGeek
in fans Heatsinks
with every chipset, there's a call to arms in providing the package that everyone needs. Unfortunately there's never one motherboard which can cater for every possibility, but there are some that come quite close. our review today is on the Zotac Z68ITX-A-E Wifi – a mini-ITX take on the Z68 chipset, which promises to be a winner right from the start, with dual gigabit Ethernet, USB 3.0, onboard wifi, onboard power/reset buttons, a debug LED, a lot of extras with your motherboard, and all the extras that Z68 offers. for $170, we're looking at a good contender for an award here, as long as the performance and additions compare well to its rivals.
Overview
the most noticeable thing about using the Zotac board for this review is the out-of-spec features used by Zotac. with regards to the turbo of the CPU, the CPU should scale down the multiplier bins the more cores being used – however, the Zotac board likes to apply a 4x multiplier increase, even in full CPU usage. This gives it a distinct advantage in all our stock benchmark suite, and an unfair advantage against every other board in the market. It gives the consumer, however, extra performance without having to do anything. This may set an unhealthy trend, where other manufacturers will similarly produce products out-of-spec in order to jump ahead in performance.
overall, for $170, Zotac have provided a board full of features that provide a great motherboard for various consumer levels. the addition of dual gigabit Ethernet, onboard wifi, dual HDMI, and that out-of-spec CPU speed are nice additions to such a small product. This situation benefits a non-K Sandy Bridge CPU (which unfortunately negates one of the Z68 features, overclocking, which as we find out isn't that great on the Zotac) where the iGPU is required as well as the PCIe x16 slot. There's not too many SATA ports (two SATA 6 Gbps, two SATA 3 Gbps), which perhaps is ideal for the non-enthusiast consumer (SSD, HDD, DVD/BluRay drive). also, the lack of overclocking may be a sticking issue for some. I'm unsure if I should label it a gamers' board, a 24/7 machine with various enthusiast applications that require performance, or a multi-monitor setup that needs Sandy Bridge and Z68 and perhaps a GPU for GPU programming. nevertheless, I've found the board an impressive product at a great price, despite the old fashioned BIOS and lack of software provided.
Visual Inspection
with Zotac's aim of piling as much as it can onto such a small PCB, it is obvious to see that the board is fairly cramped, in a livery with no defined color (yellow, orange, red, blue, black). As a result, the 8-pin 12V CPU power connector is on the far end of the board behind the audio headers of the I/O panel. the CPU socket is also quite small in comparison to full size P67/Z68 boards we've seen this year, negating large CPU coolers but still providing enough space for stock coolers and all-in-one CPU coolers such as the Corsair H50 and H100.
There are two fan headers on board – one by the SATA ports and the other beside the 24-pin ATX power connector. Beside this power connector are the power/reset buttons and a debug LED – it's great to have this on such a small board. the wifi module is in a mini-PCIe (with mSATA compatibility) between the memory slots and the SATA ports – with cables from the wifi card to the I/O panel. a full size mSATA holder is included in the bundle, if the user decides not to use the wifi and takes advantage of the Z68 Smart Caching Technology via this port.
on board are four SATA ports – two SATA 6 Gbps and two SATA 3 Gbps, all from the PCH. Technically the PCH should be able to support two more, but given the size of the board and all the other extras on it, it's understandable that these are not included. Beside the SATA ports are two USB 2.0 headers, and beside them, behind the wifi antenna, is a USB 3.0 header.
the back panel of the board is also similarly cramped, with a combination of wifi antenna, dual gigabit Ethernet, two USB 3.0, four USB 2.0, a clear CMOS button, a PS/2 Connector, dual HDMI and mini-DisplayPort, optical SPDIF output, and the standard audio jacks. the combination of having the heatsink there results in some space lost – perhaps if it wasn't there by design, the HDMI and mini-DP could be stacked and other features could be added.
AnandTech – Corsair Carbide 400R: Succeeding in Reverse
610 days
by TwiddleGeek
in desktop Pc Cases
Introducing the Corsair Carbide 400R
Corsair started their enclosure business from the top of the market and worked their way down. their first case was an expensive black monolith, the Obsidian 800D, popular for watercooling setups but less so for air. they fired a shrink ray at it and came up with the Obsidian 700D, roughly $50 less. It wasn't until the Graphite 600T that they produced a case with an enthusiast pricetag but also a design that deviated from the Obsidian standard; we were very happy with the 600T in our review back in December. that case proved to be a real success for Corsair; so many of its design cues were married to the design of the Obsidian series, and the net result was the even less expensive Obsidian 650D. Yet Corsair still hasn't tackled the sub-$100 market…until now.
What makes the Carbide 400R particularly interesting is that it's Corsair's first positive pressure case design. Not just that, but in many ways it's simultaneously their most advanced design despite being their least expensive. take a look at these specifications:
Corsair Carbide 400R Specifications Motherboard Form Factor Micro-ATX, ATX Drive Bays External 4x 5.25" Internal 6x 3.5"/2.5" Cooling Front 2x 120mm intake fan Rear 1x 120mm exhaust fan (supports 140mm fan) Top 2x 120mm/140mm fan mount (supports 15mm spaced 240mm radiator) Side 2x 120mm/140mm fan mount Bottom 1x 120mm/140mm fan mount Expansion Slots 8 Front I/O Port 2x USB 3.0, mic and headphone jacks, 6-pin FireWire, fan LED toggle Top I/O Port – Power Supply Size ATX Clearance 12.5" (Expansion Cards), 175mm (CPU HSF), 280mm (PSU) Weight 20.5 lbs. Dimensions 20.5" x 8.1" x 19.8" Price MSRP $99
The more I examined the Carbide 400R, the more I felt like Corsair was "advancing in reverse." Each new release of theirs is just a little more innovative than its predecessor, and with the 400R we see a lot of features that frankly we'd like to see scale up the chain. Mercifully, though, the extremely flexible system for fans coupled with the increased real estate behind the motherboard tray, LED toggle, and USB 3.0 motherboard header cable are launching at the low $99 price point. That's a straight up win for the consumer: Corsair's first $99 enclosure is also one of its most advanced.
Interbike 2011: LED lights get more powerful
610 days
A survey of upcoming new high-powered LED bike headlights for 2012 revealed the usual expected change: lots more emitter efficiency as the technology continues to progress. Consumers can therefore expect to see yet higher outputs at similar power draws as in years past – meaning run times aren’t affected – or lighter systems with smaller battery packs than previous models with similar outputs.
So does this mean LED light technology is destined to follow the same steep development curve as computer microchips? Not so fast.
Actually, the major players tell us that while LED lighting technology – as least as far as bike lights are concerned – enjoyed a fierce boost this past development cycle, things are beginning to plateau given the limitations in heat management. Heat sinks can unfortunately only do so much and without a better way to siphon off that extra energy, it seems we’re just about topped out.
According to Niterider’s Mike Ely, bike light outputs are nearly at “the maximum we can get” while Gretnabikes (the North American distributor for Lupine) marketing director says we’re “getting to the end of the road.”
Thankfully, though, 2012 looks to be a banner year for LED lights so while we may be reaching the foreseeable peak in practical technology, it’s still a pretty good view from up there.
Impressive offerings from Niterider for 2012
Niterider’s line is topped by the new Pro 3000 LED, which as the name suggests, pumps out an astounding 3000 lumens (claimed) via two trios of Cree XML emitters. The total system weight is a rather hefty 812g but run time on full power is still a reasonable hour and a half. This flagship model will continue with Niterider’s DIY user programmable feature and retail price is US$700.
The Pro 1500 LED is a little more realistically priced at US$550 while still offering a hefty 1500 lumens of output, the programmable DIY feature, and a 2hr30 run time at the highest setting for a total system weight of 605g. Racers looking for something a little more svelte can ditch the DIY feature and switch to a smaller battery to save 170g and US$200 but burn time drops to 1hr30.
Niterider’s MiNewt Cordless all-in-ones provide up to 600 lumens of light
Perhaps most impressive is the new MiNewt Pro 750, which puts out 750 lumens but weighs just 215g and costs US$250. run time is again a little modest at 1hr30 on full power so users will want to manage the light levels on longer rides but riders on a budget that don’t particularly need to go all night will likely still find the price and weight appealing.
Niterider’s all-in-one MiNewt Cordless units get a big bump in power as well with new 600 and 350-lumen outputs while still boasting sub-200g weights, handy USB charge ports and US$150 and US$110 price points.
Finally, there’s Niterider’s ‘be seen’ range, including the AA battery-powered Mako lights with up to 130 lumens of output, the astoundingly bright one-watt CherryBomb rear flasher, and the tiny Lightning Bug range with colorful silicone rubber bodies and up to three LED emitters.
Light & Motion’s Urban all-in-one collection now in production
Light & Motion’s all-in-one Urban commuter light
Light & Motion’s Seca and Stella ranges are unchanged since we last saw them at the Sea Otter Classic but while the all-in-one Urban range was then just a prototype, it’s now in full production and shipping to dealers. Common features include very compact anodized aluminum bodies, USB-rechargeable Li-ion batteries, amber side blinkers, battery status indicators, svelte 112g weights, and simple O-ring mounting systems that work with a wide range of handlebar sizes and shapes.
Coming in at US$99 is the Urban 180 with 180 lumens of output followed by the US$129 Urban 300 – both with two hours of claimed burn time on the highest setting. US$159 buys you the much more powerful Urban 500, though, which is arguably bright enough for light trail duty while still packing in an hour and a half of run time on high.
Modest power bumps and new accessories from Exposure
Exposure’s new Boost Cable allows less power-intensive devices to draw power from the light’s battery
Exposure’s trademark all-in-one LED headlights get modest power bumps across the board for 2012 – about seven percent on average.
The top-end six Pack Mk.2 (US$599) now puts out a maximum 1,925 lumens, the MaXx-D Mk.4 (US$499) offers 1,285 lumens, the Toro Mk.3 (US$399) and Diablo Mk.3 (US$299) throw 975 lumens, and the Strada Mk.3 (US$349)climbs to 645 lumens. Even the diminutive Joystick Mk.6 (US$229) and Spark Mk.2 (US$139) get upgrades to 325 and 255 lumens, respectively.
New accessories include the Boost Cable, which draws power from an Exposure light to charge other less power-intensive electrical devices such as GPS units, and a new headband for the Joystick that allows for general hands-free outdoor use.
Finally, the Smart Port expansion plug on all of Exposure’s lights get a new Storm Cap rubber cover for better protection against the elements plus gold plating on the contacts.
Lupine future-proofs its lights with easy upgradeability
Lupine’s Wilma (left) and Betty LED lights respectively throw up to 1,500 and 2,600 lumens of light
German lighting specialists Lupine again showed off a remarkably powerful range of LED lights, topped by the Betty X Pro model with its seven Cree XML emitters with up to 2,600 lumens of claimed output – though North American Lupine distributor Gretnabikes actually recommends the 2,300-lumen option instead for its slightly more concentrated 22° reflector and lower power draw. Even at with highest-output emitters, though, the Betty will still run for up to 3hrs20 when paired with Lupine’s biggest 12-cell battery while weighing just 440g for the complete package.
Speaking of batteries, Lupine has replaced its long-running soft-sided Li-ion packs with new hardcase models that are not only more resistant to water but also sport an on-board capacity gauge.
Meanwhile, the mid-level Wilma’s output now grows to 1,500 lumens (with 1,300 and 1,200-lumen options) while the tiny Piko head throws 750 lumens at just 180g for a complete system.
Lupine also houses all three ranges in more convenient (and lighter) all-in-one form factors though the Betty TL is likely a little too big and bulky to mount practically to a handlebar.
Regardless, one of Lupine’s most enduring sources of appeal is their upgradeability. Simple screw-on bezels and removable circuit boards lend themselves to easy user serviceability and Lupine indeed offers kits to update most of its older LED models. likewise, the company’s battery connectors haven’t changed in ages and all of the light heads and battery packs are fully interchangeable so that users can custom-tune the systems to their needs.
Cygolite’s high-value 2012 collection of LED bike lights
The single button on Cygolite’s TurboJet series doubles as a battery indicator
Cygolite’s new TurboJet series strips away some of the frills of its upper-end models in favor of simpler, lighter, and cheaper systems that offer lots of light for relatively little cash.
The top-end Turbo 740 Xtra costs just US$199 yet provides 740 lumens of output with a generous 3hrs25 of run time while still weighing only 360g. Cygolite also offers the same head with a lower-capacity battery for US$169 that drops the burn time on high to a still-useful two hours.
Sitting at the bottom of the range is the Turbo Mini 330, which boasts 330 lumens of light and a two-hour burn time on the highest setting at just US$110 and 150g.
Also new are the Expilion all-in-one lights with user-replaceable, USB-rechargable Li-ion battery packs. The top-end Expilion 400 USB churns out 400 lumens for US$140, 320 lumens will cost US$110, and just US$80 will still net 170 lumens of light for safer commuting.
Cygolite’s multi-LED Centauri, TridenX, and MityCross ranges get power boosts nearly across the board and retain the company’s trick OSp feature. unlike other user-programmable systems that require a connection to a computer, Cygolite’sOSp-equipped lights offer tunable stepped light outputs right on the lamp head.
Finally, Cygolite also adds a high-powered rear LED flasher to its 2012 range with a bright 2W emitter, five flashing modes, and even user-adjustable flash speeds. US$50 buys you a HotShot 2W with a USB cable and wall charger while users who just want the light and cord can save themselves US$10.
Less weight and more power from Hope
The on-board display on the new Hope Vision R8 light shows the current light output, the selected mode, and remaining battery life
Hope’s 2012 light range will be topped by the new Vision R8, which sports a bank of eight Cree XPG LED emitters that delivers up to 2000 lumens of claimed output. Hope tucks all of that hardware in a tidy machined aluminum body that also contains a unique top-mounted backlight screen that graphically displays the current light output, operation mode (race or trail) and battery life. Burn time is 1hr15 with the included 5,200mAh Li-ion battery.
Also new is the Vision R4, which is now roughly half the weight, a third smaller, and 65% more powerful than its predecessor thanks to new Cree emitters. Claimed output is a full 1,000 lumens with a corresponding 1hr15 of run time at the maximum power setting.
Hope acknowledges that its new District rear LED light may be a bit of overkill but riders seeking the ultimate in visibility will take comfort in its three Cree XR emitters, 84 lumens of output, and 270-degree viewing angle. a separate battery adds to the bulk but offers eleven hours of burn time.
Less power but time to burn from Princeton Tec
The new Princeton Tec Push commuter light runs on standard AAA batteries
Outdoor lighting specialist Princeton Tec’s new Apex Rechargeable won’t set any records with its relatively modest 200-lumen output but the cost is reasonable at just US$149 and the burn time is unusually generous at five hours at the highest setting – plenty of time for your planned ride plus maybe even the unplanned time lost in the woods. once you’re back, recharge the system with the handy USB port.
Also unique to the Apex Rechargeable is its four-plus-one LED configuration, which allows for switchable flood or spot beam patterns.
US$50 gets you the company’s new Push all-in-one commuter light with 100 lumens of output, high, medium and flashing modes, plus blinking side markers for extra visibility.
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Eurobike/Interbike 2011
The 2011 Eurobike and Interbike trade shows promise to be a massive showcase of the latest bikes and related products available to the public next season. BikeRadar will be there in force to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
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Pink Electronics – There is a Pink Everything (Almost) – Part 2
610 days
In my previous article, Pink Electronics – There Is a Pink everything (Almost) – part I, I talked about pink mice, speakers and headphones that matches your pink laptop. Today, I’m going to share my findings on even more pink peripherals for your office (or on the go).
Desktop Computers
Considering the increasing amount of pink laptops available, I was surprised to find that the pickings for pink desktop computers are slim to say the least. I have not been able to find a single desktop tower offered in pink Raidmax have pink computer cases in two different designs, and you can buy a custom-built computer housed in one of those cases from KidComputers, but that is it.
Keyboards
There aren’t a whole lot of pink keyboards out there either, but I did find a few: Saitek makes a fuchsia keyboard with white keys (and a matching mouse); there is the hello Kitty Multimedia Keyboard with a built-in (detachable) pink plaid wrist pad (there are several other types of hello Kitty keyboards available as well, but I thought one would be enough here), and, my absolute favorite, the ultra cool, hot pink, flexible Bendi Board by Desklamations. It’s made out of totally flexible silicone (you can roll it up and put it in your bag if you want to take it with you), and if you should happen to knock your soda or coffee over while you’re working, no problem – you can wipe it clean with a damp cloth. Perfect
For younger children, there is the kid-sized hot pink Little Princess keyboard, with purple and blush pink keys (and a matching mini-mouse), and a layout that prevents Repetitive Strain Injury I really hope children don’t spend enough time in front of a computer to be at risk for that. There’s plenty of time to develop those kinds of things once you’re a working adult.
USB Hubs
GE makes a really smart (hot pink) hub with 4 ports set up as cubes. the smart part is that 2 of them rotate, so if you have oversized plugs, you will still be able to use the same hub for all your connections. Saitek’s Mini UFO hub is a round, fuchsia disk with 4 ports, while the Small Rodents pink hub is in the shape of (surprise) a mouse and is actually kind of cute. the animated hello Kitty USB hub features Kitty herself talking to you (in Japanese or English, your choice), emailing her friends and playing puzzles while you’re typing away.
Flash Drives
There are many choices available in pink when it comes to flash drives. tiny as they are, they add a lot of style to your setup. SanDisk’s 2GB Cruzer Gator is adorable in alligator-patterned dark pink, and their 4GB Cruzer Fleur is white with pink flowers and a hot pink cover. Tribeca’s Splash Drives are bright fuchsia with butterflies, and while not as fanciful as the others I’ve mentioned here, Kingston’s DataTraveler 101 (pink of course) with it’s attached cover (you just move it to the side when using the drive) is great for people like me, who tend to lose small parts. ATP’s special edition Pink Petito Flash Drive in pale, shiny pink with a pink ribbon is not only cute; it supports breast cancer research, 10% of the price goes to the Susan G. Komen foundation.
Cables
Cables Unlimited’s KaBling High-Speed USB 2.0 Mini 5pin B cables are adorable in bright fuchsia with crystals at each end. the company also makes a bright pink Universal AC Power Cord, a Cat5e Patch Cable, a HDMI 1.3 Home Theatre Cable, a Stereo Audio Cable (all pink with crystals of course). And you can feel good about adding these pieces of bling to your home – Cables Unlimited is a sponsor of the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
If bling is not your thing (yes, that was on purpose), Belkin makes a CAT-5e Patch Cable in bright pink, and GE sells a kit with three pink cables (a USB 2.0, a Cat 5e and a Mini-USB).
As you can see, there are plenty of pink gadgets out there. if you’re looking for a particular item and can’t find it in pink – keep you eyes open. I think we’re going to see more and more electronics in every color imaginable in the not so distant future.
Computer Support For Network Interface Controller
610 days
by TwiddleGeek
in word Processing
Network Interface Controller or NIC in short form, is a networking device, used by a computer for communication through a network. It is the networking component, into which network cable is plugged. This device is also known as Network Adapter, Network Interface card and Local Area Network Adapter. It is installed in the host computer to enable the host to be connected to the Local Area Network. Some computers have built in NIC while the others have removable cards which could be replaced if any need like changing the baud rate or bandwidth arises.
Brief History Of NIC
Token Ring was the earliest network configuration and protocol designed and developed by IBM. Computers, connected through token ring network cards, use two different paths to transmit and receive data. Later on, 5 Base T networking standard,also known as Ethernet standard, was developed in early 1970s. Using this standard it was possible to transmit and receive data over a thick coaxial cable over a distance of 1km at a baud rate of 5 Mbits/second. After that, prolonged and painstaking research for more than one decade yielded the 10 Base T standard which was able to transmit and receive data through twisted pair of cables at a much higher baud rate. The twists also helped minimize electromagnetic interference. Then 100 Base T, Gigabit Ethernet and Fiber Data Digital Interface came in quick succession. 100 Base T standard, also known as fast Ethernet improved the baud rate considerably. Using the latest Gigabit Ethernet standard, it is possible to transmit and receive data at the baud rate of 1000 Mbits/second.
Working Principle Of NIC
Earlier, the NIC used to be connected to the computer bus through expansion card. Later, due to cheap price and easy availability, the NIC was integrated with the motherboard itself. Nowadays many latest motherboards come with dual integrated network interfaces. In some computers, network interface is implemented on a cheap dedicated Ethernet card, which is connected to the motherboard through PCI Express bus.
Network Controller uses multiple different methods to transmit and receive data, such as interrupt driven method, polling method, Direct Memory Access.
In the interrupt driven method, the peripheral generates interrupts when it receives data or when it is ready to transmit data. The polling method continuously monitors the peripherals to check whether any data has arrived or the peripheral is free to transmit data. In the Direct Memory Access method, the peripheral directly communicates to the memory chip and accesses data without the intervention of the microprocessor.
The typical Ethernet NIC comes with RJ45 socket, to which the network cable is connected. Earlier versions of NIC had AUI or BNC connectors mounted on the card. LEDs are used to indicate the status of the NIC.
Types Of NIC
There are multiple types of NIC based on connection types and speed capabilities,like 10/100 Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet,Fiber Optics Ethernet, Wireless Ethernet,etc.
10/100 Ethernet cards can transmit and receive data at the maximum speed of 100 Megabits/second. This type of NIC is typically used in small business enterprises or home based activities. Generally PCI,PCIe or ISA interfaces are used by these cards to connect to the computer motherboard.
Gigabit Ethernet cards are capable of data communication at the maximum speed of 1 Gigabits/second. These cards use mostly PCIe interface to connect to the motherboard.
Fiber optic NICs employ fiber optic cable to transmit and receive data at the maximum speed of 100 Gigabits/second.
Wireless Ethernet cards are connected to the main computer through wireless router.
Network Support For NIC
Network Controller Card has many components mounted on it. If any of the components goes bad, the entire card might start malfunctioning. In such eventuality, the Computer Support from a recognized service provider could be of immense help to diagnose and rectify the problem. Nowadays many network support providers are rendering round the clock online services to resolve all sorts of networking issues.
Let's Compare Satellite Internet and High Speed Cable Internet – FireWire Cable
610 days
by TwiddleGeek
in firewire
Page grew to become invaluable right now. There is no doubt nothing will remark. a lot of companies hail relying on it seems just for toned acting of the life processes.on the web has been were able to having access to the same old views against the anywhere in the world. Precisely it’s got revolutionized the process of get in touch with. But simply if you have ever regarded access to the internet.For the first time it has been dial-up get in touch with so therefore presently there it was time DSL (Digital Email Line) match, and therefore nowadays there is a hard resolution which range from cable to your website and serious racing cable Website.them all 2 on the web opportunities has its pluses and minuses, we are going to oahu what they are:come up to: the important cable Connection requires a cord maze. the history install is created on networks professions. It’s got easy access in some immense ports but there is x environmental restrict. it can not be taken in the middle of isolated nations. Conversely the future cable Phone book offers a well access speed south much separate environmental tracts too. it needs an association thinking about the cable that the revolves the environment.Device: if you’re a student opt satellite access you’ll need a plate at your router while some cable Broadband internet needs a router and your cable.Cost of install: Whatever the solution is, the important up and running surcharges and fees persists well over similar. But simply presume the cost of installation for your loved one cable to your website to get it higher than the higher cable Website.Conditions: a storm may only disturb their particular satellite access while cable Connections lingers unchanged at all unfavorable weather too.Bandwidth: Bandwidth is for the number of knowledge to be tapped into ago a small the long run. Satellite on the web offers a inadequate bandwidth compared with cable Worldwide web aid.And that we go to these are the difference styles of Phone book ways to. It’s now our resort to pick a the correct one for your use, that the depends on the future equilibrium between the payments, geographical properties and most merits delivered these services.
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Gaming PC Cases – Ventilation, Power And Size
611 days
Personal computers have grown to many people’s pride and joy. whether it’s the ability to do whatever they like on it without fear of reduced performance, such as running complex programs or video games, or because their computer looks unique or is a demonstration of what a real gaming PC looks like. There can be many reasons for pride, but they all usually relate to one of three things. The internal components, the software or the external components being superior. The ultimate expression of pride would be to have all three being at their best, but sometimes purchasing gaming PC cases can be a difficult task, as people tend to be unaware of what is needed and are, instead, attracted to the wonderful looks and designs.
Ventilation is a key aspect of any personal computer case and even more so for a gaming PC. Good ventilation ensures that all of your components are running at optimum efficiency as they’re cooled by whatever cooling system you prefer. Fans are the most common form of cooling and do their job well in combination with on-component heatsinks. to avoid bad ventilation, upgrade older devices like drives that utilize ribbon cables and instead move on to SATA. This is not only more efficient in terms of space, but also provides faster data speeds. for a gaming PC, you should really have a front fan pulling cold air in and a rear fan pulling hot air out. This is a good system and can be upgrade to have more front or rear fans as necessary. Additionally, there should really be space for a high-quality central-processing unit (CPU) fan. these are sometimes very large devices.
When purchasing a case, they almost always come with a power supply unit (PSU). If they don’t, this can be a benefit, as the supplies are often not on par for gaming rigs. All of your internal components require power and this all adds up when you’re using multiple optical and hard drives as well as one or more high-end graphics cards and high-end CPU. The power supply should be at least 700w for a gaming rig, more for machines with additional graphics cards, as each unit can require over a hundred watts.
ATX cases are most common in the personal computer world as they combine size and functionality for the average user. While gaming rigs can fit inside an ATX case, it’s important to note that those wishing for additional drives, such as those in RAID, will want more drive bays. However, with a larger graphics card, space may start to prevent hard disk drives from being installed. to avoid this, you could look for a case that fits your needs and is designed different.
However, for a true gaming case, consider a mid-tower case, which provides a lot more space not only for drives, but for multiple graphics cards, more fans and various other devices. some cases come with clear panels that are great for LEDs to light up your computer. Additionally, you could also try installed a liquid-cooling system for maximum cooling effect.
HDMI to DVI Video – DVI-D to HDMI
611 days
If you have an HDCP compliant HDTV, you are probably going to want to use either an HDMI cable or a DVI cable. HDMI and DVI are both used to transmit digital signals from high definition devices to HDTVs. the difference between the two is that HDMI transmits a digital audio and video signal, DVI can only transmit video. Both are capable of resolutions up to 1080p.
What if I have a DVI device, but only have HDMI inputs on the TV?
No problem All you need is an HDMI to DVI Cable. the most common use for this cable is connecting a computer to the TV, or even some laptops to TV. if your computer or laptop has a DVI output, then you can connect it to your HDTV with a DVI to HDMI Cable. You will need a different cable to get sound from your computer. A common way of doing this is getting a 3.5mm stereo male (headphone plug) to 2 RCA (red and white connectors) cable. Simply connect the 3.5mm stereo plug into the headphone jack on your computer, then connect the 2 RCA plugs into the back of your TV or home theater system.
Is DVI the same picture quality as HDMI?
Yes, since DVI and HDMI are both digital, they are able to transmit the picture perfectly. if there are any errors with the cable, it will be very noticeable (no picture, flickering, blocky picture). As long as it’s working, you can be confident that you’re getting the best out of your equipment.
Is an HDMI to DVI cable is the same as a DVI to HDMI cable?
Yes, HDMI to DVI cables are bi-directional so they are called both ways. if you have a DVI input on your display, you can connect HDMI devices with this cable and vice versa.
8 Essentials Every Church Should Know Before Investing in Multimedia
611 days
by TwiddleGeek
in multimedia
2. Find your Screen:
Many people don’t give much thought to the screens, but they are a key piece of equipment for any multimedia system. as such, several things should be taken into account. Where can it be hung? should it be electric or fixed? should we go with one screen or multiple screens? which aspect ratio is right for us – 16:9 or 4:3? What surface should we go with? these are all questions to consider. Again, Fowler will help you determine the right size for your congregation, and once the size is established, that will start narrowing down your placement options. (For screen info click here)
3. Choose A Projector:
Once your screen placement and size are decided, you can determine what kind of projector you will need. After that, you can choose where and how you want to mount the projector. most can be ceiling mounted, and you’ll want to place it as close to the screen as possible to achieve the brightest picture. Of course, when mounting to the ceiling you will need to be sure there is enough attic space above the projector to run cables plus a structure to attach the mounting hardware to. an electrician will need to provide power at the projector location. If you have high ceilings you will need to look into using scaffolding or a lift. (You might ask your sales consultant about installation.)
There are other options when it comes to projector placement. Projecting from a balcony or from the back of the sanctuary usually requires a projector that offers multiple lens options. this allows you to select the perfect lens for your specific throw distance and screen size. you might also consider a slightly brighter projector because there is some light lost in a long throw application. this option will appear more expensive initially; however, once you consider the extra cost and time required with ceiling mounts, it often comes out to be about the same. also, regular maintenance and lamp changes are often much easier with a long throw application.
4. plan for Cameras:
We often find the decision to add cameras to your church media system is usually an after thought. However, more and more churches want to incorporate cameras into their existing system. If done well, it can greatly enhance the worship experience; but if done poorly it can be a major distraction. there are so many options available – robotic; manned; CCU control; HD or standard def, etc. – and the decision you make on your cameras will affect the direction we go with your projector, switching, scaling, cabling, etc. so, even if cameras are not on the immediate agenda but you are considering them for the future, plan now and it will save you money in the long run. (For more camera options click here.)
5. Select A Switcher/Scaler:
A switcher allows you to switch between your sources. A scaler takes all of your video signals and scales them up to a higher resolution to match your computer’s resolution (which should also be the native resolution of your projector). be warned there are several consumer grade switcher/scalers on the market that use low quality scaling engines; your image quality can be significantly impacted by using one of these.
When using a switcher/scaler you can choose to go with a single scaler or a dual. Single scalers allow simple dip to black transitions, whereas a dual scaler will allow for all of your effects like cross fades, wipes, cuts, etc. Again the one best suited for your needs will be determined by the direction you want to go with your system – the use of cameras being the biggest question. with cameras we always recommend a dual scaler. whether or not you are doing High Def will determine which dual scaler.
Some people try to save a little money and use their projector as the switcher. They simply plug their sources into the projector and then switch sources using the remote. the downside is that your projector will not do the scaling as well and remotes can be unreliable (if you do this make sure you hard wire your remote). Delays, glitches and unwanted on-screen text often occur, and most projectors don’t even allow you to easily select the source you need – you have to hit the input button until you get to the source you’re looking for.
Traditionally, if you planned on using cameras, you could use a video mixer instead of a switcher/scaler. the primary difference is that rather than scaling all of your sources up to a higher resolution, you will need a scan converter to convert all of your signals down to video. If you do this though, the quality of your computer images will suffer. but now that switcher/scalers are available, this isn’t even an issue.
6. Develop your Infrastructure:
The infrastructure of your media system is HUGE when it comes to the quality and success of your entire system. you can install a $100,000 projector with low quality cable or leave out a distribution amplifier and your image will look terrible And a lack of planning on your infrastructure will hinder your ability to add to your system in the future. so, decide now – will you ever want to add:
Choir confidence monitors
Digital signage in the lobby
Recording and duplicating equipment
If so, do you only want camera feed or will you want everything that’s on the screen?
Your infrastructure may cost as much as your projector and screen, but you want to do it right the first time. you should only have to plan routes and pull cables once; after that it will be very simple to add to the system as your ministry grows.
7. Choose the best Sources:
Again, as with infrastructure and screens, this is usually an afterthought. No big deal, someone’s donating their old computer or you already have a VCR/DVD player you can use. Or maybe you’ve recently seen the TV commercial where you can get a brand new computer for only $299 If you are only planning on checking emails or doing word processing with your computer that may be fine; but in order to display high end graphics and video, plus store everything your ministry does and display it quickly, you need a computer that is designed for this type of professional application.
As for your VCR/DVD player and cameras, a good rule of thumb is to stick with professional grade products. Don’t spend the church’s money on something low quality from a retail store – invest that money in quality pieces. yes you can go consumer and yes it will work, but those products are not designed for a professional application. as a result you will experience things that will be a big distraction during worship.
8. know your Budget:
There are hundreds of ways to do things, hundreds of products to choose from and pros and cons inherent with each, so for direction and a starting point we always ask the church for a budget to work with. on the other hand, the church is thinking, Well, I don’t know what this stuff costs, that’s why I called you, and so they either say they don’t have a budget or they give us a random number that isn’t necessarily realistic. A reputable dealer is not asking for a budget so they can spend every cent you have; they need to know what they’re working with in order to put together the best system for your church. it takes serious creativity and hard work to design a great media system on a limited budget. we can provide a big picture design and then work with you to implement it in phases.
So, to sum it all up, there are no right answers or simple solutions. get your leadership team involved in the planning of your system – not necessarily what equipment you want, but start with what you want it to do and then prioritize that list. know what’s important in the short term and long term. Remember that when designing a system, flexibility always equals money, so everyone needs to be on the same page. Clear communication is the key to achieving your multimedia ministry goals.
For more information on any of these topics, please contact Fowler at 405.321.8122 or toll free at 1.800.729.0163.
USPTO ISSUES TRADEMARK: TRANTEC
611 days
by TwiddleGeek
in blank Media
ALEXANDRIA, Va., Sept. 20 — the trademark TRANTEC (Reg. No. 4024617; International Reg. No 1050210) was issued on Sept. 13 by the USPTO.
Owner: TOA KABUSHIKI KAISHA TA TOA CORPORATION CORPORATION JAPAN 2-1, Minatojimanakamachi 7-chome Chuo-ku, Kobe-shi Hyogo-ken 650-0046 JAPAN.
The trademark application serial number 79087019 was filed on July 1, 2010 and was registered on Sept. 13.
Goods and Services: Amplifiers; antenna boosters; antennas; electrical signal distribution devices, namely, audio signal distributors; electrical antenna distributors; video signal distributors; transmitters of electronic signals; telecommunications transmitters; sound transmitting apparatus; receivers of electronic signals; telecommunication receivers, namely, wireless receivers, radio receivers, audiovisual receivers; audio signal tuners for use in telecommunication systems; radio signal tuners; audio signal interfaces; audio signal transmission and reception devices, namely, audio signal transmitters, video signal transmitters; network audio transmission and reception devices, namely, network audio adapters; electric audio signal converters; network audio devices, namely, audio speakers and audio amplifiers for use in transmitting and receiving audio signals via IP networks; telephone apparatus; telephone transmitters and receivers; intercom systems comprising intercom exchanges, intercom stations, and audio signal interfaces; electrical intercom exchanges for audio communication; intercom stations, namely, intercom terminals; infrared communication systems comprising microphones, audio transmitters, audio receivers, optical receivers, signal distributors, and battery chargers for microphones; audio signal processors; audio mixers; loudspeakers; public-address (PA) systems and instruments; megaphones; emergency broadcasting equipment, namely, microphones, audio amplifiers, audio signal interfaces, control panels, power supply units; public address (PA) and sound system accessories and fittings, namely, microphone stands, speaker stands, microphone cables, speaker cables, connectors, mounting racks, cabinets for loudspeakers and installation brackets thereof; mounting racks for telecommunication devices and apparatus; mounting racks for sound system devices and apparatus; mounting racks for closed circuit television system devices and apparatus; cabinets for telecommunication devices and apparatus; cabinets for sound system devices and apparatus. cabinets for closed circuit television system devices and apparatus; storage container boxes exclusively for use in racks and cabinets for broadcasting machines and apparatus; blank panels exclusively for use in racks and cabinets for broadcasting machines and apparatus; ventilation panels exclusively for use in racks and cabinets for broadcasting machines and apparatus; loudspeakers and their associated components, namely, speaker horns, low frequency enclosures, compression drivers, subwoofers and speaker stands; installation brackets for telecommunication hardware; installation brackets for sound system devices; installation brackets for closed circuit television system devices; protective carrying cases specially adapted for wireless microphone systems; earphones; microphones; radio microphone systems comprising microphones, tuners and receivers; sound reproduction apparatus; audio recording and playback devices, namely, sound recording and playback machines; audio and video receivers; video signal receivers; synchronized video signal transmitting devices for closed circuit television systems, namely, video signal synchronizers; video signal interfaces for closed circuit television systems, namely, camera drive units, interface units, coaxial superimposing units for audio-video signals and control signals, twisted pair cable transmission units; video signal transmission and reception devices for closed circuit television systems, namely, camera drive units, interface units, coaxial superimposing units for audio-video signals and control signals, twisted pair cable transmission units, alarm input and output units; video display switching devices for closed circuit television systems, namely, switchers; video signal compensation devices for closed circuit television systems, namely, cable compensators; hard disc drives; digital video recorders; video signal converters. network video monitoring devices for closed circuit television systems, namely, cameras, video recorders, video receivers, video transmitters, software decoders; radios; electric installations for the remote control of industrial operations; electro-dynamic apparatus for the remote control of signals, namely, remote controls for closed circuit television systems, public address systems, intercom systems, conference systems, and emergency broadcasting systems; electrical controllers for speakers; electrical control panels for public address systems; electrical audio signal controllers; electrical control panels for the operation of video equipment; controllers for video monitoring equipment; monitors for audio equipment; attenuators; electrical transformers for telecommunication apparatus; electrical audio frequency transformers for public address (PA) system; electrical programmable timers for use with public address (PA) systems and broadcasting machines and apparatus; battery chargers for microphones; conference systems comprising telecommunication devices and apparatus, namely, microphones, transmitters, receivers, amplifiers; closed circuit television systems comprising security alarms, cameras, monitors, microphones, audio-video recorders, audio-video transmitters, audio-video receivers, and hardware and software associated with such devices; closed circuit television cameras; lenses for closed circuit television cameras; covers for closed circuit television cameras not made of paper; electrical swivels for closed circuit television cameras; housings for closed circuit television cameras, namely, surveillance camera housings; video monitors; electric plugs, outlets, jacks and connectors for audio frequency and video frequency machines, namely, public-address (PA) systems and instruments, intercom systems, closed circuit television systems, wireless communication systems, conference systems, and emergency broadcasting systems; computer software for configuration and function enhancement of network video monitoring devices and network audio devices. computer software for setting up and configuring local area networks; computer software for setting up and configuring wide area networks; computer software for use in recording, amplifying, reproducing and transmitting sounds; downloadable computer software for configuration and function enhancement of network video monitoring devices and network audio devices; downloadable computer software for setting up and configuring local area networks; downloadable computer software for setting up and configuring wide area networks; pre-recorded sound media, namely, sound recordings featuring music and voices; electric cables and wires; electrical audio and video signal cables; electric and magnetic meters and testers; electric impedance meters
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