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A faster version of USB 3.0 is in the pipeline, according to the USB 3.0 Promoter Group at CES. Expected to be completed by mid-2014, the development of a SuperSpeed USB enhancement will add a higher data rate to the USB 3.0 specification, allowing for up to double the date throughput of existing USB 3.0 connections.
O2 and HTC will sell a future phone without the charger bundled in the box. According to Pocket Lint, the pilot scheme between the phone manufacturer and the UK carrier seeks to reduce the number of "wasted" charger in circulation, forcing customers to use existing chargers for other devices, a USB port on a computer, or to buy a charger separately.
Today's deals from DealNN include price breaks on portable hard drives, iPhone accessories, and more. Macmall.com's Deal of the Day today is the refurbished LaCie 1TB Rugged Triple Interface Portable Hard Drive, with a rubberized bumper and scratch-proof exterior, and transfer speeds up to 100MBps via FireWire 800. Currently featured at DealNN, the portable hard drive has now dropped 40% in price and can be purchased for only $119.99.
In an industry first, peripheral maker Genius announced a 1080p 120-degree ultra wide angle USB2 web camera. The Widecam F100 shoots video for web chats in 1080p and is compatible with Skype, FaceTime, Logitech Vid HD, Windows Live Messenger and Yahoo Messenger. An integrated stereo microphone rounds out the features of the new camera.
Taking advantage of the new USB3 interface, Verbatim has unveiled the latest in the Store 'n' go flash drive line. Boasting up to two times quicker data transfer, the drives are available now.
As a response to user requests, Startech unveiled the new Unidock 3U. The open dual hard drive docking station allows for one Serial ATA (SATA) and one older Parallel ATA (PATA or IDE) drive to be connected simultaneously with a USB 3 high-speed connection to the host computer.
Audio accessory maker Alesis has debuted a number of new devices for musicians, including three new USB MIDI keyboard controllers along with a set of iPad- and iPhone-specific amp docks. All are on display at the company's booth (#6400) at the 2012 NAMM show in Anaheim, CA. The keyboards include two 61-note models as well as a 25-note compact model. The iPad and iPhone amp docks are based on the company's successful iO docks.
Secure storage-and-sharing USB key iTwin has been upgraded to allow users to share files stored on a computer with multiple people simultaneously, providing an end-to-end encrypted solution for mirroring files that are on one part of the two-part USB key instantly to its mates. The free update lets multiple iTwin keys "belong" to each other, making transfer of data easy without the constraints of e-mail, the technical complication of VPN or the ongoing fees of cloud services.
Onkyo has announced that it is set to introduce several new A/V receivers that are claimed to be the industry's first to support InstaPrevue and mobile high-definition link (MHL) technologies. The MHL standard, which is already utilized for a variety of tablets and smartphones, enables devices to transmit 1080p video with 7.1-channel digital audio across a dual-purpose Micro-USB port.
Marshall Electronics' MXL Microphones has launched a vocally-oriented USB-powered condenser mic called the MXL Tempo that can also be attached to an iPad via Apple's Camera Connector Kit, which includes a limited-use USB connector for the iPad. Aimed at podcasters and chat users, the mic includes a no-latency headphone jack for monitoring and works out-of-the-box with a wide variety of recording and chat programs.
In addition to being useful for managing the ever-increasing number of USB devices in our lives, powered USB hubs also make great gifts that actually get used, even though some of them are small and cheap enough to be considered "stocking stuffers." In our latest review, Ilene Hoffman checks out two seven-port USB hubs from Targus and Newer Technology, as well as a four-port (but USB 3.0 compatible) hub from Targus. We weigh up the pros and cons of each model with all the info you need for holiday shopping decisions.
The UDA2000 is a new USB 2 to HDMI display adapter from Cirago International that allows both Mac and Windows users to easily connect to HDMI monitors, projectors or HDTVs without having to add internal video cards, external breakout expanders or separate audio and video connections in order to increase the number of monitors they can work with. PCs can add up to six 1080p-compatible monitors, while Mac users can add up to four, each using a USB port and adapter.
ThinkGeek is offering an AC outlet that doubles as a USB charger. The Fastmac U-Socket incorporates two USB connectors into a standard two-plug AC outlet. Using it, any USB powered device, including an iPhone 4, can be connected and charged without a dedicated adapter.
Samsung has introduced a USB adapter that attaches to the company's new Galaxy Tab 10.1 tablet. The dongle provides a single USB port, enabling users to expand the tablet's functionality with USB-attached mice, keyboards, memory sticks and other accessories. Users can attach the removable adapter to the tablet's 30-pin dock connector.
Berlin-based Nova Media have introduced a "surfstick" for Mac OS X made in conjunction with Belgium company Option called the iCON 461, a world-wide 3G data stick modem that is completely unlocked and can be used with most 2G or 3G networks around the world. The modem features an integrated GPS chip as well as a MicroSD card slot, enabling it to double as portable storage.
Samsung's Galaxy S II handset reportedly represents one of the first devices to take advantage of a Mobile High-Definition Link port. Although a dedicated HDMI output was noticeably absent from the handset housing, the MHL port combines USB and HDMI standards for data transfer, charging, and connection to audio/video equipment.
Having just won a collection of patents, Apple has been revealed to be pursuing at least two more ideas. One pair of patent applications, originally submitted in September 2009, depict a cable that would merge DisplayPort and USB 3.0 into one connector. The technologies use comparable amounts of bandwidth, Apple notes, and combining the two would allow for smaller connectors and extra convenience.
Buffalo Technology has introduced the DriveStation HD-HXU3, a new series of external hard drives featuring USB 3.0 interfaces. The high speed connection option is claimed to support transfer rates of up to 625MB/s, beating USB 2.0 and even FireWire by a considerable margin. Users can still connect using the current USB standard, however the transfer rates drop to approximately 480Mb/s.
Clickfree has released the Transformer SE (Special Edition), a device for turning any iPod, iPhone or USB hard drive into an automatic storage device. After plugging the Transformer into a computer and connecting any storage via USB, it will automatically backup and organize files into free space. The device is capable of working with multiple computers or storage systems, and can be used to transfer data from one computer to another.
Point Grey has provided additional details regarding its USB 3.0-connected HD video camera that will be making an appearance at the Intel Developers Forum. The camera prototype integrates a 3-megapixel CMOS sensor manufactured by Sony. The sensor allows the camera to output raw, uncompressed 1080p images at 60 frames per second.
A variety of USB 3.0 demonstrations have been planned for the Intel Developer Forum scheduled next week, according to CNET News. Grey Point Research will bring one of its prototype cameras with a 3-megapixel Sony CMOS sensor. The camera will stream uncompressed 1080p video at 60fps to a laptop outfitted with a SuperSpeed USB ExpressCard from Fresco Logic.
Radion has introduced several GearRAID quad-bay data storage subsystems with enhanced data protection when the drives are configured as a RAID 5 array. The storage devices integrate an Oxford936QSE chipset, enabling four 2TB drives to be configured as a RAID 5 array with a maximum of 6TB of overall storage space. The drives are capable of automatically backing-up data, while one hard drive can fail without any loss of data. Each storage system also supports eSATA, 1394b and USB 2.0 host interfaces.
iLuv has announced the newest additions to its line of iPhone and iPod accessories, the iAD115 and iAD119. Both products plug into a users DC car jack and utilize USB inputs to connect to a users iPhone, iPod, MP3 player, or GPS. The iAD115 Micro features one USB input, whereas the iAD119 includes two USB inputs for multiple devices. Both chargers feature a blue power LED that indicates the devices are getting power from the DC input.
StarTech has introduced its KVM Console USB 2.0 Adapter, which essentially turns a users laptop into a portable KVM console. This allows service technicians to control a machine that does not have a keyboard, mouse or monitor. The device functions similarly to a crash cart (a technicians portable cart comprised of a keyboard, mouse and monitor), but does not require a power outlet.
Sanrio Global Consumer Products, in collaboration with Mimoco, has announced a new line of MIMOBOT USB flash drives based on Sanrio characters. First in the company’s lineup is the Hello Kitty USB drive, which will coincide with the character's 35th anniversary. In addition to Hello Kitty, customers will be able to purchase drives with other Sanrio characters such as Badtz-Maru, My Melody, Kuromi, Keroppi, Chococate and TuxedoSam.
LaCie has released a new series of hard drive bags, while expanding its line of USB Hubs. The new USB Hubs consists of the Core4 and the Core7, each designed to add multiple USB ports to a user's computer. The three-model series of hard drive bags are intended to provide different levels of Hard Drive protection.
GizFever has released a new keyboard, the USB Smallest Mini Keyboard II. The item includes new features not offered in its sister model, such as a backlight and wireless capabilities which enable the keyboard to operate up to 10 meters away. The new model also features a power-conservation mode activated when the keyboard remains inactive for a period of time. Additionally, there is a Lock ID button that enables users to password-protect the keyboard.
LaCie has introduced several new storage products designed by 5.5 Designers, including the iamaKey, itsaKey and PassKey. The iamaKey and itsaKey are both key-shaped USB flash drives, featuring metal construction and capacities up to 8GB. The gold-plated connectors are claimed to be water- and scratch-resistant, with transfer rates of up to 30MB per second via USB 2.0.
TRENDnet has released the TEW-664UB, a dual-band Wireless-N USB adapter that supports transfer speeds up to 300Mbps. The device can be used on either the 2.4GHz or 5GHz frequency bands, including 802.11b, 802.11g or 802.11n networks. The antenna offers Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology and the company claims a coverage area of up to 50 meters indoors or 100 meters outdoors. Data communication can also be protected by 128-bit WEP or WPA encryption.
Audio company Samson Technologies has announced its latest USB microphone, the Go Mic. The device can be attached to a notebook computer via a built-in mount, or placed standalone on its base that allows a range of orientation adjustments. The condenser mic touts a frequency response of 20Hz to 18kHz, with a selectable cardoid or omni-directional polar recording patterns. When not in use, the head folds into the base for storage or transportation.
EZQuest has introduced the Thunder Pro Triple series of A/V RAID storage devices. Each unit offers two FireWire 800 ports, a FireWire 400 port and a USB port. The three-drive arrangement ships pre-configured as RAID 0 for the highest capacity and speed. The Oxford-chipset Hitachi SATA II drives run at 7200RPM with up to 64MB buffer cache. EZQuest claims data transfer speeds up to 80MB per second, with support for DV, HDV and DVCPRO HD with real-time effects.
Gadget4All is offering a roll-up mousepad that has an integrated speaker and USB hub. The device has four USB 1.1 ports and a 3.5mm stereo jack that allows users to connect compatible MP3 players and iPods via their headphone connection. An on-off button and volume knob gives users basic control of the device.
Cables Unlimited has released its latest connectivity product, a Wireless USB Adapter Set that allows users to connect USB peripherals remotely. The package consists of two USB dongles, one for a notebook or PC and the other that can be plugged into a device. Users can move the device-side dongle up to 30 feet away, according to the company. The system can be set up to wirelessly send data to and from an external hard drive, printer, digital camera, or optical media writer.
Nova Media on Wednesday unveiled the iCON 401, a new wireless USB modem that boasts worldwide coverage, and upload speeds of up to 5.76 Megabits per second. The iCON 401 includes an integrated antenna, built into the swivel clip, but also includes a connector for external antennas as well. Nova Media also includes the launch2net connection software to provide connection settings for almost any wireless provider. The iCON 401 is currently available for €199 (~$280)
The first line of defense to keep unauthorized people from messing with your Mac is your password. Choose a simple password and it will be easy for you to type and remember, but also just as easy for someone else to guess. Choose a more complicated password and there’s a good chance you’ll forget or mistype it, and wind up locking yourself out of your own computer. Since passwords can be bothersome to use, consider using the Rohos Logon Key for the Mac.
Other World Computing today announced it is now offering a 2TB version of its Mercury Elite-AL Pro Dual-Drive USB 2.0 hub/storage device. The Mercury Elite is a "Plug 'N Play" external hard drive for Mac or PC that also offers three powered USB 2.0 ports. The drive runs at 7200rpm and has 64mb data buffer cache. OWC claims data transfer rates of 60MB/sec; the drive is packaged with Prosoft Engineer Data Backup for Mac OS X 10.2.9 or later, NovaStor NovaBACKUP for Windows 2000 or later, and Intech SpeedTools Utilities for Mac OS 8.6/X. A USB 2.0 cable is included with the drive. Storage capacities for the Mercury Elite series range from 500GB to 2TB, with prices ranging from $170 to $440, respectively.
SecuTec has added enhanced Mac OS X and Linux support to its line of UniKey USB dongle-based software protection products. The company says the UniKey line now offers support for "all major operating systems." Using "driverless techology" UniKey HID USB security dongles now work with Power PC and Intel Macs running OS X, as well as most versions of Linux and Windows.
DealNN deals for today include the Kensington LiquidAUX auxiliary car kit with wireless remote for use with iPod and iPhone for $65. ReCycle 2.1 by Propellerhead is available for only $50 from L.A.ComputerCompany.com. The TRENDnet wireless N router is dropped to $29 after $15 mail in rebate offer from Buy.com and save $300 on this Samsung 46 inch LCD HDTV that is regularly priced at $1,199, now $899. Bestbuy.com has leather Belkin Carabiner cases in white and pink for first and second generation iPod nano priced at $1.99 each and get a white USB wall charger for only $3, shipping included, after coupon code from Meritline.com.
Synchrotech has announced the MicroU2E-MV USB to ExpressCard adapter, which allows ExpressCards with voltages of both 1.5V and 3.3V to connect to a USB port. The adapter can accept both ExpressCard 34 and 54 sizes and is cross-platform, bringing ExpressCard connectivity to Mac (and PC) laptops lacking ExpressCard slots. The adapter, which is limited to USB-based cards (and will not work with PCIe-based ExpressCards), is available now for $48 and requires a USB 2.0-based ExpressCard and a host computer running Mac OS X or Mac OS 8.6 and above (also Windows ME or later).
Macally has announced two new products: a webcam called the IceCam2 and a 7-port USB hub called the TriHub. The IceCam2 is a driver-free USB webcam with microphone, capable of 30 frames per second at 640x480 resolution. It can swivel 360 degrees horizontally and 135 degrees vertically, has spring-loaded clips to keep it securely attached to a flat panel, and has adjustable focus. It requires Mac OS X 10.4.11 and above for iChat and Skype and also works with Windows XP (SP2). It is priced at $30 plus shipping and is available now.
Veteran storage manufacturers Imation today announced details of their new line of portable USB flash drives, the Nano Flashes. The drives are available in storage capacities of 1, 2, 4 and 8GB; the design is an evolution of previous USB drives offered by the company, but is only 1.7 inches long, 0.6 inches wide, and 0.4 inches deep. It also focuses on an integrated 360-degree swivel cap, which protects the connector when the drive is not in use, and allows for attachment to keychains, lanyards and even mobile phones.
Apple has posted Mac OS X 10.5.3 to Software Update. This relatively major release addresses a number of issues extant in previous editions of Mac OS X 10.5.x, including problems with AirPort, Time Capsule, Mail, iChat, iCal and more. With regard to general fixes, the update a font issue that could result in Helvetica Narrow being used in applications instead of Helvetica and also addresses an issue with stuttering video and audio playback in certain USB devices. It also fixes an issue in which certain attached hard drives may not show up in the Finder.
LaCie on Tuesday unveiled a new Blu-ray disc burner, capable of writing to single-layer media at 4x speeds across Firewire or USB 2.0. The drive retains LaCie's durable d2 aluminum casing and boasts whisper quiet operation while burning 25GB and 50GB BD-R and BD-RE media, in addition to all common CD and DVD formats. LaCie is offering the dual-interface Blu-ray burner for $650, available from LaCie directly and authorized retailers.
Elgato has released version 1.3 of the Turbo.264 software for its hardware encoding device that quickly converts any video to the advanced H.264 (MPEG-4) format without using the Mac’s resources. The company says the device allows users to watch TV and surf the web while encoding video -- with no reduction in processing speed. Turbo.264 supports many third-party Mac video applications as well as EyeTV, but also is bundled with its own software to quickly drop any video into iTunes to sync with an iPod, iPhone, and Apple TV. Turbo.264 1.3 makes it easier to upload videos to YouTube, with both good quality and short upload times (the YouTube web site takes some processing time to additionally encode your clip into Flash, FLV, format).
Tivoli on Wednesday announced that the NetWorks – the company's mono digital music player – will ship within a few weeks. The unit is capable of streaming internet radio over WiFi or Ethernet, and also includes a USB port and audio input port for connecting to a number of different portable music devices. The player is expandable, with options for stereo output, CDs, a subwoofer, or surround sound setup. The Tivoli NetWorks starts at $600 for the monaural unit.
Peripheral maker EVGA says it has begun shipping a new line of graphics adapters, the UV Plus+ series. The two current units connect various displays to a computer through USB; both DVI and VGA monitor inputs are supported, thanks in part to a bundled DVI-to-VGA adapter. Through DisplayLink technology, people can use up to four monitors simultaneously, in primary, mirrored or extended modes. This does, however, require a separate adapter for each screen.
Other World Computing today announced lower pricing for its Mercury Elite-AL Pro quad interface drive line, offering sizes up to 1TB, which the company claims are among the best values on the market. The drives feature Firewire 400 and 800, as well as USB 2.0 and eSATA, allowing the drives to be connected to almost any computer system. Pricing for the drive line starts at $160, and offers up to 150MB per second over eSATA.
California-based Iogear on Monday announced a new connectivity solution, the USB 2.0 External DVI Video Card. The product allows users to quickly and painlessly add up to six monitors to their existing Windows desktop or laptop for multitasking. The external device supports resolutions up to 1600x1200 pixels and 32-bit color. The DVI port allows a DVI monitor to be integrated via a computer's USB 2.0 port, or a VGA screen thanks to an adapter.
Other World Computing on Thursday announced its highest capacity portable, bus-powered storage drive: a 500GB, 5400RPM portable storage drive that offers FireWire 800, FireWire 400, and USB 2.0 connections. Immediately available and priced at $360, the Mercury On-The-Go 500GB portable drive is a palm-sized performer with huge capacity that fits in a shirt pocket. It is built with OWC's custom bridge solution featuring the Oxford924 chipset. In addition to the Mercury On-The-Go 500GB drive with 5400RPM performance, OWC also offers a full line of On-The-Go models with USB 2.0, USB 2.0+eSATA, FireWire 400+USB2, as well as additional FireWire 800/400+USB2 models in capacities up to 320GB (pricing starts at $98); and 7200RPM Mercury On-The-Go models in capacities of up to 200GB (priced starting at $120).
Blackmagic Design recently unveiled several new video interfaces at the NAB 2008 conference, the USB-based Video Recorder – available in consumer and professional versions – and a large scale 8U rack-mount SDI router. The Blackmagic Video Recorder offers consumers the ability to capture video directly to H.264 through component or S-Video onto their computer. The consumer USB Video Recorder sells for $120.
