A Monitor Blog

Goodbye 16:9 Aspect Ratio and Hello 21:9!

2012-01-31T22:58:00.005-05:00

I think it's safe to say that we have all determined that wide screen television viewing is head over heels better than how we used to watch tv (back when your screen looked like a bubble). However, future HDTVs may have a viewing style that is even wider than our current widescreen format. HDTVs of today have a more rectangular 16 x 9 shape, though a wider 21 x 9 display standard is said to be in the making and was announced at the Consumer Electronics Association, or CEA.

Vizio's upcoming 58" 3D LED CinemaWide display is believed to be the very first television in production that will feature the new 21 x 9 shape. The device isn't set to be released until March for a retail price of $3,499.99 and will come with a total of four pairs of 3D glasses.

In addition to the 58" device, Vizio is also planning a 70" and a 50" model as well set to be released in the second half of 2012. CinemaWide HDTVs allows movies shot in the cinema standard 16 x 9 aspect ratio to be automatically re-sized to the 21 x 9 ratio display without any black bars on the top or bottom. In addition to movies, other 16 x 9 content can also be scaled up.

The CinemaWide devices also allow users to use Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Yahoo TV and other apps on the left side of the screen while the full 16 x 9 video fills the rest of the screen.

According to a statement from Vizio's Vice President John Schindler, "We wanted to give consumers a good choice to watch movies and standard TV while you use the internet. This also offers a new look and feel for prospective TV buyers [that are] looking for something more modern in their homes." The CEA is currently in the process of developing a standard that would allow 21 x 9 content to be transferred via HDMI cables as well.

The TVs that Vizio are creating have built-in technology that would allow them to function without the CEA having to update the standard for HDMI cables. According to Schindler, "We really want to lead the charge." Ultra-wide video is also "closer to a cinematic experience," according to Vice President of Technology and Standards at The Industry Trade Group Brian Markwalter. Markwalter also added, "That is the aesthetic to it - to get the more sweeping panorama."

Source: USA Today - New Vizio HDTV breaks widescreen barrier for movies, apps

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Lenovo Unveils Android 4.0 HDTV at CES 2012

2012-01-11T12:48:00.006-05:00

Companies are really starting to make waves in terms of computer monitors and televisions. People flipped out when they announced LED TVs and went crazy over Google TV but now there is something even greater to drool over, Android 4.0 TV. That's right, Lenovo has officially unveiled its first generation Idea TV, a 55" HDTV that has comes with Android's Ice Cream Sandwich.

Reports are coming in from all over about the device which is on display at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show right now. The device is a full 1080p HD television that centers around an Android-based home screen, dubbed by Lenovo as the "Sandwich Screen". From here you use a touchpad located on the TV's remote to navigate between a standard TV feed, a video-on-demand screen and an apps screen with all of the video-on-demand content streamed via Lenovo's servers directly to the television.

Lots of reports are complimenting the device's smooth operation, especially compared to remote-based interfaces out there. In addition to that smooth operation, the 1.5GHz processor in the television makes switching between things very quick. Also, moving between the home screen, video-on-demand screen and apps screen is also very quick and precise.

Lenovo also noted that the Idea TV will also allow you to stream content wirelessly from your tablet, smartphone, laptop, desktop or any other device in your house or from 200GB of cloud storage that Lenovo is also throwing in with the Idea TV. Overall, reports are saying that the television handles like you would want it to and that everything runs smoothly and quickly, allowing for easy and enjoyable transitioning between medias.

The only real problem with the Idea TV is that Lenovo will only be releasing the first generation model in China. It is still unclear as to whether or not this device would actually succeed on the market, but if it does well in China, you can expect Lenovo to start branching out the second generation Idea TV to an extended customer market.

Source: Gizmodo - Eyes On Lenovo's 55-Inch Idea Android HDTV: It Might Make You Want to Move to China

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FedEx Driver Tosses Computer Monitor Over Fence

2012-01-02T13:11:00.005-05:00

I'm sure you have all heard the story by now. A man orders a computer monitor and has it delivered to his house by FedEx, only for the delivery man to carelessly pitch the extremely fragile piece of equipment over the customer's fence like it was a piece of trash. That's right, this driver, whom the customer had no choice but to trust with his package, just tosses the monitor right over the fence.

The video, which made its way around YouTube like wildfire, claims to be surveillance footage from the owner's house that captures the FedEx driver tossing the monitor. The poster of the video wrote, "Here is a video of my monitor being 'delivered'. The sad part is that I was home at the time with the front door wide open. All he had to do was ring the bell on the gate. Now I have to return my monitor since it is broken."

News of this obviously reached the heads of FedEx, especially after every single news station in the country was reporting on it and blasting the video all over t.v., and needless to say, they weren't happy with what they saw. The video itself has nearly 8 million views on YouTube and as for the driver, well, a FedEx spokeswoman put it lightly saying, "This won't be his best day."

I think the fact that the customer's door was wide open is the worst part. I mean, how lazy does the driver have to be if he won't even ring a bell and wait a few seconds for an answer? Oh, and this may be just me but it looks like the security camera is in plain view. I mean, did he not see it directly next to his face? Regardless, this is definitely not the proper way to deliver any package, let alone an expensive, breakable computer monitor. Thankfully, FedEx shipped another one to the customer, completely free of charge, and apologized immensely for the behavior of the driver. The video of the incident is below.

Source: CNET - Computer monitor tossed over fence by FedEx man

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AOC's New e2343Fi Monitor Doubles as an iPhone/iPod Dock

2011-12-20T19:56:00.006-05:00

If you are one of those people who is completely attached to your iPhone, you may want to listen up. There are some people out there that literally cannot live unless their iPhone is within their reach at all times, and those people, while being extremely clingy, now have a monitor that seems to be designed specifically for them. I'm talking about AOC's new e2343Fi computer monitor that comes complete with a specified iPhone dock built-in.

That's right, this 23" monitor comes with an iPhone dock built in and located directly under the screen on the device's base. The monitor itself looks pretty snazzy. The bezel is incredibly thin and the slick black frame makes it very easy on the eyes. As far as the dock is concerned, docking your iPhone onto your monitor will allow you to shoot videos and content directly from the phone to your monitor. In addition to that, the dock also uses SRS Premium Sound loudspeakers for superior sound quality.

The ability to shoot video directly to your monitor's screen and improve upon the audio quality transforms your standard computer monitor into a multimedia station for Apple enthusiasts. The good news is that the e2343Fi is also compatible with iPods as well, further increasing its functionality and usability. This device will be on show at next month's CES 2012 where AOC will also be displaying a new 23" 3D monitor as well as a mobile USB display. The USB display can work as a portable monitor or a digital picture frame, doubling its value as well. Unfortunately, there is no word at this time on pricing or availability.

Source: Slash Gear - AOC unveils new e2343Fi monitor with iPhone dock

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LCD Monitor Rentals

2011-12-13T21:00:00.005-05:00

There are many reasons you may want to consider renting a computer monitor, especially if you are planning on traveling to a convention, trade show or conference. When traveling long distances, it is best to pack the least number of breakable or valuable things as possible. Everybody knows that airlines are not particularly gentle when hurling your luggage into the belly of a plane and we all know that it is extremely easy for somebody to lose your bag or for it to get stolen. The worst situation would be if any of these things occur while your expensive and valuable computer monitor is inside.

That is why Rentacomputer.com offers a full line of LCD Monitor Rentals to satisfy all your needs. Rentacomputer.com offers computer rental monitors from all of the top names in the industry, including Samsung, LG, Sony, Acer, Toshiba and HP. They also offer a plethora of sizes as well. Monitors come in varying sizes of 17", 18", 20", 24" and 32" for monitors and 30" to 39", 40" to 49", 50" to 59", 60" to 69" or a personalized size if you are interested in a plasma screen rental.

A Tech Travel Agent can set you up with any type of monitor you need in any size, from any manufacturer and in any quantity you need. The best part about renting from Rentacomputer.com is that you get local delivery and installation as well. Once you place your order, a certified professional engineer, installer or technician will come to wherever you need your monitor rental. Once there the technician will set up and install everything for you and will also test everything to ensure it is running as smoothly as possible. After you're finished, the same technician will take everything down and take it away for you, taking all the hassles of logistics off of your shoulders.

Renting a computer monitor is easy and it is only a phone call or a click away. All you have to do is visit Rentacomputer.com today and speak with a Tech Travel Agent and you are on your way to a great rental experience. Rentacomputer.com has been in the industry of computer and technology rentals for over 20 years, so you know you are going with a name you can trust.

Rack-Mount Server rentals are ideal if your company needs an extra storage unit for company information while you are testing various types of storage solutions.

Whether you need a short-term rental or a long-term lease, we have the right kind of server for your needs.

New 3D Monitor and Projector from Acer

2011-12-06T18:19:00.005-05:00

New developments from the folks over at Acer as the company recently announced two new products capable of taking your boring old 2D content and converting it into exciting 3D! That is, of course, if you are into the whole 3D gimmick of late which many people seem to be. The two new products come to us as the HR274H 3D computer display and the H9500BD projector.

The HR274H 3D display has a neat Acer chip-based 3D conversion solution that allows you to transform any 2D media into 3D with absolutely no need of software. In addition to that, the display uses passive polarized glasses that are a lot cheaper than your more traditional active shutter 3D glasses.

The display itself measures 27" and also comes with a full 1,920 x 1,080 HD resolution, allowing you to have the brightest, most crisp 3D images for both viewing and gaming. The 3D chip technology also works with any video card you have in your computer, no matter the make, model or brand and ships with a single pair of the polarized 3D glasses. You will also find HDMI connectivity, further broadening the use of your display.

The H9500BD projector supports 3D technology from Nvidia and also converts 2D images to 3D automatically. The projector comes with full 1,920 x 1,080 HD resolution and projects images up to 300" large (diagonally, of course). The projector also uses DLP technology and has a 120Hz refresh rate. A 50,000:1 contrast ratio is in the specs, as is support for active shutter 3D glasses, 2,000 ANSI lumens of brightness and support for 16:9 and 4:3.

You can pick up both devices from Acer directly on the company's website with the HR274H display selling for $599 and the H9500BD projector selling for $1,999.

Source: Slash Gear - Acer launches new HR274H 3D computer display and H9500BD 3D projector

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Sony Introduces New PlayStation 3D Display

2011-11-21T14:50:00.006-05:00

It is no surprise that Sony loves its 3D technology as the company keeps pushing the gimmick on its users year after year and touting the technology's "future potential". However, Sony has taken their love for 3D to the next level by creating a PlayStation-branded 3D computer monitor. This monitor is specifically designed to hook up to your PS3 with ease and guide you to 3D enjoyment and is aimed to be an ideal entry-level demonstration of the company's 3D technology.

The display itself is thin and light and extremely portable allowing you to take it almost anywhere. In addition to being easily portable, the device is easily assembled with an easy-to-install stand, showing that Sony definitely has usability as the focus. Connectivity is simple as well. You can connect the Sony PlayStation 3D Display to either a PS3 console or a PC via HDMI cable.

The display only has two USB ports and no TV tuner so you know that its intended purpose is to be a streamlined, user-friendly console display. There are also very few customization options once hooked up. You can switch between two 3D modes and there are also controls for channel and volume settings, all of which are situated behind the screen. In addition to that, there is no remote that comes with the monitor, which some users may find bothersome, especially considering the device has no standby mode and will need to be manually switched every time you want to use it.

The screen is highly reflective and presents a beautiful mirror image. It's almost needlessly glossy, much like Sony's PSP and while it looks good, you may want to reconsider playing it near any light sources. Be careful with touching the screen too as it seems like fingerprints are very likely to show up.

Once turned on you get a nice picture on the 240Hz LCD display with bright colors and a solid contrast and games look very good as well. As far as 3D goes, this device is decent though some games have a tendency to ghost pretty badly. This monitor supports Simulview, which uses the 3D glasses to have two players seeing entirely different things on the screen. Local co-op with two players is possible with each having the entire screen to themselves. How this works is beyond me but it sounds cool. Unfortunately, this only works on a handful of 3D Sony games.

$500 seems a little steep, especially considering there are a lot of other 3D monitors out there that are better and only slightly more expensive. However, the small size may be attractive for gamers with tight space who are looking for a fairly good 3D gaming monitor.

Source: Destructoid - Review: Sony PlayStation 3D Display

HP Unveils New TouchSmart 620 All-in-One 3D PC

2011-11-07T16:33:00.009-05:00

There are a lot of innovations in the computer world these days, two of the biggest being 3D and all-in-one devices. On the one hand, you have the option of playing games and watching movies and content in full 3D quality, on the other you have the convenience of having your tower and monitor all rolled into one device, freeing up a lot of space in your office or at your desk at home. However, HP thinks that these two innovations should become one and has created a device to make that happen. Meet the HP TouchSmart 620 3D Edition.

The TouchSmart 620 3D Edition is a tower-free desktop that HP is adding to its already populated lineup of all-in-one PCs. This device is the love child of the HP TouchSmart 610 and a 23" 3D touchscreen monitor, and inside the rather bulky (for an all-in-one) 4.1" thick display you'll find a 3.1GHz Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of memory, a 1.5TB hard drive, Blu-ray drive and an AMD Radeon HD 6650 (or 6670) graphics card. That is pretty good, especially if you consider the fact that the mid-range 6670 debuted in April and is capable of averaging frame rates in the low 30s on games like Crysis 2 on high settings in the device's native 1,920 x 1,080 resolution.

In addition to that, the TouchSmart 620 also keeps the flexible ergonomics of the TouchSmart 610. The screen is capable of swiveling up to 180 degrees and reclines up to 60 degrees (nearly flat), allowing you to have considerable leverage when moving things around to mitigate glare or other effects. Fire up 3D mode and you will be using software from TriDef designed to make accessing the 3D capabilities of the display more user-friendly.

The base model of the device, which will cost you $1,800, includes a dual-lens camera capable of grabbing 3D video as well as still shots, a TV tuner and also comes with a pair of active shutter glasses.

This isn't the first all-in-one PC to come with 3D capabilities, however. Sony, Lenovo, MSI and Asus have all debuted 3D all-in-ones as well. However, as far as pricing goes, the HP TouchSmart 620 is less expensive than Sony's Viao L-Series 3D Edition, which comes with an i7 processor and a 3TB hard drive for $2,300. On the other hand, the TouchSmart 620 is considerably more expensive than Lenovo's IdeaCenter B520 that offers an i7 processor and Nvidia GeForce GT 555M GPU for $1,300.

Nevertheless, people are, for some reason, obsessed with 3D these days, so this device will obviously find itself in more than a few homes, if only for the HP brand, not to mention the fact that this device is aimed at the holiday season. Whether or not people will care in a year or so is still up in the air.

Source: Techland - Hello, 3D PC! HP Unveils TouchSmart 620 All-in-One

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Toshiba Unveils the DX1215 All-In-One

2011-10-24T18:52:00.005-04:00

Reports are in on the new all-in-one DX1215 touchscreen from Toshiba and the reports are good. According to multiple reviews, Toshiba's DX1215 all-in-one has one of the best touchscreens on the market and the fancy wireless peripherals and amazing speakers give you a fairly decent all-in-one multimedia device. The only thing lacking is the mobile processor.

For $934 you can get the DX1215 with a second-generation Intel Core i5-2410M processor which, surprisingly enough, is a laptop processor as opposed to a desktop processor, as well as built-in HD graphics. In addition to that you also get 4GB of RAM, a 1TB hard drive and built-in WiFi and Bluetooth. The DX1215 also runs a 64-bit version of Windows 7 Home Premium as an operating system.

The 21.5" touchscreen is extremely pleasing aesthetically, being very bright with excellent color representation and excellent contrast. The touchscreen is also one of the most responsive and most accurate touchscreens on the market. The glossy screen surrounded by a thin, shiny black bezel, has a native 1,920 x 1,080 resolution, making all of your HD pictures and videos really pop. Picture quality is clear and crisp though the viewing angels could be better as the screen gets significantly darker the more you move to either side.

Multitouch works impeccably and there is almost no lag whatsoever, which definitely makes the experience so much more enjoyable. Unfortunately, Toshiba has yet to fully optimize the DX1215's version of Windows 7 for touchscreens, so you may run into some trouble using some regular apps, like Internet Explorer, right out of the box. Thankfully this is something that can be easily calibrated, even though it is an odd problem to have considering how much time Toshiba spent on the actual screen.

As far as performance, the DX1215 could be better, especially considering its position as a budget all-in-one. The device only gets a WorldBench 6 benchmark score of 115, though that isn't too surprising considering the mobile processor. Graphics performance isn't anything to blow your mind either. However, the DX1215 did perform better than some other devices for around the same price. The DX1215 relies on Intel's integrated HD graphics with a frame rate of 45.8 fps.

Overall the DX1215 from Toshiba is stylish with some sleek peripherals and an awesome touchscreen and speakers. However, it isn't the best when it comes to performance and the software isn't top-of-the-line either. A lot of unnecessary software and an interface that isn't optimized for a touchscreen are definitely some major inconveniences but not necessarily a deal breaker for most.

Source: PC World - Toshiba DX1215

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iLid Computer Tables

2011-10-19T18:28:00.005-04:00

Love having a desktop computer but hate how your monitor takes up a lot of space? If so, iLid has the solution for you! iLid has just designed an LCD monitor table that gives you easy access to an LCD monitor whenever you need it without taking up premium desktop space.

The table comes with a monitor attached to a panel that is mounted on a friction-fitting hinge. Once flipped over, all you have to do is adjust the monitor to your desired viewing angle and you are ready to go. Your keyboard sits on a convenient storage shelf or optional pull-out tray so your desk is free for everything else you need it for.

The adjustable monitor angles accommodate different working styles and users are able to manipulate it in order to suit their own workspace needs. In addition to that, iLid computer workstations offer you 10" of depth on your desktop when the screen is in use, ensuring that you have enough room for both your computer and whatever you are working on.

iLid computer workstations are perfect for classroom settings, allowing professors to have the computers up or down depending on the day's activities. In a professional setting, these desks make the necessary exchange of computer and text resources as effortless as turning over a piece of paper.

The best thing is that iLid offers single and double iLid computer stations. The double iLid station offers two slots for two monitors separated by a desk space. The single configuration is a comprehensive solo workstation that is ideal for anybody who is working from home or uses their computer desk for more than just using a computer.

Source: PRWeb - SMARTdesks Opens the iLid: A New Generation of Flip Computer Tables

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LG ISP5 Series Coming Soon

2011-10-07T13:55:00.005-04:00

While it isn't news that your computer monitor provides you with invaluable experience when using your computer, there are companies out there that are trying to make that experience better. One such company is LG and one such series of monitors is the LG IPS5 Series, which looks to provide an increased user experience.

The LG IPS5 Series uses an IPS panel (obviously) in its design in order to provide a better picture. Color temperatures measure in at nearly 6,500K and the contrast ratio tops out at 5,000,000:1. In addition to that, all monitors in the series also have a full 1,920 x 1,080 HD resolution.

Another interesting feature is the Dual Package feature. This makes adding a secondary monitor to your setup much simpler and also allows you to have a pretty cool looking setup. You also don't have to mess with calibrating the monitors as each one is calibrated before you buy it. You will even get a report from LG about how your particular monitor was calibrated.

The LG IPS5 Series comes in two sizes, 21.5" and 23", and should both be available soon. However, you could always wait until November when LG unleashes the ISP5P, which gives you everything you get with the standard ISP5 as well as a posing stand with adjustable height.

Pricing is currently unavailable though both monitors do look very nice, especially if you are considering a new monitor or building a custom PC. Keep an eye out for the LG ISP5 Series of monitors when they start dropping in on store shelves in the next couple of weeks.

Source: TFTS - LG IPS5 Monitors Start Selling Soon, Reportedly Offers Colors To Match Reality Itself [LG's New Line Of Computer Monitors, The IPS5 Series, Set To Land With Promises Of Impressive Color And Picture]

Power Point Projectors
Most business class projectors will do a good job displaying your PowerPoint presentation. If you have a small presentation group, a 2000 lumen LCD projector will be able to produce a nice and clear picture. For larger audiences you should consider a 5000 lumen LCD projector.

Monitor Rentals from RentRPC

2011-09-28T11:40:00.004-04:00

Monitor Rentals can be great for several reasons, not just simple computer uses.

They can:

Temporarily Increase Your Viewing Capacities
One way to increase work productivity during busy times is to increase the number of monitors you are using with your PC. With an extra monitor or two, you are better able to multitask. No more switching tabs or having to go back and forth between applications.

Increase Appeal and Traffic at Trade Shows & Conventions
Display products and information for people who pass by your booth. With the visual appeal, more people will be interested in what you offer. If you need extra monitors for your trade show or convention, then the Rentrpc.com agents can get you the right kind and number of monitors for your need.

Plasma Screen Rentals also make great monitors. Most plasma screens these days can be used as computer monitors. So if you need a monitor that is larger than average, You should consider a plasma screen rental. With a plasma you can also achieve high-def quality, and get much richer color tones than you could with a typical computer monitor.

Increase in Mobile Computing Sees Decrease in Monitor Sales

2011-09-26T17:27:00.004-04:00

While the computer industry may be growing at a rapid rate, there is one aspect of it that is falling behind. It has become obvious over the last couple of years that, as a result of the rise of laptops and tablets, the computer monitor industry has seen a dent in sales, at least in terms of standalone PC monitors.

If that wasn't bad enough, sales are now starting to decline at a faster rate than ever. European display market researcher Meko has discovered that monitor sales have dropped nearly 13.6% in Europe, the Middle East and Africa since the last quarter. What is even more unfortunate is that this marks the fourth straight quarter of decline.

In addition to that, the rate of decline is also increasing with consumer sales taking a majority of the impact. North American market researcher DisplaySearch has also witnessed a similar decrease in sales in the North American market. Monitor sales have decreased 15% year-over-year since last quarter after a brief but overall insignificant 1% increase between 2009 and 2010. These numbers also include monitors that were bundled with desktop PCs.

However, many market researches have stated that the decrease in sales was not entirely unanticipated, and not just because of the influx of laptops and tablets. Without new innovations in monitor technology, like going from CRT to flat-panel or from 4:3 to widescreen, there really isn't a lot of incentive for PC owners to go out and buy a new monitor.

What's more interesting is that, despite the drop in sales, the price of monitors hasn't really changed. LED-backlit displays, which were originally designed to raise the average selling price of monitors, are being priced similarly to CCFL-backlit LCD monitors. It seems that no matter what the price is, demand is just not going to be there.

However, DisplaySearch still sees a need for standalone monitors in the home. A lot of people are looking into "smart" monitors that have the ability to connect to the internet or to other computing devices. These devices would then act as a hub when a user needs a larger screen or extra monitor. But despite that, it is sad to see a decline in monitor sales. Hopefully more people will get into the realm of custom PC builds, a field that requires the purchase of at least one if not multiple monitors.

Source: PC World - Monitor Sales Keep Plummeting as Mobile Takes Over

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Increase in Mobile Computing Sees Decrease in Monitor Sales

2011-09-26T16:32:00.005-04:00

While the computer industry may be growing at a rapid rate, there is one aspect of it that is falling behind. It has become obvious over the last couple of years that, as a result of the rise of laptops and tablets, the computer monitor industry has seen a dent in sales, at least in terms of standalone PC monitors.

If that wasn't bad enough, sales are now starting to decline at a faster rate than ever. European display market researcher Meko has discovered that monitor sales have dropped nearly 13.6% in Europe, the Middle East and Africa since the last quarter. What is even more unfortunate is that this marks the fourth straight quarter of decline.

In addition to that, the rate of decline is also increasing with consumer sales taking a majority of the impact. North American market researcher DisplaySearch has also witnessed a similar decrease in sales in the North American market. Monitor sales have decreased 15% year-over-year since last quarter after a brief but overall insignificant 1% increase between 2009 and 2010. These numbers also include monitors that were bundled with desktop PCs.

However, many market researches have stated that the decrease in sales was not entirely unanticipated, and not just because of the influx of laptops and tablets. Without new innovations in monitor technology, like going from CRT to flat-panel or from 4:3 to widescreen, there really isn't a lot of incentive for PC owners to go out and buy a new monitor.

What's more interesting is that, despite the drop in sales, the price of monitors hasn't really changed. LED-backlit displays, which were originally designed to raise the average selling price of monitors, are being priced similarly to CCFL-backlit LCD monitors. It seems that no matter what the price is demand is just not going to be there.

However, DisplaySearch still sees a need for standalone monitors in the home. A lot of people are looking into "smart" monitors that have the ability to connect to the internet or to other computing devices. These devices would then act as a hub for when a user needs a larger screen or extra monitor. But despite that, it is sad to see a decline in monitor sales. Hopefully more people will get into the realm of custom PC builds, a field that requires the purchase of at least one, if not multiple monitors.

Source: PC World - Monitor Sales Keep Plummeting as Mobile Takes Over

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AOC's Portable 16" USB Monitor

2011-09-21T16:18:00.005-04:00

AOC has just announced the new, sleek and portable USB monitor. This lightweight monitor features a very convenient built-in USB port that receives power as well as signal via a single USB cable allowing you to connect your monitor to anything with one, simple cable.

This device does not require a power cord or a VGA cable and is perfect for dual and multi-monitor setup. In addition to functioning as an additional monitor, the device can also be used for mobile presentations.

According to Marketing Manager of AOC Robert Velez, "The USB Monitor showcases AOC's dedication to expanding its display offerings and using the latest technologies to come out with innovative and user friendly products. The USB Monitor is ideal for business presentations, photo frame applications, multiple monitor displays and as a companion monitor for laptop and netbook users who want more out of their computer."

The 16" e1649fwu model offers high image quality with a 50,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast ratio, 5ms response time and a 1,366 x 768 resolution. A nifty built-in Smart Stand also allows you to pivot the monitor and can be stored flush against the back of the monitor when not in use. In addition to that, the stand also supports both portrait and landscape viewing modes.

Despite the fact that there is no power cord, this monitor still functions like any other kind of monitor. It allows you to use it for watching videos, gaming, browsing the internet or anything else you may want or need it for. Full specs for the device include:

LED panel

Widescreen 16:09

15.6" screen

395mm viewable image size

250c brightness

50,000,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio

5ms response time

1,366 x 768 max resolution

USB input

USB powered

You can get your USB Monitor from AOC or any other major monitor retailer in October, 2011 for $139.

Source: Engadget - AOC's 16-inch portable monitor sucks power, video from your USB port

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NEC's New MultiSync P241W

2011-09-13T15:08:00.006-04:00

NEC just updated its MultiSync P Series of monitors with a brand new 24" display known as the MultiSync P24W and it comes with an e-IPS panel that, according to NEC, is perfect for web graphics as well as photography enthusiasts. In addition to the MultiSync P241W there is also the new P241W-BK-SV which is a SpectraView II version of the P24W.

e-IPS is one of the newer types of In-Plane Switching panels and is also considered a sub-category of H-IPS. e-IPS panels use a simplified structure as well as a wider aperture for light transmission. This allows them to get by with a lower quality and less expensive backlight while at the same time still producing excellent picture quality. In addition to that, e-IPS panels also boast wide viewing angles.

According to Product Manager for Professional and Medical Displays at NEC Art Marshall, "The new MultiSync P Series combines reliable, accurate screen performance with all the cutting-edge technology included in the MultiSync PA Series at a budget-friendly price. One of the more unique features of the P241W is the ability to utilize two computers simultaneously through DisplaySync Pro and the integrated USB hub, which functions as a KVM device. This capability is invaluable to graphics professionals, and we're excited to introduce this feature into the MultiSync P Series."

As far as specs go, this monitor is a 16:10 device that comes with a 1920x1200 native resolution, 96.7% sRGB color gamut, 1,000:1 typical contrast ratio, 8ms response time, 360 cd/m2 typical brightness, XtraView+ viewing angle, internal 14-bit 3D programmable LUTs, built-in USB hub, Picture-in-Picture, ICC Profile Emulation, Color Vision Emulation, four-way ergonomic stand and DisplayPort/VGA/2xDVD-D inputs.

There are a lot of professional level features with this monitor which are good for professionals. However, that is also the reason that this monitor is a little pricier than most. The MultiSync P241W from EC will begin shipping this month for a retail price of $749. The MultiSync P241W-BK-SV with SpectraView color will also ship this month for $1,249.

Source: Maximum PC - NEC MultiSync P241W Monitor Wields an e-IPS Panel, Intimidates TN Displays

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Two New Monitors from LG on Display at IFA

2011-08-29T14:49:00.006-04:00

LG is planning on taking the cover off of its newest products, the ultra-slim E91 and D237IP monitors, at the upcoming IFA 2011 convention in Berlin. The E01 has a depth of only 7.2mm as well as a very stylish acrylic finish, sure to make it a hit with more high-end customers. The other monitor, the D237IPS, boosts LG's market-leading Film Pattern Retarder (FPR) 3D display technology on IPS panels giving you a brighter and clearer 3D image.

According to Havis Kwon, President and CEO of LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company, "These monitors aren't just for work and internet browsing, they were designed to be the center of entertainment for any bedroom, study or dormitory. The E91 and D237IPS combine elegant design and unique technology to look great in any room and still be able to deliver exceptional images and videos."

The E91, with its incredibly thin frame and bezel, takes up minimum space on your desk while at the same time adding a little bit of style. The bezel measures only 4.35mm and the screen looks almost as if it doesn't have a border at all. The hanger-type hinge design of the E91 also makes it extremely easy for you to adjust your monitor to the desired viewing angle.

The SUPER+ resolution of the E91 also ensures that you are getting the highest picture quality possible and also prevents any decrease in resolution during format upgrades. In addition to that, this resolution also sharpens blurry edges and adds new life to dim colors. The 10,000,000:1 contrast ratio of the E91 also helps in delivering a an extremely vivid and crisp image.

The D237IPS, on the other hand, uses state-of-the-art 3D technology in order to deliver high-quality and comfortable 3D viewing. In addition to that, this device also boasts "Flicker-Free" certification as well as lower crosstalk, which means less dizziness and headaches from using the 3D. The brightness of this monitor clocks in at 100nits, which is over twice that of competing 3D monitors, and the D237IPS also offers a more clear 3D picture in order to reduce eyestrain.

More information about both the E91 and D237IPS monitors from LG will be on hand at this year's IFA 2011 convention in Berlin. We will have all the updates about both of these devices as they come from the show floor so keep checking back for all the latest information.

Source: Engadget - LG gets ready for IFA with a pair of new monitors

HP Sues AU Optronics for Fixing LCD Panel Prices

2011-08-24T17:46:00.005-04:00

HP recently filed a law suit against AU Optronics in which HP accused the company of conspiring to fix prices of thin-film transistor liquid crystal display panels according to the filing.

According to a document filed on August 19 in federal court in San Francisco by HP Vice President and General Manager for HP's Displays Business Jun Kim, a complaint for damages alleging violations of antitrust laws was filed under seal in order to conceal confidential information about HP's process for acquiring LCD panels from HP's competitors.

According to a related document, AUO and other companies "conspired to fix the prices of LCD panels". The document is related to a complaint about a pending group case that was filed against LCD makers on behalf of purchasers of the screens used in personal computers, televisions and mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.

Yawen Hsiao, a spokeswoman for AUO, was not immediately aware of the complaint when recently contacted for information by multiple media outlets. Hsiao also declined to comment further on anything regarding such complaints or a lawsuit between AUO and HP. HP is one of the largest clients AUO has and provides the company with panels used in laptops and computer monitors.

However, if it is true that HP is suing AUO for fixing prices, it wouldn't be surprising. The Taiwanese company was indicted last year for supposedly conspiring to fix prices on flat-panel screens sold around the world. The conspiracy lasted from 2001 until 2006. Apple, Dell and HP were among the many companies directly affected by the supposed scheme according to the United States Justice Department.

Source: Bloomberg - HP Sues AU Optronics in U.S. Court Alleging It Fixed Prices of LCD Panels

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Asus Announces 27" VG278H 3D Monitor

2011-08-15T13:23:00.008-04:00

If the announcement of the 27" 3D monitors from Samsung, known as the SA750 and SA950, in addition to the announcement of the 27" 3D monitor announced from Acer, known as the HN274H, wasn't enough excitement for all you monitor junkies out there, then this recent announcement from Asus may just do the trick for you.

Asus has just announced at CeBit a 27" 3D monitor as well, known as the VG278H. Now before you go getting all doe-eyed on me, this isn't the first time Asus has made a big announcement like this at the annual convention. At last year's event there was the infamous ordeal involving the Asus PG276, a device that promised to be the world's first 27" 120Hz 3D monitor. The problem with that was that this device never materialized.

The VG278H, on the other hand, is real and tangible. This device sports a similar design to the VG236H but adds an integrated IR transmitter on the top. The IR transmitter is an integrated 3D receiver that offers support for Nvidia 3D Vision natively. The VG278H is said to ship with a pair of Nvidia 3D glasses as well.

3D integration via IR transmitters seems to be the running standard with all of these recently announced 3D monitors. However, they do seem to also represent an unnecessary expense for anybody who is looking to harness the power of 120Hz responsiveness as opposed to just viewing stereoscopic 3D content.

Aside from what I have already mentioned, not a lot has been revealed about the VG278H. However, close inspection by multiple guests at CeBit has revealed support for HDMI 1.4, DVI-D (dual link), a 1920 x 1080 full HD resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, 2ms gray to gray response time, 400 cd/m2 rated brightness and WLED backlighting.

Asus has revealed that the VG278H 27" 3D monitor will be released in October of this year with a recommended price of around €599, or around $865. However, price could change upon release as this price could be given to retailers as a mere guideline. The Asus VG278H will also ship with a pair of Nvidia 3D glasses.

Source: PC Monitors - ASUS VG278H - a 27 inch 3D monitor from ASUS announced at CeBit

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ViewSonic Debuts 24-inch V3D245 3D Monitor

2011-08-01T13:29:00.005-04:00

ViewSonic has just revealed the new V3D245, a 24-inch 3D, 1080p HD LED monitor that includes a built-in NVIDIA 3D Vision wireless emitter as well as NVIDIA 3D Vision glasses.

This 24-inch monitor comes with a vibrant 120Hz frame refresh rate as well as an ultra-fast 2ms video response time. In addition to that, the V3D245 also comes with an HDMI 1.4 input making it perfect for giving you a fully immersive 2D and 3D experience. If you combine that with the 1920 x 1080 full HD resolution, 20,000,000:1 contrast ratio and 300 units high brightness then you can expect beautiful color accuracy and incredible picture detail in both 2D and 3D.

The integrated NVIDIA 3D Vision wireless emitter gives you the flexibility to connect to an NVIDIA GeForce-equipped PC in order to play over 550 3D games in full 1080p, 60fps resolution. It also allows you to view 3D videos and photos or even stream 3D web content. You can also choose to connect directly to a 3D Blu-ray player or PlayStation 3 with the standard built-in HDMI 1.4 input. In addition to that, the integrated 2 watt SRS Premium Sound audio speakers provide you with the ultimate multimedia entertainment display.

According to Phil Eisler, General Manager of 3D Vision at NVIDIA, "Gamers, movie buffs and photo enthusiasts will love moving up to 3D. And there's no better way to do so than with ViewSonic's V3D245 3D monitor, with its built-in NVIDIA 3D Vision technology, which produces the most immersive and crystal clear 3D images. Set-up is quick and easy. Simply connect the monitor to your NVIDIA GeForce graphics card, put on the included NVIDIA 3D Vision glasses, and start enjoying games, videos and photos in a whole new way."

NVIDIA's 3D Vision drivers support over 550 games in 3D with more games being added all the time. In addition to that, 3DVisionLive.com hosts hundreds of 3D videos and thousands of 3D photos that can be viewed on your web browser with a 3D Vision kit. YouTube also supports 3D Vision, with thousands of videos now available for viewing in stereoscopic 3D.

ViewSonic's LCD Monitor and PC Product Marketing Manager Erik Willey added, "Whether for work, play or media enjoyment, our new V3D245 monitor offers the highest level of compatibility with both PC and console-based 3D content and is ideal for delivering an incredible 3D experience. By pairing our exclusive 120Hz, LED-based 3D technology with NVIDIA 3D Vision technology, we are able to deliver a new world-class level of performance that will shape the future of 3D gaming and entertainment."

The V3D245 monitor comes with ViewSonic's strongest pixel performance guarantee standard and a 3-year limited warranty as well. The V3D245 with included pair of NVIDIA 3D Vision active stereo 3D glasses will be available in North America in the second half of August for $499.

Source: Engadget - ViewSonic reveals 24-inch V3D245 3D monitor, ships this month for $500

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Splashtop Debuts Dual Monitor App for iPad

2011-07-27T17:40:00.005-04:00

I'm not going to lie, having a multiple monitor setup for your computer is pretty sweet. It makes multitasking so much easier and looks cool too (if your monitors are the same, like mine). However, having a multiple monitor setup isn't always cheap. You have to have a graphics card that supports multiple monitor hook ups as well as a motherboard to support that card, and then you have to have the monitors. Sometimes, buying one monitor is expensive but you can almost guarantee spending a lot if you are looking into multiple ones, especially if you want anything with decent quality.

Well, if you don't want to spend the extra money getting an extra monitor and you have a computer running Windows 7, a WiFi connection and an iPad, then you don't have to worry about any of that. Splashtop Incorporated has just announced the release of its Splashtop XDisplay app for the iPad. The app basically transforms your iPad into a second monitor for your desktop or laptop computer.

While it isn't exactly the same as having an actual monitor make your setup even cooler, the 9.7" screen of the iPad should perform well enough for most situations. Having multiple screens has many benefits. It allows you to decrease screen clutter by moving icons and widgets around and use the primary screen solely for work or entertainment purposes without any distractions. Having more than one monitor also allows you to view extra large images or spreadsheets without having to zoom or scroll like a madman.

In addition to that, the second monitor can also be used as a presentation device if you want to use it as a mirror instead. If you decide to use your iPad as your second monitor, you can also watch movies easily without having to deal with the time-consuming file conversion process.

This app works by connecting to a PC that is running a free Windows Streamer. And that's it, it's that easy. You can even pinch to zoom on your iPad and use other gestures as well that allow you to interact with the content on screen. Splashtop XDisplay is currently available now as a free app download though it does limit you to a 10-minute session each time you use it. If you want unlimited access, you will have to purchase an added in-app purchase for $9.99. However, Splashtop is currently having a promotion right now and is selling the unlimited access app for $4.99, but only for a limited time.

Source: ubergizmo - Splashtop XDIsplay turns your iPad into an extra screen for your PC

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Monitors and Flat-Panels Decreasing in Size, Weight and eWaste

2011-07-21T20:16:00.006-04:00

The CEA, otherwise known as the Consumer Electronics Association, has just issued a report that gave details on the significance of the size and weight of our current-generation flat-panel TVs compared to previous incarnations. The report also indicated that e-waste recycling volumes have diminished as last-generation flat-panel tvs are being replaced in homes.

The report, which is titled "Materials Footprint Reduction of Televisions and Computer Monitors: 2004-2010", noted that flat=panel televisions of this day and age are 82% lighter and 75% smaller on average than previous models of similar screen sizes.In addition to that, the report also noted that 40" to 70" flat-panel televisions weigh 34% less than 13" to 36" CRT tvs.

According to VP of Environmental Affairs and Industry Sustainability with CEA Walter Alcorn, "The staggering reductions in materials in TVs and computer monitors have real and lasting environmental benefits, from the supply chain through recycling and disposal. Dramatically lighter and smaller TVs and monitors reduce the amount of resources needed to manufacture the product and slash the amount of required packaging and fuel used to transport these products. Furthermore, the sun-setting of CRT TVs is vastly reducing the amount of electronics to be recycled."

The CEA has coordinated the eCycling Leadership Initiative, which has a goal to recycle 1 billion pounds of electronics annually by the year 2016. The initiative has also targeted set measurement and transparency as one of its key principles as well as bolstering consumer education of eCycling. The initiative also plans on increasing the number of recycling locations and infrastructure needed to reach the 1 billion pound annual goal. This report is the first of many planned technical reports on issues relating to end-of-life electronics.

Source: Twice - CEA Study Sees Flat-panels Decreasing eWaste

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Acer Unveils Two New 3D LCD Monitors

2011-07-04T15:22:00.010-04:00

3D HDTVs are becoming increasingly popular, as are 3D computer monitors. However, even though 3D is making waves in PC gaming, it has yet to take off like televisions have. Well, Acer is attempting to make the transition from 2D to 3D PC gaming even easier by introducing two new LCDs that offer full 3D capabilities.

Acer's newest device is the HN274H which acts as both a 3D LCD monitor as well as a fully-functioning 3D HDTV. This handy device supports Nvidia 3D Vision for 3D PC gaming and also supports HDMI 3D. What this means is that you have the ability to hook up a 3D-compatible Blu-ray player or a TV set-top box in order to watch movies or television in complete 3D as well. The HN274H is a 27-inch LED-backlit display that comes with three HDMI ports overall as well as a pair of Nvidia active-shutter 3D glasses.

The other new device that Acer is offering to help you make the jump into 3D entertainment is the step-down version, 23.6-inch HS244HQ. This smaller device lacks Nvidia 3D vision support and LED backlighting. However, it still comes with HDMI 3D compatibility and also includes a pair of Acer 3D glasses. In addition to that, the HS244HQ, like the HN274H, offers 1,920 x 1,080 full HD resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate and a 2ms response time.

Both the HN274H and the HS244HQ are available now with the HN274H going fora retail price of a $689 and the HS2344HQ going for a $449. If you are looking for a moderately sized 3D HDTV and a large 3D gaming monitor, the HN274H will make a perfect all-in-one device with the HS2344HQ being perfect for a more mild enthusiast.

Source: ZDNet - Acer introduces two new 3D desktop LCD monitors, including 27-inch LED-backlit display with HDMI 3D support

Eizo Announces the Insane 36.4" DuraVision FHD3601 Monitor

2011-06-30T13:34:00.005-04:00

Eizo is all primed and ready to launch a seriously eye-opening PC monitor that will have more than a few tech nerds lusting over it more than the forbidden fruit of Eden. Known as the Eizo DuraVision FDH3601, this monitor's main feature is the staggering 4096 x 2160 resolution. This is a marginally higher resolution then the current QFHD, or Quad Full High Definition (4x HD), resolution that is already set at an incredible 3840 x 2160 resolution.

What is good is that this monitor should compliment the enormous 36.4" screen size nicely and provide a very impressive 0.1995mm pixel pitch. The monitor features WLED backlight and is also capable of displaying a 700 cd/m2 brightness. If that is too bright for you, the FDH3601 can be reduced to 30 cd/m2 which gives it a perfect range of 670 cd/m2.

It is believed that the panel will use a form of IPS technology accompanied by wide viewing angles, 25ms ISO response time and a 1,000:1 static contrast ratio as well as true 10-bit per subpixel color support. Eizo has also added a plethora of inputs as well. This monitor comes with two DVI-D ports, two DisplayPorts and two USB 2.0 ports. Current bandwidth requirements do not allow for HDMI support so maybe that will be available on an updated model.

This monitor seems to be aimed at people needing a monitor big enough to display a lot of information on screen at one time. The graphics resolution would be perfect for gaming, that is if you aren't scared away by the horsepower you would need in a card to be able to play games to their full potential on this device. There is also the 350W power consumption to take into consideration.

If you want this device, then you are going to have to hop a plane over to Japan and make sure you have a lot of disposable income. The Eizo FDH3601 is set to launch in the land of the rising sun on September 7, 2011 for roughly $36,000. Availability outside of Japan has yet to be announced but that may be a good thing for people who are impulse buyers.

Source: PC Monitors - Eizo DuraVision FDH3601 - a 36.4" monitor with QFHD+ resolution

Incorporating Smell Into the Entertainment Experience

2011-06-24T16:38:00.005-04:00

What if while watching The Bachelorette, you could actually smell the roses that Ashley was handing out, or while watching The Food Network, you could smell the fresh herbs and spices in all of the delicious dishes that Paula Deen was cooking up? Well, we may not be far away from the days when smell will be incorporated into our TV viewing experiences.

Scientists at the University of California San Diego have partnered with Samsung and are hard at work developing technology that would incorporate scent into the entertainment experience. This technology is leaps and bounds ahead of the entertainment industry’s first attempt to incorporate scent with movies. “Smell-O-Vision” was the name that was given to the techniques that were introduced in the 50’s and 60’s. Obviously, they weren’t very successful. The latest technology seems incredibly sophisticated. Scientists have been said to be able to create over 10,000 different aromas from a relatively compact device.

"That's the hypothetical number," said Sungho Jin, a professor of NanoEngineering at UC San Diego and the leader of the research team. "It's a matter of programming. All the odors would be pre-programmed, like sound is synchronized with the image. So there are a lot of possibilities."

Jin does warn that everything that his team has developed to this point is merely a proof of concept, so don’t get too excited yet; however, it seems as though they are making lots of progress with the technology.

So how does it work, some might ask? Well, the device stores a liquid solution in several different tiny compartments. When it is time for a smell to be released, those compartments can be heated via a metal wire. Once heated, the solution becomes gaseous. The pressure that builds then opens a small compressed hole found within the compartment and the gas is released in the room to give off the scent correlating to what is occurring in the movie or TV show.

The breakthrough that was discovered by the team at UC San Diego was the mapping of the odors on an x-y matrix. This helps to greatly minimize the complexity of the system itself. Without this discovery, any device that featured the scent technology would literally require thousands of individual controllers to create the different aromas. The matrix that the team discovered allows the device to be small enough to fit into a cell phone.

"If you want to do 10,000 odors with 10,000 switches, that's a very complicated device. But if you have an x-y matrix system, that device is more practical. It's not a problem doing 100x100 on a 50-inch TV. Each chamber would be millimeter size. On a cell phone, you may not be able to do 10,000 odors. Maybe 100."

Jin continues explaining the possibilities with this technology. “For example, if people are eating pizza, the viewer smells pizza coming from a TV or cell phone, and if a beautiful lady walks by, they smell perfume, instantaneously generated fragrances or odors would match the scene shown on a TV or cell phone, and that's the idea."

Although all of the advances with scented television experiences have been great, there are still some major issues that researchers need to address. The biggest issue right now seems to surround the limitations with how far a smell can travel. Smell travels at a much slower rate than say the light or sound on a TV, so what can be done to speed it up? Jin does not seem to be too concerned. "You can tell if somebody farts, you can smell it in three or four seconds,” he said “And that's like a two to three feet distance. For 10 feet, if you have a miniature fan, it can get to you in a few seconds or so. We keep thinking about the issues."

Jin said that smell-enabled TVs are likely years from being available to the general public, if they ever even show up. However, he believes that it is a field that has most definitely been underutilized and could make a huge impact if it is properly developed.

"Smell is one of the most important senses that we have. [With devices,] we use eyesight and hearing often. Touching is a little more difficult, and tasting would have safety issues. Smell is next."

Samsung Creates Prototype Folding AMOLED Display

2011-06-20T15:20:00.006-04:00

Ever been playing a game on your PC and get so frustrated that you just want to grab your monitor and throw it across the room? Yeah, me too. Well, that really isn't the most financially efficient way to play games. Computer monitors are expensive and breaking one is never a good idea. However, researchers may have hit a breakthrough with a visually seamless AMOLED screen that has the ability to be folded with absolutely no resulting crease.

This prototype, which was created, designed and built by researchers at the Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology in South Korea, was put through rigorous testing against 100,000 folding-unfolding cycles. The results of the testing produced absolutely no visible creasing and only a 6% decrease in screen brightness at the pivot line.

The AMOLED display consists of two panels placed on the bottom and top layer of silicone rubber. A protective glass cover is then placed on top of the optic sandwich for protection from scratches. This also allows it to act as a touchscreen. All of the components are placed inside a case that folds to a 180° angle that positions the two panels on top of each other.

Samsung has been talking about this type of technology for a while now, especially at this year's Consumer Electronics Show. While this isn't the single-piece rollable color screen we may have been thinking of, it is still a giant step forward.

Source: PC World - Samsung's Prototype AMOLED Folding Display Bends, Doesn't Break

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Increase in Computer Monitor Prices Inevitable

2011-06-06T13:28:00.005-04:00

Manufacturers of computers and computer monitors as well as retailers have warned consumers of a pending increase in the price of computer monitors ever since the South African Revenue Service imposed an excise duty of 7%.

Since April, a 7% ad valorem tax, which was initially scrapped back in 2004, has been reintroduced due to that fact that some computer monitors are being used also as a television. The good news is that the price increases are being introduced gradually.

Spokesman for the South African Revenue Service Adrian Lackay stated a week ago that prior to April computer monitors and televisions did not have the same tax structure. Televisions were subject to a 7% ad valorem duty whereas computer monitors did not attract any ad valorem duty whatsoever.

As a result of that, computer monitors were imported duty-free for use in the television industry "to the detriment of the local manufacturing TV industry," according to Lackay. "The alignment of taxes between monitors and TVs will hopefully curb any further abuse to the benefit of the local manufacturing industry."

It was also noted that your average variety monitor that you usually find in an office would not be affected by the tax increase. Any monitor that exceeds 20.8" will attract a 25% import duty as well as a 7% ad valorem tax, according to CEO of Mustek David Kan.

Kan also noted that no company could absorb the increase so importers will pass it on through the channel and then on to consumers. According to Kan, "The margin in the IT hardware industry is too thin not to pass on."

According to IT Product Manager at Samsung Bennie Budler, "The major implication will be that the price of all monitors bigger than 21.5" would be about 34.4% higher. The extra cost will have implications for the customer."

It is expected that the prices of monitors are going to increase by around 15% and Kan stated that there had been no formal explanation from the South African Revenue Service about the new tax. According to Kan, "I do not understand why our country is protecting the TV assembly industry. There is no local content and it creates very limited jobs."

Kan also added that the International Trade Administration Commission's decision to protect the local TV assembly sector must be challenged. "If the tax is removed, every household will be benefiting from paying less. Nowadays, TV is not a luxury item."

In a recent statement from Samsung, the company noted that recent computer monitor shipments were halted in April in order to ensure that every company importing computer monitors was declaring them in the correct way. Lackay stated that larger monitors were now all liable to the same duty. The new tax amendment had been created to ensure that, from a duty perspective, a monitor's principle application was now purely of academic interest.

Source: Business Day - Computer monitor tax 'will push up price'

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HP Unveils New Slim 22-Inch LED Monitor

2011-05-10T13:35:00.005-04:00

HP had quite a bit to announce yesterday, the most interesting being a device that, believe it or not, is not even a computer. However, HP did unveil three new computers as well: the 13.3-inch ProBook 5330m, which measures only an inch thick and starts at $800, the new 12.5-inch EliteBook 2560p, which is the smallest and lightest notebook to come from HP to date, and the Mini 210 which comes with some new color options as well as "Beats" audio.

Also unveiled by HP was their new DataPass service. If you have purchased a notebook from HP that has a compatible 3G chip, then you have the option of having access to "pre-paid 3G mobile broadband services that allows you to purchase wireless broadband data using major mobile carriers in the United States without being tied down by contracts, hotspots and set-up fees," according to HP. This service runs anywhere from $5 to $30 a month for anywhere between 75 and 1000 megabytes of data via Sprint's network.

But that's not what you came here to see. No you came because you heard about this really cool new monitor from HP. Well you heard correctly. The coolest thing to be unveiled by HP is the new 22-inch LED-backlit monitor that comes with a full 1920x1080 HD resolution as well as a DisplayPort connector. This pretty thing is known as the HP Elite L2201x and will run you $250 when it becomes available in June.

Other specs on this thing include a 5,000:1 static contrast ratio and a 16ms response time. The monitor, as you can tell from the pictures, is very sleek. It only weighs 7.3lbs and measures 19.94 x 4.89 x 14.22 (W x D x H) inches. All I can say is June needs to get here fast.

Source: Time Techland - HP Monitor Measures Less than Half an Inch Thick, Costs $250

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2 New 3D Monitors from Acer Unveiled

2011-04-25T13:05:00.005-04:00

I'm not quite sure how popular 3D gaming is amongst the PC crowd. 3D is all the rage in cinema nowadays and tons of people are buying up 3D televisions, but you don't hear a whole lot of talk about 3D computer monitors and gaming.

Now, I'm not much for 3D movies. While I found them entertaining in the beginning, due to the fact that every single director and his mother is making a movie in 3D nowadays, the effect is starting to get old. I am also not too fond of 3D televisions either. I find having to wear 3D glasses whenever I want to watch tv to be tiresome and irritating and the glasses are just another thing for me to break or lose.

3D gaming is a field I never really put much thought into. I was able to give a 3D game a whirl once at a computer store. It was a racing game with lots of things on the road, like barrels, cones, signs, etc..., and when your car drove through them, they would fly at your face. I thought this was a rather neat idea but after playing for about five minutes, I was over the whole thing.

But just because I do not fancy 3D gaming on my PC doesn't mean others agree with me, and it certainly doesn't mean computer companies are going to stop making 3D monitors.

Acer has just announced a new pair of 3D monitors and these actually sound pretty nice. The new screens come to you as the Acer HN274H and the Acer HS244HQ and both of these screens use active 3D shutter glasses. The HN274H is a 27-inch screen with the HS244HQ coming in at 23.6 inches.

The 21-inch HN274H is the first monitor to support HDMI 3D as well as NVIDIA 3D solutions. This allows the monitor to deliver 3D content if you connect it to a 3D component like a PS3 or Blu-ray player, but it can also deliver 3D gaming using the 3D vision system that has already been out on the market for some time now. The HN274H has a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio as well as an integrated IR emitter so it can do 3D without the use of an external emitter.

The 23.6-inch HS244HQ has three HDMI ports, a 12,000,000:1 contrast ratio and a 2ms response time. The HS244HQ also uses an integrated IR emitter and the screen uses Acer 3D glasses as opposed to NVIDIA 3D vision tech like the HN274H.

Both of these monitors sound pretty cool if you ask me. They aren't enough to pull me into 3D gaming but they do sound like good devices for anybody who doubles their monitor as a tv or who is really into 3D movies and gaming. The 27-inch HN274H will be available for $689 with the 23.6-inch HS244HQ available for $449.

Source: Slash Gear - Acer unveils new 3D monitors

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Enhance Your Computer Monitor with the PCEye from Tobii

2011-04-06T12:49:00.005-04:00

I wrote recently about a laptop with the technology to follow your gaze as you watched the screen. This allowed for the laptop to do a number of tasks including scrolling the screen as you read the text on it. Well, the people behind that technology, Tobii Assistive Technology, are bringing their eyeball-tracking technology to any personal computer with the Tobii PCEye. The PCEye, which is a part of Tobii's line of assistive technologies, allows people to control their mouse and computer with a mere glance at their monitor. This opens up new possibilities for those with impaired motor functions or communication disabilities. People that may be suffering from such things as a spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy, ALS or a variety of other conditions now have the ability to type, surf the internet and take advantage of a wide variety of software that they would not be able to access otherwise. The Tobii PCEye is a standalone device which connects to your computer via USB connection and is easily mounted on the bottom of the computer monitor. The PCEye is designed with a magnetic mount and can fit on monitors ranging from 15 to 22 inches. Similar to the technology found on the laptop from Toshiba and Lenovo, the PCEye uses infrared light and special sensors to track a person's eye position and accumulate eye-gaze data. A built-in processor then converts the received data into cursor control which allows users to interact with their computers by gazing, blinking and lingering with their eyes. What is cool is that the technology is designed to track the eyes of any human being. It doesn't matter what color your eyes are or the lighting conditions of the room and it is not affected by people wearing contact lenses or glasses. The Tobii PCEye is compatible with Microsoft operating systems including Windows 7, Windows Vista and Windows XP and is also optimized for use with a lot of different assistive programs. You can order the PCEye via Tobii.com. Source: PCEye Brings Eye-Control Tech to Disabled

Find out what is going on in the Tech Army World. What are the Top 10 Money Making Missions? What other companies have joined and what do they do? How do I join the Tech Army Organization ?

Air Display for Mac App

2011-03-28T19:29:00.005-04:00

Avatron Software, which is a leading developer of popular applications for Apple's iOS platform, just announced the release of their Air Display app, which is available on the Apple App Store. The Air Display app is capable of turning a Mac OS X computer into a secondary wireless monitor to be used in conjunction with another Mac or Windows PC. This is not the first Air Display app from Avatron. The original app debuted in the iOS App Store back in May 2010 making your iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch into an extra wireless monitor which allows you to add up to 70% additional screen space to your computer. According to CEO of Avatron Software David Howell, "We were amazed by the response Air Display for iOS received in the marketplace and the accolades from the press. As our users have grown accustomed to the productivity advantages of using a second monitor, we've been inundated with a Mac port of Air Display. We're thrilled to announce Air Display for Mac, and to let people use their Mac laptop as an extra display while they work at their desktop computer." Air Display for Mac is able to operate in a window as well as in full screen and also adds a new feature that allows you to connect over Ethernet, which allows it to operate much faster than WiFi. The performance of Air Display for Mac is very responsive and employs a dynamic compression algorithm. Air Display for Mac does require Mac OS X 10.6 or higher with an Intel CPU. The Windows PC support software requires XP (32-bit only), Vista (32-bit or 64-bit) or Windows 7 (32-bit or 64-bit). Just like Air Display for iOS, both computers must be connected to the same local network whether via WiFi or Ethernet. "Studies have shown that using a second monitor increases work productivity," explained Howell. "For anyone who already owns two computers, or a computer and an iPhone or iPad, Air Display is an extremely cost-effective way to enjoy the efficiency of a dual-monitor configuration." The Air Display for Mac application is now available in the Apple App Store for a reasonable $19.99. This app is also a part of Avatron's highly acclaimed family of productivity apps. Source: PR Newswire - 'Air Display for Mac' App Turns Computer Into Secondary Monitor

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ASUS to Unveil 7 New LCD Monitors

2011-03-14T13:53:00.005-04:00

There is some big news in the monitor world today! ASUS is planning on releasing seven new LCD monitors at the upcoming Commart Thailand 2011. ASUS has said that they plan to focus more on LCD monitors this year and are kick-starting that with the introduction of their seven new models at the show.

Managing Director of ASUSTek Computer (Thailand) Pornthep Watchara-Amnouy stated that, as a replacement of CRT monitors, "the LCD monitor market in Thailand is enjoying growth due to better display quality and slim design that helps save space which matches the lifestyle of consumers nowadays."

Pornthep went on to say, "ASUS has been importing LCD monitors in Thailand since 2005, although they were not so popular then due to the high prices. Now that there are high competitions that lead to lower prices, we are ready to offer consumers our world-class standard products. Our marketing strategies are based on 360-degree concept with an aim to communicate our brand to all consumer groups."

ASUS is releasing the PA246Q LCD monitor soon which will feature a built-in 7-in-1 card reader and connectors for smartphones and iPod devices. The device will also cover 98% of Adobe RGB and come with a QuickFit function which provides real-size document photos and on-screen grid which makes it ideal for graphic design.

The seven LCD monitors that ASUS plans on releasing are listed as the VH192C, VH197T, VH222T, VE228H, VG236H with 3D vision glasses and the MS246H glossy piano-black bezel monitor that is only 16.5mm thick. All of these will be displayed at the upcoming Commart Thailand 2011.

Source: The Nation - ASUS to debut 7 LCD monitors in Commart Thailand 2011

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Samsung Displays Touchscreen Transparent LCD Display Powered by Ambient Light

2011-03-08T12:20:00.005-05:00

Samsung made waves recently by displaying their newest creation, a transparent LCD display. Well, they have tweaked their existing LCD technology in order to make it more energy efficient. Now the transparent LCD display is energy efficient enough to be powered by ambient light.

CeBIT 2011 was fortunate enough to see a working demo of the technology that had a viewable size of 46 inches and supported full 1080p HD resolution. The device also provided a full ten finger touchscreen surface.

The panel uses a vertical alignment display mode and is an improvement over the see-through LCD panel that Samsung showed off at the SID 2010 in Seattle in May of last year. A spokeswoman for Samsung Electronics has been quoted as saying that a fridge freezer may be a potential application.

The spokeswoman did decline to say, however, whether or not the innovative solar panel will be applied to other, similar products. Be that as it may, the simple fact that Samsung was able to cut down power consumption on such a level that the device can be powered by ambient light is an impressive feat in itself.

It has also been said that Samsung will be working on bigger sized panels. The company's biggest panel on the market currently measures 65 inches.

Other details surrounding the panel, like power consumption and the position of the backlight unit, have yet to be revealed though a lot of people are speculating that the backlight unit will be located on the top of the panel. There were a few things, like a few problems with the touchscreen not working, that suggest that the technology is not quite ready yet.

A few interesting things to look for when this device does hit consumers' homes is how it will stack up against your more traditional displays in terms of color reproduction, refresh rates, price etc... Another interesting idea was to combine these transparent LCD displays in order to create glasses-free 3D TVs.

Samsung showed a demo of its largest OLED display, a 19-incher, earlier this year at CES 2011. It is, however, a little unlikely that this production prototype will come to be anything more than a showcase for the next few years.

Source: ITProPortal - Samsung Showcases Solar Powered Transparent Touchscreen 46-inch LCD

Prices of Computer Monitors in South Africa Set to Rise

2011-02-28T12:14:00.007-05:00

One doesn't typically hear a lot of news about computer monitors in South Africa, but today we have some very interesting news on that very subject. According to the country's National Treasury, the prices of computer monitors in the country are set to increase as a part of the National Treasury's new plan.

South Africa's National Treasury's plan is to re-introduce excise duties on monitors because they are quote "used as televisions" as well. The National Treasury recently unveiled its National Budget Review and it came with some bad news for all the tech lovers in the country.

According to the 2011 document of revenue trends and tax proposals, the government in South Africa will impose higher prices on computer monitors. In 2004, ad valorem excise duties were banned on monitors due to the assumption that they would be used as computer monitors. According to the document, "However, some monitors are also used as televisions, which are subject to ad valorem tax."

The National Treasury has declared that ad valorem excise duties will be reinstated on monitors at a flat rate of 7% and will take effect on April 1st, 2011. Hopefully this isn't a cruel April Fool's Day prank by the South African government.

Esquire MD Mohammed Cassim stated that this tax will definitely have an impact on pricing as the 7% is most likely to be simply added to the retail price of the computer monitors. Cassim also added that they tried to convince the government that the new tax on monitors wasn't the right path to follow but their pleas went unheard. Cassim advised South Africans to load up on their computer monitor needs before the new tax is introduced.

David Kan, CEO of Mustek, said that the statement on the introduction of a 7% ad valorem tax on computer monitors is far too vague. "We need to see on which tariff code this will be applicable. Currently, the PC LCD Monitor is using tariff code 8471.30.10 and LCD TV Monitors without a TV tuner are using the rebate item code 460.16/85.28. On imported devices, we pay import duty and ad valorem tax but we claim them back at the same time," Kan explained.

Kan went on to say that, "If tariff code 8471 attracts a 7% ad valorem tax, then all other computer peripherals will be levied with this tax which includes keyboards, mice, notebooks, complete desktop PCs, etc... This is why we need more details to make comments. SARS may introduce a new tariff code to make it clear." Kan also added that the line between PC LCD monitors and TV LCD monitors is already very vague. "Let's see if SARS will give us more information," he added.

Source: MyBroadband News - Computer monitor prices set to jump in SA

Toshiba's Glasses-Free 3D TVs a Flop in Japan

2011-02-08T09:54:00.005-05:00

3D is spreading faster than an illegal substance at Woodstock these days as every major display company seems to be jumping on board the hype train. But if you ask me, 3D is more of an inconvenience than the next ground-breaking technology. Think about it. Whenever you go to see a movie in 3D or to watch something on a 3D TV, you have to put on a pair of glasses. Now I can watch a movie here or there in 3D but to consistently watch TV wearing 3D glasses would be unbearable.

I thought maybe the new invention of this glasses-free 3D TV stuff would change my mind, turn me around but that doesn't seem too likely, especially after a recent report from Toshiba. According to the technological giant, their glasses-free 3D TVs have been flopping so far.

The company has only sold about half of what they expected to sell in Japan with their glasses-free 3D TVs according to President of Toshiba's Visual Products Company Masaaki Osumi. Only a measly 500 of the 20-inch, $2,490 devices were sold in the first month and the less expensive 12-inch model sold even less than that. Toshiba expected to move 1,000 units of each model during their first month of sales.

Osumi went on to say that the company needs to offer larger sizes of their glasses-free 3D TVs in order to boost their sales. Technical challenges also need to be overcome first before Toshiba can increase sales in the second half of 2011.

I have always been curious as to how a glasses-free 3D TV would work. In order to create the 3D image for Toshiba's models without the need for glasses, Toshiba uses a sheet in the TV screen which angles images toward the user's eyes. Sitting off to the side of the screen, especially if it is a larger one, will diminish the effect, which sucks if you have a lot of people trying to watch one TV at the same time.

I thought this new form of 3D television would help change my mind about the technology but with such harsh sales reports, especially from Japan, I am still, if not more, hesitant about jumping on the bandwagon. For me, I am going to need a lot more convincing and some seriously better tech before I throw down for anything 3D.

Source: Electronista - Toshiba says glasses-free 3D TVs flopping so far

Samsung Central Station

2011-02-01T10:02:00.006-05:00

Samsung debuted a lot of cool stuff during CES 2011 which included a slew of new monitors. One such product was the Samsung Central Station. Now, you can't get a lot of information on this device from just looking at it which is why you need to get a hands on if possible. Once you sit down and actually see what the Central Station is all about then you can really see what Samsung is trying to do here.

According to Samsung, the Central Station is more of an IT hub than anything else. The device is a standalone monitor that comes with a number of different connection inputs located on the base of the device. You connect your peripherals, like your mouse and keyboard, via USB to the base of the monitor. Then you insert the included USB dongle into the USB port on your laptop if you are going wirelessly. The cool thing here is that when your laptop comes within range of your Central Station all of your desktop peripherals connect automatically.

There will be three different versions of the Central Station according to Samsung with either a 23-inch screen or a 27-inch screen and these are:

The Wired Version: 23-inch C23A550U or 27-inch C27A550U
Wireless Consumer: 23-inch C23A750U or 27-inch C27A750U
Wireless Professional: 23-inch C23A650U or 27-inch C27A650U

Basic specifications include:

1920x1080 pixel resolution
2ms Response Time
1000:1 Contrast Ratio
2 USB 2.0
2 USB 3.0
Audio output jack
HDMI
VGA
Ethernet
Upstream
USB 3.0
Proprietary Wireless connection to laptop
WLED Backlit

You can adjust the height of the Central Station to your liking as all consumer models sport a dual-hinge base. The Professional model features your more traditional fully height adjustable stand as opposed to the dual-hinge design. In addition to that, the USB ports can also charge anything that has USB connectivity.

According to Samsung, "Central Station is designed to reduce companies' long-term equipment costs. By eliminating the need to purchase device-specific docking stations, a single Central Station will last through multiple generations of PCs."

Samsung will offer the Central Station with your choice of a metallic or crystal finish and will also feature Samsung's Touch of Color highlight. This looks to be a pretty cool device from Samsung. It is still unclear on how it works in the real world but we will know shortly as the Central Station will be coming out in March.

Source: CNET

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The Super Bowl Won't Be Broadcast in 3D?

2011-01-27T01:59:00.007-05:00

There has recently been some news that was released that might have quite a few football fans disappointed. If you were getting excited about seeing the Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steeler’s Super Bowl showdown on February 6 on a 3D TV, I’m sorry to disappoint you, but that won’t be happening. Super Bowl XLV will not be broadcast in 3D.

Consumer Reports have confirmed that Fox Sports, the executive rights holder of the Super Bowl game this year, will not be offering viewers the opportunity to watch the big game in 3D. So don’t plan on running out and buying a 3D TV for the game, unless you simply want a new TV for the Super Bowl and happen to want 3D as well.

So, why is Fox not broadcasting the biggest game of the year in 3D? Well, honestly, it’s really not a huge surprise. Over the past year, there has definitely been a low adoption rate of 3D HDTVs. That low adoption rate is really one of Fox Sports main reasons for not broadcasting the game in 3D. The network stated, "Unfortunately, given current levels of adoption, there is no business model that makes sense for producing a show as complex as the Super Bowl in 3D at this time. 3D requires an entirely separate production at significant expense without generating incremental revenue to offset the additional costs. We prefer to focus all our energy on doing the best possible HD production possible, which this year features more than 40 cameras," said the network.

In the past year more than a million 3D HDTVs were sold, which wasn’t as many as the TV industry had hoped, but it still shows that 3D is definitely beginning to integrate itself into the home. 3D is an industry that continues to expand. In 2010 there were a lot of very successful 3D movies in theaters including Toy Story 3 and Alice and Wonderland. In 2011 there will be at least 16 3D films in theater, and most, if not all of them, should be released on DVD in 3D as well. TV channels are also slowly beginning to broadcast in 3D. As of February 14, ESPN 3D will begin broadcasting 24/7 in 3D.

Fox Sports obviously didn’t feel that broadcasting Super Bowl XLV in 3D was important or profitable enough, but you can’t help but wonder if things might be different if ESPN had gotten the broadcasting rights. Oh well, I guess we will never know.

So, no you can’t watch the big game in 3D, but if you’re still looking for a 3D TV, here are a few of the top 3D HDTVs available.

Panasonic TC-P54VT25
$2,795 from Amazon.com

Panasonic offers a variety of different features with the TC-P54VT25. It has an incredibly vibrant display and offers very realistic 3D and 2D images. The only thing that I can really be critical about when it comes to this 3D HDTV is that there is no 2D to 3D conversion, but besides that, it is an excellent option.

LG 55LX9500
$3,399 from Amazon.com

LG created a masterpiece when it comes to the 55LX9500. It is incredibly thin and has excellent picture quality. The problem with the 3D TV by LG is that it doesn’t come with a pair of active shutter glasses, which really stinks. Another issue is that it is very expensive, but if you can get around that, it is a wonderful choice.

Sony XBR-60LX900
$4,249 from Amazon.com

Sony’s XBR-60LX900 3D HDTV is a fantastic TV. It offers excellent SD and HD content display, as well as having very nice 3D effects. It also is extremely thin and quite chic. The issue is that like the LG 55LX9500, the XBR-60LX900 is very pricey and may simply be too expensive for buyers.

Samsung UN55C9000
$3,499 from Amazon.com

The UN55C9000 3D TV from Samsung is a great TV. It is incredibly thin and light for a 55-inch TV. The issue with the TV is that the 3D images simply are not as immersive as were expected, but it’s still a fantastic option if you’re looking for a 3D TV.

It’s kind of disappointing that the Packers and the Steelers big game won’t be available in 3D, but even though you won’t need a 3D TV for the game, that doesn’t mean you should put off looking for one if you’ve been thinking about making the jump to 3D. These four 3D HDTVs are the top of the line. They are some great options that you should definitely look into.

Sony's New 65-inch Bravia 3D TV

2011-01-17T12:51:00.009-05:00

The hot word at CES 2011 was undoubtedly 3D. There wasn't a booth you could walk into without hearing or seeing something about 3D. Even companies that had no 3D products whatsoever were using it to draw people in. If there was one company, however, that was severely showing off their 3D technology, it was Sony. Their new Bravia line of displays is what they were mainly touting which includes 27 new models of LCD panels.

The biggest and baddest of the group is definitely the Bravia XBR-65HX292, an LED backlit LCD panel with everything you could want in a t.v. Sony has decided to go with local dimming as opposed to edge lit LED technology which makes for a slightly deeper display. Sony calls it Sony's Intelligent Peak LED which gives you the ability to turn the backlight off in specific areas. This gives your LCD panel plasma-like contrast and black levels. Sony matches this with their MotionFlow XR 960 backlight control which precisely synchronizes the dimming with the liquid crystal movement in order to reduce motion blur.

This display also has an integrated Wi-Fi receiver so you don't have to use a wired connection, although the display does have Ethernet ports. Through this you can have access to Sony's Bravia Internet video and Qriocity. Sony's Bravia Internet Video Platform comes with Sony's Video on Demand and Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity as well as Pandora, Netflix, Hulu Plus, Amazon, Video on Demand, YouTube, Slacker Internet Radio, Crackle and Blip.tv. Video on Demand powered by Qriocity is a premium video streaming service that gives you instant access to hit movies, where Music Unlimited powered by Qriocity is a cloud-based music streaming service that allows users to have access at any time to a catalog of over 6 million music tracks from all the major labels.

Customers can also use Skype if they want to, but they will need to buy a camera and microphone separately. Sony's camera and mic will allow you to enjoy free widescreen Skype-to-Skype video calls anywhere. However, the one thing everybody is talking about is the 3D. A lot of people were talking about the new polarized glasses, but this display will be using Active Shutter glasses. Unfortunately, these are sold separately and will probably be pretty expensive. Most Active Shutter glasses on the market today are at least $100.

One interesting thing in this new display is the X-Reality PRO Engine. According to Sony, "The X-Reality PRO Engine is a two-chip digital video processor that optimizes high definition content, compressed HD signals, standard definition and other sources including low resolution Internet content. Utilizing a vast database of "ideal" signal patterns developed by analyzing and indexing an enormous library of film and video, the X-Reality PRO Engine compares incoming signals pixel-by-pixel with ideal scenes to display vivid and detailed images."

It is still unclear as to what this is or how it will work, but it may be something you or your installer may want to turn off. This display is custom installation friendly and has key features like rear IR-input and a two-way RS232c connection for easier integration with third party control systems. It can also stream media from a USB port. Sony's Media Remote app is also pretty cool. It gives you simple operation and allows you to search for internet content. A media bar is also included which resembles the one for the PS3, and the new UI provides uninterrupted viewing by disseminating the video and placing key menu functions along the bottom and side of the picture frame.

Overall this new display looks really good. Sony is known for making top of the line devices and their displays are usually something to talk about.

Source: Audioholics

Boxee Box Soon to Feature Vudu and Netflix

2011-01-04T21:45:00.003-05:00

On Friday, December 31, Boxee announced that it has had to delay the release of Vudu and Netflix on its Boxee Box until later in January. The company had been saying that they would release the services by the end of the year, but obviously that hasn’t happened.

So, some people may be confused and ask: what is Boxee? According to the Boxee website, “Boxee is the best way to watch movies, TV shows and clips from the Internet on your TV.” Of course, a device is necessary for you to use Boxee’s services to perform all of these actions. They continued saying, “You can buy a device powered by Boxee or build your own Boxee using a new or used computer.”

A Boxee Box is defined on the Boxee website as “the first major device powered by Boxee on the market. It’s an all-in-one box specialized to run Boxee and it comes with a useful QWERTY remote -- all eliminating the need to use a computer to run Boxee on your TV.”

Boxee chief executive Avner Ronen apologized to Boxee users about the delay of Vudu and Netflix services via a blog post starting with, “We’re sorry that VUDU and Netflix will not be available on the Boxee Box until January.” Ronen continued saying, “I know many users will be upset. I am disappointed that we couldn't make it happen in time for the end of the year. However, I'd ask that you put your faith in us.”

"While both services are up and running in our offices on the Boxee Box, we need some more time to test each application to make sure they are ready for launch," he continued.

Fortunately, the company says that Vudu should be available sometime this week, but a “brand new version” of Netflix is not set to be released until the end of January now.

"I'd like to think you chose Boxee because we offer something different, in our approach, in our commitment, in our passion, in the way we communicate (whether its good stuff or bad), and in how quickly we move on the stuff that matters most to our users," Ronen wrote.

The Boxee Box first started shipping in early November. At that time, services like Netflix, Vudu, and Hulu Plus were all missing from the lineup of services. Now, obviously, Vudu will be available in the next few days and Netflix is on the way, but there has been no set date for when Hulu Plus will be made available on the Boxee Box. Boxee has said that they are currently working with Hulu, but so far there is not a firm date. Unfortunately, the December firmware update didn’t really provide any answers for Boxee users either.

The December update did, however, fix a few bugs and add a few new features. Some of the added features included the ability to scroll through files now organized A-to-Z, an option to enable hourly scans of connected content (like USB content), more filters and browsing options to assist with searches, and new adjustments that the user can utilize to improve visibility when they are wearing 3D glasses.

As I mentioned, the update also fixed quite a few bugs that plagued the Boxee Box. It’s a very long list of fixes, but it included fixing issues that popped up concerning hidden wireless networks, fixing the aspect ratio of DVD playback, and fixing de-interlacing problems that occurred when watching 1080i content.

Ronen wrapped up the blog post saying, “Looking back at 2010, it’s hard to believe so much has happened in just 12 months. We are going to be at the CES Show next week and are really excited about 2011. For us it’s going to be about continuing to improve the Boxee software, getting Boxee on additional devices, bringing more content (both in the US and internationally) and making Boxee available on more screens.”

The Boxee Box is currently available for $199 at Amazon.com, Boxee.tv, and various other sites.

I believe that Boxee might have had some issues when it first released the Boxee Box and even now, due to the fact that the device didn’t feature several of the main services that other providers like Apple TV and Logitech’s Revue with Google TV already had. I think they should definitely do much better when these services are added to the Boxee Box. Hopefully, that won’t be too much longer.

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Computer Monitor Causes Airport Scare

2011-01-03T14:28:00.007-05:00

A security scare a couple of weeks ago shut down certain parts of the Newark Liberty Airport. Parts of the airport were shut down and evacuated when a checked bag set off a radiation alert. But the holiday travel fiasco only got worse when bomb squad teams were called in to Terminal A at Newark Liberty to investigate a suspicious piece of luggage.

According to passenger Chris Burdette, "They just said there's a security breach of some nature, and we just got piled into that line back there and all we saw was emergency vehicle after emergency vehicle going by, but nobody was telling us what was going on."

Passengers were forced to evacuate the terminal and some were even forced to stand outside in the cold for more than an hour. "We came in a taxi. They just dropped us in the middle of nowhere and we just had to stand there in the cold for 40 minutes," according to Joan Dugan, another passenger at the terminal.

But what caused the scare? According to reports, police flagged a passenger's checked bag due to the fact that it was emitting radiation. However, it was later discovered that the bag simply contained a computer monitor. The weird thing is that computer monitors usually emit only small amounts of radiation. Within an hour the police gave the all-clear.

According to Stan Shores, another passenger, "This is the second time this has happened to us in two consecutive Christmases. It happened to us in Minneapolis so it can happen anywhere." While the delay was frustrating to many and scared many passengers, a lot of people came to the consensus "better safe than sorry".

According to Federal Authorities, the investigation into what exactly happened is still ongoing. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) stated, in between pat-downs, that the monitor was going to the same destination as its owner and that there was never any danger.

Source: CBS New York

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3D Blu-ray Players from Pioneer...Finally!

2010-12-27T19:23:00.004-05:00

3D technology is definitely beginning to take over many different markets including projectors, TVs, gaming systems, Blu-ray players, and more. Everyone seems to be fascinated by the technology. Well, finally, Pioneer is releasing their very first line of 3D capable Blu-ray players, and it really is about time.

The line of Blu-ray players was first introduced at the 2010 CEDIA Expo. They seem to be designed for more high-end users. Pioneer’s website claims that the line was produced “for those who want to recreate a state-of-the-art theatrical experience in the comfort of their own homes.” The Pioneer BDP-430, Pioneer Elite BDP-41FD, and Pioneer Elite BDP-43FD all support HDMI 1.4a, 1080p/24 video playback and plenty of Internet streaming services that are available through a wired Ethernet connection or over Wi-Fi with a separately sold, optional adaptor. The company said that the Blu-ray players were “built with a focus on high quality audio and video reproduction.” They will also seamlessly stream content from Netflix, YouTube, Pandora, and other online services. The company continued saying that additionally their “36-Bit Deep Color support with compatible content and displays features smooth gradation steps with more accurate color precision and adds to overall high quality color reproduction.”

The company is very proud of the fact that all three of their models feature Pioneer’s Precision Quartz Lock System. Pioneer claims that this system eliminates any jitteriness or inconsistencies that could possibly occur when converting a 24 frames per second film to 60 frames per second for the home. Pioneer’s website says, “For convenient integration of personal devices with a home theater system” the company added a feature that allows all of the Blu-ray players to be controlled by an iPhone or iPod Touch via their free Control AV app. The app is available free of charge at the App Store on either the iPhone or iPod Touch or online at www.itunes.com/appstore/.

The two Pioneer Elite models also offer RS-232C connections that allow users to incorporate the players with their own custom-installed home theater system. Users will then be able to control the player through a Control4 or some other home theater control system. The BDP-43FD, the most expensive of the models, features what Pioneer is calling “armored chassis build quality.” What they mean by this is that the player is heavier and sturdier than the other players.

The 3D players also support the very latest high-quality audio formats that include DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD. Certain technology that is exclusive to Pioneer is also supposed to enhance the audio experience, which Pioneer says is “a critical component to complete a fully immersive 3D experience.”

Another great feature that has just been added is the continue mode. This mode allows users to easily resume where they left off when they were previously watching or listening to content. Users can resume playback but only if they do not remove the disc. At first I thought this was a convenient application, but when I found out that you couldn’t take out the disc if you wanted it to work, I was very disappointed. My extremely basic Sony DVD player will pick back up where I left off on a movie when I pop it back into the DVD player even after I have removed it from the player and played other content.

Right now all of the players are available to be shipped out. The Pioneer BDP-430 is available for a suggested retail price of $299, the Pioneer Elite BDP-41FD is available for a suggested retail prices of $399, and the Pioneer Elite BDP-43FD is available for a suggested retail price of $499.

That may seem a little pricey to you, but Pioneer EVP Russ Johnston admittedly said at a Cedia event, “While we are certainly not the least expensive, we are always pursuing our goal to be the best.”

I definitely think that Pioneer is offering some great features on this new line of 3D Blu-ray players, but they do seem a little pricey. The fact that my Sony DVD player has a better continue mode is just slightly disappointing, but maybe to some people features like that don’t matter. There are definitely some appealing features with these Blu-ray players, so I guess it just depends on what you’re looking for in a player and whether or not these Pioneer players offer it.

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Google TV Device Update

2010-12-20T13:19:00.004-05:00

On Wednesday, December 15 Google said that they have begun updating their Google TV devices so that their Netflix applications are greatly improved and that they have added voice search via a new Android app.

Google said that the updates would begin this week on Google TV devices including the Logitech Revue, the Sony Internet TV Blu-ray player, and the Google-equipped Bravia HDTV line. The update will not only add several new features, but also it will fix a few bugs.

"It's been two months since the first Google TV device went on sale," a Google TV product manager Larry Yang wrote in a blog post. "Since then, we have been hard at work thinking about how we can make the platform even better for our users. In fact, one of the greatest things about Google TV is that it comes with free, automatic 'over-the-air' software updates that give you the newest features and content as we release them. It's as if Google TV goes up in value over time."

Netflix subscribers should be very excited about the update because before the update, subscribers had to utilize a separate device to be able to add movies to their “Watch Instantly” queue. Now they will be able to go to any movie or show that Netflix offers and watch it instantly or even put it in their queue for later. Netflix will also now recommend films for users to add to their queue of DVDs that they receive via mail.

Google has also added a new movie search feature to their Google TV devices which allows users to have much more useful and relevant movie search results than before. Before the update, if you had searched for “The Lord of the Rings,” you would have been peppered with an array of results. Now with the update, Google has said that the results will be more content focused and will list the different places that users can watch the movies, including Netflix and Amazon’s movie-on-demand service. “You can also read a quick summary, see photos, and find the cast list,” said the official Google blog. “Click on the name of a cast member, and we’ll take you to a new search landing page where you can find other movies featuring that actor.”

Google is also doing a much better job now with some of the functions of their TV services. Users now have a dual-view feature that is fantastic. This gives them the ability to quickly and easily move and resize the integrated windows on their TV while using the Chrome browser. Now you can effortlessly see anything that you wish to view on the screen.

Another great addition that goes along with the newest update is Google’s creation of their own Web application, Google TV Remote. Google says that the application is now available at the Android Market. For those who have a Logitech Revue, this isn’t new important information, but for those who are utilizing the Sony version of Google TV, they will now have the same functionality as the Harmony Remote app. They will be given the ability to control their TV through voice commands, channel surf, or push content from their phone to the screen. “You can now interact with your TV in ways you never have before,” said the Google blog.

Users are still waiting for better playback of media from an external source, but it looks like they will continue to wait because Google didn’t address this issue when they formulated the newest update.

These updates are awesome. They will definitely make the Google TV devices much more convenient and useful. According to the Google blog, the company is “excited to bring you more Google TV updates in the future.”

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Poor Reviews Delay Google TV

2010-12-20T08:24:00.007-05:00

CES 2011, the huge upcoming electronics trade show, was supposed to be the huge unveiling of Google's new software for televisions, which would add a bunch of computer elements to the TV including Web video from sources like YouTube. While Google has an exclusive deal with Sony, other TV makers, like Sharp, Toshiba and LG, were supposed to come out with their own versions as well.

However, Google has requested that these other companies delay their premiers in order for Google to refine their software, software that has received mediocre reception so far. This request from Google was shocking to many of the other developers and it illustrates some of the struggles Google faces as it works on expanding into the field of consumer electronics.

What many people may not realize is that Google has a bit of a history when it comes to putting out new products and revising them at the last minute. On the other hand, companies in the consumer electronics market place big bets in order to attract holiday buyers and back-to-school shoppers.

Computer makers waited for Google's Chrome OS software this year in order to ship new types of Web-based laptops. However, Google once again had to delay, causing manufacturers to miss out on this holiday season.

A big win for Google does, however, come in the form of the company's Android software. But the same story follows here as phone makers and computer manufacturers have been forced, once again, to push back plans on tablet designs that are based on a refined version of the Android software which put Apple's iPad on top for this holiday season.

Now, it seems like similar problems are hitting the Google TV. While pushing to improve the less than stellar software, Google appears to be facing the technical challenges that have kept the idea of Web TV becoming mainstream head on. Industry analysts say that Google's abrupt change of plans shows a weakness in Google's business culture around managing their relationships with partners.

According to James L. McQuivey, analyst for Forrester, Google as a company is not a particularly partner-friendly or partner-focused company. Because of the delay it may might take another year before Google TV has a chance to catch fire."

Executives at the television makers stated that they were not reacting to abrupt changes from Google. On the other hand, according to people familiar with what was going on, these manufacturers were definitely caught with their pants down. Google spokeswoman Gina Weakley declined to discuss "rumors and speculation" about unannounced products.

According to Ms. Weakley, "Our long-term goal is to collaborate with a broad community of consumer electronics manufacturers to help drive the next-generation TV-watching experience, and we look forward to working with other partners to bring more devices to market in the coming years."

The first Google TVs were shipped back in October, according to the deal with Sony, which saw 24" models starting at $600 and up to $1,400 for a 46". Sony, as well as Logitech, sell complimentary appliances which allow people to tap into Google TV software without replacing their TVs.

The only manufacturer that appears to be an entrant to the Google TV market at CES 2011 is Samsung who will present two appliances which are similar to those from Logitech and Sony. Vizio also plans on demonstrating its version of Google TV, however, they will do it with private demonstrations on the show floor.

It is surprising how much the Google TV products are like computers. They run on Intel's Atom chips and can process software typically found on PCs. The biggest thing Internet TV promises is the ability to watch any show or movie at any time streamed over the web. However, this is a far, far away reality for Google TV.

People can now pay to watch all of their favorite shows and movies whenever they want to using Netflix or Amazon on Google TV and can watch regular TV shows as well. Major networks, however, are not providing programming on Google TV. NBC, CBS, ABC and Hulu have all blocked people from accessing full episodes of shows via their websites on Google TV.

There are some other things that people may find useless about Google TV as well, like watching YouTube videos and showing off pictures of your family trip to the Zoo on a bigger screen. Monitoring ESPN.com while simultaneously watching the game and updating your Facebook may also be a bit much for your average user.

The one thing Google is most famous for is their search engine, a feature which the company promises to incorporate into Google TV. In contrast with the traditional cable and DVR menus that you are used to using, Google TV allows you to search for the name of a show and see exactly when it is being broadcasted and where it is available online. In addition, you can view links to websites about the show and the actors in it.

According to consumer technology reviewers and early customers, Google TV is not ready for prime time. 38% of shoppers on Amazon only gave the Logitech Revue box 3 stars or less. 19% gave it the lowest possible rating of a one star. Many complaints consisted of it being slow and that it did not offer any more programming or features than some of the other less expensive set-top boxes.

The software in Google TV is fairly complex and requires a remote control that includes a mouse and keyboard. However there are also smaller problems like when the windows to watch TV and browse the internet simultaneously cover up crucial commands. These limitations aside, the major TV manufacturers were prepared to join the party with Google TV. Specifically, they hoped to cover up any sizable lead by Sony.

According to Vice President of Toshiba's Digital Products Division Jeff Barney, "We will not be announcing a Toshiba TV or Blu-ray player or demonstrating the products at CES. We have an understanding with Google about the future product roadmap and will bring the right product out at the right time."

A blog posted by Google last week announced software updates to its TV platform allowing it to include better tools for watching movies and TV shows via Netflix as well as a remote control app built for smartphones running Android software. However, the main updates are still yet to come.

According to McQuivey, "Google needs to learn some of those abilities [partnership skills] - both in terms of partnerships with broadcasters and working with hardware partners. You can give me the recipe for the absolute best chocolate chip cookies in the world, but until I put the ingredients together and bake them at exactly the right temperature for the right time, they're not cookies, and that is where Google TV is."

Big things could come from Google TV if they can get everything down pat. Once they get everything working like it is supposed to then this could be one of the biggest advancements in consumer electronics to date. We can only hope people have not lost interest when that time comes around.

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Alienware's OptX AW2210 LCD Monitor

2010-12-15T12:30:00.006-05:00

Alienware has always been a strong competitor in the PC gaming market. They have a reputation for providing some of the most powerful gaming laptops and desktops on the market to date, but one branch of the gaming market they never really got into was gaming monitors, until now. The first monitor Alienware brings to the market is a 21.5-inch widescreen 1080p OptX AW2210. This monitor has a lot of features that are sure to please any gamer including solid image quality, accessible and comprehensive built-in menus and an exterior design that sets it apart from your traditional monitor.

The one downside to this device is the price: $300. That is a lot of money to pay for a 21.5-inch monitor, especially if you take into consideration that Dell offers LCD monitors that rival this one in quality and cost a lot less. The Dell SX2210 has an identical panel to the AW2210 as well as controls for a webcam, face recognition software and a retail price of $220.

When you break it down, it appears that the $80 more for Alienware's AW2210 went into the monitor's aesthetics. This monitor is black and bold and looks good all around. It features a slim profile as well as a large plastic base that sort of resembles a Batarang. The LCD also looks a lot heavier than it actually weighs which could either be viewed as a pro or a con. The light weight makes it easier to carry around but it also makes the stability of the monitor questionable.

The monitor is specifically designed to keep ports out of view, which is great if you are looking at it but a royal pain in the derrière when you are trying to connect cables. It does, however, come with a great deal of ports. The back of this monitor is home to four USB 2.0 ports, two HDMI ports, a DVI-D port and line-in and line-out audio jacks which are all aligned vertically. The only problem is that they are hard to access. The good news is that the tilt, swivel and height of the display are fairly easy to adjust.

The aesthetic appeal of this monitor encompasses everything, including the impressive built-in menu controls. Some people are not a fan of touch sensitive controls and find it difficult to find the right spot to touch. However, the controls on this monitor work well and are really cool looking. The main menu button is even smart enough to detect your hand's proximity and light up before you touch it.

Five preset configurations await you in the menus: Standard, Multimedia, Game, Warm and Cool. These allow you to adjust various display settings. There is an extra added spot for user-defined custom presets as well and even manual options if the presets just are not tickling your fancy.

There have yet to be any reported lag features while playing games whether on PC or a console as well as no ghosting or any other common problems associated with monitor-overdrive functions.

One thing that this monitor does have over the Dell mentioned above is a Premium Panel Guarantee. This guarantee is more stringent than your average 3-year warranty and if you find even a single stuck or bright pixel, you can return the monitor for a brand new one. Your default warranty lasts for 3 years but you do have the option of purchasing a 4-year warranty for $40 extra or even a 5-year warranty for $60.

While $300 for a 21.5-inch monitor may seem steep to many people, Alienware's OptX AW2210 display has plenty of features to justify it. Plus, the extra warranty coverage ensures that you can enjoy your investment to the max.

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Sony's New 22-inch LCD TV with Integrated PlayStation 2

2010-12-06T18:36:00.006-05:00

Sony is one of the top producers of technology in the world. This megacompany has produced some of the most amazing laptops, computers and televisions, but what is probably one of the company's biggest achievements is their gaming consoles. The PlayStation 3 is the company's newest console in the gaming world, and while the console is definitely a great piece of machinery, many people still consider the PlayStation 2 to be one of the best consoles ever created.

While video games are a huge craze in today's market, another huge craze is HDTVs. Well, now Sony is bringing you the best of both worlds in one single device. There have been all kinds of different technologies integrated into televisions like iPod docks, DVD players and even Blu-ray players. But now Sony has done something incredible, they have put a PlayStation 2 into a TV. And not just any TV, an HDTV.

The Sony Bravia KDL-22PX300 is a 22-inch LCD TV that has a built-in Sony PlayStation 2. This PS2 allows people to play not only PlayStation 2 games but also regular DVDs. Due to the fact that PS2 games were not originally created in the HD format, they still play in standard definition. However, the TV does present in 720p, and it has four HDMI ports, built-in Freeview tuner and even an Ethernet port for internet use. In addition to all that, the TV has three USB ports, Scart, VGA and Component video connectors.

One of the problems with the PlayStation 3 is that it hasn't really been backwards compatible with old PS2 titles since some of the very first models from Sony. That is why this TV seems like such a good value, especially with the fact that it has all those connections and support for 720p. There aren't really a lot of televisions integrated with gaming consoles. Actually, aside from Fuji's Divers 2000 Series CX-1 integrated with the Sega Dreamcast, there isn't any other device like this.

This is definitely one of the coolest devices that has come out recently and definitely one of the most unique. With many people considering the Sony PlayStation 2 to be one of the best consoles ever, it looks like Sony has made the perfect device. The Sony KDL-22PX300 is available now for around $300 and comes with a single controller.

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1 Million Apps Have Been Downloaded on Samsung HDTVs

2010-12-03T18:35:00.004-05:00

Not that long ago, Samsung began offering apps on their HDTVs. This month the company hit a very important milestone concerning their TV’s apps marketplace. According to Samsung, since its launch in March, 1 million applications have been downloaded from the company’s Samsung Apps.

Samsung says that “the most frequently downloaded applications at the apps store include Hulu Plus, ESPN Next Level, CinemaNow, and Texas Holdem. The company also added that Samsung Apps now has more than 200 applications including MLB. TV, Vudu, Netflix, and many more.

As of right now, Samsung offers access to its Samsung Apps marketplace on more than half of their 2010 line of HDTVs. By the end of the year, the company says that they expect that TV vendors will have sold a total of 6.5 million HDTV units that feature applications. It is being predicted that by 2012 that the market will expand to 20 million unit sales.

"Consumers want and expect choice and control. Not just on the go, not just in front of computer, but in the living room," says Eric Anderson, Samsung vice president of content development.

Now Samsung is not the only company to provide apps for their HDTVs. Most major TV manufacturers have certain HDTVs that offer apps on their sets. Vizio is one of those companies that is currently battling with Samsung for domination of the HDTV market.

The research firm iSuppli has been tracking the overall shipments of LCD TVs and found that during the third quarter Vizio shipped out the most LCD TVs of any company. They consumed 19.9 percent of the total LCD market shares. Samsung came in second behind Vizio with 17.7 percent of market share. When it came down to overall television shipments in the United States, Samsung was greatly assisted by their sales of plasma TVs. The company was the top manufacturer when it came to overall TV shipments with 19.3 percent market share, while Vizio came in second with 17 percent of the overall market share.

For more information check out Samsung's website.

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An Affordable 3D HDTV?

2010-11-02T23:40:00.002-04:00

A lot of the newest technology seems to be moving in the direction of 3D, but the issue for the average consumer is that 3D technology tends to be extremely pricey. 3D HDTVs are incredibly fascinating but can burn a huge hole in your pocket. Well, if you considering moving into the 3D world with your next HDTV purchase, you should definitely look into the WD-60738 from Mitsubishi.

The 60-inch WD-60738 HDTV utilizes rear projection DLP (Digital Light Processing) technology. When it comes to DLP technology, it usually means that the set is bulky. Unfortunately, that is true with the WD-60738, but it does feature amazing 3D capabilities that make up for its bulkiness. This 3D HDTV from Mitsubishi is certainly not flawless, but it’s affordable and still has many features to offer.

As I mentioned above, the WD-60738 is definitely not slim. If you’re looking for a paper thin TV to mount up on your wall, this is not the TV for you. The set measures in at 15.1 inches deep, 36.7 inches high, and 53.9 inches wide. Despite the set's size, it only weighs 60.7 pounds, which really isn’t too bad. The 60-inch plasma screen features an anti-glare matte coating that is very convenient if the TV will be in a room that will have natural light in it at times. The set also features 10-watt speakers that are very loud with good bass, although they sound like nothing compared to the 16-watt speakers that were featured in Mitsubishi’s 2009 Uniden LT-46249.

The TV remote for the WD-60738 is pretty basic. It measures in at 8.25 inches and has 43 buttons. The only button that is illuminated is the power button, but the other buttons are fairly large and easy to recognize. Unfortunately, with this TV set there is no 3D mode to switch into on the remote; therefore, there is a separate remote that you must use when in 3D mode.

The next thing to consider about the Mitsubishi HDTV is its connectivity. The WD-60738 has all of its connection ports in the back of the set, which can be very frustrating if you are swapping input devices often. It features pretty basic connection ports including: three HDMI ports, a USB port, a 3D-emitter port, two sets of component A/V ports, digital and stereo analog audio outputs, an Ethernet port, and a TV antenna/cable coaxial port.

When considering this HDTV, it is important to know that the 3D transmitter is not built into the set. You will have to purchase an extra 3D adapter box that plugs into the 3D emitter port. Mitsubishi offers a 3D Starter Pack for $370 that includes: the 3D adapter, the 3D emitter, two sets of 3D glasses, a small 4.25-inch remote, and a 3D Blu-ray sampler disc.

The last thing to consider is the performance of the 3D HDTV. The WD-60738 offers lots of image controls, both basic and advanced. There are four preset backlighting options (Brilliant, Game, Bright, and Natural) and plenty of picture options that you can adjust (Contrast, Brightness, Color, Tint, and Sharpness). Although the HDTV functions well as a regular TV, it really shines when you turn on 3D mode. The 3D images have amazing depth. Mitsubishi worked extremely hard to cut down on the double imaging effect, and they were most certainly successful.

Mitsubishi’s WD-60738 3D HDTV is available now for $1,399. Really, if you’re looking for a 3D TV right now but don’t want to pay a ridiculous amount of money for one, this is a TV that you should definitely consider. It offers some great features for a fantastic price. This is truly the first “affordable” 3D TV.

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VideoWave HDTV: The Newest Technology from Bose

2010-10-21T17:45:00.003-04:00

Bose is a company that has been providing high-end audio equipment and accessories since 1964. They provide anything from home theater sound systems to headphones for customers that are willing to pay dearly for their excellent quality. Well, Bose has finally expanded into the television and home theater field. On Thursday, October 14th Bose released their latest technology which they have been developing for the past ten years, the new VideoWave Entertainment System.

The entertainment system consists of four different pieces – a 46-inch LCD TV, a separate console connected by a Bose cable, an iPod dock, and an amazing remote control. All of these pieces are new and completely unique to Bose. When combined together, I believe that these pieces create one of the most incredible home theater experiences that I have ever witnessed. So what makes this system worth the $5,349 price tag? Well, here are just a few of the reasons.

The TV
The 46-inch screen offers a 1080p image, which isn’t the greatest I’ve ever seen on a TV before, but it definitely isn’t bad. When I saw the screen in Bose, I thought that the picture was crisp, clean, and vibrant. It was definitely something that I was impressed by. The picture is not the main attraction with this TV though. The sound on the VideoWave is what absolutely blew me away. When you purchase the LCD TV from Bose, you will not need to install one single extra speaker. The set provides incredible surround sound from within the TV itself.

Inside the TV there are 16 speakers, six subwoofers, and some breathtaking new technology that sends flawless sound from the TV into every single corner of the room. Therefore, the sound is coming from the TV set but can be heard everywhere around you. Bose calls this technology PhaseGuide, and it is absolutely amazing.

The Remote
The remote for the LCD TV is different than any other remote that I have ever seen. It is extremely simple, as it only has buttons for power, input, channel, volume, mute, and back. They decided that they only wanted to put the buttons that you would universally need. In the center of the remote there is a directional pad that is surrounded by a touch pad. The touch pad allows you to access all of the other buttons not featured on the actual remote. When you touch the touch pad, the picture on the screen will shrink and become surrounded by a rectangular menu that shows all of the other controls you may want to use.

The remote can take a little getting used to, but once you discover where the other buttons are located on the screen, it becomes quite simple to utilize. The remote really seems ingenius. It makes so much sense to simplify the remote and eliminate the unnecessary buttons from the physical remote.

The Console and Dock
The console is the connection hub for all of your extra devices like your Blu-ray player, DVD player, gaming consoles, etc. You can connect up to five devices to VideoWave at one time. There is also an iPod dock that is included. It’s a pretty standard iPod dock, but it does display your iPod’s menu on the TV screen which is incredibly convenient. You can control everything via the remote, which is also great. Another great feature included on the VideoWave is called Video Mute. This feature allows you to turn off the screen and video, leaving only the audio playing. This makes the VideoWave a great audio player as well as a fantastic TV.

The VideoWave is an absolutely fantastic home theater system. Unfortunately, since the system is $5,349, this set is not for everyone. You definitely have to pay for the excellent quality that Bose is providing. If you’re ready to make the leap with this new technology from Bose, then you most definitely won’t be disappointed. For the price Bose will also install the system in your home. If you’re interested in the VideoWave Entertainment System from Bose, then you will have to find a Bose store in your area to see the home theater system in action. Bose is only selling these new LCD TVs in their stores. For more information talk to your local Bose representatives.

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Two Is Better Than One

2010-10-17T22:11:00.004-04:00

It is becoming a common sight today to see computers being run with more than one monitor. For casual computer users this may seem distracting and unnecessary. In reality having multiple screens can have many perks that most people might not even realize until they hook up the second screen. Dual monitors are great for everything from pictures, to web surfing, and especially gaming.

Digital pictures have almost completely replaced film, and with dual screens amateur digital photographers can organize their hobby more quickly and easily. One screen can be used to browse thumbnails while the other is being used to edit the photo and bring it into focus. While editing multiple photos, it is much easier to have two screens and be able to scroll through the pictures while not blocking the view of the picture currently being edited.

For people who need to keep email or social networking sites open while working, dual monitors are ideal. While internet tabs can keep multiple windows open, they do not let the user know when an email or message is received, and with dual monitors both windows can be kept in plain sight at all times.

Dual monitors are most useful for computer gamers. The two screens can be set to act as one large screen, doubling the picture for the gamer. With this extra screen space it is possible to keep an eye on everything going on in the game world without unnecessary scrolling. If the second monitor isn't being used for a larger view, it can be used to keep open a weapon or tool screen so the player can avoid wasting time clicking to open such screens.

Almost any computer can double up on monitors. Plasma or LCD flat screen monitors take up very little room and can offer major screen real estate. For the price conscious, CRT monitors can still be used for dual monitors. Even laptops can have a second desktop screen attached. The possibilities for a second monitor are endless and something to consider for serious computer users.

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Energy Efficient Monitors

2010-10-02T10:21:00.005-04:00

While probably not the first thing that consumers look for in a monitor or television, energy consumption can be a game changer for more green-minded customers. Energy efficiency also can save on electric bills, and who doesn't like saving money? Here are the newest monitors that are highest up on the energy efficiency list while looking brilliant at the same time.

Dell LED G2210

The Dell G2210 is a backlit LED monitor that comes at a low price with a few special energy saving settings. The G2210 isn't anything spectacular, since it lacks full HD and an HDMI port, but makes up for it in offering a few features that are specifically designed for saving energy. The computer display uses 20.56 watts when fully lit and costs less than $7.00 a year to run. It also features Dell's popular OSD features. The G2210 has three settings, Standard, Energy Smart, and Energy Smart Plus. Standard lets the user set the brightness, Energy Smart caps screen brightness at 66% and uses ambient lighting to adjust brightness to the room, and Energy Smart Plus is the same as Energy Smart with the added feature of dynamic dimming, which lowers the brightness on overly bright images. Below are the specs.

Resolution: 1,680x1,050 pixels
Pixel-response rate: 5ms
Contrast ratio: 1,000:1
Connectivity: VGA, DVI-D
HDCP compliant? Yes
Backlight: LED
Dimensions (W x D x H): 20.15" x 6.18" x 16.03"
Weight: 7.54 lbs

Price-$205.00

Samsung SyncMaster 305T LCD Monitor

As big as it gets for energy efficient monitors, the SyncMaster has 30 inches of vivid screen. Unlike the previous monitor, the Samsung SyncMaster also has impressive viewing angles. The monitor can extend in height three inches, rotate back 30 degrees, and back and forth 60 degrees. For its impressive size and brilliant display this SyncMaster does have a few downfalls in that it only has one calibration feature for brightness and one DVI port. The SyncMaster uses 128.22 watts, which is a little more than the aforementioned monitor but is also the best that someone can expect from a 30-inch monitor. Below are the specs.

Screen Size: 30 inches
Resolution: 2,650x1,600
Pixel-response rate: 6ms
Contrast ratio: 1,000:1
Connectivity: DVI, USB
HDCP compliant? Yes
Backlight: LED
Dimensions (W x D x H): 27.1" x 19.8"x 11"
Weight: 26.46 lbs.

Price-$1260.00

Lenovo ThinkVison 1940p

The Lenovo ThinkVision is the most energy efficient monitor on this list but also the smallest at 19 inches. It is an LCD monitor that has wonderful ergonomic features with the ability to pivot 90 degrees vertically, 50 degrees left and right and can raise 4.5 inches. One downside to the ThinkVision is its low resolution at 1,440 x 900 running at 75Hz, but it makes up for it in energy efficiency. When fully lit, the monitor uses 17.96 watts and costs around $5.64 to run for a year. Even better, when in energy saving mode the ThinkVision uses only 10 watts. Below are the specs.

Resolution: 1,440x900
Pixel-response rate: 5ms
Contrast ratio: 1000:1
Connectivity: VGA
DVI HDCP compliant? Yes
Backlight: LED
Weight: 12.8 pounds

Cost-$222.00

If you need a BenQ Projector Rental, then Rentacomputer.com is the place for you. Call us today at 800-736-8772 to get your BenQ Projector Rental.

Samsung's 3D HDTV: The PN58C8000

2010-09-26T18:10:00.005-04:00

Samsung’s PN58C8000 is one of the top three 3-D ready HDTV models available in their 8000 series. This 58-inch ultra-thin HDTV is a work of art and performs wonderfully as well. The price tag might be a little higher than the other TVs available in the same size category, but the PN58C8000’s performance is worth the extra cash.

The 8000 series features Samsung’s Touch of Color Design, but instead of the red-accented finish found on Samsung’s LN55C650, the PN58C8000’s plastic bezel is a metallic-looking brushed titanium. The PN58C8000 is incredibly thin. It is nearly as slim as the ultra-thin LG Infinia 47LX9500. This sleek set from Samsung features a remote control sensor and 3D transmitter embedded in the bezel with five touch-sensitive buttons for power, channel, volume, input select, and menu. The HDTV also has two 10-watt speakers under the bottom bezel that emit pretty good sound.

The PN58C8000 has plenty of frequently used connection spots including: two USB ports, four HDMI ports, two audio outputs, a PC audio input, component and composite A/V ports, a wired network port, a coaxial TV cable/ antenna jack, and a PC (VGA) port.

The remote to this HDTV set is classy. It features a brushed metal face with chrome trim and has 47 touch-sensitive keys that are well illuminated and very responsive, including an important key that you will most likely use often that allows you to toggle between 2D and 3D.

Samsung features one of the best catalogs of TV Internet applications to date. Their streaming video sites include: Netflix, YouTube, Vudu, Hulu Plus, CinemaNow, Explore 3D, and DailyMotion. Other useful Internet apps available include: Twitter, Facebook, Picasa Web Albums, Pandora Radio, Napster, Accuweather, Google Maps, USA Today, and more.

The 8000 series utilizes Samsung’s Real Black Filter technology that allows the screen to produce very deep blacks and enhanced shadow detail. Basically, it helps to reduce the glare of natural or ambient light. This is a truly fantastic development.

The PN58C8000 does a great job displaying 3D images. It really comes through with producing a realistic 3D effect, and if you’re favorite movies aren’t available in 3D, the PN58C8000 features the ability to convert 2D content into a watered-down 3D version. One of the few downsides with this TV involves the 3D glasses. They simply are not attractive, not comfortable, and not included in the price of the set. They are $149.99 per pair. Samsung does offer a much more attractive pair for $199.99, but who knows if they are any more comfortable than the cheaper pair?

The Samsung PN58C8000 is listed for $3,000. Yes, this is a little bit more than the other 3D TVs available now, but the PN58C8000 really is a wonderful set. The HDTV is sleek, chic, and stylish. It features a touch-sensitive remote and 2D to 3D converting capabilities. This HDTV is a little pricey, but it is definitely worth it. So are you ready to make the leap to 3D?

Call Rentacomputer.com today at 800-736-8772 if you are in the market for a Nationwide Copier Rental.

Panasonic Adds New Features Their 2010 Viera TVs

2010-09-14T16:08:00.003-04:00

Panasonic has added Netflix streaming and a Blu-ray player to their 2010 lineup of HDTVs. This Netflix feature will be free for existing Netflix customers. These new TVs will also come with Viera Cast Internet service, which will allow you to surf the internet right from your TV. Panasonic has even added USB connectivity to their Viera-enabled TVs, so that users have the ability to hook up a keyboard or a wireless LAN adaptor for easy navigation.

Merwan Merbey, vice president of Panasonic North America stated, “The addition of Netflix to our 2010 Viera Cast offerings now gives consumers access to the leading online movie subscription service right from their 2010 Viera Cast-enabled Viera HDTVs and Blu-ray Disc players. The features now available on Viera Cast provide consumers with access to a wide range of the leading entertainment and interactive sites, which allow them to enjoy high-definition movies and connect directly with family and friends right from their HDTV in the comfort of their own living room."

Viera Cast was introduced by Panasonic at the Consumer Electronics Show in 2008. They had hopes of offering YouTube, Picasa Web Albums, and Bloomberg News. In 2009 at the CES they added Amazon Video on Demand to their content. Now in 2010 Panasonic has added access to Twitter, Skype, Fox Sports, Pandora, and Netflix.

There are five different Viera HDTV series from Panasonic that will have the Netflix capabilities, including: VT25, VT20, GT25, G25, and G20. From those series there will be 13 different sets available to choose from. Netflix capabilities will also be available on seven of Panasonic’s Blu-ray models.

If these aren’t the type of TVs that you’re looking for, check out some of Panasonic’s other TVs like the Panasonic TC-PVT25 3D TV.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Panasonic TC-PVT25: Named Best 3D TV of CES

2010-09-08T22:17:00.006-04:00

3D technology is growing in popularity. We’re seeing it show up in gaming devices such as the Nintendo 3DS, in laptops such as HP’s Envy 17, and in televisions such as the Panasonic TC-PVT25. The public seems to continue to be intrigued by 3D technology, so I believe it will continue to be prevalent as technology advances.

Picking the right 3D HDTV can be difficult though. There are many different things that you must consider. Although there are big name brand 3D TVs are everywhere, you may not have to look any further than the Panasonic TC-PVT25. It was named the best 3D TV of CES.

There were several advantages that helped make the TC-PVT25 the top choice. First off, the TC-PVT25 is an extension of Panasonic’s extremely popular TC-PV10 series that was released last year. This 3D model features improved black level and enhanced picture quality. It not only offers a fantastic 3D experience, but also delivers a great 2D picture as well. Panasonic is even nice enough to throw in a pair of 3D glasses, which most other retailers do not do.

There are four different sizes that Panasonic offers: a 50-inch, a 54-inch, a 58-inch, and a 65-inch screen. All models feature Panasonic’s VIERA CAST IPTV functionality and are THX certified. This series of 3D TVs range from $2,599-$4,299.

If you’re looking for a 3D TV, this is a great series to consider. Panasonic’s TC-PVT25 series is excellent. The price tag may seem a little high, but if you really want a 3D TV, you’re just going to have to accept that it’s not going to be the cheapest purchase. If you really want to make the leap to 3D, this is a definite consideration.

Check out other 3D TVs like Samsung's PNC7000 Plasma.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Apples LED Cinema Display

2010-09-02T02:40:00.004-04:00

Apple has just recently introduced a ton of new technology. Along with iPods and other new gadgets, Apple has released a new 27-inch beautiful display for their new and older model computers. Will these new displays live up to the Apple hype or will they fall short? Here are some of the improvements coming with these new displays:

Bigger and brighter

Apple's new displays will be 27 inches of gorgeous wide screen. The displays are presented with back lit LED technology and therefore have no need to warm up. When turned on, the display will be instantly bright and can be adjusted to suit the lighting of any room. They will have a 16:9 aspect ratio and an 2560-by-1440 resolution. The new display also has 60 percent more pixels than their previous 24 inch.

Built in iSight Camera and microphone

The 27-inch displays include both a microphone ad iSight camera, but this isn't huge news since most monitors come with these features now. One good quality is that the iSight camera can be used in conjunction with Photobooth that comes on newer Macs.

Connection made easy

The new displays can hook up to any of the newer lines of Macs, such as MacBook, MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iMac, Mac mini, and Mac Pro. The displays come with the mini display connector, which replaces bulky monitor connections with one small cord, and carries both video and audio. Also with the new displays comes the MagSafe connector that can power whatever device that is hooked to the display without a charge cord. The display also has three USB 2.0 ports.

Energy efficient and environmentally friendly

While it won't make a difference in the looks or performance department for the display, environmentalists can rest easy knowing that this is the greenest display Apple has released yet. They are toxin free, easily recyclable, and have an Energy Star rating of 5.0.

Overall, this new display is large, bright, and a beautiful monitor for any Mac computer, but since it hasn't been released just yet, it is uncertain if the price tag will be hefty. Nonetheless, this is a brilliant display that is easy to use, and that's what everyone expects from Apple.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

A Monster, miniaturized.

2010-08-18T21:49:00.007-04:00

Touch technology has come a long way in just a few short years. To keep up with the trend Nanovision has come up with a companion monitor with touch capabilities that can totally change the way a second monitor is looked at. The iMo Mini-Monster packs a big bang in a small, convenient package.
This little guy has appeared on the scene with ten inches of touch technology and is easily connected to your main machine by USB cables. Its design is simplistic, looking like a regular tablet, with a hinge at the back that allows it to stand up like a picture frame. Resolution is 1024 x 600, with a touchscreen display, 400:1 contrast ratio and 350cd/m2 brightness, and weighs a tiny 1.77 pounds. The monitor is small enough to be hand held, but not so small that it causes squinting when resting on the desk.

Since the Mini-Monster hooks up to a computer through a USB port instead of an actual video port, it uses DisplayLinks drivers to create a virtual monitor connection, as well as pulling power through the USB port. The USB connection has its ups and downs; while it can be used with smaller devices like laptops, and even netbooks, the creation of the virtual monitor connection and related drivers can use small amounts of CPU, slowing down an older machine.

While Nanovision has released other, smaller touch screen USB monitors, the Mini-Monster comes with many new features and additions that make it special. The Monster is both Windows and Mac OS compatible, with the OS X touchscreen driver being at no extra cost, while with previous models these drivers were extra. This little powerhouse of a touchscreen also offers its own Twitter apps, photoshop, and music player controls built in, so no more need to have them cluttering up your main screen. If your machine's USB ports lack the power to run the monitor, Nanovision has included a double-headed cable to supply the appropriate amount of power. Also included is a stylus for more accurate touch screen usage.

With a small size and a quality display, the iMo Mini-Monster is a great way to expand your laptop, desktop, or even netbook screen size, and with touchscreen capabilities ease of use is vastly improved upon over similar non-touch secondary monitors. Retailing at $259.00, it is a little on the expensive side, but does not fail to deliver. This little monster is worth checking out if you're in the market for a little more screen space with a lot of quality.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

V7's New Mounts & Stands for Monitors, TVs, and Projectors

2010-08-04T22:53:00.001-04:00

The company V7 has announced a new line of mounts and stands for flat-panel TVs, monitors, and projectors. All products are said to be ideal for your home, office, or school and can even be used with public signage in places like hotels, restaurants, and convention centers. They're backed by a five-year warranty.

In a press release the Vice President and General Manager of Ingram Micro's Global V7 Private Label Group, Rainer Kozlik, said, "V7 offers reliable and sturdy wall mounts to secure flat-panel TVs or monitors, providing a sleek and clean appearance. As with all our products, V7 mounts enhance the profit potential of Ingram Micro's resellers by offering products with higher margins from a convenient and trusted source."

Here's a look at some of the wall mounts available for various TV and LCD monitors:

Low-Profile Wall Mounts. These fixed and tilt mounts for monitors and flat-panel TVs are great for displays and mount them only two inches from the wall. The non-fixed version tilts up to seven degrees for a reduction in glare. They also feature green product design and packaging. The mount fitting the 23- to 42-inch displays retails for $59.99, while the 37- to 63-inch mount is available for $69.99.

Large Tilt/Fixed Wall Mounts. These mounts tilt up to fifteen degrees for glare reduction and to increase viewing comfort. They will cost you $69.99 and will fit a 37- to 63- inch flat screen display. There is also a non-tilt version for this size which retails for $69.99.

Extra-Large Low Profile Wall Mounts. These mounts fit 42- to 70-inch flat panel displays and also tilt up to seven degrees. They sell for about $79.99.

Flat Panel Wall Mount. Designed for 13- to 24-inch flat panels, this mount allows users to not only tilt their displays, but to pan and swivel as well. This extra bit of flexibility will cost you about $89.99.

Low-Profile Combo Wall Mounts. These fit 23- to 37-inch displays and are made of solid steel, making them very durable. They retail for $59.99.

When it comes to projector installation, V7's line of Universal Ceiling Mounts offers easy-to-adjust designs, making them perfect for classrooms and conference rooms. For $99.99 you can purchase one that fits most micro projectors. It also features an adjustable pipe. Another version, which fits almost any other projector and features adjustable legs, retails for just $79.99.

The new desktop stands from V7 are easy to install and offer maximum functionality. They are great for anyone who uses a computer. Here is a brief look at the different stands you can purchase:

Desktop Monitor Mount Model: For a 13- to 26-inch flat panel display this tilt-and-pan head mount will cost you $89.99.

Single-Arm Desktop Mount Model: This tilt-and-pan single-arm mount fits a 13- to 26-inch display and will cost $119.99.

Double-Arm Desktop Monitor Mount: This double-arm mount fits a 13- to 26-inch flat panel monitor. It tilts, pans, and swivels. It retails for $129.99.

For more information on these products, visit V7-world.com.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Gorilla Glass Could Be the Next Big Thing

2010-08-02T21:05:00.004-04:00

In 1962, an ultra-strong glass was formulated in the labs, but no one could come up with a practical commercial use for it. For half a century, this glass has been sitting in research labs with no purpose, but finally Corning Inc. has found a use for the super strong glass.

Corning Inc. is a 159-year old glass company. They are calling this new glass Gorilla glass, and they expect it to become the new face on touch screen tablets and high-end TVs.

Gorilla glass first showed up in 2008, and it has developed into a $170 million a year business. It has been utilized as a protective layer over the screens of more than 40 million cellphones and mobile devices.

Now as Gorilla glass uses and developments progress, it moves into the TV industry. It is perfect because it is very difficult to dent, scratch, or break. With Gorilla glass, TVs are going to progress into what can be almost considered a work of art. Companies are now heading in the direction of frameless flat-screen TVs that will get rid of the protective rims and bezels that are normally found on them. Corning is currently talking to different Asian manufacturers to negotiate the use of Gorilla glass in TVs by early 2011. They already have productions in their Harrodsburg, KY factory in full force, and they are converting part of a second factory in Japan so that they can fill what they predict to be overflowing orders in 2011. "That'll tell you something about our confidence in this," said Corning President Peter Volanakis.

Even when it is half the thickness of ordinary chemically strengthened soda-lime glass, Gorilla is still two or three times stronger. Because of the incredible strength of Gorilla glass, it can be as thin as a dime. This will help in cutting not only the weight of the TV but also the shipping costs.

Investors are already making predictions about Gorilla glass. Deutsche Bank analyst Carter Shoop says, "There's a wide range of views on how successful this product will be. But I think it's safe to say…it's a tremendous opportunity. We'll have to see how consumers react."

Paul Gagnon, a DisplaySearch market analyst, states that alternatives "obviously scratch easier, they're thicker and heavier, but they're also cheaper." He guesses that a sheet of Gorilla glass would add anywhere from $30 to $60 to the cost of the TV. I think that the general public would be happy to pay extra for this new, chic, frameless TV. Like it or not, TVs are becoming focal points in living rooms and family rooms across America, so why not pay a little extra for a sleek, stylish, glass work of art.

Corning President, Peter Volanakis, says, "This is a fashion trend, not a functional trend, and that's what makes (the growth rate) very hard to predict. But because the market is so large in terms of number of TVs -- and the amount of glass per TV is so large -- that's what can move the needle pretty quickly."

Gorilla glass is an amazing product. It is already used in over 100 different devices including Motorola’s Droid smartphone and LG’s X300 Notebook. It will be quite interesting to watch the developments in the television industry as they move forward with their Gorilla glass visions. A lighter, frameless TV sounds like a dream come true. We’ll have to see how Corning Inc. and whoever they choose to work with comes through as the next few years progress.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Samsung's First 3D Compatible LED TV

2010-07-27T11:15:00.006-04:00

The world is now being introduced to Samsung's first ever 3D compatible television series, the PNC7000 Plasmas. This series has just recently been released and is one of several 3D capable TVs that were announced this year at CES 2010. As the least expensive plasma TV released in 2010 to feature 3D compatibility, the PNC7000 is perfect for people who want a plasma TV and are looking for a good deal.

Samsung is offering the PNC7000 in three different sizes: 50 inches, 58 inches, and 63 inches. All three TVs are identical in every way apart from the size. The PNC7000 has one of the best appearances of any television released so far in 2010. It is both sleek and modern. It features a dark gray bezel with a matte finish and has Samsung's signature transparent stalk and frame edge to increase the appeal. It sits on a fantastic stainless-steel base that swivels very nicely. The PNC7000 is also the thinnest among its competitors at an amazing 1.4 inches thick.

The PNC7000 remote is a nice size and shape, easy to use, and features standard, raised buttons. There are a total of 49 button, and 44 of them are backlit, which is a convenient feature. Fortunately, Samsung has done away with the fingerprint-prone finish from last year's remote style and replaced it with a finish that will be much easier to keep clean.

Now due to the fact that the PNC7000 is so incredible thin, the jack pack placement on it may seem a little odd at first, but after spending a little time with it, it shouldn’t be a problem. On the back of the TV, there is a horizontal and a vertical row of jacks that are arranged so the cables run parallel to the panel, instead of plugging in perpendicular. The PNC7000 has a variety of different jacks including: 4 HDMI inputs, 1 composite video input, 1 VGA-style PC input, 1 AV output, 2 USB ports, 1 component video input, 1 RF input, a Digital audio output, and a Ethernet (LAN) port.

The PNC7000 offers the best set of media streaming in TV today. It comes equipped with Netflix, Amazon Video on Demand, Vudu video, CinemaNow, Blockbuster, YouTube, Pandora, Hulu Plus, and more. Dailymotion, CinemaNow and Blockbuster are not found on other TVs and Hulu Plus is exclusive only to Samsung.

Like the media streaming on the PNC7000, the apps are also top notch. Samsung has worked hard to create a fabulous app platform. It’s no Apple Store but they really have done a great job. In addition to Apps within the main interface, there's a separate Yahoo widgets interface with 19 total add-ons available. There’s weather, news, sports, and widgets like Drivecast, Flickr, and Facebook.

So now let’s talk about the feature that is drawing so much attention towards this TV, the 3D capability. The PNC7000 is compatible with multiple 3D standards, including FullHD, BluRay, and Half Standard. The 3D on this television is brilliant. It is much better than the 3D on an LCD TV. The PNC7000's 3D capabilities truly make it standout from the competition. The downside is that it doesn’t come with the 3D glasses necessary for the 3D to be effective. The glasses themselves are $150 a pair, but considering the PNC7000 is one of the less pricey 3D televisions out there, it leaves more money in the budget to purchase the glasses. This TV also features a bonus that most of its competitors lack, a 2D to 3D converter. This feature can definitely come in handy.

Overall, the PNC7000 provides excellent picture quality in 2D as well. It has deep black levels and relatively accurate color. It lacks the 1080p/24 processing, inky blacks, and spot-on color of some high-end TVs, but it’s not really a big issue. The PNC7000 really delivers in the areas where it counts.

3D is a very interesting and fun quality that people are beginning to consider when they think of purchasing a new television. What people don’t realize are all the extra things you have to purchase in order to make the 3D work to the best of its ability. So before you go rushing out to buy your first 3D TV, you should consider everything that you will need to make it work the way that you imagine it. First off, you will need a 3D television receiver. If you don’t have Direct TV, you will most likely be switching over to it since it’s the only provider offering 3D service at this time. Your next purchase will be a 3D BluRay player so your movies can be watched in 3D as well. Then of course there’s the 3D glasses at about a $150 a pair and the must have $100 Wi-Fi hook-up. With all the extra equipment you need you’re going to have to factor in a few extra hundred dollars plus the price of the TV.

So, if you feel that, even after hearing about all the additional purchases you will have to make, that a 3D TV is right for you, the PNC7000 is an excellent choice. Not only does it have a great 2D performance, but the Samsung PNC7000 series plasma also delivers 3D for less than the competition with its price ranging from $1,419.00 to $2,699.98, depending on the size you select.

Not sure exactly what you should be looking for in a TV? Check out our guide to buying your next TV.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

LG's New 3D Monitor Has G-Mode Gaming Option

2010-07-22T23:24:00.006-04:00

LG announced a whole new line of 3D products today, which include computers, monitors, and projectors. Though there is no word on when the products will be released in the United States, lots of people are excited about getting their hands on these products, particularly the 3D desktop monitor.

The W63D monitor is said to have a 120Hz refresh rate so that there is not a lot of flicker when it is used with 3D glasses. It also has a 70,000: 1 contrast ratio. One of the neatest features is the "G-Mode" gaming option, which allows the monitor to control brightness to reduce eyestrain.

In addition to the monitor, LG will offer two desktop computers, two laptops, and a 3D projector with glasses. The new technology will hit stores in Korea this week.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Samsung TV Apps Are Pretty Cool

2010-07-14T23:19:00.003-04:00

If you haven't purchased a television in a few years, you're probably shocked to learn what all you can get these days. From HD to 3D, TVs aren't what they used to be and now, some of them even allow you to connect directly to the internet. Samsung has been taking advantage of this type of technology for a few years now, and even has its own apps.

Their store, Samsung Apps, is available on all of the company's 3D TVs and other higher-end models, and just like with your smartphone, you can download more apps if you want. Right now, all apps are free, but later this year, the company plans to start adding paid apps to the mix, as they begin to allow developers to start creating them.

Right now, you can find a variety of apps in the Samsung Apps store - casual games, social networking, and video services such as YouTube to name a few. But with the company's goal to be like the Apple App Store or Google's Android Market, you can expect a lot more in the future.
At TomsGuide.com, they reviewed every single Samsung app. Overall, the apps got good reviews or were said to have a lot of potential:

- The YouTube app is said to have its negatives and positives. On the plus side, you can do almost anything you can do on the actual website and even a little bit more. On the down side, "official" videos such as those from musicians and television shows do not show up in search results.

- The review for the Facebook app was very positive. According to the website, it's even better than many of the Facebook apps you find on smartphones. It is said to be simple, easy to navigate, and allows you to do everything you'd do on the web.

- If it's music you're looking for, the Pandora app allows you stream free music through your television. You will have to activate your account via your computer, but once you're set up, you can create your own stations, rate songs, and crank up some tunes.

For reviews on other Samsung apps, including AP News Ticker, Google maps, Skype, and many more, visit TomsGuide.com.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Recycle Your Computer Monitors!

2010-07-07T22:23:00.007-04:00

Going "green" and recycling is all the rage these days as people go to great lengths to save plastic, paper, glass, and other items, but did you know you are supposed to recycle your computer monitor? When most people's computer monitors quit working, they throw them out with their every-day trash and they end up in a landfill. Unfortunately, many people don't know that there is a better way to dispose of your monitor.

Inside your monitor is material that is consider hazardous waste and when it's buried in the ground, there is the potential for it to damage the soil, plants, and water around it, which can eventually be a threat to humans.

So how do you recycle your monitor? There are many ways. For example, I know my local landfill has a specific drop-off area just for computer monitors. However, if you aren't sure, you can start by contacting your local Environmental Protection Agency office or any other local agency that deals with environmental issues. Some cities hold specific city-wide clean-up weeks or days throughout the year and during that time, you can take advantage of various services that allow you to dispose of things you wouldn't normally be able to throw away or have picked up at your curb.

You can also check online or in your local phone book for companies that specialize in disposing of computer monitors or other hazardous waste. Find out if they'll take your monitor off your hands and if not, maybe they can suggest someone who will. It might cost you a fee or you may to ship the monitor to them, but you will be protecting yourself, your friends, your family, and everyone else on earth by reducing harmful environments.

Should your organization have a large quantity of monitors and need additional manpower, remember to consult a qualified computer logistics services provider.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Amazing New HDTV from LG

2010-07-03T12:20:00.003-04:00

LG is now introducing their latest creation, the LG 47LE5500. With its razor-thin profile and lightly tinted bezel, it makes for a show-stopping centerpiece in your family room or home theater. The LG 47LE5500 also brings you sharp images, great color quality, and plenty of Web apps like Netflix and VUDU. This 47-inch HDTV uses LED backlighting with local dimming making it incredibly energy efficient.

The 47-inch panel on the 47LE5500 is inset into a 1.2-inch thick black cabinet. It's thinner then most of the TV’s recently released. Both the top and side bezels are 1.5 inches wide, and the bottom bezel is 2.5 inches wide. All four sides of the 47LE5500 have a beautiful black glossy finish and feature reddish accents. The screen itself is outstanding with its matte, non-reflective, anti-glare coating. The screen is set comfortably on a sturdy rectangular base that offers easy swivel maneuverability.

The 47LE5500 has 10-watt down-firing speakers mounted on the bottom of the cabinet. The speakers have excellent sound, and the volume can be turned up to full capacity without the slightest distortion. The downside to the sound system on this unit is that due to the slim cabinet design you don't get a whole lot of bass response.

The LG 47LE5500 sports seven touch sensitive buttons and a power switch positioned along the right side of the lower bezel. The buttons remain dark and unnoticed until you touch one of the buttons, at which point they all glow white and become easily visible.
As with many other LG products, the mean system is very straightforward and easy to use, and it offers a variety of basic and advanced settings. The 47LE5500 has five present video modes Vivid, Standard, Cinema, Sport, and Game. It also has two expert modes for advanced calibration purposes that allow you to change settings such as black level, gamma, skin color, color gamut, and individual color saturation levels.

Like most other LG TV’s, the 47LE5500’s remote control is well designed and easy to use. It features 49 buttons that are backlit and incredibly responsive. The only button that is somewhat fussy at times is the rocker switch. Dedicated NetCast, Widget, and Energy Saving buttons make it easy to toggle between Web services or switch into one of four power usage modes.

The 47LE5500 is equipped with a nice selection of connections. Conveniently located on the left side of the cabinet are two USB ports, a set of audio inputs, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack. Then on the back of the unit there are three additional HDMI jacks, a port for connecting to an optional wireless media hub, a PC (VGA) input, digital audio-in and out connectors, two sets of component A/V ports, a set of composite A/V ports, and a coaxial TV connector.

Also on the 47LE5500, you have access to a nice variety of Web Apps such as Yahoo widgets. Widgets include weather, sports, news, and finance channels along with games. Social networking apps like Twitter and Flickr are also available. It also has NetCast which offers Netflix, VUDU, and YouTube video streaming as well as Picasa Web Albums.

Overall, LG's 47LE5500 delivers good color and HD quality. Its 1.5-inch thick cabinet is quite pleasing, and its power-saving capability is a definite plus for energy-conscious consumers. Although its current listing price is a bit high at $2,100, the good new is that smart online shopping can help you knock of a good few hundred buck off the listing price!

If you're looking to buy a new TV but aren't exactly sure what to look for check out our guide to buying your next TV.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Budget LED HDTVs from Sceptre

2010-06-30T12:27:00.002-04:00

Sceptre is a TV producing company that has been around since 1984. Since their start they have been producing new and advanced display technology. They have recently announced two new low-priced LED HDTVs. These are some of the most affordable Tvs currently available.

Sceptre is now offering a 19-inch and a 24-inch model, both with built-in DVD players. Each of the models are 0.69 inches at their thinnest point and 1.89 inches at their thickest point. Both are also Energy Star 3.0 compliant.

Each of the display screens feature 1920 x 1080 resolution, 2 HDMI ports, a 16:9 widescreen display, and 5ms response time. These TVs can be found at Sears, Target, and NewEgg starting in July for $269 and $399.

If you’re wondering what you should look for in a TV, check out our guide to buying your next TV and choosing between Plasma, LCD, and LED.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Improve Your Next Training Seminar with Monitor Rentals

2010-06-23T11:38:00.005-04:00

Check with a Tech Travel Agent when you’re planning for your next training seminar. With Tech Travel Agent you can be sure you’re getting everything you need where you need it. Delivery and installation is available in over 1000 cities worldwide.

Your Tech Travel Agent offers monitors in all types and sizes so you can get exactly what you need for your seminar. We can provide many smaller LCD monitors for individual training, larger plasma screens 80” and larger for demonstration and display purposes, even mid-sized plasma and LCD screens for booths at trade shows. We offer monitors from all major manufacturers like Panasonic, Sanyo, Samsung, and many others. We will deliver and install anything you need anywhere in the United States and many locations worldwide.

There are many advantages to renting. First, it is much cheaper than buying all the equipment, and it is often cheaper than relocating equipment you already own after wear and tear is factored in. Second, you don’t have to worry about the logistical nightmare that is installing and setting up your equipment. Countless hours are wasted in training seminars due to improper installation and setup or other technological problems. In addition, your Tech Travel Agent is very flexible. If you need to extend your rental for any reason, you can do this without any hassle. If you realize you didn’t order enough equipment for your seminar, your Tech Travel Agent can supply additional equipment as quickly as possible. We work hard to handle the tech aspect of your seminar so you can focus on conducting your seminar as quickly and efficiently as possible.

So, whether you need 4 Bang & Olufsen’s 40-inch BeoVision 8 LCD TVs in Las Vegas for a 4-day convention or 100 27-inch Dell UltraSharp U2711s in Miami for an 8 week seminar, your Tech Travel Agent can help!

Your Tech Travel Agent isn’t limited to monitor rentals. We also rent projectors , desktops and laptops, and anything else you may need. Just visit us online or call 1-800-736-8772 for your tech rental needs.

Sony's Rollable Mini-OLED Display Wraps Around a Pencil

2010-06-10T17:01:00.004-04:00

Sonny has a new Organic Field-Effect Transistors (OTFT)-driven OLED display that they are calling "rollable," as in, it's so small, you can wrap it around a pencil. The project required OTFTS that use semiconductor material that is capable of delivering eight times what a conventional OTFT can.

The company released a statement saying, "This was achieved due to the development of integration technologies of OTFTs and OLEDs on an ultra-thin 20 μm thick flexible substrate and soft organic insulators for all the insulators in the integration circuit. By combining these technologies, we successfully demonstrated the world's first OLED panel which is capable of reproducing moving images while being repeatedly rolled-up - around a cylinder with a radius of 4 mm - and stretched.

The display is 4.1 inches wide and has 432 x 240 RGB pixels. Resolution is 121 pixels per inch and it offers 16, 777, 216 different colors. Peak luminance is greater than 100 cd/m2 and contrast ratio is 1000:1. Minimum bending radius is 4 mm and panel thickness is 80. The driving scheme is 2T-1C voltage programming with OTFTs.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Bang & Olufsen40-inch BeoVision 8 LCD TV

2010-05-20T12:51:00.019-04:00

Spiffy tv creators Bang & Olufsen announced yesterday their newest product to be taunting consumers in the near future, the BeoVision 8, a 40-inch LCD TV set to be released in North America. This newest version of the BeoVision 8 TV is bringing in some pretty cool new features to the already great system and, what could be, a more affordable price for consumers.....well affordable by Bang & Olufsen standards.

The new BeoVision 8 looks to combine a technologically advanced home cinema viewing experience with the straightforward elegance and ease of use characteristic of the BeoVision compact screen concept. According to Zean Nielsen, President of Bang & Olufsen America, "The new 40-inch version of BeoVision 8 is the fifth video product Bang & Olufsen has launched in less than 12 months. It's a great new addition to our video portfolio. This product is an extremely flexible solution for both wall and floor placement and allows us to offer Bang & Olufsen options to a much wider customer group than ever before."

The BeoVision 8 has some cool new tech in it including double frame rate technology (or 240Hz) with motion compensation. This allows the picture refresh rate to double compared to conventional LCD TVs. Also, the inherent blur of LCD technology has also been significantly reduced. Contrast improvement technology has also been added. This optimizes the contrast according to the picture content in each scene. As an added bonus, both BeoLink home integration functionality and extra video connections can be included with a convenient plug-and-play module.

The BeoVision 8 has a down-facing bass speaker which provides a firm foundation for movies and music and the front unit speakers are specifically tuned for the reproduction of human speech. Overall the sound quality seems natural and clearly audible giving you the sensation that voices are coming directly out of the screen. "What we did was move the sound forward and up, designing the TV like a proper stage with an orchestra pit," states designer David Lewis. "This ensures the synergy between performance and design expected of Bang & Olufsen."

The BeoVision 8 offers maximum flexibility as it can easily be moved around, placed on an entertainment center or even hung from a wall mount. The design of the BeoVision 8 is beautiful. It offers a radical synthesis of detailed craftsmanship, technological innovation and easy operation. The 40-inch BeoVision 8 should be available online and in all Bang & Olfusen retail locations by summer 2010 and will include the Bang & Olufsen 3-year international warranty. The 40-inch BeoVision 8 should hold a price tag of around $5,400.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

New Details About Panasonic's Viera VT25 Series 3D Plasmas

2010-05-11T01:21:00.002-04:00

Panasonic's new Viera VT25 Series 3D Plasmas (with full HD) should be here soon and the company recently announced more details, including pricing. The first four models include 50, 54, 58, and 65-inch models which will be available later this month and in June. This is great for people looking for 3D plasmas - most new TVs have been LCDs.

Pricing and availability is as follows:

50-inch TC-P50VT25 will be $2,599.95 and was available on May 3

54-inch TC-P54VT25 will be $2,999.95 and is available on May 3

58-inch TC-P58-VT25 will be $3,399.95 and is available in June

65-inch TC-P65VT25 will be $4,299.95 and is available in June

Each of the 4 TVs relies on a pair of active shutter 3D glasses, which cost about $150 per pair (the TVs come with one pair). They all have 5M:1 native contrast ratios with minimal reflection, which comes from the company's Infinite Black Pro Panel, TXH certification, Viera Cast Wifi with Skype Video Conferencing, and access to online entertainment such as Amazon Video on Demand, Fox Sports, Netflix, and Bloomberg News.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

So You Need a New TV?

2010-04-27T23:38:00.002-04:00

Buying a new TV is a lot harder than it used to be. There are so many types and brands to choose from and they all have their advantages and disadvantages. For the most part, new TVs aren't cheap, so before you go out and spend a small fortune on one for your home, there are a few things to take into consideration.

There are three types of TVs to choose from: LCD, LED, and Plasma. Each one has its small differences from the other, but it can be difficult to decide which one is right for your home and your family.

Plasmas

Plasma TVs are flat-panel TVs that once ruled the TV market. They are heavy, which means wall mounting needs to be more secure and they're also very fragile. You'll most likely want to have it installed professionally. If your wall doesn't have easily located studs, you'll need reinforcements. But of course, you can always place it on a TV stand or other type of furniture.

Plasmas rule the TV market when it comes to contrast ratio (making your whites white and your darks dark) and are great for watching moving images. If you're a movie-watcher, you won't see a lag in the big chase scene. Also, you can see your plasma well from various angles, which is great for living room set-ups where chairs and sofas are positioned around the TV.

On the downside, if glare bothers you, plasmas do reflect light, but you can purchase anti-glare screens for your TV. Image retention and burn-in can also be a problem with your plasma. Also, if you live in an altitude over 6,500 feet, your plasma could experience a buzz.

LCD

LCD TVs are also flat-panel TVs and they aren't quite as heavy as plasmas. Contrast quality isn't as great as the plasma, but it's close. LCDs are great for viewing still images. Many computer monitors use LCD technology for this reason. They're also catching up to plasmas when it comes to color. The highest quality plasma will have the most rich color, but a high quality LCD is a much better option than an average or low-quality plasma.

If you're worried about using energy and being "green," then an LCD might be for you. They use half the power of a plasma. Plasmas use neon gas the requires more energy to light up. On the downside, LCDs are known for having stuck pixels, which appear on your screen as tiny pinpoints of light. Sometimes, a manufacturer will replace your set if this happens early on in the TVs life, bu tnot always.

LED

LED TVs are a newer technology. While the competition between LCD and plasma has lowered prices, LEDs are still relatively expensive. They are lighter an thinner than plasmas and LCDs and the quality is outstanding. Instead of fluorescent bulbs, LEDs use backlighting, which makes your blacks darker and your color more saturated. They also use less power than their plasma and LCD counterparts.

These guys have been on the market for only about two years, and are technically just LCD TVs with the LED lighting inside. They are sure to become more popular in the future as more competition enters the market, driving down prices.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

2009 Sees Growth in Flat-Panel Market

2010-04-18T15:33:00.004-04:00

Let's face it, 2009 won't exactly go down as a positive year for business, growth, or prosperity. Foreclosures were widespread, businesses were forced to close their doors, people lost their life savings, and many industries saw little or no profit. But believe it or not, one industry saw growth and sales: the flat-panel TV industry.

According to DisplaySearch, "a leading provider of reliable information, highly insightful analysis, and industry events specifically focused on the display supply chain and display-related industries," the flat-panel TV market saw a growth in excess of 32%. The growth rate is similarly to that of 2008 and that type of growth is expected to continue in 2010. Due to new technology such as LED backlights, internet connection, and 3-D, will grow 10 million to 228 million units this year.

DisplaySearch believes LCD TVs will see the strongest growth this year with a 24% increase from 2009. Plasmas are expected to increase around 6% this year, shipping more than 15 million units. DisplaySearch also says that CRT TVs will eventually fade from the market all together. In 2009, they saw a 40% decrease and this year, a 36% decrease is expected.

One reason for last year's dramatic increase is thought to be price. The average LCD TV price fell about 24% last year and this year, they are expected to fall another 5% (10% for plasmas).

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

3D TV Plans from Verizon

2010-04-04T23:57:00.002-04:00

On Friday, Verizon announced that they plan to start down the 3D path and release a 3DTV package that would be launched before the 2010 holiday shopping season. Shawn Strickland, vice president of FiOS product management for Verizon, said on Friday, "We're monitoring the early sales of 3D TVs and expect to announce a 3D offering well in advance of the holiday TV-shopping season, when 3D television sales will expand."

Verizon already offers standard definition and HDTV services along their FiOs network that now have over three million subscribers. This new 3DTV package will be offered in the same manner as these other services.

Verizon has also begun the chase to discuss broadcast rights to certain channels. Networks like ESPN have said that they plan to launch their 3D experience this summer with the soccer World Cup. Verizon has been trying to negotiate things with ESPN but Strickland said that they have set “ridiculously” high prices for the rights.

Strickland said, "There are content distribution companies that own content and that are simply running demonstration events early in the evolution of 3D.” He also said, “These early events seem to be aimed at the viewers who just went through the challenge of getting the best HD sets. Some content owners have elected to specifically exclude Verizon and other competitive distributors from carriage of these 3D events in an effort to advantage their distribution businesses. Others have fixed ridiculously high prices for the content. Verizon's position is that integrated operators should not withhold programming options from the marketplace, and that consumers should have the freedom to choose the distributor that best meets their needs."

It will be interesting to see where Verizon goes with all of this. They have not stated exactly what content or networks they plan to go after, but I guess we will know all of that information in due time. Until then, we will just have to watch and wait patiently to see where all of this will go.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

"The Panel" Rechargeable LED Monitor

2010-03-23T10:38:00.005-04:00

It seems that if you don't make something portable these days people just won't want to buy it. That looks to be the reasoning behind MEDL Technology and their plans to launch the world's first portable LED monitor. Typical, tiny secondary displays are old news because "The Panel", as MEDL Technology is calling it, is an actual 13.3-inch LED-backlit monitor that measures less than an inch thick.

According to CEO of MEDL Technology Eric Liao, "The technology wasn't available previously to manufacture an elegant, lightweight and durable portable display but with The Panel, anyone can add a second or third monitor their laptop and easily pack it up and go. Our vision is to make life easier for the laptop-toting public and we're thrilled to have the opportunity to launch our first product at DEMO."

MEDL Technology unveiled The Panel at IDG's DEMO conference in Palm Springs, California yesterday. The Panel is a multi-purpose LED display and is targeted at both consumer and business audiences. The Panel is lightweight coming in at only 2.2lbs and is perfect for work or entertainment. The device is Mac OS and Windows compatible and connects to easily to any computer through a standard USB cable and can be up and running as quickly as 10 seconds.

The Panel sports some nice specs. It has a WXGA resolution as well as a 5 hour battery life via the rechargeable battery. It has a slew of connectivity with DVI, VGA, Component, S-Video, mini-HDML and USB. But one of the best features about The Panel is that it is not restricted to use with a computer. The Panel also works extremely well with portable video players, cameras, DVD players, iPhones, iPods, the PlayStation 3 and the Xbox 360.

According to MEDL Technology, should the company secure funding, they plan on launching The Panel in Q4 2010 with a price tag of $350. Hopefully, for all of us, MEDL gets the funding because this device looks to an awesome new innovation.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Panasonic's Portable Digital Viera TVs

2010-03-18T10:42:00.004-04:00

Nobody likes to be bogged down with cords and wires these days. Every piece of technology we acquire these days has to be wireless, or at least have the ability to go wireless, or we don't want it. Due to the consumers desire for no wire, devices like computers, video game systems and even DVD players are all coming portable. But portable TVs seems to be the best idea of them all.

While portable TVs are not a new thing around the world, the idea never really caught the attention of us folks here in the U.S. But that hasn't stopped companies like Panasonic from rolling out the devices, especially in places like Japan. Over in the technological wonderland, Panasonic has unveiled two new digital Viera TVs, the DMP-HV100 and the DMP-BV200.

The 10.1-inch a-Si TFT TVs are so much more than simple portable TVs. Both sets sport a 1024x600 native resolution and can be connected to wirelessly to a Panasonic DVR to stream content via WiFi dongle. There are a few small differences between the HV100 and the BV200. The 200 model can act as a bulky PMP allowing you to download multiple forms of media files, like DivX and H.264 through an SD card.

Both models are able to watch any type of AVCHD Video from an SD, SDHC or SDX card including MEG-2, MPEG-4AVC/H.264 AVCHD, and ISDBT Mobile. Jpeg and MP3 can also be downloaded via USB or SD card. Once your DMP-BV200 or DMP-HV100 is connected to your wireless network, depending on whether or not you have a Panasonic Viera Home Theater and DVR, you can then receive streaming video or watch videos stored on your Panasonic DVR from the comfort of your couch or bedroom. This wireless option also allows you the ability to accessing YouTube or any other type of video available online.

Both these TVs have a lot of stuff crammed into them and seem like really great products. However, as of now there is no price tag attached at all as well as no official release date or whether or not the TVs will be available in the States. Until more details arise we will just have to wait and listen.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

NVIDIA's 3DTV Play

2010-03-15T14:40:00.008-04:00

NVIDIA has just announced there newest product NVIDIA 3DTV Play, a software solution that allows consumers to connect their GeForce GPU-powered desktop or laptop to any new 3D TV. Now many of you have probably been hearing the trouble going on when NVIDIA was faced with a certified standard for 3D and not having any GPUs that were able to meet it. Currently, the NVIDIA 3D Vision-compatible cards dish out the necessary pixels over DisplayPort or dual DVI plugs while the official specification for 3D TVs is an HDMI 1.4 plug which accepts data from both plugs simultaneously.

The good news is that all of NVIDIA's cards upgrade to HDMI 1.4 no problem and every 3D Vision customer will receive the upgrade for free later this spring. 3DTV Play allows you to connect any compatible NVIDIA GeForce GPU-powered PC or notebook to 3D TVs. NVIDIA 3DTV Play can be run on GeForce GPU-based computers that have an HDMI or DVI connector, comes with full support for all HDMI 1.4-compatible 3D TVs, has advanced NVIDIA software and graphics drivers which automatically converts over 400 games to stereoscopic 3D in real time, allows you to enjoy full HD Blu-ray 3D playback with real-time GPU accelerated decoding and playback on GeForce GPUs, watch streaming 3D movies and directly view 3D photos.

Senior Vice President of Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company Bob Perry said in a statement, "NVIDIA is a premiere choice for gamers, and 3DTV Play delivers an easy way for them to game on the big screen, for the ultimate, immersive experience. We are pleased that NVIDIA shares our commitment to providing awesome technology to savvy customers, and we are happy to offer NVIDIA the opportunity to highlight their 3D solution as part of our nationwide road show." The roadshow mentioned, of course, is Panasonic's coast-to-coast 2010 "Panasonic Touch the Future Tour". NVIDIA will be showcasing their new 3DTV Play as Panasonic shows off their VIERA Full HD 3D TVs which launched this month.

They way this is looking you are probably thinking that the only way to get the 3DTV Play is by having all of NVIDIA's 3D Vision stuff. However, NVIDIA is going to be nice and offer this product in a standalone version for $40. This allows you to use the stereoscopic 3D glasses that come with your 3D TV. NVIDIA has all the high points of the HDMI 1.4 under control with 1080p24, 720p60 (considered the official specs for gaming) and 720p50. The cards themselves will also support 3D Blu-ray so it looks like you got everything you need. If you have ever wanted to throw down some sick 3D PC gaming on your giant living room flat screen then your wish is about to come true.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Panasonic G20 HDTV

2010-03-03T13:19:00.003-05:00

Many people today think that the way of Plasma is coming to an end. However, more and more information is coming out to prove that that statement has been severely exaggerated. A perfect example is Panasonic's latest and greatest G20. The tv has already been put through a serious of tests to which the G20 barely broke a sweat. The G20 has an insane 5,000,000:1 contrast ratio as well as infinite viewing angles, rich colors and deep blacks all without the annoyance of any active cooling fans.

When companies improve from one model to the next, their improvements are generally considered revolutionary. However, the G20's improvements over the G10 are said to be evolutionary. The black levels are around the same and there have been slight improvements to the network functionality. Last summer, Panasonic acquired KURO technology from Pioneer and people are excited to see if the company has benefited from it.

The G20 comes with a very nice spec sheet with many features resembling the already popular G10 series. The G20 has a panel size of 42" with a native resolution of 1920x1080 and a 5,000,000:1 contrast ratio. It has 16.7 million color support with an 8-bit signal processing for each color. It has infinite viewing angles in both the horizontal and vertical formats and the panel type is Plasma G13 (Panasonic). Full dimensions come in at 65.4cm x 102.9cm x 8.2cm without the stand. Input formats for the G20 include 480p/i, 576p/i, 720p, 1080i and 1080p.

The G20 has a slew of inputs that includes one VGA, one Audio In, two indgange SCART, one S-Video, one Composite, 4 HDMI and one HDMI 1.4. Output wise the G20 has one Audio Out, one SCART and one S/PDIF (optical). It also has Analogue, DVB-T, DVB-T (MPEG4), DVB-C and DVB-C (MPEG4) tuners. The G20 does not have an actual DVI input but that can be converted through HDMI.

Overall the G20 from Panasonic looks to be a solid device. Viewing angles are great and performance all around is top notch. The G20 truly shows us why plasma is not dead.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Samsung's First Full HD 3D TV Available In US

2010-02-25T10:43:00.006-05:00

Samsung's first ever full HD 3D TV is shipping in the United States, and a day earlier than expected. Amazon is showing off not one but two 55-inch UN55C7000 TVs that come with 3D 240Hz motion technology that are in stock for $3,299.99 as well as free delivery. The TVs have some nice specs about them, besides having 3D capabilities.

The UN55C7000 has Mega Dynamic Contrast, Component and PC input, BD Wise, 4 HDMI (version 1.3) connections, HDMI-CEC, 2 ConnectShare Movie, full 1080P HD, 240Hz Clear Motion Rate and 2 USB connections. The dimensions for the UN55C7000 measures in at 12 x 50.5 x 32.9 inches and weighs in at around 54 pounds.

The UN55C7000 has the ability to switch between 2D and 3D TV via a switch on the device. But to see the images in actual 3D be prepared to fork out an additional $150 for shutter glasses. In addition to all the other features the UN55C7000 has internet access, an enhanced gaming mode and built-in digital tuner.

As of today, Amazon does have this item in stock and, it appears, so does Sears. Sears is not only shipping the 55-inch UN55C7000 but is also shipping the 46-inch UN46C7000. The UN46C7000 is a like a little bother to the UN55C7000 housing most of the same features in a 46-inch display for only $2,600.

If you are eager to get your hands on Samsung's first full HD 3D TV in the United States then your wish has finally come true. Pick up the UN55C7000 or the Un46C7000 at Amazon.com or Sears.com today.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Panasonic's 2010 Plasmas & LCDs are Awesome!

2010-02-22T22:51:00.003-05:00

Panasonic launched it's new line of Plasma and LCD TVs in January, and last week they gave a "formal demonstration" of their new televisions, according to CNET.com. The TVs, which will be in stores over the next few months, are said to have lots of great new features and a lot better picture quality than previous models. Here is a look at what you can expect from the company, according to CNET.

The Panasonic TC-PVT25 series is 3-D compatible and comes with a pair of 3D glasses. It has a 96Hz refresh option for 1080p/24 compatibility, short-throw phosphors, Pro Setting user menu with advanced controls, and ISFccc mode. The 50 and 54-inch models will be available in May or June and a price has yet to be determined.

The TC-PG25 and TC-PG20 series both have infinite black panel with 5,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. They are THX certified, feature VieraCast, which adds Netflix, Pandora, Twitter, Fox Sports, and other content, and Skype video calling. They have optional Wi-Fi connection, VGA-style PC input, two USB ports, and an image viewer that handle both video and photos. Aside from a few cosmetic reasons and their compatibility with a network camera. The TC-PG25 series includes, 42, 46, 50, and 54-inch models. They will be available in March or April and range from $1199.95 to $1999.95. The TC-PG20 series will only include 50 and 54-inch models, and will also be available in March/April, but prices are currently unknown.

The TC-PS2 series features 2,000,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, an improve anti-reflective filter, and Clean Touch bezel. The 42, 46, 50, and 54-inch models will be available in February and March and range from $899.95 to $1,599.95. The 58 and 65-inch models will be available in June and will cost $1,899.95 and $2,799.95 respectively.

The TC-PU2 series has 1080p resolution and both the 42 and 50-inch models will available in March for $799.95 and $1,099.95 respectively. The TC-PC2 features 720p resolution and an image viewer for photos. The 42, 46, and 50-inch TVs will be available in March or April for $599.95, $699.95, and $799.95.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

LG Skinny Frame Plasma HDTVs

2010-02-17T12:34:00.006-05:00

LG is giving us another reason to keep believing in Plasma tvs with their new pair of Plasma HDTVs dubbed "Skinny Frame". The name skinny Frame comes from the less than 25mm thinness of the plasma screens. Now 25mm isn't ridiculously thin but I don't think anybody is going to hate on it because of that.

LG is offering up 2 different models for the Skinny Frame, the 50-inch 50PK550 and the 60-inch 60PK550. Both models share the same spec sheet which is seems to be pretty solid. Both models offer 600Hz technology refresh rate, mega contrast ratio, automatic contrast adjustment based on lighting conditions, full HD resolution 3 HDMI ports and one USB port.

The Skinny Frames will both be able to display images in full HD and will also be able to play photos and videos via the USB port. The specs on these models are good but the price may say otherwise as the 50-inch model comes in at around $1,500 with the 60-inch pricing at around $3,325 US. Neither model is available in the United States yet but both are available in Korea.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for an AV Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable Audio Video Rental soltions nationwide!

Sony BDP-S470 3D-Ready Blu-ray Player

2010-02-10T12:58:00.003-05:00

Today Sony launched their new BDP-S470 stand-alone Blu-ray player. But what makes this device special is that it is Sony's first stand-alone Blu-ray player that is also 3D-ready. The device, which is said to ship later this month, will be able to handle BD, DVD, CD and even SA-CD along with a 3D Blu-ray upgrade that you can get via Firmware.

The BDP-S470 has a pretty decent spec sheet tacked onto it. The device comes with full HD 1080p single-disc Blu-ray, DVD, CD, SA-CD, Blu-ray 3D ready, a BRAVIA monolithic design, BRAVIA internet video and BD-LIVE, wireless LAN Ready with a USB wireless LAN adapter sold separately, entertainment database browser with Gracenote technology, BD remote with a free iPhone/iPod Touch remote app, photo/music/video playback via USB and DLNA with the Firmware update, DVD upscaling to 1080p with Precision Cinema HD upscaling and Dolby TrueHD and dts-HD Master audio decoding.

The Firmware update isn't set to be released until later this summer but the BDP-S470 has already been launched and should be on your store shelves later this month with a $200 price tag. For all of you out there that were planning on getting the BDP-S570 BD player or the BDV-E770W or BDV-E570 Blu-ray Disc home theater systems but are now upset about the BDP-S470's 3D upgrade don't worry about it because these systems will also be receiving the Gratis 3D upgrade as well. Looks like we won't be escaping the 3D generation anytime soon.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

BenQ's Slimmest LED Monitor Ever!

2010-02-08T12:30:00.005-05:00

One of the world's top monitor brands has announced its new monitor and is calling it the Worlds Slimmest LED Monitor. At just 15 mm, BenQ's BenQ V2220 LED monitor is a 21.5-inch wide LED monitor and will offer 16:9 Full High-def, as well as a dynamic contrast ratio of 10,000,000:1.

The monitor features a zero light leakage and an ultra-extreme DCR, which allows for brighter whites, bolder blacks, and nearly infinite color variations on the 250-nit screen. It also features Senseye Human Vision Technology, Senseye 3 six preset modes, Game, Movie, sRGB, Standard, Photo, and Eco modes, HDMI 1.3 and a headphone jack.

BenQ says the monitor is energy efficient and uses 44% less than what other LED monitors use. It's mercury-free and has received Energy STAR 5.0, RoHS, and EuP certifications.

The new monitor is part of the BenQ V Series, which won the iF Product Design Award in 2010. It should be available in Taiwan by March 2010, with a worldwide release to follow shortly after.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Acer's GD235HZ 23.6-inch 3D Display

2010-02-01T13:04:00.003-05:00

It seems that Acer is now throwing their card into the ring of 3D computer monitors as they have just released their GD235HZ 120Hz LCD which, I might add, is specially designed to work with NVIDIA's 3D Vision active-shutter glasses system. According to Irene Chan, Senior Product Marketing Manager for Peripherals at Acer America, "As 3D content becomes more widely available in popular games and videos, users desire computing products that can take advantage of these new capabilities. We are excited to offer Acer's first monitor to support 3D technology, enabling consumers to fully immerse themselves in leading-edge 3D games and movies at an affordable price. We see a strong market for 3D technology products that offer the quality and value that Acer is known for providing, as we've demonstrated with our Acer notebook with 3D technology and now with this new Acer GD235HZ display."

Spec wise the Acer GD235HZ has a 23.6-inch widescreen display, 0.2715mm pixel pitch, 2ms response time (G to G), 3000cd/m2 brightness, 16.7 million colors, 1 HDMI (w/HDMI) input, 1 DVI input, 1 VGA input, an internal power supply, 1920x1080 maximum resolution, 120Hz (maximum) refresh rate, 80,000:1 max (ACM)/1000:1 (native) contrast ratio, 170 degrees(H)/160 degrees(V) viewing angels, 6Bit + HiFRC and a Vesa 100mm wall mount. Acer's Adaptive Contrast Management (ACM) has advanced technology that allows users to adjust images frame by frame. This allows you to optimize contrast through the enhancement of detail and gradation. Acer's ACM also enables your monitor use less power which saves energy and provides an excellent viewing experience.

The 16:9 aspect ratio and 1920x1080 resolution gives you excellent high-definition picture quality and users can also enjoy Blu-ray movies on the monitor as well. As with all of Acer's devices you get the whole array of Acer's unique software solutions. The eColor Management interface allows you to fully customize the performance of the display like the brightness, saturation and contrast. The Empowering Key on the monitor lets you switch between viewing scenarios or even create their own custom scenarios. Acer also added their eDisplay Management function which is a powerful color enhancement and display rotation tool.

The Acer GD235HZ has the ability to be combined with NVIDIA's 3D Vision technology. If you are unfamiliar with NVIDIA's 3D Vision then let me refresh your memory. 3D Vision is a combination of a pair of high-tech wireless active shutter glasses, a wireless USB transmitter and an advanced software that allows you to experience a vast array of PC games in high quality 3D. When you combine the Acer GD235HZ with NVIDIA's 3D Vision you can see exceptional 3D quality in with things like 3D pictures, videos, games and upcoming 3D Blu-ray movies. The 3D glasses themselves are lightweight and functional and can even be worn over prescription glasses. The glasses are also said to provide up to 40 hours of life on a single charge.

3D technology is a rapidly growing industry and it is becoming more and more popular and branching off into every form of entertainment. Companies are finding new ways everyday to give us more 3D options and it doesn't look like they will be stopping anytime soon.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Bang and Olufsen 46-inch BeoVision 10-46 LCD

2010-01-25T15:06:00.005-05:00

Nearly everybody has a high-def LCD tv in their living room nowadays but that doesn't stop companies from trying to make the biggest and baddest one of them all. Competition in the tv market is fierce right now and each manufacturer is trying to out do everybody else, including Bang and Olfusen.

Bang and Olfusen have just unveiled a 46-inch LCD with some very nice high-end built-in speakers. As far as uniqueness goes, the BeoVision 10-46 is practically identical to the already existing BeoVision 10, which is a 40-inch LCD. Spec wise the BeoVision 10-46 offers an aluminum frame as well as a 200Hz refresh rate and LED backlight.

High-end speakers are built into the bottom of the tv and offer very good sound quality. What is really going to attract consumers is the design of the 10-46. The tv is a wall mounted LCD that measures 5.4cm thin and 46 inches diagonally. As far as other details go there really are none though it is thought that the 10-46 is to be exactly the same as the BeoVision 10 so refer to that for a general idea.

This tv is set to be released in April in "selected markets" which generally means not the US. There is no official word on pricing as of yet but the BeoVision 10 was released with a price that came just under $10,000 so be prepared to drop a pretty penny on this one as well.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

New Rumor: Apple's iMac Touchscreen?

2010-01-22T13:15:00.001-05:00

There's a new Apple rumor out there and it has nothing to do with the new tablet computer (thank goodness). According to the Commercial Times, Apple is jumping on the touchscreen bandwagon and will be producing a 22-inch touchscreen iMac to become part of the iMac family, which already includes 21.5-inch and 27-inch versions. A lot of information about the new device is not available but it would most likely be manufactured by Quanta and produced by Sintek Photronic.

Some tech experts are really questioning the rumor, due to the fact that Mac as just begun putting multi-touch support in the iMac through the Magic Mouse. If past behavior is any indication, making such a major change in such a short amount of time is highly unlikely. Also, with the iMac already having a 21.5 inch display option, why would they make the new touchscreen 22 inches, not much difference from the old one?

Several PCs companies, such as Hewlett-Packard have been making 22-inch touchscreens lately, as the new Windows 7 made touchscreens all the rage last year.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Videophone on your HDTV?

2010-01-12T22:03:00.004-05:00

Skype has partnered with LG and Panasonic to bring videophones to your TV. The technology will be embedded in upcoming TV's with internet capabilities. Now you'll be able to get the whole family on the couch for your video chats with Grandma or stay in your lay-z-boy and have a conversation without holding a phone.

Skype users will also be able to use the technology without a brand new HDTV. LG and Panasonic will sell webcams that support the 720p high-definition technology intended to be used with televisions, unfortunately you can't just use the same webcam you use on your PC. The webcams will be available in the spring and will sell for about $100.

If you wait until the middle of the year to buy your new HDTV, LG and Panasonic will have the webcam and mic built-in, similar to those that already exist in laptop computers. Nearly 40% of LG's 2010 models will have the NetCast technology and Skype software included.

When you're watching TV and a call comes in, you can choose to accept or decline the call. If you accept the call, you can put the caller on full screen and keep yourself in PIP or use the split screen option. With echo cancellation there's full duplex audio, so you are able to talk over the person you're talking to and still hear each other.

You can also use your current Skype account, or if you don't have one, set one up directly on your TV with your remote control. You'll be able to have your TV automatically log into Skype each time you turn it on or you can log in manually if you choose.

With many new televisions coming out this year, I don't know that the Skype technology would be a #1 feature most buyers are looking for, but if it's included with the TV and more people may use it simply because it's there.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Toshiba Reveals Details About Their 3D HDTV

2010-01-07T16:50:00.005-05:00

On Wednesday morning, Toshiba held a press conference to introduce their new HDTV’s and Blu-Ray players, but most of their attention was given to the Toshiba KIRA2. The KIRA2 is the latest development from Toshiba. This LED HDTV has new features like video conferencing, 3D video, media sharing via a home network, and access to sites like Vudu, CinemaNow, Netflix, and Facebook.

The thing that makes the KIRA2 have these amazing abilities is the box that will be sold with it. The CELL Set-Top Box is a computer that utilizes the CELL microprocessor that Toshiba assisted in the development of. The KIRA2 and the CELL Set-Top Box will be sold together in a new line from Toshiba called the CELL TV Series.

Toshiba went all out to make this new product something that people haven’t ever experienced before. The Cell Set-Top Box that makes everything possible for the KIRA2 is powered by the CELL Broadband Engine. Toshiba says that this engine is 10 times faster than most desktop computers. It includes 8 processors, each having 3.2 GHz. This means that it outputs a mind blowing 200 GFLOPS (floating point operations per second). Inside the Box is a 1 TB hard drive, 802.11n Wi-Fi, and Wireless HD to connect the Box to the KIRA2 without any cables.

With all the amazing power within the Cell Set-Top Box, the KIRA2 will be able to offer:

Conversion of 2D video to 3D video: You will be able to watch anything in 3D.

Assist standard-definition video: The KIRA2 will be able to take non-high-definition content and easily convert it to high-definition for improved viewing.

Convert video to 480-Hz: This will make all video smoother by displaying it at 480 scenes per second.

Calibrate HDTV image: The color sensors on the KIRA2 will be able to detect the amount of light and the temperature of the light in the room and automatically adjust the brightness, contrast, gamma, sharpness, and color saturation of the TV to provide the best possible image based on the room its in.

Video Conferencing: A video camera, microphone, and video chat software will be included with the KIRA2 so that you can video chat over the Internet with compatible video conferencing platforms.

Access to Cell TV: You will have access to Internet content such as Netflix, Vudu, Pandora, and CinemaNow.

Accessible through your home network: You will have to ability to copy or retrieve any media that you store on the CELL Set-Top Box from your computer.

Toshiba has not provided a release date or price point yet, but hopefully soon we’ll have even more information about the fascinating KIRA2.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Dell 27-inch UltraSharp U2711

2010-01-07T09:14:00.005-05:00

Just like tv's, computer monitors are progressing to the LCD format to offer consumers the very best in picture quality. Ever since computer manufacturers have been making the transition over to bigger and better looking monitors, a few companies have really made an impression. Dell, one of the leaders in computers, mainly in the desktop and laptop format, has proven that there range of LCDs have been serious contenders in the market and today announced their first-ever WQHD monitor.

The UltraSharp U2711 is a 27-inch LCD monitor that is said to have a native resolution of 2,560x1,440. In the 27-inch LCD monitor market, no product other than Apple's 27-inch iMac had the proper resolution and specs to be worth it. Most had native resolutions more like a 23 or 24-inch monitor and to get a bigger screen worth while you would have done well to step up to the 30-inch market. It seems that because of Apple other companies, like Dell, are stepping up their products to contend in the 27-inch market.

The UltraSharp U2711 has a pretty solid spec sheet. The screen size comes in at 27 inches diagonally with a native resolution of 2,560x1,440 pixels. The monitor looks great with a 16:9 aspect ratio, 1,000:1 contrast ratio, 350 cd/m2 and a 6ms response time (gray to gray). Connectivity wise, the U2711 has basically every connection port you could want. The monitor comes with 2 DVI connectors, 1 D-Sub/VGA connector, 1 HDMI connector, 1 composite connector, 1 Component connector, 1 DisplayPort connector and 4 USB 2.0 ports. In addition to this plethora of ports there is also audio jacks and an 8-format flash card reader.

Performance wise the U2711 succeeds. A lot of budget monitors out there tend to have problems with the high and low ends of the gray scale. The U2711 has no problem distinguishing light shades of gray from white and also was able to distinguish the darkest shades of gray from black. The U2711 uses a cold cathode backlight as opposed to the typically more energy efficient LED backlight. On the good side though, the sever backlight bleed issues that you typically find on low-priced LCDs was not seen.

The stand of the monitor is metal and slightly slimmer than most, especially considering that the monitor is a little hefty on the back side. But these traits do not take away the monitor's easy ability to tilt, swivel and adjust the height. The Dell UltraSharp U2711 is an excellent choice for any desktop computer, especially if you are a content creation specialist who needs good screen real estate or even if you are a hard core PC gamer who demands a high-res monitor for your latest game. The one problem with this monitor is that it will run you around $1,049. For around that same price you can get a 30-inch monitor with a slightly higher resolution and a bit more screen space. But overall this is one heck of a monitor and definitely one you should check out.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

The Basics to Buying a Blu-Ray Player

2010-01-03T23:13:00.003-05:00

If you see a Blu-Ray player being utilized on an HDTV, you can easily see how it makes all the difference. With a traditional DVD, the picture quality is made up of less than 350,000 pixels, but with 1080p HD video there are more than two million pixels in use. If you enjoy high-resolution details, Blu-Ray is the way to go.

Now is the time to grab your Blu-Ray player because they are offering the best possible new features for the lowest price tags we’ve seen yet. Features like Web connectivity, fast disc-handling, and video and audio streaming can be found on players that are under $200. Now there are definitely some things to consider when looking for your new Blu-Ray player:

Basics
Now those who have a 1080p HDTV have full HD and are equipped to show every one of those pixels, therefore they will gain the most noticeable improvements from a Blu-Ray player. 1080p is becoming standard on most TV’s which is a fantastic development allowing for Blu-Ray to shine its brightest. It is very obvious that Blu-Ray is going to be replacing DVDs. The difference is incredible and soon everyone will have Blu-Ray players and DVDs will no longer be released. The good thing about all this is that Blu-Ray players are able to play DVDs as well, so you don’t have to worry about trashing your whole DVD collection.

The two newest features that are becoming more common on newly released Blu-Ray discs are Bonus View and Blu-Ray Live. The Bonus View is essentially a picture-in-picture view, while the Blu-Ray Live offers a multitude of additional downloadable steaming multimedia or interactive content. Blu-Ray Live does require an Internet connection to reach all of this extra content. There are some Blu-Ray models that will state that they are “Blu-Ray Live ready.” What this means is that these players lack the internal storage to support Blu-Ray Live, but if you add more memory to the player, you will be able to utilize this feature.

Most Blu-Ray players are fairly energy efficient. The majority of the newest players consume an average of less than 25 watts during playback. A few of the players provide the option of a QuickStart feature that greatly decreases the wake time from standby. The issue with this feature is that it increases the standby power consumption and therefore causes much more energy to be used.

Connections
Every single Blu-Ray player includes an HDMI port that gives you the ability to stream audio and video with one single cable. HDMI is the best way to hook up your player to your TV because it supports maximum video resolution and all audio formats. Some manufactures will include an HDMI cable, but with most it is something extra that you will have to purchase. The newer Blu-Ray players feature Ethernet ports and integrated Wi-Fi that allows you to connect your player to the Web to access Blu-Ray Live features.

Extras
Players with Wi-Fi capabilities are able to stream different video and audio content from places such as Netflix, YouTube, and Pandora. A few manufacturers also include widgets that will allow you to display customized information like news and weather right up on your TV screen.

Like I said, this is a great time to buy a Blu-Ray player. There are some new great features available on players, and the price tags are finally something you won’t wince at. If your looking to stay current with your media technology, Blu-Ray is where you need to look next.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Connecting Your PC to Your TV Wirelessly

2010-01-02T00:13:00.003-05:00

Have you been searching for a way to connect your PC or laptop to your HDTV? Well search no longer because Warpia has created a USB audio/video adapter that can effortlessly connect your computer and your TV without all the long cables.

With the new adapter, you are given the ability to connect your computer to your TV by simply plugging in the USB PC adapter and then using a display base station that will allow you to connect to your computer via VGA or HDMI. There are two pieces that come in this adapter kit, a wireless PC adapter that connects to your desktop or laptop through a USB 2.0 and a display adapter that receives audio and video signals from your computer and transmits them to the TV.

This fascinating adapter will work at a range of up to 30 feet and supports a maximum resolution of 1400 x 1050. This means that it will work for HD videos in 720p but not 1080p. This new wireless solution from Warpia is a rebranded product that was first developed by one of their partner companies, Wiseair. Along with the audio/video adapter, Warpia also offers just a video adapter. Depending on what you will be utilizing the adapter for, it could be smarter and cheaper to simply get the video adapter.

The audio/video adapter will cost you $179.99, while just the video adapter costs $119.99. This could be the perfect solution for your computer/TV connection problems. They are now available in retail stores and online.

Samsung SyncMaster 2233RZ

2009-12-30T13:23:00.003-05:00

The Samsung SyncMaster 2233RZ is one of only two 120Hz LCD monitors to support Nvidia's 3D Vision Kit and probably the better of the two. The 2233RZ has a ton of cool features and a good spec sheet to go along with it.

The screen is limited on height adjustment and rotation having only a 25 degree backward tilt. The monitor itself sits about 3.75 inches off of your desk and the glossy bezel 0.75 inches on the sides and 0.8 inches on the top. The oval base of the 2233RZ measures about 10 inches wide and 8.5 inches deep and is all around pretty stable. The 2233RZ's panel measures roughly 1 inch deep with an added 1.5 inches behind that to house the ventilation system, backlight and connection options. Width wise the 2233RZ measures 20.3 inches and is 22 inches diagonal.

Onscreen display buttons are located in the bottom right side of the monitor and includes five different buttons positioned vertically. The five buttons mentioned are composed of Menu, Up, Down, Enter and Back with the power button located below. The Up and Down buttons double as contrast and brightness tweakers when needed. The Menu button brings up the OSD menu with controls for brightness, contrast and OSD menu options. The menu comes with many presets including Text, Game, Movies, Internet, Sports and Dynamic Contrast. One negative aspect about the 2233RZ is that it does not have in built-in speakers so any sound output will have to be through attached speakers.

This monitor includes a DVI connection but is without both HDMI and VGA connections. The 2233RZ is HDCP compatible allowing HD content though the DVI port is tucked away on the monitor which makes it a little tricky to access sometimes. The monitor has a resolution of 1,680x1,050 pixels as well as a 3ms pixel response rate. The contrast ratio comes in at 1,000:1 and brightness is 300cd/m2 with a 6:10 aspect ratio.

Overall, the Samsung SyncMaster 2233RZ is better than the other Nvidia 3D Vision Kit compliant ViewSonic FuHzion vx2265wm. The specs are better and performance seems to better all around. The 2233RZ, depending on where you buy it from, will run you anywhere from $270.75 to $399.99. One thing to keep in mind though is that the SyncMaster 2233RZ is only available right now bundled with the Nvidia GeForce 3D Vision Kit. If you are interested in buying this without the 3D Vision Kit then you are going to have to wait until late April.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

Promising New TV Features in 2010

2009-12-21T01:31:00.003-05:00

There are going to be a multitude of new features found in TVs that will be released in 2010. TV’s are promised to be bigger, better, and more reasonably priced this coming year. New features are said to include more LED backlighting, faster refresh rates, 3D features, and built-in Internet connectivity.

The vast majority of the TV market that accounts for the sales in the U.S. are flat-panel, LCD TVs. This means that most of the TVs released in 2010 will possess these qualities. Bigger TVs are constantly being pushed by providers, but this year will also show other features that will differentiate one TV from the next. LED backlighting and higher refresh rates are something that will show great improvement in the coming TVs. Many will use backlighting in either an “edgelit” configuration or a full backlit design with local dimming to provide better blacks. Faster refresh rates are a guarantee as manufacturers are wishing to drastically reduce motion blur in TV sets.

Another very interesting development that is going to be pushed this year is TVs with 3D capabilities. Sony and Panasonic are the companies that have been talking the most about their 3DTVs. This feature could branch out into more than just 3D movies but also television broadcast in 3D. How cool would it be to watch a football game with the players jumping right off the screen?

The last of the most interesting developments of 2010 is the Internet capabilities that will be included within the set. With all the advances that are being made, soon enough Internet features will be found standard on TVs. This should be one of the things that manufactures are sure to push hard for.

Thin is in, so most of the newly released TVs should be even thinner than what’s already on the market. The LED backlighting technology takes up a lot less room allowing for the thinner screen. Manufacturers are also pushing more energy efficient TVs, so expect to find more environment-friendly TVs at a much more reasonable price.

OLED TVs are beginning to get plenty of attention these days, but they are not going to be mainstream any time soon. This coming year, it is expected that there should be a couple sets that are 15 inches or larger, but they will cost you more than a 32-inch LCD TV.

We can definitely look forward to these fantastic developments in 2010. Manufactures will be offering their best in the coming year.

Planning your next trade show or big event and looking for a Plasma Rental, or large screen Monitor Rental? Then call 800-736-8772 for affordable AV Rentals nationwide!

LG Full HD 3D LCD Monitors

2009-12-03T10:41:00.003-05:00

Everything just has to be in 3D nowadays doesn't it? It started off with every animated movie and it's mother coming out in 3D and now the 3D hand is slowly clutching around our computer monitors. In a recent press release, LG announced the world's first mass produced Full HD 3D-capable monitor.

This new monitor is a 23-inch thin-film transistor liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD). The monitor itself delivers full HD resolution and offers a picture almost two times as crisp as currently available HD 3D displays. Being as this monitor is apart of LG, it adopts the company's proprietary technologies like "high performance 3D exclusive controller" which can process over twice as much image data as some of the other HD 3D LCDs and copper bus line. This helps to improve the resolution of the monitor as well as the picture quality. The LG monitor is also a "double threat" as it can not only produce 3D images but also reproduce 2D images which allows the user to switch back and forth between 2D and 3D.

3D images isn't something new. The technology has been around on video games, movies and different animations. However, this is the first time that it has full HD resolution. LG hopes that this panel will help boost the development of high resolution 3D contents all the while letting consumers view true-to-life 3D images. In a statement from LG Display's Vice President and head of IT marketing Davis Lee, "LG Display has made a major breakthrough in the display industry race to deliver the depth and dynamic nature of 3D images. LG Display will continue with efforts to keep pace with the fast growing 3D market with leading 3D technology and products in order to create new value for customers."

More and more industry partners are beginning to shift their focus of product away from 2D technologies and towards 3D technologies. This shift in product is expected to to make the 3D display market grow at a very fast pace. Plans have recently been brought to light by the Korea Communications Commission to start a trial service for the world's first full HD 3D terrestrial broadcasting from the second half of 2010. Also announced in Japan and the UK is a launch of trial services for 3D satellite broadcasts.

The 3D revolution is coming, whether you asked for it to or not and with products like mass produced HD 3D monitors, it looks like there is no getting around the fact that 3D is taking over. I guess we better start getting used to it.

Mimo's 7-inch iMo Pivot Touch Monitor

2009-11-25T09:37:00.005-05:00

Mimo isn't known for it's top of the line, full fledged monitors. What it is known for is it's USB-based 7-inch mini-monitors. Join Mimo's mini-monitor family is the recently debuted iMo Pivot Touch. There are many notable features associated with this little guy but probably the biggest one is that it is the first touchscreen monitor out on the market to be priced below $200.

There are a lot of cool features on the iMo Pivot Touch. The monitor features a fully pivoting ball and joint 7-inch LCD screen that boasts 800x480 resolution, 350 cd/m2 brightness and a 400:1 contrast ratio. The device can also detach from it's stand and operate in stand-alone mode. The iMo requires just a single USB 2.0 connection for both power and connectivity which means there are no extra unnecessary wires and the power button is integrated directly into the USB cable.

This device comes just in time for this year's holiday season too and, in celebration of Black Friday, mimomonitors.com is giving everybody that orders a monitor from them FREE GROUND SHIPPING which includes the iMo Pivot Touch from November 23-30. But the deal doesn't stop there. In addition to free shipping, every monitor purchased will receive a free Mimo care package. The care package includes everything you need for your mini-monitor including a Mimo carrying case, a set of iProtector Screen Films and a stylus for all touch screen purchases. On top of all that, Mimo has also cut prices on a number of products including the 720-S Mobile Slider Touchscreen, the 710-S Mobile Slider and the iMo Foto Frame Printer as well as all of Mimo's accessories. But hurry up and get it while you can as the deals end at 12:00 pm EST on November 30th. You can order the iMo Pivot Touch now for the low price of $199.99, although it won't ship until December 3rd.

World's First Curved Display: 43-inch CRVD™

2009-11-24T13:40:00.010-05:00

Ostendo as produced the worlds first curved display. The 43-inch and 2880x900 resolution make it ideal for anyone looking for a top of the line display.

The CRVD has an aspect ratio of 38:10, which is 180% larger than a display with a 16:9 ratio. The curved screen is designed in such a way to engage 75% of the viewer's Human Visual System (HVS) peripheral vision. The 43-inch screen is about the same as working with two monitors only you don't have to install extra drivers and have other things plugged in. In fact, the CRVD is virtually ready to use out of the box. It works with existing hardware and software.

Another great feature of the CRVD is that it claims to reduce eye strain. The makers claim that if you're using multiple monitors you're eyes are constantly moving and adjusting because of the difference in distance between the monitors. With one continuous, curved, screen eye strain is severely reduced or eliminated because the user's focal distance remains constant across the screen.

All these great features come at a pretty hefty price tag, $6,499. So if your pockets are deep enough, it could quite possibly be the worlds most perfect display. But for the rest of us, perhaps we can hope for a lower priced model to come forth down the road.