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1. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
VR-Zone.com | Stuff for the Geeks!
VR-Zone | Stuff for the Geeks is a bi-weekly publication Olympus Pen E-P3 Review:
covering the latest gadgets and stuff for the geeks.
This Pen is mightier than your
compact camera
AMD FX-6100 listed in e-tailer Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/olympus-pen-e-p3-review-this-pen-is-
bundles mightier-than-your-compact-camera/13611.html
October 5th, 2011
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/amd-fx-6100-listed-in-e-tailer-
bundles/13690.html
October 5th, 2011
The Olympus Pen E-P3 is one of the three cameras that were
announced in Singapore at an event at end June this year,
and boasts the world's fastest autofocusing (AF) via Frequency
One of the top American e-tailers, TigerDirect, has revealed Acceleration Sensor AF system and a lens incorporating the
AMD's upcoming FX-6100 as part of several bundles - ranging MSC (Movie and Still Compatible) mechanism. In this review,
from motherboard to full system bundles. The price for the VR-Zone have a hands-on the new micro four-thirds camera
FX-6100 is listed as $189. Not surprisingly, the FX-6100 is not and see if it shoots as well as it looks.
listed individually.
One of the top American e-tailers, TigerDirect, has revealed
AMD's upcoming FX-6100 as part of several bundles - ranging
from motherboard to full system bundles. The price for the
FX-6100 is listed as $189. Not surprisingly, the FX-6100 is not
listed individually.
Interestingly, some bundles, such as MSI 990FX + FX-6100, When Olympus launched their first Pen series E-P1 micro
claim to be shipping as early as "within 24 hours". However, four-thirds digital camera in 2009, it garnered many favorable
the Asus Sabertooth + FX-6100 bundle has a more realistic reviews. And based on the success of their new line of micro
time frame of 7-21 days. four-third products, the camera manufacturer has unveiled
Since there is no individual listing, there are no detailed the Olympus Pen E-P3 which is one of the latest models
specifications mentioned for FX-6100. However, the heading in the Pen series announced this year. The E-P3 resembles
itself reveals a 3.3 GHz base clock, 14MB total cache and a 95W its elder siblings, the E-P2 and E-P1, though it comes with
TDP - all in accordance with reports thus far. few improvements overall. The camera claims to incorporate
the world's fastest autofocusing, achieved with the FAST
Of course, these bundle publications are likely to be in breach
(Frequency Acceleration Sensor) AF system, and features
of NDAs and may be taken down from the website soon.
12.3-megapixel High Speed Live MOS Sensor with 1080i
Till then, you can review a list of FX-6100 bundles here. full high definition movie compatibility and high ISO 12,800
sensitivity.
Here's a look at the E-P3 specification,
1

2. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
Olympus E-P3 Drive mode Single-frame shooting,
Lens mount Micro Four Thirds Mount Sequential shooting, Self-
Effective Pixels 12.3 million pixels timer
Image Stabilizer Built in (Imager shift image Sequential shoot speed Approximately 3 frames / sec
stabilizer) Built-in flash Available
Monitor 3-inch OLED Touchscreen Input/Output USB2.0, mini HDMI,
Display video-out, dedicated multi-
Dust reduction Supersonic Wave Filter (dust connector (Video:
reduction system for image NTSC/PAL selectable,
sensor) Optional remote cable RM-
Lens system Micro Four Thirds UC1, USB)
interchangeable Battery BLS-1/BLS-5 Lithium-ion
Live MOS sensor High speed Live MOS Sensor battery (included)
Magnification ratio x5, x7, x10 (Default), x14 Dimensions 122x69.1x34.3 (excluding
protrusions)
Filter array Primary color filter (RGB)
Weight 369g (including battery and
AF system Image Contrast Detection AF
memory card)
System / AF Assist
Metering system TTL Image Sensor metering
system
Metering range EV 0 - 20 From IDF: Retina Quality
Memory SD memory card (SDHC,
SDXC, UHS-I compatible),
2560x1600 HD Panels on Ivy
Eye-Fi Bridge Ultrabooks
Aspect ratio 1.33 (4:3) Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/from-idf-retina-quality-2560x1600-hd-
Recording format DCF, DPOF, compatible/Exif, panels-on-ivy-bridge-ultrabooks/13689.html
PRINT Image Matching III October 5th, 2011
File format RAW (12-bit lossless
compressopm JPEG, RAW-
JPEG, MPO (3D still)
Recording image size [RAW] 4032x3024 pixels ;
[JPEG] 4032x3024 pixels -
640x480 pixels With 2560x1400 'retina' displays expected on Ivy Bridge
Movie recording AVCHD / AVI Motion JPG Ultrabooks next year, even the 2048x1536 iPad 3 may not have
the portable hi-res lead for long. But, why not 16:10 2560x1600
File Size AVCHD: Max 4GB / AVI
then instead? Makes it easier to see the photographs and
Motion-JPEG: Max 2GB
documents in real proportion...
Scene select AE Portrait, e-Portrait,
Landscape, Landscape + During the past month's IDF, there were many interesting
Portrait, Macro, Sport, disclosures and even strategic directions unveiled, especially
Night scene, Night + Portrait, when it comes to Intel's mobile product expansion.
Children, High key, Low key, Ultrabooks, the new category of ultraslim, very light full
3D function notebook PCs that offer real PC experience at near-
tablet size and weight, were the focus there - in particular, their
DIS mode, Nature Macro,
displays.
Candle, Sunset, Document,
Panorama,
What about the displays? All those beautiful slim Ultrabooks
Fireworks, Beach & Snow, on the show floor had typically a 13-inch class, 1366x768 'HD
Fisheye Conv, Wide Conv, ready' display - yes the same useless 16:9 moviescreen with less
Macro Conv vertical real estate than any 5 year old notebook. How will that
ISO sensitivity AUTO: ISO 200 - 12800 compare with, 10 inch class iPad 3 2048x1536 display, with not
(customizable, default 200 - only 3x the pixel count but also much more useful 4:3 aspect
1600) ratio?
Preset white balance 6 settings (3000K - 7500K)
Lamp (3000K), Fluorescent
(4000K), Enter 'retina quality' Ultrabooks. Early next year, when Ivy
Daylight (5300K), Flash Bridge Ultrabook models arrive, expect to see 2560x1440 13.3
(5500K), Cloudy (6000K), inch displays just some 3 mm thick, to satisfy the system
Shade (7500K) thickness requirements. Take a look at the slides...
2

3. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
AC Ryan introduces VEOLO
digital home entertainment
device
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/ac-ryan-introduces-veolo-digital-home-
entertainment-device/13688.html
October 5th, 2011
AC Ryan has unveiled the VEOLO smart Android hub that
claims to offer apps, Internet, and media streamer on your TV,
at the comfort of your home. The VEOLO is equipped with
ARM Cortex A9 1GHz processor, onboard 512MB DDR3 and is
based on Google Android 2.2 Froyo mobile operating system.
AC Ryan has launched VEOLO digital home entertainment
device that claims to offer apps, internet, and a media
streamer, all on your TV.The VEOLO is based on the Google
Android 2.2 Froyo mobile operating system and brings
enhanced experience, including casual games and social
media. The built-in web browser and Java support allow users
to view Flash websites and stream videos on TV. You can
also stream your library of movies, music and pictures in Full
high definition (HD) with 1Gigabit wired LAN. In addition,
the device is equipped with ARM Cortex A9 1GHz processor,
onboard 512MB DDR3 memory and offers built-in wireless
802.11 b/g/n LAN.
You can access the functionality of a keyboard and mouse,
wireless motion controller with the bundled 3-in-1 remote
control. The AC Ryan VEOLO will retail in November 2011,
Now, a 2560x1440 Ultrabook would have a lot of pixels, over and end October in Singapore at a suggested retail price of S
3 and a half million, to be precise, but the wide moviescreen $329.
factor would leave many of those unused, even if editing typical
photos or documents or web pages. Having a 2560x1600
full 4 Mpixel screen at 16:10 would, here, enable not just Arctic Cooling released two
better usability but also more beneficial tablet configuration,
which some Ultrabooks will offer. A 16:9 tablet screen is just new VGA coolers
too elongated, except for Angry Birds playing or movie file Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/arctic-cooling-released-two-new-vga-
watching. And, since these are PREMIUM Ultrabooks, the 5% coolers/13687.html
or so that stingy panel vendors save by glass cutting is not October 5th, 2011
worth the trouble on such top end machines.
Either way, except this stuff in about six months from now, too.
3

4. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
Arctic Cooling, the well known manufacturer from
Switzerland, today released two new VGA coolers aiming at
different segments of the market. The first cooler, baptized
"Accelero Twin Turbo 6990", is a very powerful dual fan cooler
designed especially for the AMD Radeon HD 6990. The second
product, the "Accelero S1 PLUS" is a universal, passive cooler.
Read on for details.
Arctic Cooling, the well known manufacturer from
Switzerland, today released two new VGA coolers aiming at
different segments of the market. The first cooler, baptized
"Accelero Twin Turbo 6990", is a very powerful dual fan cooler
designed especially for the AMD Radeon HD 6990. The second
product, the "Accelero S1 PLUS" is a universal, passive cooler.
The company claims that their new Accelero Twin Turbo
6990 is the most powerful VGA cooler ever. With two 120mm
PWM controlled quiet fans and a cooling capacity of 400W it
certainly seems to be a very impressive product.
On the other hand, the Accelero S1 PLUS is an entirely passive
VGA cooler designed for maximum compatibility and absolute
silence. Of course the latter is obvious, since there are no fans
or any moving parts at all, while Arctic Cooling claims that
this cooler can be mounted on over 80 different models of
midrange to high-end cards. The cooler appears to be a good
value at 49.95$ USD.
Apple launches the iPhone 4S
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/apple-launches-the-
iphone-4s/13686.html
October 5th, 2011
This cooler has been designed as a unique solution for the
newest AMD Radeon HD 6990 VGA card, obviously aiming The iPhone 4S has finally landed and it seems like most of
towards both hardcore overclockers and users who found the the changes has taken place on the inside and as expected,
stock cooling solution too loud. Finally, Arctic Cooling also Apple updated it with the same Apple A5 processor as the iPad
designed the most expensive VGA cooler in history, with the 2. Apple claims up to twice the performance and up to seven
Accelero Twin Turbo 6990 retailing for 149.95$ USD. times faster graphics compared to the iPhone 4.
The iPhone 4S has finally landed and it seems like most of
the changes has taken place on the inside and as expected,
Apple updated it with the same Apple A5 processor as the iPad
2. Apple claims up to twice the performance and up to seven
times faster graphics compared to the iPhone 4.
By now you've probably figured out that performance should
be slightly faster than the iPad 2 thanks to the slightly lower
resolution screen (960x640 vs 1024x768). Apple is touting the
iPhone 4S as a great gaming device thanks to the PowerVR
SGX543MP2 graphics core from Imagination Technologies,
4

5. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
although once again it should be similar to the iPad 2 in terms and voice command feature that allows you to give voice
of graphics performance. commands to your phone. As to how well this will work for
non-native speakers or those with a strong accent or dialect
Apple claims up to 8h 3G talk time, or 14h 2G talk time,
is yet to be seen and we can imagine the amount of problems
alternatively 6h of web browsing over 3G or 9h over Wi-Fi.
Siri will suffer from. Siri will work with UK, US and Australian
It's also meant to do either 10h of video playback or 40h of
English as well as French and German at launch, but Apple is
music playback. That's a slight improvement over the iPhone
promising to add more languages over time. There's no doubt
4 in terms of 3G talk time, but slightly worse for Wi-Fi web
Apple has spent a lot of resources on developing Siri, it's just
browsing. On the plus side, Apple has added support for
that every single voice command or speech recognition system
14.4Mbps HSDPA (the iPhone 4 supports 7.2Mbps) although
we've ever used over the year has proven to have some kind of
the HSUPA speed remains the same at 5.8Mbps. For those in
issues.
CDMA countries the really good news is that the iPhone 4S is
what is generally referred to as a World Phone, as in it works Siri offers a lot of advanced features that we haven't seen from
on both CDMA and GSM/WCDMA networks. other voice command programs and it's clear that Apple is
taking advantage of the CPU power on offer from the A5 SoC.
The camera has been boosted from 5Megapixels of the iPhone
Things like reminder can be set to a specific location and Siri
4 to 8Megapixles for the iPhone 5. The new CMOS sensor
remember who specific people are. We'd presume that there's
has backside illumination which Apple claims can capture 73
something of a learning curve here where some things have
percent more light. Furthermore the new camera captures
to be set up manually before Siri can do some of the tasks on
pictures 33 percent faster and it has a new hybrid IR filter
offer, but at least some of the functionality appears to be pretty
that's said to offer better colour accuracy and better colour
handy.
uniformity. Apple has also kitted out the camera with a new
f/2.4 lens with five lens elements that the company claims is 30 That's about it for the iPhone 4S, it'll be available in black or
percent sharper. Add to this a new image signal processor in white and it'll of course run iOS 5. The 16GB model is going
the A5 SoC that adds face detection and 26 percent improved for US$199, the 32GB for US$299 and a much hoped for 64GB
white balance and a 1.1 second time to first shot and 0.5 second version for US$399. At the same time the 8GB iPhone 3GS
shot to shot and you're looking at a pretty serious phone is now available for free while there's a new 8GB iPhone 4
snapper. available for US$99, all prices includes a two year contract
tie-in of course. The iPhone 4S will be available for pre-order
on October 7th with initial availability in the US, Canada,
Australia, the UK, France, Germany and Japan on the 14th with
another 22 countries - including Singapore- added on the 28th
and another 70 countries before the end of the year. It seems
like the iPhone 5 rumours weren't true after all…
For more detailed coverage from the event, we suggest you hit
up Engadget.
Fujitsu launches its own
version of an Ultrabook
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/fujitsu-launches-its-own-version-of-an-
ultrabook/13685.html
October 5th, 2011
Apple has finally caught up with the competition, but not In as much as Intel's Ultrabooks have their merits, we can't
overtaken them by adding 1080p video recording support help but wonder why anyone would get over something like
to the iPhone 4S, as well as video stabilization (electronic say, the new Fujitsu Lifebook SH76/E, as here we have an
we guess) and something the company calls temporal noise ultra-light 13.3-inch notebook with a full fat CPU and a 6-cell
reduction. Finally Apple added support for AirPlay mirroring battery. It's not the only one of its kind either, as Toshiba has
which means that you can play games on the big screen, been offering a similar machine for quite some time now in the
although we're not sure how popular this feature would be, as shape of its Portege R830 and older R730.
although the iPhone has some of the best handheld games out
there, we doubt that they'll look good on a 1080p screen.
The most talked about feature ahead of the launch was Apple's In as much as Intel's Ultrabooks have their merits, we can't
new voice assistant and it's called Siri. It's a speech recognition help but wonder why anyone would get over something like
5

6. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
say, the new Fujitsu Lifebook SH76/E, as here we have an
ultra-light 13.3-inch notebook with a full fat CPU and a 6-cell Luxa2 announces its iPhone 5
battery. It's not the only one of its kind either, as Toshiba has cases ahead of Apple's launch
been offering a similar machine for quite some time now in the Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/luxa2-announces-its-iphone-5-cases-
shape of its Portege R830 and older R730. ahead-of-apple-s-launch/13684.html
The Lifebook SH76/E weighs in at a mere 1.34kg, that's about October 5th, 2011
the same weight as Acer's new Ultrabook. What we didn't
mention is that this is with the optical drive fitted, slide it out
and replace it with a weigh saver and the Lifebook SH76/E
is a mere 1.22kg, that's lighter than many netbooks. Adding a
bit of extra weight is a secondary 27W battery pack that can
also be fitted in lieu of the optical drive and combined with We're not sure this was the smartest move in history, but
the standard 72Wh 6-cell battery pack, Fujitsu claims 18.2h Luxa2, a division of Thermaltake has sent out its press release
battery life, although the standard battery is said to be good about its new iPhone 5 cases showing off a total of 13 different
for up to 13.7h of usage without the optical drive installed. designs. Although the images doesn't give away too much in
terms of details, there's one front shot of a dummy unit which
suggests that Apple decided to keep the round button for at
least one of its rumoured two new models that are expected to
launch later today US time.
We're not sure this was the smartest move in history, but
Luxa2, a division of Thermaltake has sent out its press release
about its new iPhone 5 cases showing off a total of 13 different
designs. Although the images doesn't give away too much in
terms of details, there's one front shot of a dummy unit which
suggests that Apple decided to keep the round button for at
least one of its rumoured two new models that are expected to
launch later today US time.
If nothing else it's a great way of getting some free publicity,
as iPhone's cases are a dime a dozen these days and although
Luxa2 has come up with a couple of slightly unusual looking
cases such as a wooden one and a braided one, the other are
This pretty much blows away the Ultrabooks in terms of fairly generic in terms of look, although six models appear to
battery life and we haven't even gotten to the feautres. For the made of clear plastic with various patterns.
starters, the Lifebook SH76/E comes with a Core i5-2520M
CPU which is clocked at 2.5GHz but which will turbo all the
way up to 3.2GHz. There's space for a pair of SO-DIMMs and
up to 8GB of RAM can be fitted, although it ships with 4GB
as standard. Storage comes in the same of a 128GB mSATA
SSD and this is partly what helps to keep the weight down, but
then again, many Ultrabooks are expected to ship with mSATA
SSD's.
Connectivity isn't bad either, as Fujitsu has managed to fit a
pair of USB 2.0 ports, a single USB 3.0 port, a D-sub connector,
an HDMI port, a Gigabit Ethernet port, an SD card slot, a
single audio jack and even an ExpressCard/34 slot. Add to that
802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi and optional WiMAX support and this is
far more impressive than your average Ultrabook. We should
also mention that the display has a typical notebook resolution
of 1366x768.
So ok, the Lifebook SH76/E might not be quite as thin as
the Ultrabooks at 16.6mm at its thinnest and 23.2mm at its
thickest, but we're quite happy to live with that slightly thicker
profile considering all the extra features. There's only one
problem, the asking price, as the Lifebook SH76/E will hit
retail in Japan later this month for 180,000 Yen (S$3,075/US
$2,345) about twice the price of Acer's Ultrabook.
6

7. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
LG launches Optimus LTE,
first 4G HD smartphone in
Korea
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/lg-launches-optimus-lte-first-4g-hd-
smartphone-in-korea/13683.html
October 5th, 2011
If the dummy fitted to the cases turns out to be anything like
the real deal, which we'd expect it to be this close to launch,
LG Korea has announced the launch of their new Optimus
then we're back to a metal back with a plastic Apple logo.
LTE smartphone, which claims to be the first mobile device
The logo is used to improve the antenna signals which would
in the country to lead Long Term Evolution (LTE) with high
be blocked by the metal back otherwise. The camera doesn't
definition IPS display technology. Unfortunately, no word as
appear to have changed in any significant way as far as the
to when this phone will be available outside Korea though.
design is concerned, but that's about as much as we can tell
from the pictures.
The volume buttons have changed into a slim line rocker
design and it appears as if the lock switch has been moved right
next to the camera on the opposite side of the volume rocker. LG Korea has announced the launch of Optimus LTE, which
As far as the front of the phone is concerned, well, it doesn't claims to be the first mobile device in the country to offer 4G
look that different, but it's possible that Apple has supplied the connectivity with the highest resolution IPS display available
case manufacturers with dummy units that don't give away the on a smartphone. The LG Optimus LTE features a brilliant
rumoured front re-design. Make what you want of this, but the 4.5-inch "True HD IPS” display which claims to provide
wait is almost over. higher resolution, brightness and clarity, showing natural
colors. It is equipped with a 1.5GHz dual-core processor,
runs Android 2.3 Gingerbread mobile operating system and
comes with a high capacity 1,830 mAh battery. On top of that,
the smartphone also offers seamless content sharing through
7

8. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
HDMI and DLNA. Availability of the LG Optimus LTE in 5Megapixel auto focus camera. The only novel feature here is
markets outside of Korea has not been confirmed. interchangeable back covers, a typical Nokia feature.
The Ace on the other hand will be Nokia's flagship phone,
GeForce 600 branding leaked but we have a hard time getting excited about a single core
1.4GHz Windows Phone 7 device, even though Nokia is said
in 285 BETA drivers to be kitting it out with a 4.3-inch AMOLED display and an
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/geforce-600-branding-leaked-in-285- 8Megapixel Carl Zeiss branded camera with auto focus. It's
beta-drivers/13682.html also said to have 16GB of storage, a 1,800mAh battery and
October 5th, 2011 HSPA+ connectivity. Nokia will of course launch all of its
upcoming Windows Phone 7 devices with the Mango release
of the OS.
In the latest unreleased 285 BETA drivers, the expected We can't but feel a little bit sorry for Nokia, as its new handsets
GeForce 600 branding has surfaced. The marketing names will be running last year's hardware by the they arrive in
leaked are NVIDIA GeForce 610M and NVIDIA GeForce GT quantity in the market. It's less than three months left of this
630M. The GeForce 610M is likely to be an entry level GPU year and the handsets aren't expect to launch at the earliest
while the GeForce GT 630M could very well be a GK107 SKU. towards the end of this month. Nokia World 2011 has been
suggested as a potential launch platform and that takes places
In the latest unreleased 285 BETA drivers, the expected
GeForce 600 branding has surfaced. The marketing names on the 26th and 27th of October in London. At this rate, Nokia
leaked are NVIDIA GeForce 610M and NVIDIA GeForce GT is willingly giving away its market share to its competitors, as
630M. The GeForce 610M is likely to be an entry level GPU the company simply doesn't have competitive products, unless
while the GeForce GT 630M could very well be a GK107 SKU. of course you only count other Windows Phone 7 handsets that
is.
Between GK107 news and these leaks, it seems evident that
NVIDIA is concentrating on small mobile GPUs to debut it's
next-gen line of GPUs. AMD and Intel's upcoming
platforms get certified by the
Nokia Ace and Sabre specs PCI-SIG
leak Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/amd-and-intel-s-upcoming-platforms-
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/nokia-ace-and-sabre-specs- get-certified-by-the-pci-sig/13680.html
leak/13681.html October 5th, 2011
October 5th, 2011
We don't generally browse the PCI-SIG's website, but we
Details of Nokia's upcoming Windows Phone 7 handsets are happened upon some interesting information somewhat by
starting to appear if we're to believe the rumours. As with accident as we were searching for something unrelated. It
every other Windows Phone handset maker, Nokia seems to seems like the PCI-SIG has certified not only AMD's upcoming
be limited to the same Qualcomm SoC and in this case it's the Trinity APU, but also Intel's upcoming 2012 desktop and
MSM8x55 depending on CDMA/UMTS support, even though mobile platforms, although it's not what you think.
the rumours are only mentioning a 1.4GHz processor without
specifying the model.
We don't generally browse the PCI-SIG's website, but we
happened upon some interesting information somewhat by
Details of Nokia's upcoming Windows Phone 7 handsets are accident as we were searching for something unrelated. It
starting to appear if we're to believe the rumours. As with seems like the PCI-SIG has certified not only AMD's upcoming
every other Windows Phone handset maker, Nokia seems to Trinity APU, but also Intel's upcoming 2012 desktop and
be limited to the same Qualcomm SoC and in this case it's the mobile platforms, although it's not what you think.
MSM8x55 depending on CDMA/UMTS support, even though The certification list covers PCI Express 2.0 compliant
the rumours are only mentioning a 1.4GHz processor without hardware and both AMD's Trinity APU with associated
specifying the model. reference platform and Intel's Maho Bay and Chief River
The Sabre appears to be similar to the already leaked SeaRay, motherboard platforms have passed certification. Does this
as both handsets are said to feature a 3.7-inch display, mean we won't see PCI Express 3.0 support from either
although with Sabre being the lower-end handset it gets to company next year? Well, no, it just means that both platforms
make do with a standard LCD display over the AMOLED are compliant with the current standards and that they can
display fitted in the SeaRay. Sabre is also said to feature operate at speeds of 5GT/s or GB/s if you prefer.
8GB of internal storage, 25GB of free SkyDrive storage and a
8

9. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
We should also mention that Intel's Sandy Bridge-E and Ivy
Bridge CPU's are as yet not on the list and in case of all
four listed products, it's only the x16 slot that has been tested
according to the slim information provided on the PCI-SIG
website. However, looking at the list it doesn't look entirely
complete, as there are several current products missing from
the list.
In related news, Asus has finally announced its first PCI
Express 3.0 enabled motherboards. VR-Zone has kept out
of the bickering that's been going on between the various
motherboard manufacturers with regards to Gen 3 support The Ultrabook was the most talk-about subject at the
or not, but we would just like to highlight the fact here COMPUTEX 2011 computer expo in Taiwan this year. And a
that Asus is making similar claims to Gigabyte with regards number ofmanufacturers also took the opportunity to launch
to compatibility and has a list of older P67, H67 and H61 their Ultrabook at the recent Intel Developer Forum (IDF)
motherboards alongside most of its Z68 boards. The only bad 2011. Before we proceed, let's look at what is an Ultrabook.
news is that owners of the Maximus IV Extreme-Z won't be At the COMPUTEX 2011, the chip giant proposed the idea of
getting Gen 3 support, although Asus claims that the board making the notebook PC more portable and user-friendly with
will work with Ivy Bridge CPUs. For the full list of supported improved endurance to meet the needs of users for at least a
motherboards, head over to the Asus website. day. But most importantly, the price would have to be below
US$1,000 .
Acer ASPIRE S3 Ultrabook The Acer ASPIRE S3 from Taiwan claims to be the first
ultrabook on the market and it was officially launched on 28
Review September with announced availability details, specifications
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/acer-aspire-s3-ultrabook- and pricing, listed below for your reference.
review/13679.html Specifications
October 5th, 2011
Aspire Aspire
S3-951-2464G33iss01S3-951-2464G23iss02
Processor Intel Core Intel Core
i5-2467M 1.6GHz i5-2467M 1.6GHz
Turbo Boost Turbo Boost
2.3GHz 2.3GHz
The Ultrabook is a new category of thin and lightweight Chipset Intel UM67 Chipset Intel UM67 Chipset
ultraportable laptop (defined by Intel) that are equipped with Display 13.3- inch 13.3-inch (1366x
new Sandy Bridge/Ivy Bridge based Consumer Ultra-Low (1366x768) 16:9 768)
Voltage (CULV) Intel processors, integrated graphics and SSD Memory DDR3 4GB x 1 DDR3 4GB x 1
storage. Taiwanese manufacturer Acer has recently launched Storage 320GB 7mm SATA 240GB SSD
their ASPIRE S3 Ultrabook in Taipei, and VR-Zone managed HDD + 20GB SSD
to get one in for review. Battery 3 cell / 6 hours 3 cell / 7 hours
Ports USB / HDMI / USB / HDMI /
memory card memory card
reader reader
Wireless 802.11 b / g / N 802.11 b / g / N
Bluetooth Bluetooth 4.0 Bluetooth 4.0
Webcam 1.3-megapixel 1.3-megapixel
Others 1.33kg / 4th gen 1.33kg / 4th gen
Dolby Digital/ Dolby Digital/
13mm 13mm
9

10. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
Aspire Aspire
S3-951-2464G33iss01S3-951-2464G23iss02 - 1000Hz Ultrapolling / 1ms response time
Pricing NT$34,900 NT
(approx. US$1,140) $44,900 (approx. - 5 independently programmable Hyperesponse buttons
US$1,466)
- On-the-fly sensitivity adjustments
- 60 – 120 inches per second and 15g of acceleration
Razer unveils Transformers 3
- Zero-acoustic Razer gaming grade Ultraslick mouse feet
gaming peripherals with movie
DVD/Blu-ray release - Gold-plated USB connector
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/razer-unveils-transformers-3-gaming-
peripherals-with-movie-dvdblu-ray-release/13678.html
- 7-ft lightweight, braided fiber cable
October 5th, 2011
- Approx. size in mm: 128(L) x 70(W) x 42.5(H)
Sandy Bridge-E should hit C2
stepping after launch
Besides the Transformers 3 DVD/Blu-ray movie release, you Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/sandy-bridge-e-should-hit-c2-stepping-
can now own a piece of limited edition Transformers 3 gaming after-launch/13677.html
peripheral from Razer. Razer, with license from Hasbro, October 5th, 2011
has unveiled their new range of Transformers 3 gaming
peripherals.
We knew that Intel's Sandy Bridge-E chips were big and
complicated to make, but what we didn't expect was that Intel
was going to continuously keep running into problems. The
current C1 stepping is apparently having problems with VT-
d, not a major issue for most consumers' maybe, but it's a
huge problem when it comes to Xeon chips and as such Intel
is working on the C2 stepping to fix this "errata".
Razer, under license from Hasbro, has unleashed a unique We knew that Intel's Sandy Bridge-E chips were big and
Transformers 3: Dark of the Moon Collector’s Edition product complicated to make, but what we didn't expect was that Intel
line now available on DVD and Blu-Ray. The four uniquely was going to continuously keep running into problems. The
designed Razer DeathAdder mice in the form of OPTIMUS current C1 stepping is apparently having problems with VT-
PRIME, BUMBLEBEE, MEGATRON and SHOCKWAVE, d, not a major issue for most consumers' maybe, but it's a
claim to offer unparalleled gaming performance. Also included huge problem when it comes to Xeon chips and as such Intel
in the product line is a dual-sided Razer Vespula mouse mat is working on the C2 stepping to fix this "errata".
whereby one side represents the AUTOBOTS with a speed- The only good news here for Intel, if you look at that way,
enhancing surface, and the other, the DECEPTICONS with is that its current Extreme Edition CPU's don't support VT-d,
a control-enhancing surface. You can showcase your favored neither does the Sandy Bridge K-SKU CPU's, so as far as the
allegiance as you annihilate opponents with your preferred consumer platform is concerned it looks like there won't be
style of swiping. An exclusive laptop case designed by Razer is any further delays, but the initial batch should be C1 stepping
also available in four iconic TRANSFORMERS brand colors, rather than C2. The C1 stepping should be in production by
delivering a stylish and eye-catching storage solution. now, or by the latest by next week, although we don't know
Price: US$59.99 when Intel will kick off production of the C2 stepping, but
it's very possible it won't be until next year as qualification
Availability: North America (Retail and Razerzone.com) – samples of the C2 stepping isn't expected until the very end of
Available Now ; Rest of the World – Q4 2011 the year.
Product features: As we've mentioned before, Intel will only certify the Waimea
- Ergonomic right-handed design Bay platform for PCI Express 2.0 at launch, due to the fact that
there aren't enough third party cards to test with. Some PCI
- 3500dpi Razer precision 3.5G infrared sensor
10

11. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
Express 3.0 devices are still likely to work, but Intel doesn't come up with this backwards solution, but it really looks like
guarantee compatibility. This makes us wonder if the current just yet another artificial limitation that is likely to upset
6-series motherboard with Gen 3 switches will actually work consumers.
properly once cards and more importantly, Ivy Bridge CPU's We've also got full details with regards to the graphics
arrive. resolutions that are supported as well as confirmation of the
We also have some good news for those wanting to continue to clock speeds. The N2800 (and D2700) has the GPU clocked at
use Windows XP, the Waimea Bay platform will be compatible 640MHz while the N2600 (and D2500) gets to make do with
with both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows XP, although a 400MHz GPU clock, although the render clock is running at
Intel won't be providing Rapid Storage drivers for the 32- a slower 200MHz for all models.
bit version of XP and as such the standard Windows drivers All four CPUs support eDP/DisplayPort, HDMI 1.3a, LDVS
will be handling things. The platform will also be supporting (single channel) and D-sub/analogue display connectivity.
Windows 8 once Microsoft launches it. However, when it comes to supported resolutions things get
We can't but feel sorry for the motherboard manufacturers as complicated. For the case of simplicity we've included the
well, as we're hearing that Intel has jacked the price of the X79 table provided by Intel, but it's very clear that the mobile
chipset up by 20 percent compared to the X58 chipset, which versions are artificially held back when it comes to the display
puts the X79 chipset somewhere in the US$70 region. This is resolution of the netbook/notebook, although considering
of course the list price and with various discounts and what most notebook displays have a resolution of 1366x768 from
not, Intel might very well be selling it for far less. However, 11.6 to 15.6-inches, this isn't a huge issue. What is strange
we're looking at a chipset that offers nothing new over the though is the DisplayPort limitation for external displays for
X58 chipset in terms of features and it's the size of any of the N-series CPUs and you're better off using HDMI in this
the 6-series chipsets, i.e. it should be cheaper to manufacture case. Note that only two displays can be used simultaneously.
than the X58 chipset which consists of the I/O Hub and the
ICH10R. Now if there only was some competition…
Intel reveals Atom N2X00-
series details ahead of launch
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/intel-reveals-atom-n2x00-series-
details-ahead-of-launch/13675.html
October 5th, 2011
One of the most important aspects of the new Atom processors
is hardware video decode support and Intel has implemented
support for MPEG2, WMV, H.264 and VC-1 at either 720p60m
1080i60 or 1080p24 for videos encoded at up to 20Mbps.
Sadly there's no support for MPEG4 (or rather MPEG4 part
There isn't much left in terms of secrets when it comes to 2 as H.264 is MPEG4 part 10), so DivX and similar formats
Intel's upcoming N2X00-series of mobile Atom processors, are still lacking hardware decoding. In its wisdom, or rather
but what we didn't already know, Intel has now managed to lack thereof, Intel won't be offering hardware decode for Flash
unveil itself thanks to a datasheet that the company published from version 11.0 and onwards. In other words, this is not a
ahead of the CPU launch. It's a simple mistake, as the same platform for the future.
datasheet covers the Atom D2X00-series and although the
two CPU families are very similar, there are some differences In as much as the new Atom platform is a huge upgrade in
beyond the mobile and desktop aspects. many ways, we can't help but feel disappointed about how
little Intel really has added. It's very clear that Intel is scared
that its Atom platforms will eat away market share from its
There isn't much left in terms of secrets when it comes to Celeron and Pentium branded processors. AMD's only battle
Intel's upcoming N2X00-series of mobile Atom processors, in this market space is to gain consumer approval, as its entry
but what we didn't already know, Intel has now managed to level Fusion platform with the E and C-series APU's are easily
unveil itself thanks to a datasheet that the company published outperforming Intel's Atom processors where it matters for
ahead of the CPU launch. It's a simple mistake, as the same most consumers. We doubt that Intel will have a hard sell, but
datasheet covers the Atom D2X00-series and although the we don't think its Atom processors will have the same market
two CPU families are very similar, there are some differences share as in the past, as the platform just isn't competitive any
beyond the mobile and desktop aspects. more.
For starters we'd missed he fact that the Atom N2600 only
supports 2GB of RAM, whereas the N2800 happily accepts
4GB, just like its desktop counterparts. On top of that the
N2600 only supports a single DIMM while the other three
Atom models happily take two. We're not sure why Intel has
11

12. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
Corsair H100 Water Cooler
Review
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/corsair-h100-water-cooler-
review/13674.html
October 5th, 2011
Even though computer water cooling started off about
fifteen years ago, it was not until a couple of years ago when
companies first released closed loop, ready to run liquid
based coolers for PC components. One of the first companies
which released such a liquid based cooler a couple of years
ago was Corsair. Today we are going to have a look at ASRock was established in 2002 to compete against Tier 2
the latest and largest liquid based CPU cooler Corsair ever motherboard makers like DFI, ABIT, and ECS. Traditionally
released, the Hydro Series H100. The H100 features a dual fan many think of ASRock as ASUS's entry level board maker,
radiator and Corsair boasts that the cooler can deliver extreme as ASUS is thought of as catering to the high-end market
performance; we will find out if that claim is true in this review. segment. While things aren't so clear anymore as to who
owns who, it is pretty much accepted that ASRock isn't owned
Even though computer water cooling started off about fifteen
by ASUS any longer, but they still seem to buy in bulk and
years ago, it was not until a couple of years ago when
thus we see a lot of the same parts used, even parts that
companies first released closed loop, ready to run liquid
are exclusively made for ASUS. In fact after ASUS split with
based coolers for PC components. One of the first companies
Pegatron, Pegatron used ASRock to compete against ASUS. To
which released such a liquid based cooler a couple of years
make things even stranger it seems like ASRock is still using
ago was Corsair. Today we are going to have a look at
some of ASUS’s R&D, foundries, as well as buying in bulk with
the latest and largest liquid based CPU cooler Corsair ever
them. While officially they are not the same company, they
released, the Hydro Series H100. The H100 features a dual fan
sure do have many common similarities. It seems that perhaps
radiator and Corsair boasts that the cooler can deliver extreme
ASUS didn't know or maybe wanted ASRock to become what
performance; we will find out if that claim is true in this review.
it has become today, a motherboard brand which has come a
long way in very little time.
ASRock Z68 Extreme7 Gen3 With the introduction of LGA1155 based chipsets ASRock shot
Review through its lower tier status and is now competing head to
head with GIGABYTE and ASUS. The way ASRock is able to
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/asrock-z68-extreme7-gen3-
do this is with lower prices, since ASUS and ASRock share
review/13629.html
a lot of the same parts, ASRock is able to obtain parts at a
October 5th, 2011
bulk price/contracts that they couldn't negotiate on their own.
Then their parent company Pegatron shares foundries with
ASUS, so when ASUS outsources to Pegatron they can use the
technology ASUS used to manufacturer that board. It is not as
devious as that sounds, and its really a great thing for ASRock
fans.
Today we venture into ASRock's lastest top-of-the-line Z68
board which is in a class of its own; a feature packed beauty Yet this Z68 Extreme7 Gen3 has a 3 year warranty, 2oz copper
with an affordable price tag. Follow us as we take a good PCB (something pretty much unique to only a few ASRock
deep look at what makes the board what it is, from its unique boards), Japanese Solid Caps (that are sprayed gold to indicate
technologies to what makes it roar. Follow us to answer good quality?), as well as some technologies that make this
questions like, how do you get PCI-E 3.0 with an NF200? reviewer wonder, are they trying to compete against the Z68X-
How is the VRM on the Extreme7 Gen3 comparable to other UD7 and the Maximus 4 Extreme-Z?
boards? How is this board priced lower than other NF200
bearing boards?
To begin the review a block diagram of the Z68 platform:
Introduction
12

13. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
Sony Ericsson has announced the launch of two new Android
smartphones - Xperia active (above left) designed for users
with an active lifestyle, and Live with Walkman, an Android
smartphone that delivers superior music experience.
Sony Ericsson Xperia active
Running on the latest Android 2.3 Gingerbread, the Xperia
active is a tough Android smartphone for an active sports and
Compared to the earlier P67, the Z68 chipset adds Intel HD
outdoor life. This phone is dust-proof and water resistant and
Graphics support, as well as Intel Smart Responce Technology
incorporates wet finger tracking to ensure the phone works
(SSD Caching). Intel should have initially released the Z68
perfectly even if the the screen or a user’s fingers are wet.
chipset, as its gains from P67 are very minimal. This
The Xperia active also features Reality Display with Mobile
motherboard also has Lucid Virtu technology which allows for
BRAVIA Engine, 5-megapixel rear camera that can capture
switchable graphics, DVI, HDMI, D-SUB, and DisplayPort are
high definition videos, and a powerful 1GHz processor. Pre-
all avaible. ASRock doesn't do everything like ASUS, first they
loaded with sports apps that enable users to easily track their
don't use the Intel PHY, instead they use Broadcom controller,
fitness levels, users can set their training route using the built-
the first time i have seen one on a $280 board. They also use
in GPS, Barometer and Compass. In addition, on-screen heart
a PLX bridge chip to better the use of the 8 PCI-E 2.0 lanes
rate and pulse can be monitored in real-time (enabled by ANT
that the PCH offers, this allows them to add another 16x (4x
+ wireless networking technology), while the SportyPal Pro
pghysical) slot to the board, while simultaneously running 3 x
app can monitor real-time performance.
USB 3.0 and 2 SATA 6GB/s controllers.
Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman
Sony Ericsson introduces The Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman has a dedicated
Walkman hardware button that provides instant access to
Xperia active and Live with the music player. The phone also runs the latest Android 2.3
Gingerbread and users can like, share and discover content
Walkman through Facebook integration while the infinite button allows
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/sony-ericsson-introduces-xperia- consumers to connect to friends, photos, music and videos.
active-and-live-with-walkman/13673.html The Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman has a stylish curved
October 5th, 2011 design, a glossy finish and a mineral glass display. It also
features a 3.2-inch screen, 1GHz processor, front-facing
camera for video calling and a 5-megapixel AF rear camera
that can capture 720p HD video recording. The Sony Ericsson
Live with Walkman also comes with Sony’s xLOUD that
enhances audio output.
The Sony Ericsson Xperia active, designed for the active
lifestyle users, was showcased in June with the Xperia Ray Pricing and availability
and Xperia Txt. Today, the company has officially launched The Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman is now available in
the phone in Singapore, together with the Sony Ericsson Live Singapore in the colours Black and White at a recommended
with Walkman that promises great audio enjoyment for music retail price of S$398 before telco subsidies. The Sony Ericsson
lovers. Xperia active will be available in Singapore from 1 October
2011 tomorrow in Black with Orange band, at a recommended
retail price of S$498 without contract.
13

14. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
Norton Mobile Security Lite Sony Ericsson announces
offers Android users from Lara Croft and the Guardian of
protection physical and online Light first to Android on Xperia
crime PLAY
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/norton-mobile-security-lite-offers- Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/sony-ericsson-announces-lara-croft-
android-users-from-protection-physical-and-online-crime/13672.html and-the-guardian-of-light-first-to-android-on-xperia-play/13671.html
October 5th, 2011 October 5th, 2011
Android users can now secure their mobile devices from
physical and online crime with the free Norton's Mobile Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY owners who are also fans of Lara
Security Lite. The new security application offers selected anti- Croft games would be pleased to know that Lara Croft and
theft features with powerful anti-malware to keep your data the Guardian of Light will be available on Android, and first
safe even if you lose your phone. on the Xperia PLAY smartphone. Read on for the details.
Norton by Symantec has unveiled the availability of Norton
Mobile Security Lite, a free security application for Android-
based smartphones. The Norton Mobile Security Lite claims to
seamlessly combine selected anti-theft features with powerful
anti-malware that gives users security even if their phone is Sony Ericsson is adding more titles to its Xperia PLAY phone
lost, stolen or compromised by malware. and with a partnership with world renowned Square Enix.
Key features On Norton Mobile Security Lite: The partnership will bring much loved titles such as “Lara
Croft and the Guardian of Light” exclusively to Android on
- Anti-theft – The average adult in Singapore loses his the Xperia PLAY in November 2011. More established game
mobile phone 1.6 times in 5 years and 50 percent reported titles from Square Enix will follow in the coming months. The
concerns over the loss of privacy and sensitive information. Sony Ericsson Xperia PLAY has been made available to more
Norton Mobile Security Lite allows users to lock lost or stolen consumers around the world. The smartphone has recently
phones, preventing strangers or thieves from accessing vital gone on sale in the US on the AT&T network and on the 14th
information or running up their mobile bill. September, the company announced that Xperia PLAY will be
- Anti-malware – Scans all files and app updates downloaded launched in Japan with NTT DOCOMO in October 2011.
to the mobile device and automatically detects and removes
threats without slowing you down.
LaCie launches the LaPlug,
- Automatic LiveUpdate – Automatically downloads and
installs security updates keeping you a step ahead of lets you access USB drives
cybercriminals.
over the net
Pricing and Availability Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/lacie-launches-the-laplug-lets-you-
access-usb-drives-over-the-net/13670.html
Norton Mobile Security Lite is now available for free in
October 5th, 2011
English on the Android Market. For users who want additional
protection such as the ability to block unwanted calls or text
messages; or block phishing websites used to steal personal
information and money, there is the option to upgrade
to the full featured Norton Mobile Security for an annual
subscription of S$19.90.
If product design is more important to you than what you get
for your money, then LaCie is most likely a familiar brand to
you. However, the company does managed to come up with
14

15. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
some quirky bits of hardware from time to time and its latest them aren't likely to have Time Machine support built in, but
addition, the LaPlug is just one of those things that could be they're likely to have more advanced features and you do get
immensely useful, but somehow turns out to be fairly pointless a router included as well. We can't but help to feel that LaCie
at the same time. priced itself out of the market a bit here, although then again,
we're sure there will be plenty of less technically inclined users
that would be more than happy to spend that kind of money
If product design is more important to you than what you get for easy network access to their data stored on multiple USB
for your money, then LaCie is most likely a familiar brand to drives.
you. However, the company does managed to come up with
some quirky bits of hardware from time to time and its latest
addition, the LaPlug is just one of those things that could be Samsung unleashes multiple
immensely useful, but somehow turns out to be fairly pointless
at the same time.
mobile building blocks
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/samsung-unleashes-multiple-mobile-
In essence the LaPlug is a compact NAS box at 119x119x37mm, building-blocks/13669.html
except that by now you've most likely realised that by being October 5th, 2011
so small there's no space for an internal drive. Rather than
doing a NAS, LaCie put together a box that has both Gigabit
Ethernet and support for 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi where the quirky
bit is that it has four USB 2.0 ports for external storage devices.
It's actually quite amazing how many products Samsung
Three of the ports are around the back for more permanent
makes and there's no wonder that the company is starting
connectivity and one is on the front. In addition to being able
to have such a dominant place in the mobile market space.
to accept storage devices the LaPlug also accepts printers for
The company announced no less than five new products
sharing over the network.
related to mobile products, a new HD CMOS sensor, a
16Megapixel CMOS sensor, faster 64GB eMMC flash memory,
3Xnm LPDDR3 memory and a new 1.5GHz Exynos SoC
manufactured using a 32nm High-K Metal Gate low-power
process.
It's actually quite amazing how many products Samsung
makes and there's no wonder that the company is starting
to have such a dominant place in the mobile market space.
The company announced no less than five new products
related to mobile products, a new HD CMOS sensor, a
16Megapixel CMOS sensor, faster 64GB eMMC flash memory,
3Xnm LPDDR3 memory and a new 1.5GHz Exynos SoC
manufactured using a 32nm High-K Metal Gate low-power
process.
The HD CMOS sensor is maybe not the most impressive of
the announcements, but the S5K8AA as it's called is a tiny
The neat trick is that LaCie provides software with the LaPlug 1/8.2-inch CMOS sensor with a 1.2Megapixel resolution and
that allows you to access the attached devices even when the entire camera modules is a mere 2.8mm deep. The trick
you're not at home, well, at least as long as the LaPlug is here is that it'll do 720p30 video or 480p60 and combined
connected to the internet somehow. It's also possible to get with backside illumination it should make for better video call
access to the LaPlug via a web browser, but this isn't always quality in slim handsets and tablets.
the most convenient option in our experience. The LaPlug also On the other end of the spectrum is the 1/2.3-inch 16Megapixel
supports UPnP and DLNA and will stream media to any other CMOS sensor called the S5K2P1, that's the same size sensor
DLNA device. Being an Apple friendly company LaCie has also as in the recently launched Pentax Q interchangeable lens
thrown in support for Apple's Time Machine backup software. compact and larger than that found in many budget digital
cameras. Although this backside illuminated sensor was
designed with high-end smartphones in mind, it can also
be used with digital cameras and camcorders and it shows
that phones are getting very close to entirely replacing entry
level digital cameras, at least as long as you're not worried
about having the ability to zoom. Samsung makes some
impressive claims for the S5K2P1 as well, as it's meant to
The problem is that LaCie expects you to pay US$74.99 (S$97) shoot 16Megapixle images at 30fps, or 8.3Megapixel pictures
for the LaPlug, for that kind of money you can wide range of at 60fps, all without any shutter lag effect in 16:9 format.
wireless routers with a USB port or two built in. So ok, most of
15

16. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
Moving on we get to a product you're going to want in the same
phone as the 16Megapixel camera sensor, namely 64GB of Canon Singapore launches
eMMC NAND flash. Samsung's latest eMMC NAND flash uses 23 imaging products for
a toggle DDR2 interface and is manufactured using Samsung's
2Xnm process. Samsung claims sequential read speeds of consumer and enterprise
80MB/s and write speeds of 40MB/s which the company
claims is a threefold improvement over fast microSD cards.
markets
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/canon-singapore-launches-23-imaging-
No-one's going to complain about faster storage memory on
products-for-consumer-and-enterprise-markets/13668.html
their phones, right?
October 5th, 2011
On the subject of memory, we swiftly move on to Samsung's
3Xnm LPDDR3 memory which is available in 4Gbit (512MB)
chips, which might not seem like a lot, but it's the first
DDR3 1,066MHz memory designed for use in smartphones
and tablets. Not only is it faster than LPDDR2, but Samsung
also claims that it uses 20 percent less power which equals to
better device battery life. Sadly Samsung's LPDDR3 memory Canon Singapore had a massive product launch for the
won't go into mass production until sometime next year, but second half of 2011 today, with 23 imaging products ranging
it should hopefully be ready in time for the onslaught of new from printers to projectors and digital cameras. And no, the
quad core ARM SoC's such as Nvidia's next gen Tegra model company did not reveal any Canon mirrorless camera, despite
which will be able to take advantage of LPDDR3 memory. Nikon unveiling theirs last week.
Finally we have yet another first, Samsung's new Exynos 4212
ARM Cortex-A9 SoC which is built on Samsung's 32nm High-
K Metal Gate low-power process, something the company
has co-developed with Global Foundries. By moving from
45nm to 32nm, Samsung has managed to boost the clock
speed from 1.2GHz to 1.5GHz with the added benefit of the
Mali-400MP graphics core being boosted from 267MHz to
400MHz something Samsung claims will boost the graphics
performance by up to 50 percent. Of course moving from
45nm to 32nm brings with it the added benefit of lower power
usage and Samsung claims that the power usage is down by
up to 30 percent. Samsung also threw in support for a few
additional video codecs, 1080p video encoding and on-chip
HDMI 1.4 support. The Exynos 4212 should be available from The Canon PowerShot S100 (left) placed together with the
next quarter, although we have a feeling it might take a little PowerShot S95
bit longer until we see devices based on it, at least from anyone
but Samsung. The Canon PowerShot S100 compact digital camera was
among the 23 products that were showcased at the event. The
If that's not an impressive range of announcements all at successor to the popular S95 comes in black or silver, and now
once, we don't know what is and we can see why Apple is so comes with a grip for better handling. The Canon PowerShot
concerned about Samsung. It's become clear that Samsung is S100 will be available in early November, with pricing details
a major force in the market and the company is seemingly to be announced closer to availability date.
putting a lot of effort into becoming a leader in the mobile
market space, not only in terms of producing high-end devices,
but also when it comes to offering the best components that
goes into the devices as well. By having its own components
echo system, Samsung doesn't have to rely on partners either,
something that can seriously hold a company back at times.
That said, it can be a dangerous gamble to be too over
reliant on your own abilities too, but then again, Samsung
doesn't seem to rely solely on its own components, as recently
launched versions of the Galaxy S II in the US featured
Qualcomm processors. Still, we can't wait to see what's next
from Samsung.
16

17. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
Incorporating the enhanced HS system and new DIGIC
5 image processor, the PowerShot S100 features a high-
sensitively 12.1-Megapixel 1/1.7-type CMOS image sensor that
can capture superb quality images even under low light
situation. In addition, the camera also comes with integrated
GPS unit that can record location into a picture’s EXIF data.
Canon also unveiled the latest range of PIXMA printers which
include the MG2170, MG3170, MG4170, MG5370, MG6270,
MG8270 and the single function iP4970 with the improved
Full HD Movie Print feature and Fun Filters. Users can also
leverage the improved wireless printing capabilities to print
directly from their iPhones and iPads with Apple’s AirPrint
technology, or directly from their web albums with the Pixma
Cloud Link.
And some model pics at the event:-
17

18. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
To begin with, this board seems to have six DDR3 DIMM
slots. That's an odd number, considering the Sandy Bridge-
E processor embeds four DDR3 memory channels, and so
motherboards should ideally either have four slots (one per
channel), or eight (two per channel). As with all LGA2011
boards, the memory slots are arranged on either sides of the
large 2011-pin socket.
The CPU seems to be powered by at least an 8-phase VRM.
We're able to count just one row of chokes on the VRM area
north of the socket, there could be more rows. Interestingly,
the FETs of the memory VRM seem to be cooled by heatsinks,
as well. The last time we saw heatsinks over memory VRM was
with Foxconn QuantumForce X58 boards.
The heatsink cooling the X79 PCH (platform controller hub)
is cooled by an active fan-heatsink. Active cooling, we think,
is redundant. X79, unlike X58, is a single chip platform
controller hub, with the northbridge completely relocated to
the CPU package. A PCH is not much more than a glorified
ASRock Teases with X79 southbridge. Overclockers will seldom need to play with PCH
Extreme7 Picture voltages. Besides, small fans can add to the case noise. One
upside we see is that with a multi-disk RAID array, the PCH
Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/asrock-teases-with-x79-extreme7-
could heat up, and the active heatsink design could help keep
picture/13667.html
the size of the heatsink down.
October 5th, 2011
We see at least five PCI-Express x16 slots, one can expect at
least four of them to be Gen 3.0, and wired to the processor.
We spy 9 internal SATA ports, and two front-panel USB 3.0
headers (four ports). Apart from the usual 24-pin ATX and 8-
pin EPS power inputs, the board can draw power from a 4-pin
Molex connector. The extra power might come handy in some
ASRock is now a full-fledged motherboard manufacturer with
scenarios (such as a PhysX-dedicated graphics card that relies
boards targeting every market segment, from $50 office PC
on the motherboard entirely, for power.
boards, to all-out enthusiast boards. Its upcoming socket
LGA2011 lineup has one such board, one that woos budget- Oh yes, we're looking forward to more pictures.
unconcious buyers, the X79 Extreme7.
ASRock is now a full-fledged motherboard manufacturer with "Sony Tablet" S arriving in
boards targeting every market segment, from $50 office PC
boards, to all-out enthusiast boards. Its upcoming socket Singapore in October 2011
LGA2011 lineup has one such board, one that woos budget- Source: http://vr-zone.com/articles/-sony-tablet-s-arriving-in-singapore-
unconcious buyers, the X79 Extreme7. in-october-2011/13666.html
October 5th, 2011
This afternoon, Sony Electronics Asia Pacific announced the
launch of their latest "Sony Tablet" S in Singapore. The "Sony
Tablet" S sports a 9.4-inch touchscreen, is equipped with
Nvidia Tegra 2 mobile processor and runs Google Android
3.2 Honeycomb platform.
After looking at the slurpy teaser picture we scored, we really
wish we had a shot of this board's landscape. But from what
little we can make out, the board seems to be fully loaded in
a very unique way.
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19. October 5th, 2011 Published by: VR-Zone
unique connector that fits the optional specialized cradle (sold
separately). The company also claims that the tablet is the
first series to be PlayStation certified, which means you can
play original Playstation games such as Crash Bandicoot and
Pinball Heroes (preinstalled) on the "Sony Tablet" S.
Today, Sony has launched their highly-anticipated "Sony
Tablet" S that claims to offer powerful features and deliver
engaging entertainment experience to consumers. The "Sony
Tablet" S features 9.4-inch LED-backlit IPS touchscreen,
Nvidia Tegra 2 mobile processor and Google Android 3.2
Honeycomb. On usage, the tablet is fast when we navigate Sony has included various optional accessories for the "Sony
across the various screens and run the applications. The Tablet" S such as the cradle, AC adapter, LCD screen protector,
display also looks good when we played some movie trailers. carrying case, USB adapter cable and Bluetooth keyboard. The
"Sony Tablet" S will be available in 16GB (S$668) and 32GB
(S$798) respectively in end October. The 3G versions of the
"Sony Tablet" S will be available at a later date.
Taisuke Nakanishi, managing director of Sony South East
Asia, was present to announce the company's new tablet device
and said that Singapore is the first country in southeast Asia
to launch the "Sony Tablet" S. "The Sony Tablet S is all our
innovations packaged together in your hands. It is designed to
enhance your entertainment experience by defining the way
you touch, enjoy and share your content" Nakanishi said.
The "Sony Tablet" S has a unique asymmetric design; the
screen is sloped when placed on a flat surface. On the sides
of the tablet are the USB and SD memory card reader, reset
pinhole, volume controls and power button. It also has a
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