Targus releases 2 mice using the Blue Trace technology, Targus Wireless Blue Trace Mouse (AMW50AP-53) which is retailing for SGD$29.90 and the other is Targus Compact Blue Trace Mouse (AMU75AP-54) retailing for SGD$18.90.

Targus Wireless Blue Trace Mouse

Targus Wireless Blue Trace Mouse – Packaging Front

Targus Wireless Blue Trace Mouse – Packaging Contents

Targus Wireless Blue Trace Mouse – Back View

The wireless frequency is 2.4GHz and I kinda like how the wireless receiver is being held. There is a magnet at the back of the mouse which is used to hold the receiver!

Targus Wireless Blue Trace Mouse – Grip

I also like the grip of the mouse and it is ambidextrous designed means both right and left hand people are able to use it.

Targus Wireless Blue Trace Mouse – Opened

The cover is also being held together by magnet!

Targus Compact BlueTrace Mouse

Targus Compact Blue Trace Mouse – Packaging Front

Targus Compact Blue Trace Mouse – Packaging Contents

Targus Compact Blue Trace Mouse – Back View

Targus Compact Blue Trace Mouse – Size Comparison

Targus Compact Blue Trace Mice – Front View

Targus Compact Blue Trace Mice – Back View

This product launch covers 7 products from PIXMA inkjet printers, 10 from imageCLASS laser printers, 3 from PowerShot cameras, 2 from IXUS cameras and 1 LV projector.

Canon PowerShot S100

Everyone’s favourite Canon PowerShot S100 (the successor to S95) is included in this product launch! It will be available in early November 2011 and the pricing will be annouced when it is closer to the date.

PIXMA Inkjet Printers
All the PIXMA inkjet printers listed below will be available by end October 2011.

• PIXMA iP4970 – SGD$199
  • Print speed of approximately 12.5ipm (B/W), and 9.3ipm (Colour)
  • Photo print speed of approximately 20sec (Colour) for 4” x 6” borderless
  • 5 Individual Ink Tank System
  • Min. 1 pl ink droplets (max. 9600 x 2400 dpi print resolution)
  • New Full HD Movie Print Feature
  • New Easy-PhotoPrint EX with Fun Filters
  • Auto Photo Fix II via Easy-PhotoPrint EX
  • CD Direct Print, Auto-Duplex, 2-way Paper Feed
  • PictBridge connectivity
• PIXMA MG2170 – SGD$139
  • Print speed of approximately 8.4ipm (B/W), and 4.8ipm (Colour)
  • Photo print speed of approximately 44sec (Colour) for 4” x 6” borderless
  • New FINE Cartridge/ Hybrid Ink System
  • Min. 2 pl ink droplets (max. 4800 x 1200 dpi print resolution)
  • 1200 x 2400 dpi scan resolution
  • New FastFront
  • New Full HD Movie Print feature
  • New Easy-PhotoPrint EX with Fun Filters
  • Auto Photo Fix II via Easy-PhotoPrint EX
  • 7 Segment LED Display
• PIXMA MG3170 – SGD$159
  • Print speed of approximately 9.2ipm (B/W), and 5.0ipm (Colour)
  • Photo print speed of approximately 44sec (Colour) for 4” x 6” borderless
  • New FINE Cartridge/ Hybrid Ink System
  • Min. 2 pl ink droplets (max. 4800 x 1200 dpi print resolution)
  • 1200 x 2400 dpi scan resolution
  • New FastFront
  • New Full HD Movie Print feature
  • New Easy-PhotoPrint EX with Fun Filters
  • 7 Segment LED Display
  • Built-in Wireless/Wired LAN with Easy Setup
• PIXMA MG4170 – SGD$209
  • Print speed of approximately 9.9ipm (B/W), and 5.7ipm (Colour)
  • Photo print speed of approximately 44sec (Colour) for 4” x 6” borderless
  • New FINE Cartridge/ Hybrid Ink System
  • Min. 2 pl ink droplets (max. 4800 x 1200 dpi print resolution)
  • 1200 x 2400 dpi scan resolution
  • New FastFront
  • New Full HD Movie Print feature
  • New Easy-PhotoPrint EX with Fun Filters
  • Print PDF files from USB/memory cards
  • PictBridge Connectivity
  • Built-in Wireless/Wired LAN with Easy Setup
  • 2.4” TFT Colour LCD Display
  • ECO Mode
  • PIXMA Cloud Link
• PIXMA MG5370 – SGD$299
  • Print speed of approximately 12.5ipm (B/W), and 9.3ipm (Colour)
  • Photo print speed of approximately 20sec (Colour) for 4” x 6” borderless
  • 5 Individual Ink Tank System
  • Min. 1 pl ink droplets (max. 9600 x 2400 dpi print resolution)
  • 2400 x 4800 dpi scan resolution
  • 2-way feed, Auto duplex
  • New Full HD Movie Print feature
  • New Easy-PhotoPrint EX with Fun Filters
  • Print PDF files from USB/memory cards
  • PictBridge Connectivity
  • Memory Card Slots
  • Built-in Wireless/Wired LAN with Easy Setup
  • 3.0” TFT LCD Display
  • ECO Mode
  • PIXMA Cloud Link
• PIXMA MG6270 – SGD$399
  • Print speed of approximately 12.5ipm (B/W), and 9.3ipm (Colour)
  • Photo print speed of approximately 20sec (Colour) for 4” x 6” borderless
  • 6 Individual Ink Tank System with Gray ink
  • Intelligent Touch System
  • Min. 1 pl ink droplets (max. 9600 x 2400 dpi print resolution)
  • 4800 x 4800 dpi scan resolution (Reflective)
  • 2-way feed, Auto duplex, Direct Disc Print
  • New Full HD Movie Print feature
  • New Easy-PhotoPrint EX with Fun Filters
  • Print PDF files from USB/memory cards
  • PictBridge Connectivity
  • Built-in Wireless/Wired LAN with Easy Setup
  • 3.0” TFT LCD Display
  • ECO Mode
  • PIXMA Cloud Link
• PIXMA MG8270 – SGD$499
  • Print speed of approximately 12.5ipm (B/W), and 9.3ipm (Colour)
  • Photo print speed of approximately 20sec (Colour) for 4” x 6” borderless
  • 6 Individual Ink Tank System with Gray ink
  • Intelligent Touch System
  • Min. 1 pl ink droplets (max. 9600 x 2400 dpi print resolution)
  • 4800 x 4800 dpi scan resolution (Reflective), 9600 x 9600 dpi scan resolution (Film)
  • 2-way feed, Auto duplex, Direct Disc Print
  • CCD Scanner with Super Toric Lens
  • New Full HD Movie Print feature
  • New Easy-PhotoPrint EX with Fun Filters
  • Print PDF files from USB/memory cards
  • PictBridge Connectivity
  • Built-in Wireless/Wired LAN with Easy Setup
  • 3.5” TFT LCD Display
  • ECO Mode
  • PIXMA Cloud Link

imageCLASS Laser Printers
All the imageCLASS laser printers listed below will be available by end October 2011.

• imageCLASS MF3010 – SGD$199
  • Print / Scan / Copy
  • Print Speed Up to 18/19ppm (A4/Letter)
  • Print Resolution: Up-to 600x600dpi; 1200(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 10 secs or less
  • Recovery time from sleep: 2 secs or less
  • Copy Speed: Up-to 18/19cpm (A4/Letter)
  • Scan Resolution: 600x600dpi (optical)
  • Single-digit LED display
  • Fold-in 150-sheets paper cassette
  • Reduce/Enlarge copy from 50-200%.
  • 2 on 1 Copy, ID Card Copy
  • 64 MB RAM (shared)
  • Energy Saving: 1.4W (Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 0.6kWh
  • All-in-one Cartridge 325 (yield: 1,600 pages)
• imageCLASS MF4420w – SGD$299
  • Print / Scan / Copy / Network / Wireless
  • Print Speed Up to 23/24ppm (A4/Letter)
  • Print Resolution: 600x600dpi; 1200(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 12 secs or less
  • Recovery time from sleep: 2 secs or less
  • Copy Speed: Up-to 23/24cpm (A4/Letter)
  • Scan Resolution: 600x600dpi (optical)
  • 5-line LCD display
  • Fold-in 150-sheets paper cassette
  • Reduce/Enlarge copy from 25-400%
  • Memory Sort, 2 on 1 Copy, 4 on 1 copy, ID Card Copy
  • Wireless 802.11 b/g/n connectivity with WPS technology
  • 64 MB RAM (shared)
  • Energy Saving: 1.9W (Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 0.80kWh
  • All-in-one Cartridge 328 (yield: 2,100 pages)
• imageCLASS MF4570dw – SGD$599
  • Print / Scan / Copy / Fax / Network / Wireless
  • Print Speed Up to 25/26ppm (A4/Letter)
  • Print Resolution: 600x600dpi; 1200(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 13.5 secs or less
  • Recovery time from sleep: 2 secs or less
  • Copy Speed: Up-to 25/26cpm (A4/Letter)
  • Scan Resolution: 600x600dpi (optical)
  • Auto Duplex Printing
  • 35-sheets ADF
  • 5-line LCD display
  • Fold-in 150-sheets paper cassette
  • Reduce/Enlarge copy from 25-400%
  • Memory Sort, 2 on 1 Copy, 4 on 1 copy, ID Card Copy
  • Wireless 802.11 b/g/n connectivity with WPS technology
  • 64 MB RAM (shared)
  • Energy Saving: 2.9W (Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 0.96kWh
  • All-in-one Cartridge 328 (yield: 2,100 pages)
• imageCLASS MF4580dw – SGD$699
  • Print / Scan / Copy / Fax / Network / Wireless
  • Print Speed Up to 25/26ppm (A4/Letter)
  • Print Resolution: 600x600dpi; 1200(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 13.5 secs or less
  • Recovery time from sleep: 2 secs or less
  • Copy Speed: Up-to 25/26cpm (A4/Letter)
  • Scan Resolution: 600x600dpi (optical)
  • Auto Duplex Printing
  • 50-sheets Duplex ADF
  • 5-line LCD display
  • Fold-in 150-sheets paper cassette
  • Reduce/Enlarge copy from 25-400%
  • Memory Sort, 2 on 1 Copy, 4 on 1 copy, ID Card Copy
  • Wireless 802.11 b/g/n connectivity with WPS technology
  • 64 MB RAM (shared)
  • Energy Saving: 2.9W (Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 1.00kWh
  • All-in-one Cartridge 328 (yield: 2,100 pages)
• imageCLASS MF5980dw – SGD$1,099
  • Print / Scan / Copy / Fax / Network / Wireless
  • Print Speed Up to 33/35ppm (A4/Letter)
  • Print Resolution: 600×600 dpi; 1200(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 11 secs or less
  • Recovery time from sleep: 5 secs or less
  • Copy Speed: Up-to 33/35cpm (A4/Letter)
  • Scan Resolution: 600x600dpi (optical)
  • UFRII LT / PCL5e/6, Postscript
  • SEND Technology (Email/SMB/USB)
  • 5-line LCD display
  • 250-sheets paper cassette + 50-sheets multi-purpose tray
  • Optional 500-sheets Paper Cassette PF-44
  • One-Touch Solution Keys
  • Reduce/Enlarge copy from 25-400%.
  • Memory Sort, 4 on 1, ID Card Copy
  • 256 MB RAM (shared)
  • Wireless 802.11 b/g/n connectivity with WPS technology
  • Energy Saving: 2.5W (Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 1.4kWh
  • All-in-one Cartridge 319 (yield: 2,100 pages)
  • Optional Cartridge 319 II (yield: 6,400 pages)
• imageCLASS MF8010Cn – SGD$799
  • Print / Scan / Copy / Network
  • Print Speed Up to 12/8ppm (A4/Letter; Colour/Mono)
  • Print Resolution: 600x600dpi; 2400(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 30 secs or less
  • Recovery time from sleep: 8 secs or less
  • Copy Speed: Up-to 12/8cpm (A4/Letter; Colour/Mono)
  • Scan Resolution: 600x600dpi (optical)
  • Scan to USB
  • USB Direct print (JPEG,TIFF)
  • 5-line LCD display
  • 150-sheets paper cassette + 1 sheet manual feed
  • Frame Erase, Memory Sort, 2 on 1, 4 on 1, ID Card Copy
  • 128 MB RAM (shared)
  • Energy Saving: 2.2W (Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 0.60kWh
  • All-in-one Cartridge 416 (Black: 2,300 pages, Colour: 1,500 pages)
• imageCLASS MF8080Cw – SGD$949
  • Print / Scan / Copy / Fax / Network / Wireless
  • Print Speed Up to 12/8ppm (A4/Letter; Colour/Mono)
  • Print Resolution: 600x600dpi; 2400(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 30 secs or less
  • Recovery time from sleep: 8 secs or less
  • Copy Speed: Up-to 12/8cpm (A4/Letter; Colour/Mono)
  • Scan Resolution: 600x600dpi (optical)
  • Scan to USB
  • USB Direct print (JPEG,TIFF)
  • 50-sheets ADF
  • 5-line LCD display
  • 150-sheets paper cassette + 1 sheet manual feed
  • Frame Erase, Memory Sort, 2 on 1, 4 on 1, ID Card Copy
  • Wireless 802.11 b/g/n connectivity with WPS technology
  • 128 MB RAM (shared)
  • Energy Saving: 2.2W (Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 0.60kWh
  • All-in-one Cartridge 416 (Black: 2,300 pages, Colour: 1,500 pages)
• imageCLASS MF8380Cdw – SGD$1,599
  • Print / Scan / Copy / Fax / Network / Wireless
  • Print Speed Up to 20/20ppm (A4/Letter; Colour/Mono)
  • Print Resolution: 600x600dpi; 2400(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 23 secs or less
  • Recovery time from sleep: 8 secs or less
  • Copy Speed: Up-to 20/20cpm (A4/Letter; Colour/Mono)
  • Scan Resolution: 600x600dpi (optical)
  • SEND Technology (USB, Email, SMB)
  • USB Direct print (JPEG,TIFF)
  • Secure Print (native)
  • Auto Duplex Printing
  • 50-sheets DADF
  • 5-line LCD display
  • 250-sheets paper cassette + 50-sheet multipurpose tray
  • Optional 250-sheets Paper Cassette Feeding Unit-V1
  • Frame Erase, Memory Sort, 2 on 1, 4 on 1, ID Card Copy
  • Wireless 802.11 b/g/n connectivity with WPS technology
  • 256 MB RAM (shared)
  • Energy Saving: 1.8W (Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 1.10kWh
  • All-in-one Cartridge 418 (Black: 3,400 pages, Colour: 2,900 pages)
• imageCLASS LBP7018C – SGD$299
  • Print Speed Up to 16/4ppm (A4; Mono/Colour)
  • Print Speed Up to 17/4ppm (Letter; Mono/Colour)
  • Print Resolution: Up-to 600x600dpi; 9600(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 66 secs or less
  • Recovery time from sleep: 10 secs or less
  • 150-sheets paper cassette
  • Easy toner replacement mechanism
  • 16 MB RAM
  • Energy Saving: 1.1W (Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 0.5kWh
  • Toner Cartridge 329 (Black yield: 1,200 pages, C/M/Y yield: 1,000 pages)
  • Drum Cartridge 029 (yield: 7,000 pages)
• imageCLASS LBP7680Cx – SGD$1,599
  • Print Speed Up to 20/21ppm (A4/Letter; Colour)
  • Print Speed Up to 20/21ppm (A4/Letter; Mono)
  • Print Resolution: 600x600dpi; 9600(equivalent)x600dpi
  • Warm Up Time from power-on: 29 secs or less
  • Recovery time from Deep Sleep: 9 secs or less
  • MEAP enabled
  • USB Direct print (JPEG,TIFF, PDF, XPS formats)
  • UFR II, PCL5c/6, Postscript (standard)
  • Ethernet 10Base-T/100Base-TX/1000Base-T
  • 5-line LCD display
  • 250-sheets paper cassette + 50-sheets Multi-purpose tray
  • Optional 250-sheets Canon Paper Feeder PF-701
  • 768 MB RAM
  • Energy Saving: 1.0W (Deep Sleep Mode)
  • Energy Star TEC: 0.90kWh
  • Optional Barcode Printing Kit-F1
  • Optional SD Card-B1 for Secure Printing
  • All-in-one Cartridge 318 (Black yield: 2,300 pages, Colour yield: 1,500 pages)

LV Projector
The LV-8320 is already available since 16th September 2011.

• LV-8320 – SGD$1,599
  • 2000:1 contrast ratio
  • Brightness: 3000 lumens
  • WXGA (1280 x 800 pixels)
  • Weight: 3.4kg
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 350 x 254 x 87.5mm

PowerShot Cameras
The PowerShot SX40 HS and PowerShot SX150 IS are already available while the PowerShot S100 will be available in early November 2011 and pricing will be announced at a later date.

• PowerShot SX40 HS – SGD$749
  • 12.1 megapixels CMOS sensor with HS SYSTEM
  • 35x optical zoom
  • Intelligent IS
  • Full HD movie (1080p) with Stereo Sound
  • DIGIC 5
  • 2.7-inch type, TFT colour LCD
• PowerShot SX150 IS – SGD$369
  • 14.1 megapixels
  • 2x optical zoom
  • 28mm Wide-Angle Lens
  • Intelligent IS
  • DIGIC 4
  • 3.0-inch type, TFT colour LCD with wide viewing angle
• PowerShot S100 – SGD$TBA
  • 12.1 megapixels with HS SYSTEM
  • 5x optical zoom
  • Ultra-wide angle of 24mm
  • Bright maximum aperture of f/2.0
  • Full HD movie (1080p) with Stereo Sound
  • DIGIC 5
  • 3.0-inch type, TFT colour LCD with wide viewing angle

IXUS Cameras
The IXUS 1100 HS is already available while the IXUS 230 HS will be available at the end of October 2011 and pricing will be announced at a later date.

• IXUS 1100 HS – SGD$529
  • 12.1 megapixels with HS SYSTEM
  • 12x optical zoom
  • Full HD movie (1080p) with Stereo Sound
  • DIGIC 4
  • 3.2-inch LCD screen with touch shutter
• IXUS 230 HS – SGD$TBA
  • 12.1 megapixels with HS SYSTEM
  • 8x optical zoom
  • Full HD movie (1080p) with Stereo Sound
  • DIGIC 4
  • 3.0-inch type, TFT colour LCD with wide viewing angle

Since Singapore was once part of the British, we follow the British BS 1363 standard.

BS 1363 is a British Standard which specifies the most common type of domestic AC power plugs and sockets that are used in the United Kingdom. Distinctive characteristics of the system are shutters on the line and neutral socket holes, and a fuse in the plug. It has been adopted in many former British overseas territories; Ireland, Malaysia and Singapore have equivalent national standards. BS 1363 was introduced in 1947 as one of the new standards for electrical wiring in the United Kingdom used for post-war reconstruction. The plug replaced the former BS 546 plug, which is still found in old installations or in special applications.

Anyone like me who find it troublesome that in Singapore, some electrical appliances requires a 2-pin plug while some others requires a 3-pin one?

Packaging Front

Comes In Pack Of 3

Front View

Back View

Side View

I find it weird that some countries do not have the concept of switching off an individual switch on a power strip but rather leaving all the switches always on, if you look at Belkin Surge Protectors, there is no on/off switch available.

Packaging Front

Top View

Left View

Right View

Indicator Lights

I still bought back a D-Link NAS after my bad experience with D-Link DNS-323 because the DNS-320 is meant for my mom’s office and D-Link service center is just located behind my mom’s office in case anything happens.

I wanted to get the Synology DS211j instead but unfortunately it is out of my mom’s budget. I initially also wanted to get the Buffalo LinkStation Pro Duo, but after reading SmallNetBuilder’s review on it, I decided to give it a miss as the review was pretty bad.

The differences between DNS-320 and DNS-323 is quite significant. Now the hard disk is loaded via the top which makes it slightly easier to install as compared to front loading. The user interface has also been revamped and now it bares no resemblance to the usual orange/white/grey D-Link’s interface, it is a much welcomed change but it is a little laggy though. So far for NAS, I have not seen a better web interface than Synology’s DiskStation Manager (DSM).

For a more technical review, check out my friend, shadowandy, blog post entitled D-Link DNS-320 – Layman speed test.

D-Link DNS-320 Box

Western Digital 3.5″ SATA Caviar Black 1TB

HDD Is Now Loaded Via The Top

DNS-320

Brand New User Interface

They did not tell me when they are coming to setup the fibre Internet service. I waited a month and they called me on the 3rd week of July 2011 saying they will come on 26th July 2011 to install the service.

StarHub is forcing us to use the crappy Huawei HG256s Residential Gateway (RG) and there is no way to bypass it yet. I heard the wireless on it is just pure shitty. So the typical setup would be:

Terminal Point (TP) -> Optical Network Terminal (ONT) -> Residential Gateway (RG) -> Router

If order to get your router to do the routing you need to bridge the connection between the RG and Router.

Step 1: You need to disable WLAN and DHCP on the RG

Disable WLAN on RG

Disable DHCP on RG

Step 2: Enable DMZ on the RG

Enable DMZ on RG

My RG’s IP address is 192.168.2.1 and my router WAN Port is connected to my RG’s LAN Port 1 with WAN Static IP address set to 192.168.2.2 on the router.

My router IP address is 192.168.3.1.

RG (192.168.2.1) -> DMZ (192.168.2.2) WAN -> Router (192.168.3.1)

Step 3: Setting WAN Static IP on the Router

Setting WAN Static IP on Router

Router IP Setup

That is basically it. I have disabled all the firewall features on the RG side and let the router handle it. DDNS on the other hand is handled by the RG instead of the router.

DDNS on RG

Since the router is behind RG’s DMZ, port forwarding is handled by the router.

Port Forwarding on Router

BEFORE (Cable): Speedtest – MaxOnline Ultimate (100Mbps)

AFTER (Fibre): Speedtest – MaxOnline Inifnity Elite (150Mbps)

I am unable to obtain 150Mbps speed though. I am wondering if Speedtest can output more than 100Mbps. However I am able to obtain about 80Mbps on 2 computers while doing Speedtest simultaneously. I did my speedtest on StarHub’s Speedtest before doing it on Speedtest.net.

Upon further investigation, I am actually on 150Mbps, I downloaded a iPad 2 firmware update (iOS 4.3.5) from Apple and I am getting about 16MB/s to 18MB/s which is about 128Mbps to 144Mbps. Woot!

Credits
Thanks to MarineX for his post on HardwareZone Forums.

It seems that Xcode 4.1 (AppStore link) is free (usual USD$4.99) for OS X Lion only and FaceTime is included in OS X Lion (AppStore Link) (usual USD$0.99).

Website: Apple (Singapore) – Mac OS X Lion
Mac AppStore: Mac OS X Lion

MacBook Air
MacBook Air now includes the Intel Sandy Bridge Core i5/i7 processor, Thunderbolt I/O and backlit keyboard. It also seems that the white MacBook is phrased out in favor of the lowest end MacBook Air which starts at SGD$1,288. MacBook Air supports Bluetooth 4.0 with Bluetooth Low Energy.

• 11-inch: 64GB – SGD$1,288
  • 1.6GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor
  • 2GB memory
  • 64GB flash storage
  • Intel HD Graphics 3000
• 11-inch: 128GB – SGD$1,588
  • 1.6GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor
  • 4GB memory
  • 128GB flash storage
  • Intel HD Graphics 3000
• 13-inch: 128GB – SGD$1,688
  • 1.7GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor
  • 4GB memory
  • 128GB flash storage
  • Intel HD Graphics 3000
• 13-inch: 256GB – SGD$2,088
  • 1.7GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor
  • 4GB memory
  • 256GB flash storage
  • Intel HD Graphics 3000

Website: Apple (Singapore) – MacBook Air
Shop: Apple Store (Singapore) – MacBook Air

Mac Mini
Similar with the MacBook Air, the Mac mini also receives the updated Intel Sandy Bridge Core i5/i7 processor and Thunderbolt I/O treatment and it seems that the optical drive got ditched by Mac mini. The death of CD is sooner than you think! Also Mac mini supports Bluetooth 4.0 and Bluetooth Low Energy. In the higher end Mac mini (SGD$1,088) discrete graphics (AMD Radeon HD 6630M) is being supported for the first time.

• 2.3GHz: 500GB – SGD$788
  • 2.3GHz dual-core Intel Core i5
  • 2GB memory
  • 500GB hard drive
  • Intel HD Graphics 3000
• 2.5GHz: 500GB – SGD$1,088
  • 2.5GHz dual-core Intel Core i5
  • 4GB memory
  • 500GB hard drive
  • AMD Radeon HD 6630M
• 2.0GHz: Dual 500GB – SGD$1,348
  • 2.0GHz quad-core Intel Core i7
  • 4GB memory
  • Dual 500GB 7200-rpm hard drives
  • Intel HD Graphics 3000
  • OS X Lion Server

Website: Apple (Singapore) – MacBook Air
Shop: Apple Store (Singapore) – MacBook Air

Thunderbolt Display
Looks like Apple rebranded Cinema Display to Thunderbolt Display. It now supports Thunderbolt and acts as a docking station for MacBook Pro/Air with a Thunderbolt cable and MagSafe connector. It is a 27″ monitor (16:9 – 2560px x 1440px) with LED backlight and IPS panel. It has built-in FaceTime HD camera and microphone to make video calls and ambient light sensor to adjusts your screen brightness accordingly. It is going for SGD$1,348!

Website: Apple (Singapore) – Thunderbolt Display (27-inch)
Shop: Apple Store (Singapore) – Thunderbolt Display (27-inch)

Went down the next day to PC Show 2011 again and got back the same switch, D-Link DGS-1008D switch, for SGD$85. I was expecting them to change the model number since it is totally a new design, but unfortunately it remains the same. This time I got 2 pieces instead of just 1 as I will be placing the additional switch in the living room to facilitate the switch to Fibre Internet.

Box Front View

8 Ports

Switch In My Room

Switch In The Living Room

I am also using a 15″ MacBook Pro for work and I have a power adapter at work, it has been wired so nicely that it makes removing it very difficult and hence I decided to get a spare power adapter that allows me to bring it along when I am on call.

Box Front

Box Open

Box Contents

Here is what’s new in a nutshell:

• Sandy Bridge Quad-core Intel Core i5 and i7 processors across the line.
• Thunderbolt technology for high-performance peripherals with data transfer rates up to 20x faster than USB 2.0 and up to 12x faster than FireWire 800.
• FaceTime HD camera, previously known as iSight
• New AMD Radeon HD graphics processor with performance up to 3x faster than before

21.5-inch: 2.5GHz – SGD$1,648

• Intel Core i5 2.5GHz Quad-Core
• 4GB (two 2GB) memory
• 500GB hard drive
• AMD Radeon HD 6750M with 512MB
• 1920 x 1080 resolution

21.5-inch: 2.7GHz – SGD$2,048

• Intel Core i5 2.7GHz Quad-Core
• 4GB (two 2GB) memory
• 1TB hard drive
• AMD Radeon HD 6770M with 512MB
• 1920 x 1080 resolution

27-inch: 2.7GHz – SGD$2,348

• Intel Core i5 2.7GHz Quad-Core
• 4GB (two 2GB) memory
• 1TB hard drive
• AMD Radeon HD 6770M with 512MB
• 2560 x 1440 resolution

27-inch: 3.1GHz – SGD$2,748

• Intel Core i5 3.1GHz Quad-Core
• 4GB (two 2GB) memory
• 1TB hard drive
• AMD Radeon HD 6970M with 1GB
• 2560 x 1440 resolution

I thought this would be the iMac I will be getting, but wasn’t impressed with the change and pricing. So I guess I will wait for the “proper” refresh as in change of design and USB3.0! Anyway just for fun, here is my ideal iMac specifications based on the current generation:

27-inch – SGD$3,702.60

• Intel Core i7 3.4GHz Quad-Core
• 8GB 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM – 2x4GB
• 1TB Serial ATA Drive
• AMD Radeon HD 6970M 2GB GDDR5
• Magic Trackpad
• Apple Keyboard with Numeric Keypad (Int’l English) & User’s Guide (English)
• AppleCare Protection Plan for iMac- Auto-enroll

I wanted the “1TB Serial ATA Drive + 256GB Solid State Drive” but it is way too expensive (SGD$813.20 more). Not a fan of Magic Mouse, I will probably end up using a Razer Mouse instead and hence I opted for the Magic Trackpad. I am also not a fan of Wireless keyboard so I opted for the wired keyboard. AppleCare is a must for all Apple computers because the parts and labor are way too expensive.

Apple iMac: Technical Specifications
Apple Store (Singapore): iMac

• HP Pavilion dv4
• HP Pavilion dv6
• HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC
• HP Pavilion g4
• HPx2301 Micro Thin LED monitor

Everybody On is HP’s new marketing campaign. This new campaign is the next chapter of HP’s marketing vision, spanning music, fashion, community activism, business and is supported by an integrated marketing campaign featuring print, broadcast, online and social media, and builds on the highly acclaimed “The Computer is Personal Again” campaign.

The new campaign celebrates how people around the world are using HP technology to connect to their world and achieve their personal and professional passions, and features passionate individuals such as 12-time Grammy Award winner Alicia Keys and singer, song-writer and composer JJ Lin. Both share a passion for music and recognize the importance of technology in enabling their audiences to hear their songs exactly as they recorded them.

HP Pavilion dv4

HP Pavilion dv4

Designed to maximize any user‘s multimedia experience, it expresses full PC functionality and performance with up to second-generation Intel Core i5 processors and powerful AMD Radeon 6750M graphics.

With a stylish exterior in an Espresso Black lattice imprint to match its powerful interior, the notebook measures from 1.11-inch thin and weighs from 2.2-kilos. It features a 14.0-inch diagonal HD BrightView display and has an optional integrated Blu-Ray player. An integrated six-cell battery provides up to 6 hours of battery life.

The HP Pavilion dv4 starts from SGD$1,299 and will be available from March 2011 in Singapore.

Official Site: HP Pavilion dv4
Brochure: HP Pavilion dv4

HP Pavilion dv6

HP Pavilion dv6

At the forefront of the redesigned lineup, the Pavilion dv6 offers performance, entertainment and security features that work together to fit seamlessly into the lives of users. Available in a dark umber metal finish, it uses design elements from the award-winning ENVY line such as a sleek metal finish and HP‘s exclusive Beats Audio.

Beats Audio, which was created by Beats by Dr. Dre co-founders Dr. Dre and Jimmy Iovine, restores the emotion that is missing from digital music. Working in collaboration with HP, Iovine and Dr. Dre tuned and applied the signature Beats sound profile across HP’s premium notebook and desktop lines to provide the optimal sound experience – the way the artist intended it – when playing music or audio through headphones or external speakers. The Pavilion dv6 also includes newly optimized on-board quad speakers.

Available with second-generation Intel Core i7 processors and AMD Radeon graphics, the Pavilion dv6 provides enhanced performance. HP CoolSense Technology combines advanced hardware and intelligent cooling software for a notebook that feels noticeably cooler. The technology automatically adjusts cooling levels according to a customer‘s personal preferences.

To help protect personal information and simplify password management, the Pavilion dv6 also includes HP SimplePass, providing secure access to online accounts and passwords with the swipe of a finger. Designed with security and protection in mind, all HP Pavilion dv series notebook PCs feature HP ProtectSmart, which helps to lock the hard drive to secure photos, music and memories, and protects against accidental drops.

The HP Pavilion dv6 starts from SGD$1,799 and will be available from March 2011 in Singapore.

Official Site: HP Pavilion dv6
Brochure: HP Pavilion dv6

HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC

HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC

The new HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC offers consumers increased range of motion, superior viewing and an intuitive touch experience with a 23-inch diagonal high-definition (HD) display that reclines up to 60 degrees and tilts forward up to five degrees.

The wide-angle, LED backlit LCD screen provides optimal viewing angles, even when reclined, while multi-touch technology allows for an accurate response.

With its refined industrial design and the latest version of HP TouchSmart software, the TouchSmart610 Consumer PC has touch-optimized applications from Facebook, Twitter, as well as HP’s exclusive RecipeBox, webcam and music applications where users can add new applications via the TouchSmart Apps Center. For the gaming enthusiast, select models of the TouchSmart610 Consumer PC are available with an exclusive HP touch-enabled version of Ubisoft’s real-time strategy game, R.U.S.E.. It also features Beats Audio and the new HP LinkUp application for users to wirelessly link a notebook PC to the TouchSmart using a home network.

The HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC starts from S$1,899 and will be available from March 2011 in Singapore.

Official Site: HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC
Brochure: HP TouchSmart610 Consumer PC

HP Pavilion g4

HP Pavilion g4

Striking a balance between design, performance and affordability, the new HP Pavilion g4 is ideal for the everyday user, offering second-generation Intel Core i5 processors, attractive designs and essential features at a great value. Available in charcoal grey and sonoma red, the Pavilion g4 offers full connectivity for surfing the Internet and connecting with friends. The notebook also include a HD BrightView display, with Altec Lansing speakers and SRS Premium Audio for enjoying movies and music.

The HP Pavilion g4 starts from SGD$1,099 and will be available from March 2011 in Singapore.

Official Site: HP Pavilion g4
Brochure: HP Pavilion g4

HPx2301 Micro Thin LED monitor

HPx2301 Micro Thin LED monitor

The limited edition, stunning, multi-faceted 23 inch HP x2301 Micro Thin LED monitor, features LED backlighting which illuminates the display and an edge lit illumination around the screen. The HP x2301 Micro Thin LED monitor comes in a sleek, slim and sophisticated profile and full HD resolution. With its fast response time, extremely high dynamic contrast ratio and HP HD BrightView technology, the powerful monitor comes mounted on a translucent aquamarine base while allowing users to view crisp, sharp and detailed imagery for all their entertainment experiences.

The HPx2301 Micro Thin LED monitor starts from S$499 and will be available from March 2011 in Singapore.

Here is what’s new in a nutshell:

• New 2nd generation Intel Core i5 for entry level MBP 13″ and Intel Core i7″ for higher end 13″, all 15″ and all 17″ models
• Integrated Intel HD Graphics 3000 processor for all models and dedicated AMD Radeon graphics processors for 15″ and 17″ models
• Thunderbolt aka Intel Light Peak. So basically your Mini DisplayPort can transfer data on top of video signals
• FaceTime HD camera, previously known as iSight
• New 2nd generation Intel Core i5 for entry level MBP 13″ and Intel Core i7″ for higher end 13″, all 15″ and all 17″ models
• The new SDXC card slot on the 13″ and 15″ models supports up to 64GB cards

5 models are available, 2 for 13″, 2 for 15″ and 1 for 17″:

13″: Core i5 2.3 GHz (Dual-Core) – SGD$1,648

• Intel Core i5 2.3GHz dual-core
• 4GB of 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM
• 320GB SATA HDD (5400 rpm)
• Intel HD Graphics 3000 (384MB of DDR3 SDRAM)

13″: Core i7 2.7 GHz (Dual-Core) – SGD$2,048

• Intel Core i7 2.7GHz dual-core
• 4GB of 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM
• 500GB SATA HDD (5400 rpm)
• Intel HD Graphics 3000 processor (384MB of DDR3 SDRAM)

15″: Core i7 2.0 GHz (Quad-Core) – SGD$2,488

• Intel Core i7 2.0GHz quad-core
• 4GB of 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM
• 500GB SATA HDD (5400 rpm)
• Intel HD Graphics 3000 (384MB of DDR3 SDRAM)
• AMD Radeon HD 6490M (256MB GDDR5)

15″: Core i7 2.2 GHz (Quad-Core) – SGD$2,988

• Intel Core i7 2.2GHz quad-core
• 4GB of 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM
• 750GB SATA HDD (5400 rpm)
• Intel HD Graphics 3000 (384MB of DDR3 SDRAM)
• AMD Radeon HD 6750M (1GB GDDR5)

17″: Core i7 2.2 GHz (Quad-Core) – SGD$3,398

• Intel Core i7 2.2GHz quad-core
• 4GB of 1333MHz DDR3 SDRAM
• 750GB SATA HDD (5400 rpm)
• Intel HD Graphics 3000 (384MB of DDR3 SDRAM)
• AMD Radeon HD 6750M (1GB GDDR5)

Apple MacBook Pro: Technical Specifications
Apple Store (Singapore): MacBook Pro

To celebrate HP Singapore 40th Anniversary, there is 40 Days of Christmas with HP. From 22nd November 2010 through to 31st December 2010, HP will be giving Christmas shoppers 40 days of great offers.

1. HP ENVY14 Beats Edition

HP ENVY14 Beats Edition

Designed to deliver power and performance, the HP ENVY14 Beats Edition is equipped with the advanced audio capabilities of Beats Audio – a unique, high-performance technology developed by HP and Beats by Dr. Dre. Measuring 1.11-inches thin and starting from 2.58-kilos, the HP ENVY14 Beats Edition is the first HP notebook built for music and engineered to maximize your audio experience while delivering a superior overall PC experience. And by the way, there are 2 Audio line out ports for this edition!

HP Store: HP Envy (SGD$2,699)

2. HP TouchSmart310 and HP TouchSmart600 Desktop PCs

HP TouchSmart 600

With a sleek design and the advanced TouchSmart 4.0 software, you will experience computing that is intuitive, fun and personal. The latest version of HP’s exclusive Touch software transforms the desktop, offering new ways for your family to stay connected and entertained. From games to education to productivity, there is a world of apps to explore with your family.

HP Store: HP TouchSmart310 (SGD$1,399)
HP Store: HP TouchSmart600 (SGD$2,699)

3. HP ENVY17 3D

HP ENVY17 3D

The HP ENVY17 3D delivers an unparalleled 3D movie experience – similar to that in the theaters. Powered by advanced 3D technology, BeatsTM Audio and an HP Triple Bass Reflex subwoofer, digital entertainment will never be the same again. It is the first HP notebook designed to deliver an advanced 3D experience and has best-in-class entertainment capabilities. The advanced 3D technology on the HP ENVY17 offers a superior stereoscopic 3D visual experience without compromising 2D content, while the 17.3-inch diagonal, full HD HP 3D Ultra BrightView Infinity LED Display provides crisp and full HD viewing for 3D Blu-ray content. The HP 3D Active Shutter Glasses sync wirelessly to the HD display while allowing users to switch perspective seamlessly to view the action on the screen.

The HP ENVY17 3D model will come only in December.

HP Store: HP ENVY17 (SGD$3,499)

4. HP ENVY100 e-All-in-One

HP ENVY100 Printer (Foreground)

The HP ENVY100 e-All-in-One is a sleek, slim-line printer designed to complement modern home décor and features a high resolution touchscreen display, whisper-quiet operation and a retractable paper tray. It makes a stylish addition to any room in the home and offers the most convenient way to wirelessly print documents and photos.

Official Site: HP ENVY1000 (SGD$469)

5. HP Mini 210

HP Mini 210 (Luminous Rose)

Designed for all-day computing, the ultra-compact HP Mini 210 now comes in two trendy colors and enhanced features for information-snacking while on the go. It is available in two eye-catching colors, including Luminous Rose and Ocean Drive.

HP Store: HP Mini 210 (SGD$599)

I thought that I am getting an iMac soon and will not need a graphics card, but after thinking for a few weeks, I think that is still a long way! I am guessing the iMac will be refreshed with a new design in September 2011 and that is the time I am going to get it!.

At first I wanted to get XFX Radeon HD 5830 1GB GDDR5 (SGD$299), but Fuewell at Sim Lim Square ran out of stock, so I ask the guy introduce me a graphics card with a budget of about SGD$300. He recommend me MSI N460GTX Cylone 768D5 (SGD$329) or Asus ENGTX460 TOP 768MD5 (SGD$319). Both come with 3 years warranty. In the end I chose MSI N460GTX Cylone 768D5 because the fan looks cooler! I paid by cash and I got SGD$4 off! So end up paying SGD$325. By the way, now you can pay NETS with no additional surcharge at Fuwell because they have manage to negotiate with NETS to keep the transaction fee low.

Box Front

Box Back

Box Contents

MSI N460GTX Cylone 768D5

But yeap, now they are back. I kinda like Iomega products, I got their 100MB, 250MB and 750MB Zip Drives and I got a few old computers which is using their CD Writer and it is still working till today. BTW, TDK DVD Writer sucks, mine was spoilt before even reaching 2 years.

EMC acquisition of Iomega is to bring their storage technology to SMEs and home users at a more affordable price. The selling point of Iomega network and portable harddrives is not the harddrive itself but the software that comes with it.

Iomega vClone is one such software and it allows you to clone your computer into a harddrive and run it at on another computer as if it is your own personal computer. They have partnered with VMware for this to happen.

Capture a complete virtual image of your PC — including the operating system, all applications, your settings, and all your files to your Iomega hard drive. Access the cloned copy and use it seamlessly on another computer, just as if you’re working from your own PC. When you reconnect, automatically sync your data to your primary PC – everything is always up to date. Only Iomega offers this powerful solution.

Iomega Products Offering

Iomega Harddrive Features

Another technology they built into their eGo portable harddisk drive is the Iomega Drop Guard feature which protects the drive when dropped up to 1.3m. But seriously, I hope I do not ever drop my harddrive.

I did ask where is Iomega RMA center, they just told me it is in Sim Lim Square but did not give me a specific address. After Googling, I found out Iomega products are being distributed by Acecom and their service center has move to Ubi. Here is the address:

No 1 Ubi View #03-11
Focus One, Singapore 408555
Tel: (65) 6326-4098 / (65) 6326-4097
Fax: (65) 6509 0825
Mon to Fri : 9:00 to 18:00
Sat/Sun/PH : Close

Iomega Aluminium UltraMax & UltraMax Plus External Harddrive

And Their Respective Boxes

I am pretty interested in the Iomega UltraMax External Harddrive as it will be a great companion to my Mac in terms of design and I shall use it for my Time Machine backup.

More Photos

Mac Mini Front View

Mac Mini Back View

The new model brings about the aluminum unibody, adding in a SD card reader and a HDMI port. The graphics card has been upgraded to NVIDIA GeForce 320M (256MB) as well.

Mac Mini with Intel Core 2 Duo 2.4GHz, 2GB memory and 320GB HDD starts from SGD$1,088.
Mac Mini with Intel Core 2 Duo 2.66GHz, 4GB memory and 2x500GB HDD starts from SGD$1,588.

Official Page: Mac Mini
Singapore Apple Store: Mac Mini
Press Release: Apple Unveils All New Mac mini

We are introduce to the latest Intel technology, SSD, Wireless Display, Project “Tangent Bay”, Light Peak, Super Thin Laptops and Intel’s AppStore!

SSD

Memory vs CPU Upgrades

The bottle neck of our computer is no longer our ram or graphics card and even processer, but our hard disk drive. A computer with SSD with just 3GB or ram will outperform a computer with 7200rpm HDD with 6GB of ram. Not many applications make use of the extra free ram, not in the eyes of normal consumer, they don’t run virtualization or even Adobe Premium Pro. Anything more than 4GB of ram will not bring significant improvement speed, the money will be put to better use in SSD.

I always wanted a SSD, regretted not getting it in Taiwan as it is cheaper by about SGD$70 over there at Taiwan’s Guanghua Computer Center. 300GB to 600GB SSD is expected to be release before the end of the year and that will push down the prices for 40GB/60GB/80GB SSD.

I have the misconception of SSD that once the limited 5 years lifespan is up, I can no longer use the drive and my data is gone. That is not true, you can no longer write to the drive, but you still can read from it.

Official Site: Intel SSD

Wireless Display

Netgear Setup Box

I was blown away by the Wireless Display. You just need a small setup box connected to your TV via HDMI and you can stream your laptop screen OTA to the TV! It also streams audio to your TV as well.

It is using 802.11g technology capable of delivering 54Mbps of bandwidth. The secret lies in the Intel Wireless Display built into your laptop where it compresses and encodes the signal and when the signal is sent OTA to the setup box, it gets decoded and decompressed and outputted to your TV!

Netgear is the only maker of the setup box at the moment but more will come soon!

Official Site: Intel Wireless Display

Tangent Bay

Tangent Bay

Tangent Bay is a project by Intel that brings 3 touch screens placed below the screen and above the keyboard. You can drag windows down to these screen even playing a movie there as well. The reason of putting 3 touch screens instead of a single piece is because of cost and availability. It is easier and cheaper to get 3 touch screens the size of a normal smart phone then to make one specially for laptops.

This is coming in Q1 2011.

Gizmodo: Intel’s “Tangent Bay” Laptop Concept Has 3 OLED Multi-Touch Screens Above the Keyboard

Light Peak

Light Peak

We have maxed out the bandwith of copper cables and that is where light comes in. The longest cable length you can go without slowing down the transfer speed with a single USB3 cable is 3m and for USB2 is 2m. For light peak, the limit on the length is limited by transmit power.

I wonder what comes after light?

Intel Research: Light Peak Technology

Super Thin Laptops

Dell Adamo

I call this MacBook Air for the masses! The chips are soldered directly on the motherboard and thus reducing heat output and hence reducing the need for fan or a cooling system. It is a reduction of 32% in size.

App Store
Intel also jumped onto the App Store bandwagon with its own App Store called AppUp Center. It features apps for netbook for platforms like Windows, Moblin, Meego. It also allows OEM manufacturers to have a co-branded store front. Intel’s own Moblin will eventually be replace with Meego

Visit: AppUp Center

More Photos

Intel Adverts
We are shown some funny Intel adverts and the people acted in the video are all Intel’s staff! Here is my favourite advert:

YouTube: Intel’s Channel

Thanks to Elvin from Intel for the invite!

The reason why I decided to get a remote control is because I have been bringing out my tripod lately to take group shots and it is kinda a hassle to keep repeatedly setting the timer. Did some research on Club Snap Forums and found out that the Phottix is one of the best wireless remote around.

Box Front

Box Back

Box Contents

On The Camera

Specifications
External dimensions: 35cm (width) × 32cm (depth) × 50cm (height)
Effective capacity: 50 litre
Power consumption: 5 watt
Digital Hygrometer: 1
Door: 1
Tray: 2x Fully adjustable roller tray

Box

Contents

Front View

Back View

Roller Tray

Roller Tray Out

Camera In The Dry Cabinet

However, out of good will, they are willing to give me 30% discount off the repair charges which is now USD$42 (SGD$59) and an additional 3 months warranty, so that makes it 6 months warranty in total. They accept cash only and for some reason they do not quote in SGD$. Weird.

Despite their good gesture, I don’t want to take the risk of my DNS-323 failing again and I have to repeat the whole process of backing up my data onto an external HDD and then copying the data back to the NAS. It is a nightmare and I got a shock and felt lost when my NAS fails.

I decided to get a new and better NAS instead which is the Synology Disk Station DS210j. Got it for SGD$408 from Memory World at Funan. I think this is the last piece available in Singapore, the next shipment is coming in next month. Thanks to KK from Funan’s Memory World for reserving it for me. You can go look for him if you are looking to buy any Qnap or Synology NAS =)

Box

Box Contents

DS210j

Front

Back

Open

Inserting HDD

DS210j On My Table

I am still considering whether or not to take on the good will and repair the NAS and keep it for other purposes or sell it away.