Before Laptops were inexpensive, cool, and functional, they were pricey, heavy, and not especially powerful when it came to RAM, memory or really anything a computers needed to run well. But with a challenge before them, developers at Dell unveiled the Inspiron 2500 series. A marvel for its time… that was now nearly a decade ago.
Retailing for just under $1,200 the computer really was the bargain of the day, with it came a rival in power that for years people thought only a desktop could live up to. Their newest work of art topped out with a capacity for nearly 20GB of hard drive space.
This seems miniscule by today’s standards, but also like many laptops of that era they also died surprisingly hard. For those users that still enjoy having a truly simple computer experience… i.e. those who are still running Windows 95 or the also virtually extinct Windows Version 3.1, the 2500 series is a real bundle of joy.
The one component that wasn’t particularly strong during that time and consequently the biggest complaint of many users was the battery life. Often sputtering out after just one hour, the functionality of Dell’s new creation was something to question, however with time also came upgrades, among those were stronger batteries, including battery/part number 75UYF-2, which could often double the battery life of the computer for users on the go. Users who are still looking to maximize the value of their $1,200 spent long ago, the 75UYF-2 can bring life back to many computers that now serve only as paper weights or stabilizing blocks under a wobbly tables.
Submitted by Jack Edmund.
About The Author
Jack Edmund is a blogger for the laptop battery and accessories retailer PriorityElectronics.com. His interests include kayaking, bird watching, and technology.
Compudio Gadget Reviews does not endorse any of the products and/or companies mentioned in this article.
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Monday, June 8, 2009
SmartSwipe Review: A Closer Look
Ever tired of entering those long credit card numbers on the check-out page? Ever wonder if there are trojans on your computer that can monitor your keystrokes and steal your credit card information? NetSecure Technologies has come up with a product that can be the solution to those problems - the SmartSwipe credit card reader. Let’s take a closer look.
How does SmartSwipe work:
How does SmartSwipe work:
Construction (8/10)
The SmartSwipe is made entirely out of glossy plastic. The egg-shaped reader is detachable from its base, which sets the reader firmly on table surface. Attached to the reader is a retractable USB cord, which, when stretched out, is a little over 2 feet long. If a longer connection to the computer is needed, an USB extension cable is also provided. Along the swipe line is a series of small blue LED lights that indicate the various status of the reader. The unit is light-weight, but does not seem overly flimsy. Overall, although not spectacular, the build quality of the SmartSwipe is of good quality.
Software and In-use (7/10)
The SmartSwipe is quite user-friendly. After installing the software drivers from the CD and restarting the computer, the SmartSwipe was ready to go. However, I noticed a rather long pause between the end of the installation and the beginning of the restart (it may just be my computer). The most recent driver can also be downloaded from the company’s website.
The software interface is nicely laid-out and seems easy to understand. Just follow the on-screen instructions and you will be on your way to “keyless” shopping. The large SmartSwipe access button is located in the Menu bar of Internet Explorer. Unfortunately, the reader is not yet compatible with Firefox or other non-IE browsers. It is also not Mac compatible.
The use procedure is quite simple. After you arrive on the check-out page, simply press the SmartSwipe access button and swipe your credit card. Your information (Name, Credit Card Number, and CVC) will be securely processed and entered as “Protected” on your screen.
Nonetheless, the SmartSwipe is not without its flaws. For new users, the swiping itself can be a bit problematic as the magnet inside does not always read the card if you do not swipe the card in a specific way. You would have to really press the card firmly onto the magnet side and slide quickly in order to get a successful read. If you experienced any error during the reading of your credit card information, simply restart your web browser and re-swipe your credit card.
Conclusion (7.5/10)
According to the company, SmartSwipe is equipped with an advanced cryptographic chip that provides the same level of encryption and security as bank machines. If only the company could find a way to incorporate the software into other non-IE web browsers, the card reader would appeal to a much larger market of potential users. Nonetheless, if you shop online on a constant basis, then it is a good idea to get your hands on a SmartSwipe. The SmartSwipe retails for $89.99 through Dell Canada. Currently, they are doing a special on it for $59.99 – offer only lasts ‘til June 11th, 2009.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Logitech Harmony One: REVIEWED
If you are ever looking for the ultimate remote to replace all other remote controls, then you are reading the right article. Since its premier at last year’s CES (‘08), Logitech’s Harmony One Universal Remote has quickly become an editors’ favourite among high-end consumer products. Yet, with a clouded economy, Harmony One’s $250 price tag may seem a bit too much for a remote in the mainstream consumer market. Today, we will be looking at whether the Harmony One, with its advantages and disadvantage, is worth its price tag.
Build and Design (9.5/10)
The build quality of the Harmony One is exceptional. The front of the control is made of glossy plastic while the back is made of a smooth rubberized material for a comfortably controlled grip. In fact, this rubberized material can also be found on the Logitech G9 Gaming Mouse. The look of the Harmony One is dominated by the front acrylic glass panel, which houses a 2.2 inch multi-coloured LCD touch screen – the highlight of this product. The touch screen is sensitive and adds a nice modern and sophisticated look (and function) to the control.
The ergonomics of the unit are also well thought-out. With a two grip system, user can easily access the middle section (channels and volume) and the bottom section (media and number buttons) of the Harmony One. To access the touch screen, however, a second hand is required. All the buttons will light up (white) once you lift the remote or if it detects a motion. The brightness is set to a perfect level: not bright enough to lit up the whole room, but more than enough to see in the dark.
The cradle in which the Harmony One is charged rests on four rubber feet. A white light indicates the on/off status of the charger. The remote fits snugly inside the cradle and contact with the charger seems to be made pretty easily.
Software (8.5/10)
The Logitech Harmony Remote Software stores the profile of your unit online. The advantage of using an online database is that you can carry your profile across any machines over any distances. Even if your local computer failed and your hard drive, god forbid, got wiped out, you will still be able to access your stored profile. The disadvantage, of course, is that you won’t be able to set up your remote control if you don’t have internet access.
The software itself is pretty straight forward. Almost everything on the remote is customizable. Learning how to use the entire software will take you some time, but the process shouldn’t be too difficult.
Although Logitech advertises that the company has the A/V control profiles of more than 225,000 devices, many of the profiles in reality do not work. Despite showing that the profile exists in the database, getting the remote to work with one of Toshiba’s earlier HD DVD Player, for example, proved to be ineffective. Fortunately, one of the unique features of the remote and its software is that the One is able to “learn” from the original unit remote. All you have to do is to point your original remote to the tail of the Harmony One, and by pressing each button your new universal remote will sync and “learn” from the original one.
The only downside I can see is the scenario where you had lost the original remote to an exotic device, confirmed with Logitech’s online compatibility chart, bought the Harmony One, and comes home having to find out that the online profile somehow doesn’t fully or at all control your device.
Nonetheless, for most common DVD players and TVs from major brands, the profiles seem to be consistent.
In-Use (8/10)
Although the online profile allowed the Harmony One to do a fairly good job at controlling my Toshiba LCD TV, not all the functions on the original Toshiba remote were indicated. That said, after customization through the software, most buttons were set up correctly.
When EVERYTHING was set up, the remote was a bliss to use. All my devices responded happily to the control with small to no delay in the sequential start-up of each device. In controlling my DVD Player, the Harmony One exhibited a slight latency, which was soon fixed by the response time option in the Harmony software.
A major downfall of the Harmony One during my extensive testing was its disastrous performance towards nacho cheese-stained fingers. Seriously, grease and the Harmony One do not mix well together. If you are one of those who must have a bag of Cheetos while flipping through the channels, then I’d suggest that you stick with a $10 remote control.
Conclusion (8.5/10)
Not only is the Harmony One the best looking remote control I’ve seen so far, but its features and adaptability are simply astonishing. The highlight of the control is the fact that almost everything about it is customizable. As long as you still have your original remote, the Harmony One will pretty much include it in its data inventory. Unfortunately, the One works exclusively with IR (infrared) devices, and so, it will not work with units that utilize RF, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave technology.
So, in the end, it comes down to the question whether the Harmony One is worth its price tag. Here is my experience: When I held the Harmony One with its vibrant-coloured touch screen in my hands for the first time, I thought to myself that this little gem is worth all the money in the world. When I touched the “Watch DVD” button on the screen and my TV and DVD Player miraculously turned on, my amazement with its simplicity and effectiveness told me that the remote was worth every penny. After a week of using the Harmony One, however, my excitement has turned into expectation. The now spoiled me could never imagine myself spending $250 on a remote control.
For what it's worth, the Logitech Harmony One is simply a guilty pleasure.
Pros:
src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js">
Build and Design (9.5/10)
The build quality of the Harmony One is exceptional. The front of the control is made of glossy plastic while the back is made of a smooth rubberized material for a comfortably controlled grip. In fact, this rubberized material can also be found on the Logitech G9 Gaming Mouse. The look of the Harmony One is dominated by the front acrylic glass panel, which houses a 2.2 inch multi-coloured LCD touch screen – the highlight of this product. The touch screen is sensitive and adds a nice modern and sophisticated look (and function) to the control.
The ergonomics of the unit are also well thought-out. With a two grip system, user can easily access the middle section (channels and volume) and the bottom section (media and number buttons) of the Harmony One. To access the touch screen, however, a second hand is required. All the buttons will light up (white) once you lift the remote or if it detects a motion. The brightness is set to a perfect level: not bright enough to lit up the whole room, but more than enough to see in the dark.
The cradle in which the Harmony One is charged rests on four rubber feet. A white light indicates the on/off status of the charger. The remote fits snugly inside the cradle and contact with the charger seems to be made pretty easily.
Software (8.5/10)
The Logitech Harmony Remote Software stores the profile of your unit online. The advantage of using an online database is that you can carry your profile across any machines over any distances. Even if your local computer failed and your hard drive, god forbid, got wiped out, you will still be able to access your stored profile. The disadvantage, of course, is that you won’t be able to set up your remote control if you don’t have internet access.
The software itself is pretty straight forward. Almost everything on the remote is customizable. Learning how to use the entire software will take you some time, but the process shouldn’t be too difficult.
Although Logitech advertises that the company has the A/V control profiles of more than 225,000 devices, many of the profiles in reality do not work. Despite showing that the profile exists in the database, getting the remote to work with one of Toshiba’s earlier HD DVD Player, for example, proved to be ineffective. Fortunately, one of the unique features of the remote and its software is that the One is able to “learn” from the original unit remote. All you have to do is to point your original remote to the tail of the Harmony One, and by pressing each button your new universal remote will sync and “learn” from the original one.
The only downside I can see is the scenario where you had lost the original remote to an exotic device, confirmed with Logitech’s online compatibility chart, bought the Harmony One, and comes home having to find out that the online profile somehow doesn’t fully or at all control your device.
Nonetheless, for most common DVD players and TVs from major brands, the profiles seem to be consistent.
In-Use (8/10)
Although the online profile allowed the Harmony One to do a fairly good job at controlling my Toshiba LCD TV, not all the functions on the original Toshiba remote were indicated. That said, after customization through the software, most buttons were set up correctly.
When EVERYTHING was set up, the remote was a bliss to use. All my devices responded happily to the control with small to no delay in the sequential start-up of each device. In controlling my DVD Player, the Harmony One exhibited a slight latency, which was soon fixed by the response time option in the Harmony software.
A major downfall of the Harmony One during my extensive testing was its disastrous performance towards nacho cheese-stained fingers. Seriously, grease and the Harmony One do not mix well together. If you are one of those who must have a bag of Cheetos while flipping through the channels, then I’d suggest that you stick with a $10 remote control.
Conclusion (8.5/10)
Not only is the Harmony One the best looking remote control I’ve seen so far, but its features and adaptability are simply astonishing. The highlight of the control is the fact that almost everything about it is customizable. As long as you still have your original remote, the Harmony One will pretty much include it in its data inventory. Unfortunately, the One works exclusively with IR (infrared) devices, and so, it will not work with units that utilize RF, Bluetooth, or Z-Wave technology.
So, in the end, it comes down to the question whether the Harmony One is worth its price tag. Here is my experience: When I held the Harmony One with its vibrant-coloured touch screen in my hands for the first time, I thought to myself that this little gem is worth all the money in the world. When I touched the “Watch DVD” button on the screen and my TV and DVD Player miraculously turned on, my amazement with its simplicity and effectiveness told me that the remote was worth every penny. After a week of using the Harmony One, however, my excitement has turned into expectation. The now spoiled me could never imagine myself spending $250 on a remote control.
For what it's worth, the Logitech Harmony One is simply a guilty pleasure.
Pros:
- Fully customizable
- Motion-detection to save power
- Rechargeable battery
- Stylish and comfortable ergonomics
- Great touch screen
Cons:
- Not all of the online profiles work
- Susceptible to oil and grease
- Expensive
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Sunday, January 11, 2009
Top 10 Gadgets from CES 2009
A look back at the 10 hottest gadgets featured at this weekend's Consumer Electronics Show (2009), as ranked by Compudio Gadget Reviews. Editor's Note: Out of the thousands of products being showcased, we feel these 10 items reflect either the most innovation or the most promising in leading the next-generation consumer eletronics products. Rankings in no particular order.
Nvidia GeForce 3D Vision
3D vision is not a new concept. However, Nvidia has brought this technology to the next level - gaming!
"A combination of high-tech wireless glasses and advanced software, GeForce 3D Vision automatically transforms hundreds of PC games into full stereoscopic 3D. Just slip on the stylish glasses and pair them with an NVIDIA® GeForce® GPU and a GeForce 3D Vision-Ready display to experience characters and environments come to life on the screen. In addition, you can watch 3D movies and 3D digital photographs in eye popping, crystal-clear quality."
Logitech Harmony 1100 Universal Remote
This 3.5", full colour, touch screen, rechargeable universal remote may indicate the new way of controlling A/V equipment has arrived. Unfortunately, its $500 price tag in a gloomy economy may deter its appeal to the general public for quite some time.
Powermat Wireless Charger
"Powermat is an innovative wireless charging / powering technology that allows users to charge all their electrical devices wirelessly and from a single mat, eliminating the need for multiple cords, adapters and plug strips. Utilizing principles of magnetic induction, Powermat transmits electrical power via an ultra-thin mat (which can also be embedded in, or overlaid on, a surface or wall) to electronic devices placed on it."
While the idea of charging devices wirelessly may seem handy, most devices still need adapters, which defeats the purpose of charging without cords.
Sony's Flexible OLED
Boosting 16.7 million colours, Sony's first flexible OLED display leads way to the next era of displays. Soon, you will see video graphics on places we have never dreamt of, perhaps even on t-shirts and books.
ASUS Eee Keyboard
How does having an entire PC system in your keyboard sound? Weighing less than 2 pounds, the keyboard combines wireless HDMI, Intel-based netbook specs, and a 5" touch screen. The idea is to use the Eee Keyboard in conjunction with a large LCD TV or display, surfing the web and what not. Very neat concept indeed. The keyboard will be going into production this year.
Flatwire
From Southwire Co., Flatwire is a whole new solution to those ugly wires dangling down your wall-mounted LCD TV. Only paper thin, Flatwire allows the transfer of signals and electricity up to 120V household current. Flatwire can be pasted onto walls and even painted over, creating an illusion of invisible wires.Linksys by Cisco Conductor DMC350
"Experience your music all around your home – sounding great and at your control, without wires. With built-in speakers, CD player, and color touch control screen, the Conductor / Wireless-N Digital Music Center is designed to let you play and command your digital music wherever you want in your home."
The DMC350, featuring a 7" Touch screen, is an all-in-one music system that transmits wirelessly! Looks very promising.
Razer Mamba Wired/Wireless Gaming Mouse
"The Razer Mamba features gaming grade wireless technology with a hybrid system that enables instant wired/wireless functionality. Coupled with an industry leading 1ms polling rate, it is the fastest performing mouse both on and off the cord. Delivering true wireless freedom, lag-free speed and ergonomic comfort, the Razer Mamba is in a league of its own."
Equipped with with a 5600DPI, 3.5G Laser sensor, and 1000Hz Ultrapolling™ / 1ms response rate, the Razer Mamba is now the most technically advanced mouse on the market, yes even trumping Logitech's soon-to-be-released G9x Gaming Mouse. Razer has dazzled us with its wired/wireless hybrid design.
LG Watch Phone
It's small, but it certainly does its job. The watch phone from LG is probably one of the most talked about devices in CES this year. Measuring only 1.4", the touch-screen watch sports most of the features you would find on your regular cellphone, including audio player and a camera!
Creative Zii
No, this is not another variation of Creative's Zen PMP. No, this is something that will revolutionize the world of computing. What is Creative Zii you ask? In one sentence to sum it all up, Creative Zii is a processor chip developed from stemcell technology that is super powerful, super small, super dynamic (intelligent), and super power efficient. This little gadget is definitely one of the most exciting, if not the most exciting, product unravelling at this year's CES.
Still confused? Check out this video.
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