1/02/2012

NComputing L130 Nstation Ultra Thin Client Review

NComputing L130 Nstation Ultra Thin Client
Average Reviews:

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I wasn't expecting miracles with this product, and I didn't get any.However, for our office, we were looking to reduce the amount of PCs that we have to manage, and this seemed like a good idea.

There were some initial installation problems with NComputing's software and XP Service Pack 3.After some uninstalling and reinstalling a few times, I finally got it working.

This device allows you to run many office applications.Your basic word processor, spreadsheet, web browser, etc. work just fine.However, if you have specialized software that was written for the days for Windows 98, you may have some problems.

We weren't able to reduce the amount of PCs and support work as we had initially thought.But we ended up having a handful of users share a PC for their basic applications.That equates to maybe a 5% reduction of hardware and time saved upgrading specific PCs.May not be worth it to some.

The L230 version adds a USB port.It's said to work with thumb drives only.We tried connecting a card reader and a compact flash card.Our files came across corrupted some times.We hooked up an externally powered page scanner, and it works, albeit much more slowly than when hooked up to the PC directly (as expected).The L230 may be a better choice if you might need to have people use external devices.

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Product Description:
NStation L130 Ultra Thin Client.

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Samsung Touch Of Color T220 22-inch LCD Monitor Review

Samsung Touch Of Color T220 22-inch LCD Monitor
Average Reviews:

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It isn't the design of this LCD that earns merit, although it is a rather timeless looking item and will look smart in any situation. It's the feature set, and there is certainly far more function over form than meets the casual eye!

Pros:

- Can be set to auto detect the exact input source resolution and display the image without any stretching. This is great if you play games that might need 1280 x 1024 or 1680 x 1050. Your treasured vintage game collection will still look splendid!

- Has a great software tool that will set the correct color / contrast / brightness balance. Make sure you run MagicBright after installation - the image is stellar once you have this set.

- Low power consumption - do your bit for Gaia ;-)

- The memory resident tools do not task the CPU.

- Tack sharp display with almost non-existant light bleed at the edges

- Games look superb!

- No dead pixels

- Comfortable viewing size - I find larger displays somewhat taxing on the eyes

- Has a great tool that can divide your display into various logical units - a bit mike having multiple displays - very cool as this makes apps snap into the regions just like extra displays

- Amazing price - 2ms + 20,000:1 contrast ratio + Samsung quality + auto resolution detect + much more!

Cons:

- No height adjustment - but by no means a show-stopper when you bear in mind the spec.

- Tilt only tilts away, not towards you. The assumption is that you will be looking down at the screen up to horizontal, which is ergonomically incorrect. The user should have the option to view at 90 degrees or above to avoid neck strain. I resolved this by buying a sturdy stand so I can have the mid-screen point at eye level ;-)

- No frame color options - just translucent burgundy, which looks blackish most of the time in low light conditions.

- Software installation is confusing. It recommends that you download the latest software. When you click the link, it's very unclear what you need to do. I couldn't see a option for the T220, so I just installed what was on the disk and everything ran fine. You must run the software installer using Internet Explorer, otherwise you need to manually run the install exe from the CD.

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Product Description:

There aren't other monitors like these anywhere. Of course.
Imagine being inspired by something old to create something completely new. When sand was fused with soda for the first time around 2500 B.C., a new material was created: glass. And now Samsung designers have fused a clear-as-glass plastic with an opaque, rose-black plastic, to create something completely new in the monitor industry: the Samsung Touch of Color Series widescreen LCD monitors. Luxurious glass-like frames with gracefully sculpted edges join with rose-black bezels to give a soft hint of rich red. The result is an elegant monitor that feels more like handcrafted artwork than a high-performance office tool. The stunning Samsung Touch of Color widescreen LCD monitors. The fusion of high technology and high style. With Samsung, it's not hard to imagine.
They're works of art. They'll be a pleasure to work on or game on or whatever on every day. They're an unexpected bright spot in an industry of sameness. And they're exactly what you should have been expecting from Samsung.
Samsung values design every bit as much as we value technology. We go to work every morning too, and just like you, we want to feel inspired when we walk in the door each morning. We feel very strongly that every product we put our logo on should both perform better and look better than anything else on the market. The latest result of that way of thinking is the beautifully hand-sculpted-feeling Touch of Color series monitors.
Yes, it's a pretty face. But it's also ready to work.
You can't just sit and admire your Touch of Color monitor all day long. At some point, you have to turn it on and start working. When you do, you'll be every bit as impressed with the images as you are with the design.
Features
Reduces Glare
While the crystal-like bezel frame catches light beautifully, it doesn't glare harshly. In fact, it actually reduces refelection of light off the bezel. ToC monitors are easier on your eyes, in more ways than one.
Better and Safer
Since the rich red color is injection molded for a blown glass effect, instead of spray painted, there's less environmental impact.
Lower Power Consumption

ToC monitors (T240, T260) are designed to be extremely efficient, and use up to a third less power than other monitors in their class. And the unique SoftPower off function lets you put it in standy mode right away, using just 0.3W.
20,000:1 Dynamic Contrast Ratio

The ToC monitors continually analyze the input signal and adjust the contrast to match. The ultra-wide range gives you blacks and whites that are full of detail, even under adverse lighting conditions.
Ultra-fast Response Time

2ms GTG response (T190, T220) and 5ms response (T240, T260) ensure blur-free videos and gaming.
Exclusive MagicColor Technology
Samsung's MagicColor technology gives you richer, more natural color by enhancing the color overall (Full mode) or by enhancing color without affecting delicate skin tones (Intelligent mode).
Exclusive MagicBright 3 Technology
You can make the stunning picture even better. Samsung's MagicBright 3 technology gives you seven presets, so you can tailor your screen setting to the type of media you're viewing. Presets include Text, Internet, Game, Sport, Movie, Print View and Custom.
Windows Vista Premium Certification
ToC monitors are designed to take full advantage of everything Windows Vista OS has to offer.
Customizable Hot Key
Want to open a favorite application with one button? Or connect to the internet? Or adjust picture modes? A customizable hot key puts your favorite preference or command at the tip of your finger.
Multi Screen Need some organization in your life?
Multi Screen can help. You can assign applications and open windows to different quadrants of the screen, and reduce desktop clutter. You can even specify that a certain application always open in a specific quadrant, so you'll always know right where it is.

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Raritan 4PORT SWITCHMAN USB KVM SWITCH ( SW4-USB ) Review

Raritan 4PORT SWITCHMAN USB KVM SWITCH
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Pros:
Consumer priced KVM switch from Enterprise focused company.
Fantastic support.Had a bad unit and they Advance RMA'd it.That right I got a new unit Fed-Exed to me before I had to ship back the bad unit.On top of that tech support was outstanding.Fast replies and knowledgeable.
Full USB 2.0 Support
Compact Size
Supports Microsoft and Logitech keyboards fully i.e., special keys all
work.
Great price
Price even better when you consider 2 cables included.Cons
Not all keyboards supported.
Seems to have an issue with Keyboard switching and/or mouse support with keyboard/mouse combos that have a single integrated receiver. Basically ifintegrated receiver plugged into keyboard slot mouse doesn't work.If plugged into the mouse the Hot key on Keyboard for switching doesn't work.

Silly location for USB ports.Keyboard, mouse and USB hub are all on front of unit.Makes wiring a mess.

First KVM I've seen that has the Monitor input as a female.Means that you need a male/male VGA cable instead of just an VGA extension cable.

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Product Description:

Raritan's SwitchMan USB allows control of up to 4 USB computers from a single USB keyboard, video and mouse (KVM) console. SwitchMans built-in USB hub allows multiple computers to share USB supported devices such as scanners, digital cameras, printers, CD ROMs and PDAs. Its audio capability lets you share a single microphone and stereo speakers regardless of which computer you connect to.SwitchMans small footprint saves valuable desk space and color-coded connectors and premium cables make installation easy. There is no complicated setup or software to load, just plug in a standard USB keyboard, USB mouse and VGA monitor and you are up and running. SwitchMan USB supports both PCs and/or Apple Macs, with connectivity via Raritan's premium KVM cables for the highest video and audio quality. SwitchMan USB is available in 2 and 4 port models and can be mounted horizontally or vertically on your desktop. SwitchMan USB has the same bulletproof reliability as the Raritan enterprise-class products used in over 50,000 data centers worldwide.


Main Features
Manufacturer: Raritan Computer
Manufacturer Part Number: SW4-USB
Manufacturer Website Address: www.raritan.com
Product Type: KVM Switch
Number of Computers: 4
Number of Users: 1 x Local User
Video Signals: VGA, SVGA, MultiSync
Graphics Resolution: 2048 x 1536 @ 85Hz Maximum
Platform Support: PC, Mac
User/Console Ports: 1 x 4-pin USB Type A Keyboard , 1 x 4-pin USB Type A Mouse , 1 x 15-pin D-Sub (HD-15) Female VGA/SVGA , 1 x 3.5mm Line-out , 1 x 3.5mm Line-in
Computer Ports: 4 x 4-pin Type B USB , 4 x 15-pin HD-15 Female Video , 4 x mini phone Line-out , 4 x mini phone Line-in
Form Factor: Desktop
Dimensions: 1.73" Height x 9.25" Width x 5.54" Depth
Weight: 2.33 lb
Standard Warranty: 2 Year(s)



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1/01/2012

NEC LCD1760V-BK 17" LCD Monitor (Black) Review

NEC LCD1760V-BK 17' LCD Monitor
Average Reviews:

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The NEC MultiSync LCD 1760V monitor is an excellent choice if you are considering an LCD monitor.In case you didn't know, NEC-Mitsubishi Display Systems, the manufacturer, is one of the first companies to produce LCD monitors, so they really know what they are doing.The LCD screen itself measures... you guessed it... 17 inches diagonally, and the image is sharp and bright even at 70% brightness and 50% contrast.The native resolution is 1280x768; if you think you'll get eye strains at this level, don't worry: the monitor comes with a free downloaded copy of Liquid View, which makes Windows easier to look at.
Setup was a total breeze for me.I just took the monitor out of the box, hooked up the power and monitor cables, and turned it on.NEC's exclusive automatic adjustment immediately set the contrast and brightness to my liking.The only adjustment you may need to make is on the PC itself: according to an instruction sheet taped to the monitor, you should set the display adapter to 1280x1024 at 60Hz.
The 1760V is stylish in either black or white.Because it's made in China, the plastic does feel a little "cheap" when you inspect it up-close.Thankfully the LCD screen itself is top-notch.No dead pixels, no ghosting, no pulsating spots as with offerings from off-brands like KDS or Cornea.
My only complaint is the control buttons on the monitor have nearly invisible markings.Of course, the automatic adjustment feature means you probably won't have to tinker with the monitor controls, but NEC should have labeled them more clearly.Contrary to what one reviewer claims, the manual *does* mention the buttons and what they do, in a table on p. 7.The buttons are responsive and easy to press, which is an improvement over some previous models.The setup interface is pretty straightforward, although first-timers may need to refer to the manual to see which buttons control what.
In summary, another excellent product from NEC-Mitsubishi.If you want a 17-inch LCD, be sure to get this affordable, high-quality one.
(Note: This model is Macintosh-friendly.)

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Product Description:
With a clean, stylish design and a full 17-inch viewing screen, the NEC-Mitsubishi 1760V offers distortion-free imaging and an impressive conservation of desktop space. Combining an exceptional 400:1 contrast ratio with high brightness and 1,280 x 1,024 resolution, business text is cleanly legible while high-end graphics show rich colors and crisp edges.
The tilt/swivel base supplies plenty of comfortable viewing options, and the screen detaches from the base for easy wall mounting. Simple onscreen controls allow you to set the picture to your personal viewing preferences, and the thin frame adds a touch of edgy style. NEC-Mitsubishi includes a three-year warranty covering parts and service with this monitor.
What's in the Box
Monitor, AC power supply and cord, stand, 15-pin analog cable, instructions, warranty information

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MXL USB006 USB Cardioid Condenser Microphone Review

MXL USB006 USB Cardioid Condenser Microphone
Average Reviews:

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I got this microphone to record voiceover narration for a video.There are points where there will only be narration, and no music or background audio.

Although it sounds pretty good for a USB mic, in that it gives a rich, faithful reproduction, there is a noticeable pitch generated by the microphone itself.This self-noise is audible during quiet moments or even when speech is recorded, if you listen carefully.On the plus side, it does come with a nifty case, desktop tripod and has hardware gain control with three settings.It worked right out of the box with my Mac, so no problems in the compatibility department.

I was poking around to make myself feel better about buying this microphone over the popular Samson C01U and Snowball, and came across a review of all of these microphones, including the new Rode Podcaster, pitted against each other.The reviewer noted a distinct B-natural pitch from the MXLUSB.006, though it did have less self-noise than the Samson.Check out the review at Emusician, search google for Samson, MXL, Podcaster and you should find it.

Wish I saw that review before I bought the MXL, since I experienced the same thing.Though the MXL has a rich sound, the noise is unacceptable for my application and I'll be returning it.

Although USB mics are notorious for noticeable self-noise, I went ahead and got the Rode Podcaster, and have not noticed any significant self-noise.

If a faint high-pitched noise is not a big deal to you, this is a pretty good condenser microphone.I would be all over it if it weren't for the fact that I need a really quiet mic.

Click Here to see more reviews about: MXL USB006 USB Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Product Description:
Designed withease-of-use in mind, the new MXL.006 features a large gold diaphragm that delivers a big, rich sound characteristic of studio and broadcast microphones. Unlike most studio condenser microphones, however, the MXL.006 is a USB (Universal Serial Bus) instrument that connects directly to a computer without the need for external mic preamps. Now, anyone requiring high quality, professional sound on their computer can record music or dialog by simply connecting to a standard USB port. Featuring support for USB 1.1 and 2.0, this exceptionally easy-to-use microphone even includes gain adjustment settings via the built-in three position attenuation switch.
Working with the new MXL.006 is a pleasure. As a plug and play device for both Windows and Macintosh, it requires no special drivers whatsoever. Simply connect the microphone's USB cable to a computer's USB port, and installation is quick and effortless. In addition to recording instruments or voice for home recording applications, the new MXL.006 is the perfect microphone for podcasting or adding dialog to presentations and other multimedia projects. It is also the perfect solution capable of opening new possibilities for radio and news broadcasters and for location recording.Unlike electrets or dynamic microphones typically used for computer work, the MXL.006 has an extremely smooth, natural sound typical of what one would hear on a professionally produced CD or radio show. The analog section of the new MXL.006 microphone features a 20 Hz-20 kHz frequency response, a large gold diaphragm, pressure-gradient condenser capsule, and a 3-position, switchable attenuation pad with settings for Hi (0 dB), Medium (-5 dB), and Lo (-10 dB), making it easy to configure the microphone to virtually any sound source. The digital section features a 16-bit Delta Sigma A/D converter with a sampling rate of 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz. Protecting the instrument's capsule is a heavy-duty wire mesh grill with an integrated pop filter.To make recording a trouble-free process, the new MXL.006 features a red LED behind the protective grill. This LED informs the user that the microphone is active and correctly oriented toward the user. To complete this terrific package, the new MXL.006 ships with a travel case, a desktop microphone stand, a 10-foot USB cable, windscreen, an owner's manual, and an applications guide.



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Zotac Atom N330 Dual Core WiFi ITX Intel Motherboard IONITX-F-E Review

Zotac Atom N330 Dual Core WiFi ITX Intel Motherboard IONITX-F-E
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I bought this after reselling my similar Zotac IONITX D-E (a.k.a. IONITX A-U, only no PSU included), as it simply didn't do it for me as an HTPC. The main issue with the D-E/A-U was that there were no PCI-E slots for a TV card of my choice.

That all changed with the F-E, which was released just a few months later. It's got the PCI-E slot that makes all the difference.

TV CARD:
If you have digital cable, you could technically just use the HDHomeRun (analog cable/NTSC not supported): http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0010Y414Q?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8

We, on the other hand, only have analog cable. Therefore, it needed to work with my current TV card, which is an analog/digital hybrid: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E2T6Y4?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8CASE
I use my board with this APEX case, which works quite well: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000WCQYU6?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8MEMORY
The best memory to grab for any of these Zotac boards is Crucial's XMS sticks.

Go for the 2GB (2 x 1GB) if you don't intend to ever watch Blu-Ray movies:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000CDLCGG?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8

Go for the 4GB (2 x 2GB) if you DO intent to watch Blu-Ray movies:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000TPXULC?tag=a52-20&ie=UTF8

Hope this helps! :)

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Product Description:
Experience fluid and vivid high-definition video playback with the ultra-compact ZOTAC ION platform. The mini-ITX form factor ZOTAC ION combines a high-performance NVIDIA ION graphics processor with a power-efficient Intel Atom processor for the ultimate eco-friendly platform that has no troubles handling regular web browsing, e-mail, & productivity and HD video playback tasks.

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IOGear Enhanced Data Rate Bluetooth USB Adapter with Range up to 66 ft. GBU221 Review

IOGear Enhanced Data Rate Bluetooth USB Adapter with Range up to 66 ft. GBU221
Average Reviews:

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Unlike *all* the other manufacturers out there who seem to have been blind-sided by the advent of Windows Vista, this Bluetooth transceiver works right out of the box.

Just be aware that their in-box installation documentation needs to be updated and download their latest drivers from their web site.(Trust me, I have done a lot of research, and none of the other manufacturers have so much as Vista drivers!)

Click Here to see more reviews about: IOGear Enhanced Data Rate Bluetooth USB Adapter with Range up to 66 ft. GBU221

Product Description:
IOGEARs new USB Adapters with the with Bluetooth wireless technology+ EDR (Enhanced Data Rate) deliver faster wireless data transfer speed, improved bandwidth and draw less power than ever before. Now when you add Bluetooth wireless technology to your desktop or notebook PC or Mac, you will be able to wirelessly share documents, music and video at up to three times the speed of previous Bluetooth devices. You will also be able to wirelessly connect up to seven Bluetooth devices together and transfer even the largest files quickly and easily due to greater bandwidth. And our new adapters lower power consumption means longer battery life on your notebook computer. Just plug in an IOGEAR USB adapter with Bluetooth wireless technology and get your computer wirelessly sharing data with your Bluetooth-enabled cell phone, PDA, stereo headphones, printer and more.

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