Posts Tagged USB

DVI to mini DisplayPort converter

Feb 4

Posted by andrew in News | No Comments

It’s not uncommon as we upgrade parts of out computers to need adapters and other gear to make things work together. If you have your eyes set on a new display for your computer that uses DisplayPort and your machine lacks the right output Atlona has a new adapter just for you.

The adapter is called the AT-DP400 dual link DVI to Mini DisplayPort Converter. The converter is USB powered and works with Mac or PC systems. The device is specifically designed to work with the 27-inch iMac computer with resolutions up to 2560 x 1440. The screen connected to the adapter can be used as a main display or have the desktop extended to it.

The adapter is HCDP compliant and it also supports the 2560 x 1600 resolution that 30-inch LCDs use. The adapter will also let PS3 and Xbox users connect the consoles to the iMac without additional hardware at a resolution of up to 720p. The adapter is up for pre-order for $199 and is expected to ship on March 10.

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VIA Vinyl Envy VT1730 USB 2.0 audio controller drips connectivity

Jan 15

Posted by John in News | No Comments

It used to be that you’d need a day-pass to a professional recording studio if you really wanted to do justice to your Human League tribute album, but these days you can do it all in your bedroom.  VIA’s latest – the VIA Envy VT1730 USB 2.0 Audio Controller – takes things to the next level, offering 8 channels of 24-bit/192kHz recording or playback with a single USB 2.0 hookup to your host computer.

In fact, VIA reckon the VT1730 is actually the first “highly-integrated single chip solution” for eight such channels.  It’ll mean you can record a band’s worth of instruments at the same time, or output to eight different speakers for a pretty impressive home cinema system.  Happily the board also supports the I2S standard for Blu-ray audio, which means 24-bit 192kHz audio tracks on such HD discs will sound as they’re meant to.

Connectivity includes six MIDI ports (three in, three out), sixteen I2S ports (eight in, eight out), three stereo S/PDIF ports (one in, two out) and of course USB 2.0.  It looks like we’ll have to wait for an external soundcard manufacturer to pick up the Vinyl Envy VT1730 before we can buy one ourselves, however; no word on when that might happen nor how much we should budget for one, either.

Press Release:

VIA Debuts World’s First USB 2.0 Audio Controller

Ideal for MIDI systems and USB soundcards, the new VIA Vinyl Envy VT1730 USB 2.0 Audio Controller brings studio-level performance to the home audio enthusiast

Taipei, Taiwan, January 14, 2010 – VIA Technologies, Inc., a leading provider of PC and prosumer audio silicon, today unveiled the VIA Vinyl Envy VT1730 USB 2.0 Audio Controller, the industry’s first highly-integrated single chip solution that leverages the broad USB 2.0 bandwidth (480 Mb/s) to deliver uncompromised audio quality.

The VIA Envy VT1730 is an 8-channel, 24-bit/192kHz audio controller specifically designed to achieve cinema-quality audio recording and playback in high fidelity USB and MIDI system applications. Whether it’s using the bandwidth capacity of USB 2.0 to simultaneously support audio streams from a guitar, bass, keyboard and microphone, or delivering true-to-life sound to multiple speakers in a home theatre set-up, the VIA Envy VT1730 offers outstanding audio performance and impressive application flexibility.

Providing a smooth interface between USB, analog and digital audio devices, the VIA Envy VT1730 is ideal for USB sound cards, headphones, audio hubs, recording consoles, and MIDI devices that require the streaming of considerable audio data between a host system and audio I/O system via the USB interface.

“Over 10 years of experience in the audio component industry and extensive knowledge of peripheral interfaces has enabled this technology breakthrough,” said Richard Brown, Vice President of Marketing, VIA Technologies, Inc. “Audio enrichment, through our successful VIA Vinyl Audio line of controllers and codecs, has long been a core element of VIA’s multimedia product focus, and the VIA Envy VT1730 further extends our reach beyond the PC into high-end audio systems.”

Notably, the VIA Envy VT1730 also supports the I²S standard enabling Blu-ray Disc™ audio content protection; solutions without this feature dramatically reduce audio quality to that of a regular CD, with a sampling rate of only 16-bit/48kHz.

For further information on the VIA Vinyl Envy VT1730, please visit the VIA website at:

http://www.via.com.tw/en/products/audio/controllers/envyusb/

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VIA EPIA-M800 and EPIA-N800 Mini/Nano ITX boards announced

Dec 15

Posted by John in News | No Comments

VIA have pushed out a pair of new EPIA boards, the VIA EPIA-M800 Mini-ITX and EPIA-N800 Nano-ITX, each using the company’s Nano processor.  The M800 packs a choice of 1.3+GHz U2250 or fanless 1.2GHz U2500 CPUs, together with dual gigabit ethernet, DVI and HDMI headers, while the N800 gets the 1.3GHz CPU and onboard VGA, USB, COM and gigabit ethernet ports.  Both are paired with a VIA VX800 media processor.

via_epia_m800_n800-540x340

Press Release:

VIA Nano Processor Readies VIA EPIA Boards for Next Generation Embedded Applications and Windows 7 Technologies

VIA EPIA-M800 and VIA EPIA-N800 boards featureVIA Nano processor for advanced multimedia performance in next generation embedded applications

Taipei, Taiwan, December 15, 2009 – VIA Technologies, Inc, a leading innovator of power efficient x86 processor platforms, today announced the latest VIA EPIA-M800 Mini-ITX and VIA EPIA-N800 Nano-ITX boards. Featuring the 64-bit, high-performance VIA Nano processor, these new embedded boards bring advanced digital multimedia performance to the next wave of embedded devices on forthcoming Windows 7-based technologies.

Devices based on the VIA EPIA-M800 and VIA EPIA-N800 leverage the performance enhancements of the VIA Nano processor, offering an improved user experience with advanced human to machine interaction and a visually stunning multimedia experience through the latest HD codecs and media streaming technologies. Specific applications include the latest media-centric designs in digital signage and advanced information, ticket and kiosk machines.

“By selecting the VIA Nano processor for the VIA EPIA-M800 and VIA EPIA-N800, we’ve managed to build on a successful product line and address the needs of the market as we move in to 2010,” said Daniel Wu, Vice President, VIA Embedded Platform Division, VIA Technologies, Inc. “These new board designs will help facilitate the gradual transition toward technologies that are creating a new breed of graphically sophisticated and digitally vibrant devices.”

VIA Nano Processor & VIA VX800 Media System Processor
The VIA Nano processor is based on the 64-bit, superscalar ‘Isaiah’ architecture, boasting as much as a four-fold performance boost over VIA C7 and VIA Eden processors while remaining within a similar thermal envelope. The VIA EPIA-M800 and VIA EPIA-N800 represent an easy upgrade path for current system and device designs based on VIA EPIA-M700 and VIA EPIA-N700 boards.

The key to the outstanding multimedia performance of both the VIA EPIA-M800 and VIA EPIA-N800 lies in the VIA VX800 unified chipset. The VIA VX800 features an VIA Chrome9™ IGP for DirectX™ 9.0 3D graphics, up to six-channels of VIA Vinyl HD Audio and the VIA Chromotion™ video engine, providing advanced hardware video acceleration for MPEG-2, MPEG-4, WMV9 and VC-1 video, plus a VMR capable HD video processor.

The VIA EPIA-M800 Mini-ITX board
The VIA EPIA-M800 is powered by a choice of 1.3+GHz U2250 or a fanless 1.2GHz U2500 VIA Nano processor, making it suitable for a wide range of applications including performance-intensive and mission critical applications.

The latest display technologies are supported via a front panel DVI port with pin-headers for an additional DVI or HDMI port through a daughterboard. Support for 18-bit TTL signal output as well as a digital video input is available through pin headers supporting CCIR-656/601/ transport stream video. An S/PDIF connector is also supported.

Storage includes both an IDE port with a shared Compact Flash port, 2 SATA II ports and up to 6 USB 2.0 ports, two through onboard connectors. Connectivity comes in the form of dual Gigabit LAN ports on the high speed PCI-Express bus. The VIA EPIA-M800 can withstand a wide temperature range from 0-60oC.

For more information about the VIA EPIA-M800 Mini-ITX board, please visit:

http://www.via.com.tw/en/products/embedded/ProductDetail.jsp?productLine=1&id=1010&tabs=1

The VIA EPIA-N800 Nano-ITX board
The VIA EPIA-N800 Nano-ITX features a 1.3+GHz U2250 VIA Nano processor and the VIA VX800 media system processor. Measuring only 12cm x 12cm, the VIA EPIA N800 features onboard VGA, USB, COM and Gigabit network ports to help reduce system foot-print size and eradicate cluttered cabling for improved air-flow and enhanced stability in always-on systems.

Aimed at compact digital display and signage applications the VIA EPIA-N800 offers VGA and a multi-configuration, 24-bit, dual channel LVDS transmitter, enabling display connection to embedded panels. As well as two onboard SATA connectors, expansion options include a Mini-PCI slot, with additional COM and USB ports and PS/2 support available through pin-headers. The DRAM slot has been relocated to the bottom side of the board for easy access and maintenance from system design perspective.

To learn more about the VIA EPIA-N800 Mini-ITX board, please visit:

http://www.via.com.tw/en/products/embedded/ProductDetail.jsp?productLine=1&id=1030&tabs=1

Images related to this announcement can be found here:

http://www.viagallery.com/index.php?option=com_flickr4j&Task=sets&Set=72157622997589406&Page=1

Samples of both the VIA EPIA-M800 and VIA EPIA-N800 are available to project customers now. Both boards include long term product manufacturing support of at least three years.

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TruePower outlet packs USB ports AND AC for just $9.95

Dec 4

Posted by John in News | No Comments

fastmac_usc_usb_outlet

After we marvelled at a DIY way of converting a dull, regular AC outlet into a dual USB outlet yesterday, it turns out there’s soon to be an off-the-shelf way of doing it too.  The handiwork of Michael Lowdermilk, the TruePower UCS Power Outlet With Built-In USB Ports (maybe a snappier name is needed, Michael?) is currently going through safety approval, but once it’s cleared that it’ll offer not only the two USB ports of the DIY solution but keep the two AC outlets as well.

Even better, Michael reckons it’s going to cost a mere $9.95 when it’s eventually on sale.  We can’t quite figure out how he manages that, but we won’t argue with it too much; this is a geek’s dream, frankly.

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Tiny CiragoTV Media Player with HDMI

Dec 4

Posted by andrew in News | No Comments

Media Players that can connect to your TV or PC via HDMI are usually not exactly what most would consider tiny. If you are looking for a media player that is tiny Cirago has launched a new device called the CiragoTV Mini that claims to be the smallest media player to come with both HDMI and HD video capability.

     ciragominitvusb

The little device measures 3″ x 3″ x .7″ can connect to your TV with either HDMI or via a standard AAV outlet. The device supports 720p and 1080i resolutions. A built-in card reader allows any USB, SD, MMC, or Memory Stick to plug directly into the device.

Supported video formats include MPEG-1, MPEG-2, and MPEG-4 (including DivX). The media player also supports MP3 and WMA audio formats along with JPEG images. The CiragoTV mini ships with the required power adapter and a remote control. The little gadget is widely available for under $70.

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Sharkoon Technologies Reveals the USB LANPort 100 and LANPort 400

Dec 2

Posted by natasha in News | No Comments

Sharkoon Technologies has just revealed its USB LANPort 100 and LANPort 400, two adapters targeted to aid users in connecting USB enabled devices to a local area network. This couple of adapters support an Ethernet connector and either one or four USB ports for plugging in memory like flash drives, external or portable HDDs or SSDs, as well as printers and docking stations.

 

Both adapters are delivered with a tool CD, a patch cable so you can connect it right out of the box, as well as a power adapter. With such a compact and unobstructive design, the LANPorts are easily integrated on any needy office desk, without standing out or ruining the overall design.

 

Even better, thanks to the magnetic backplate (magnetism does not do quite good to USB drives and portable hard drives, so try not to get them close), you can even attach the adapter to the PC case (although not recommended, in my personal humble opinion) or any other metallic surface.

Compliant with Windows XP, Vista, as well as Windows 7, both 32 and 64-bit, the LANPorts are capable of delivering the easiest way of making the necessary settings using the included software.

Getting to real-life usage, I would see this used by lazy people so they won’t have to do a file copy on their own, just plug a USB dongle into the adapter, and let their roommates or office colleagues search for their needed files; as for more serious business, these will accurately serve for sharing an external USB hard disk drive over the network so everyone gets access to a briefing or project presentation.

 

Last but not least, sharing printers and scanners in a matter of minutes will provide versatility for home offices. Pricing for the LANPort 100 should be at $35.55, while the LANPort 400 should reach $55.58.

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NEC introduces it’s green LCD

Dec 1

Posted by andrew in News | No Comments

People and companies around the globe are spending money to go green in an effort to reduce pollution and save money on electricity. The green effort has resulted in a number of products that are more energy efficient coming to market, especially in the computer category. NEC has announced a new LCD called the MultiSync EA222WMe that is green and needs less power.

        NECEA222WMe

The MultiSync EA222WMe promises to consume 52% less power than the average 22-inch LCD and produce 25% less heat. The panel is LED backlit to reduce power consumption. The screen has a height adjustable stand and is shipped with 15% less packaging.

Features of the screen include a 16:10 aspect ratio. The native resolution is 1680 x 1050 and the screen has a 30,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio. Brightness is 250 cd/m2 and the stand is a four-way ergonomic unit. Connectivity includes VGA, DVI, USB, and DisplayPort. The monitor will ship in December for $339.

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Raptor-Gaming H2 USB Headset Immerses You in the Game

Nov 27

Posted by natasha in News | No Comments

You’ve probably read some of my past gaming-related articles and seen that I love to play computer games, especially single-player RPGs. I like titles that really put you in character. A deep, plot twisting story with great voice acting and decent graphics such as what Mass Effect or Dragon Age: Origins offers is what I like from a computer game. Because, after a hard day’s work, you need some relaxation.

However, in order to truly enjoy a game, you also need some peripherals that are good enough to help with your complete immersion into the storyline. A comfy keyboard, a gaming mouse with more than the usual three buttons (click, right click and scroll wheel button) as well as a decent pair of headphones, because trust me, my friends… you don’t want to use your speakers, no matter how good or professional they are.

 

Speaking of headphones, Raptor-Gaming has recently released the H2 USB gaming-headset, a gaming peripheral that comes with a noise-canceling microphone and a long cable with a mini control unit that allows you to adjust its volume. Specification-wise, it has a frequency that ranges between 50 Hz and 20 Khz, while the microphone sports a sensitivity of -58 +/- 3dB and a frequency range of 40 to 15000 Hz. The headphones weigh 320g, so your head won’t definitely fall off when you put them on! No pricing as of yet.

 

Now that you have the RAPTOR-GAMING H2 USB headphones, you are ready to hear the witty remarks of Morrigan and find out more about Leliana’s obsession for shoes. Oh, and if Alistair’s crying bothers you, take him out of the party. I mean, I have been playing Dragon’s Age since it first appeared, but I am so fascinated by Leliana, Morrigan and Alistair’s banter, that I sometimes just stop and listen to them argue the night away. It is quite refreshing, you know!

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Lenovo IdeaPad ultraportable

Nov 26

Posted by andrew in News | No Comments

The Lenovo IdeaPad U150 CULV ultraportable last spotted strutting its patterned stuff in Japan last month has finally made it to the US, with pricing kicking off at $649.  The U150 packs a choice of 1.3GHz Pentium dual-core or Core 2 Duo processors, together with 3GB or 4GB of RAM, 250GB or 320GB of storage and an 11.6-inch 1,366 x 768 LED-backlit display.

                      lenovoideapadU150

You also get WiFi b/g as standard (WiFi b/g/n is on the higher-spec Core 2 Duo machine, at $749), Bluetooth 2.1+EDR together with gigabit ethernet.  OS is Windows 7 Home Premium and the standard battery is a 6-cell pack which Lenovo reckon is good for up to 7hrs runtime.  Ports include two USB 2.0, one USB/eSATA combo, both VGA and HDMI, and a 4-in-1 memory card reader.

The whole thing measures in at 11.4 x 7.5 x 0.5-1.35 inches and tips the scales at just 3.31lbs.  It’s available to order now, but if you go via the Dealzon link below you can save a little more and bring the entry price down to around $550.

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ZoomSwitch Adds USB to Unified Communications

Nov 24

Posted by natasha in News | No Comments

Ready for another exciting venture into the world of communication switches? I know, I’m not that keen on it either, but get ready because we will be embarking on a journey full of mystery, excitement, beautiful ladies, dangerous men and, of course, adventure. Who am I kidding, forget about all that fun stuff, I am here to tell you about the ZoomSwitch ZMS20-UC, a device optimized for unified communication functionality that allows users to gain even more control over phone and computer communications.

The ZoomSwitch ZMS20-UC tries to continue where ZMS10 left off and is meant to be used in applications such as Internet telephony, online music, unified messaging, and voice, video, and web conferencing. I have to admit that, to me, there is no job that’s more grinding, grueling and annoying than working in a call center and, if this can actually make it a bit less distressing, it is worth a more in-depth look.

With the help of the ZoomSwitch, users will be able to switch between a desk phone and a computer by just touching a button. It also gives people the ability to listen to online content and also conduct softphone conversations through the telephone’s handset or directly through their headset. As far as connectivity options are concerned, it can connect to any computer or telephone with the help of the supplied USB cable and the 4P4C (RJ9) handset cord.

As far as compatibility goes, it will work with most products, but especially Skype, Microsoft Office Communicator, Cisco IP Communicator, IBM Sametime, Avaya One X, Google Voice, Dragon Naturally Speaking, and so on. It is Plug and Play-compatible with Windows, Mac and whatever other operating system you might have. As far as pricing goes, the ZoomSwitch ZMS20-UC has an MSRP of 74.95 USD.

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