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New Apple Mac Mini Revealed

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Apple has unveiled a new Mac mini that features up to twice the graphics performance, has a new HDMI port and SD card slot, in a compact aluminium enclosure.


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The new Mac mini features a compact aluminium enclosure just 19.7 cm square and 3.6 cm thin. A new integrated power supply eliminates the need for an external power adapter, while a removable panel underneath provides quick access for memory expansion.

It includes an NVIDIA GeForce 320M graphics processor that claims to deliver up to twice the graphics performance of its predecessor. This means that the Mac mini is ideal for graphics intensive applications or visually rich games. Mac mini comes with Mac OS X Snow Leopard, iLife, and comes standard with a 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 320GB hard and 2GB of RAM for $999.

Apple’s Senior Vice President of Worldwide Product Marketing, Philip Schiller said, “The sleek, aluminium Mac mini packs great features, versatility and value into an elegant, amazingly compact design. With twice the graphics performance, HDMI support and industry-leading energy efficiency, customers are going to love the new Mac mini.”

Apple is also offering a Mac mini with Mac OS X Snow Leopard Server that fulfils all the server needs of a workgroup or small business including email, calendar, file serving, Time Machine backup, Wiki Server, Podcast Producer and more.

Mac mini with Mac OS X Snow Leopard Server uses less than 11W of power at idle, a fraction of the power consumed in comparison to typical entry-level tower servers. Mac mini with Mac OS X Snow Leopard Server is faster than before with a 2.66 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, two 500GB hard drives now running at 7200 rpm, 4GB of RAM and supports unlimited clients for $1399.

The new Mac mini is available today through the Apple Store, Apple’s retail stores and Apple Authorised Resellers. 

Seagate First With 3TB External Hard Drive

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Seagate unveiled the first 3 terabyte external desktop drive in the world.


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The 3TB FreeAgent GoFlex Desk external hard drive can store up to 120 HD movies, 1,500 video games, thousands of photos, or countless hours of digital music. The 3TB GoFlex Desk external drive’s USB interface can easily adapt into a USB 3.0 or FireWire 800 connection to meet speed needs.

Seagate’s Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Product Line Management, Dave Mosley said, “Consumer capacity demands are quickly out-pacing the needs of business as people continue to collect high-definition videos, photos and music.”

“Seagate has a tradition of designing products that break into new storage frontiers to meet customer requirements and the 3TB GoFlex Desk external drive is no exception-delivering the highest-capacity storage solution available today,” added Mosley.

 

The GoFlex Desk external drive delivers unconstrained, high-capacity storage and automatic, continuous backup with software file encryption to help keep all data safe and secure.

The standard USB 2.0 interface can be upgraded to USB 3.0 or FireWire 800 by coupling the drive with the appropriate GoFlex desktop adapter to increase file transfer performance by up to 10x for easier copying or sharing of files.  

It is compatible with both the Windows operating system and Mac computers. Each drive includes an NTFS driver for Mac, which allows the drive to store and access files from both Windows and Mac OS X computers without reformatting. The NTFS driver is simply installed once on a Mac computer, allowing it to read and write files on a Windows formatted drive. Its sleek black, 3.5-inch design sits either vertically or horizontally to accommodate any desktop environment.

The 3TB GoFlex Desk external drive with USB 2.0 adapter can be purchased through select retailers and resellers for $499.

Clickfree Offers Backup Without The Fuss

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If you want to keep backup files of your photos, videos, and other important files stored on multiple computers but have no idea how, then Clickfree’s new backup drive may be the perfect solution for you.


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Users will only find three items inside the box – a quick start guide, the Clickfree backup drive with integrated USB, and a Docking Cradle. The drive sports a piano black finish, making it a fingerprint magnet. The integrated USB is located behind the device, but its cord is a bit short – we recommend users to use the docking cradle whenever possible.

According to the manual, all a user needs to do is to plug the device in to start the back up. The unit is compatible with Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7, and Mac OS 10.5 or later, but for this test, we used a notebook running on Windows Vista. After reading and agreeing to the End User License Agreement, we were able to begin the backup process.

A Welcome Screen pops up and starts a countdown to search for new backup files and install the software, although a user can immediately start the process by clicking on the ‘Start’ icon. After scanning our test PC for the first time, the Clickfree C2N began backing up data. Our computer had a total of 23452 files to backup, with the drive segregating it into ten different sections (Photos, Music, E-mail Files, Text Documents, Spreadsheets, Presentations, Artwork and Drawings, Videos, Favourite Websites, and All Others).

 

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The initial backup took almost two hours to complete (for 89GB of data), with the software prompting us that the computer can now be backed up over the network. Our succeeding backup times were significantly shorter as the device only had to add the new files.

After the backup process, a user can then see the Backup summary (files can be viewed by clicking on the icons, Browse Files, Search Files, as well as Photos (which can be printed, shared, or e-mailed). Clicking on the Options button allows a user to Manage Settings, Import Music, Add/Remove Password, Edit Backup Schedule, Create Backup DVDs, or Restore Files.

The unit will also automatically install BackupLink, a software by Clickfree that enables Automatic Home Backup across the network.  Users must connect the C2N to another computer, perform a backup, and install the BackupLink on it for the system to recognize other computers that need to be backed up. All a user needs to do is to connect the drive to one of the computers with BackupLink installed for this to work.

Overall, the Clickfree C2N is a good product for those who want to back up without having to think. Most of the important steps are automatically done, the interface is easy to use, and you can backup your other computers in a snap (so long as you have enough space). It is available now at major retailers including Bing Lee, Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi, and Harris Technology from $189.

Paid Apps Now On Oz Blackberry Phones

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Research In Motion has confirmed that its BlackBerry App World will now allow Blackberry users in Australia to purchase applications using PayPal and major credit cards.RIM says that in addition to various free mobile applications available, customers can also now purchase a variety of additional mobile applications starting from US 99 cents (automatically converted to local currency).

In addition, QR barcode scanning is also supported, allowing users to scan a QR code associated with an application in order to find the related apps. It will also automatically open the application’s information and download page.

Finally, the company said that it provide customers with a BlackBerry ID which enables credit card payments and allows customers to seamlessly transfer their personal library of free and purchased apps when they switch to a new BlackBerry smartphone.

Download the new BlackBerry App World directly to your BlackBerry smartphone by visiting www.blackberry.com/appworld or mobile.blackberry.com.

Kingston Unveils Water Cooled Memory Chips

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Kingston released a new water-cooled DDR3 memory kit that is aimed at enthusiasts building water-cooled systems.


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Kingston’s three HyperX DDR3 products in the new H2O line are as follows: two 4GB dual-channel kits (2000MHz, 2133MHz) and a 6GB triple-channel kit running at 2000MHz.

Kingston’s DRAM Memory Sales Director, APAC Region, Ann Bai said: “Water cooling is desirable for its quiet operation and long-term reliability. We are bringing HyperX H2O to market as a solution for PC enthusiasts who want to build water-cooled systems using high quality Kingston products. HyperX H2O is a natural extension of Kingston’s offerings for performance users. Our goal is for users of all levels and interests to have a Kingston product that meets their needs.”

Kingston is also proud to announce that the original HyperX module is now called Genesis. The core of the HyperX family is the blu, Genesis and T1 series as they offer solutions in a range of densities and frequencies for enthusiasts of all levels. For system builders with specific requirements, H2O adds high performance in a water-cooling environment while LoVo is the perfect choice for an energy-efficient build.

RRP are as follows:
KHX2000C9AD3W1K2/4GX        AUD$295
KHX2133C9AD3W1K2/4GX        AUD$350
KHX2000C9AD3W1K3/6GX        AUD$448

Affordable Lenovo Desktops For SMBs

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Lenovo has unveiled a new line of powerful yet affordable desktop computers aimed at small to medium businesses.According to Lenovo, the ThinkCentre A70 features ‘the latest processing, memory and graphics performance at an affordable price, starting at AUD$769’.

On the other hand, the M70e builds on the A70’s platform with ‘advanced features for greater expandability, stability and manageability for larger business customers,’ said the company.

Lenovo Australia and New Zealand’s Director, SMB and Consumer Business, Chris Kelly said, “Desktop PCs are the backbone of small businesses today, with customers depending on reliable PC performance to accomplish critical operational tasks. The ThinkCentre A70 and M70e deliver practical performance and good-looking design at a reasonable price.”

The desktops come in two sizes including the small form factor or tower. The power button, media and USB ports are located on the front of the PC, while a new top handle makes moving the PC easy.

The desktops include the following features:

  • Processor choices of Intel Core2Duo, Pentium and Celeron processors. Core2Quad processors are available with the M70e.
  • Graphics choices of NVIDIA GeForce FX380 Quadro or Intel integrated GMA X4500 graphics.
  • High speed DDR3 memory up to 4GB. Large hard drives up to 500GB and up to 1TB in the M70e.
  • Gigabit Ethernet and DVD burner.
  • Suite of Lenovo ThinkVantage Tools including Rescue and Recovery and System Update.

The M70e is equipped with a number of other features including an optional chassis intrusion switch, USB port disablement, a stable hardware platform, greater expandability featuring an 8in1 card reader, and up to eight USB and multiple serial ports.  
Lenovo also offers a variety of unique services for SMBs, such as Online Data Backup which ensures data protection through redundancy, Hard Disk Retention to keep possession of data when decommissioning PCs, and Priority Support to access 24/7 technical support.

The ThinkCentre A70 and ThinkCentre M70e will be available through business partners starting at $769. 

Fonality Virtual Phone System For SMBs

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Fonality’s Connect is a contract-free monthly phone system and service over the Internet that includes unlimited free calling and can be deployed and operational in minutes.


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According to the company, Connect has been developed for businesses of all sizes but is ideal for companies with up to 20 employees. With a fixed monthly fee that includes handsets and unlimited local and national calls, and zero up-front investment, Fonality Connect enables business owners to budget their monthly telephony costs accurately.

Fonality’s Vice President of International Sales, Marc Englaro said, “Business owners are moving away from services with variable costs. They want to know their costs in advance. Fonality Connect enables them to have a clear view of their monthly phone costs and does not require a costly, initial capital expenditure.”

Fonality Connect has been designed as a ‘plug-and-play’ solution, with minimal technical expertise required to get the system up and running.

“Many small business owners are not technically minded and most would rather not worry about the technical details of the phone system,” added Englaro. “Fonality Connect is very easy to set up by almost anyone and in most cases is operational in a matter of minutes.”

Fonality Connect is available in Standard Edition and Team Edition, which also offers an upgrade to advanced call centre features usually reserved for high-priced, big business phone systems.

Fonality Connect is available exclusively through Fonality Australia – fonality.com.au.

NetComm Kits Simplify Home Networking

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NetComm has launched new home networking products that instantly connects home entertainment products to the Internet.


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NetComm NP203

The NP203 Home Entertainment Connection Kit consists of a 4-port desktop powerline adapter and a single port desktop powerline adapter that claims to deliver data rates of up to 200Mbps. It is able to connect up to four devices, has a range of up to 300 metres (point to point) and has a security push button for simple setup of powerline network.

The company has also unveiled the NP121 Wireless Home AV Connection Kit, two pre-paired wireless routers that allow users to set their wireless network connection instantly. This AV kit supports wireless N for speeds of up to 300Mbps and four Ethernet ports for wired connections at each end, eliminating Ethernet cables running across the floor.

Both products in NetComm’s AV Series are capable of high speed data transmission for streaming HD media and come with advanced security features to ensure network security from unauthorised outside sources.

NetComm’s General Manager, Danny Morrison said, “The products in the NetComm AV Series have been simplified to make the user’s experience as easy as possible. Every household is unique so we have launched both the NP203 Home Entertainment Connection Kit and NP121 Wireless Home AV Connection Kit to ensure a seamless connection between the modem and home entertainment area whatever the size, layout or location of the household.”

Pricing will be announced at a later date.

One Receiver For Logitech Mouse And Keyboard

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Logitech has launched a new wireless mouse and keyboard combination that uses one receiver.


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The Logitech Unifying receiver is as small and is able to wirelessly connect the mouse and keyboard to your computer. Users can also able to add other compatible products from the range without using additional receivers says the company.

Logitech Director for Australia and New Zealand, George Saad said, “With the Wireless Combo MK520, we’ve combined advanced wireless technology, with a mouse and keyboard that offer the features and capabilities that our users want most. With a long battery life, a high-performance laser, and quiet, low profile keys, the MK520 is going to make a lot of people happy.”  

The included mouse claims to have one year battery life, while the keyboard comes with a concave design and has incurve keys that position your fingers properly and make it easier to glide from key to key. The keyboard has a three year battery life and also incorporates one-touch media controls.

The Logitech Media Combo MK520 will be available in Australia from early September 2010 for a suggested retail price of $99.95

Panasonic Projector Offers 3D For $1

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Panasonic has unveiled a projection system that allows a person to see 3D images by using disposable glasses sold for $1. The solution is ideal for high-traffic venues like museums and convention centres as users do not need to spend close to $100 for a pair of glasses.

The solution consists of two Panasonic 2D PT-DZ6710E projectors stacked on top of each other to display 3D content. One projector’s lens is used for the left-eye image and the other for the right-eye image, projecting two ‘side by side’ images that are then combined to produce a 3D image when projected onto a screen or wall.

The 3D image can then be viewed using disposable 3D glasses.

Panasonic Australia’s AV/IT Group Manager, David Cuckney said that this solution allows large audiences to view 3D on a big screen.

“It’s ideal for the professional rental market and for museums and convention centres that want to create their own 3D displays for key exhibitions and events – playing 3D movies, advertisements or any other 3D promotional material,” said Cuckney.

The Panasonic PT-DZ6710E is a 6,000-lumen single-chip DLP projector that offers wide-aspect WUXGA projection with 1920 x 1200 pixels and a 2,000:1 contrast ratio.

Panasonic’s PT-DZ6710E projector is available now priced from $30799rrp.

Disposable 3D glasses are available from third party-suppliers and typically start from $1.00.