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Low Maintenance Hitachi Projector Unveiled

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Hitachi announced a new projector that comes with a filter that only needs replacing every 4000 hours.


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According to the company, the Hitachi CP-X4020 3LCD projector comes with a Hybrid Filter that provides a lower total cost of ownership, requiring less frequent maintenance schedules. Now, instead of every 100 hours, the filter only needs maintenance every 4000 hours.

In addition, the projector features a high brightness output of 4000 ANSI lumens, weighs 4.2 kilograms, comes with native XGA (1024 x 768) resolution, a high contrast ratio of 2000:1, and 16 Watts of built-in audio.

Bill Christoforou, Product Manager, Digital Presentations Solutions Division, said, “When installing projectors into medium to large venues, it is imperative that the best solution for the space is used to ensure quality image projection. The Hitachi CP-X4020 provides high performance and ease of use for a variety of applications. In addition to its affordable price point, the CP-X4020 provides easy maintenance as it doesn’t need to be regularly accessed for maintenance purposes, providing users with a very low total cost of ownership.”

The CP-X4020 projector also offers advanced features proprietary to Hitachi projectors such as: MyMemory, MyText, MySource and MyButton functions. The CP-X4020 also offers blackboard/whiteboard mode and daytime mode, as well closed captioning and input source naming, allowing users to rename input sources to fit their needs.

In addition, the CP-X4020 features a Transition Detector, requiring a password to operate the projector when it is moved from a fixed position. The CP-X4020 also offers PIN Lock and MyScreen functions, along with a security bar that enables the use of a heavy chain to prevent theft.

The Hitachi CP-X4020 is available for $2595

Tethering Now On Telstra iPhone

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Telstra announced that tethering on the Apple iPhone is now available for its customers. This means that users can now use their iPhone as a modem.


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According to Telstra, customers can activate tethering through an update to their settings, which is available through iTunes. There is no charge for activating this feature; however, ongoing usage rates apply if you use this service.

“Data used when tethering is charged at either a ‘Pay as you go’ rate or as part of a Browsing Pack. To assist in managing costs Telstra recommends that customers who plan to use this feature add a browsing pack which provides a set amount of data each month for a monthly fee. If customers use more than their pack amount per month, they will pay for the extra browsing at a reduced rate,” says Telstra.

The Mobile as Modem Browsing Pack ranges from a 1GB plan up to a 9GB plan. For more information, visit www.telstra.com.au/mobile/browsing_packs.html

Lenovo Unveils Multi-Touch Notebook

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Two of Lenovo notebooks will now have a multi-touch screen which can be used with the touch function in Windows 7.

Lenovo’s Product and Marketing Director, Chris Kelly said, “We see now as the right time for multi-touch screens on PCs. With touch screens increasingly becoming part of more devices we use routinely and continued improvement of the technology ,including the integration of touch in the upcoming Windows 7 operating system, the environment for making touch part of our tablet PC and ThinkPad T400s laptop experience couldn’t be better. We’ve also extended the touch experience with Simple Tap to make frequent hardware-based functions touch-enabled and simple.”

According to the company, the optional multi-touch screen ThinkPad X200 Tablet caters to individuals in fields such as sales, health care and education. Users can now use two-finger touch to perform a variety of gestures, including pinching, zooming, tapping and flicking through documents, web pages and photos instead of using a mouse.

The high performance ThinkPad T400s laptop serves professionals in engineering and design. Now these users can manipulate four fingers on the ThinkPad T400s laptop’s optional multi-touch screen to not only replace the mouse but transform the way they work.

 

They can now use four fingers to manipulate objects, move images with two hands and even have another person touch the screen at the same time with them. As new multi-touch applications are introduced, there will be new possibilities for using multi-touch screen laptops.

Lenovo also optimised the firmware to help compensate for slightly imprecise taps on the screen, such as when closing a window or navigating the Start menu, helping make navigation easier for Tablet users.

With upcoming ThinkPad X200 Tablet models supporting the Microsoft Windows 7 operating system, these mobile users can also take advantage of improved predictive text over previous operating systems, improved handwriting recognition in more languages and formula input features for math and scientific equations.

The ThinkPad T400s with the multitouch screen and the X200 Tablet with the multitouch screen and the outdoor screen will be available starting September 15. Pricing starts at $2891.00 for the T400s with multitouch screen, $3215.00 for the X200 Tablet with multitouch screen, and $3039.00 for the X200 Tablet with the outdoor screen.

Viewsonic Monitors For Professionals

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ViewSonic has unveiled two new professional monitors that promise image clarity and minimal image distortion.

The VP2655wb and VP2365wb feature OptiColor wide colour gamut technology which claims to enhance colour realism and dynamics. They also come with ViewSonic’s exclusive ClearMotiv II technology to deliver professional response rate and efficiency for dynamic video creators.

The VP series displays are capable of presenting detailed gray scales and images that would give photographers, artistic designers, and animation/multimedia creators better control over creative quality. Plus, the pneumatic height adjust mechanism and swivel feature can achieve up to a 45 degree tilt, catering to all professional viewing needs. In addition, Viewsonic says that the IPS 8bit full-colour panel of the VP Series has no blind spots and has a viewing angle reaching over 178 degrees.

Finally, the VP Series displays consist of four USB 2.0 ports for high speed data transfers up to 480Mbps, utilising various peripherals connected directly to the LCD, as well as pneumatic height adjustment mechanisms to accommodate different viewing needs by adjusting the arm (reaching 135mm in length) and/or swivel base on the VP2655wb (120 degrees) and VP2365wb (180 degrees).

The ViewSonic VP2655wb and VP2365wb are available now for $1,139 and $499, respectively.

VeriSign Adds Security To Business Websites

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VeriSign has launched Trust Seal, an extension of its online trust mark that can help websites that do not require SSL Certificates to be safer for its customers.


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According to the company, by displaying the new VeriSign Trust Seal, any business website has the opportunity to leverage the global awareness created by the VeriSign Secured Seal.

The VeriSign Trust Seal pairs the familiar VeriSign checkmark circle with the words “VeriSign Trusted,” enabling Web sites of any size to display a highly recognised visual element commonly seen on brand-name Web sites.

The VeriSign Trust Seal will be able to authenticate the business and domain control, scan for malicious software daily, seal-in search results, and even help lesser-known sites establish consumer confidence and credibility, which can lead to increased sales.

The additional features of the VeriSign Trust Seal, including malware scanning, will soon be available with all of VeriSign’s trust products, including SSL and Extended Validation (EV) SSL Certificates. Existing VeriSign SSL customers will receive this added functionality at no extra cost.

IDC’s Vice President of SMB Research, Ray Boggs said, “Reputation is vital to the success of the growing number of small-to-medium-sized business competing in the online marketplace, and trust is a key component for protecting brand reputation and increasing consumer confidence. VeriSign’s brand recognition will extend to the new VeriSign Trust Seal to help small and medium-sized businesses communicate trust and safety to customers and prospects.”

The VeriSign Trust Seal will be available starting next week at www.verisign.com/trust-seal/index.html for US$299 for a one-year license. The new seal will be available through VeriSign’s reseller partners later this year.

Affordable Workstations From Lenovo

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Lenovo announced an entry-level workstation designed for professionals working in computer-aided design and digital content creation fields.


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With models starting under $1850, the ThinkStation E20 offers workstation-class performance at desktop-level prices. It comes equipped with: a choice of the latest Intel Core i3 and i5 Processors as well as Pentium and Xeon 3400 Series Processors; a choice of independent software vendor (ISV) certified graphics solutions, Intel Core HD graphics or NVIDIA Quadro discrete graphics up to the FX1800; support for Error Correcting Code DDR3 memory; and certifications from leading ISVs like Autodesk, Siemens and Dassault Systemes

Lenovo Australia and New Zealand’s Enterprise Business Manager, Tony Farrell, said, “We’ve found there are a number of CAD and DCC professionals who are currently getting by on desktop PC hardware due to budget constraints. They’re running workstation-class applications and could benefit from using true workstation hardware. We designed the ThinkStation E20 with these users in mind to put true workstation performance within their reach and enable them to realise significant productivity gains associated with using the right tool for the job.”   

The ThinkStation E20 is also a green PC, with more than 50 per cent of its plastic content coming from post-consumer recycled materials. The E20 also meets the high energy efficiency criteria for Energy Star 5.0 and features an 80 Plus Bronze Power Supply.

The ThinkStation E20 workstation will be available from 24 March with models starting at approximately $1839. The workstation will be sold through Lenovo business partners and www.lenovo.com.au

One Touch Scanning With Canon

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The new scanner by Canon promises to scan film, photos, and documents with a touch of a button. It also promises quality scans with its high dpi resolution and automatic correction.


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The Canon LiDE700F scanner claims to have a high speed scanning rate of 12 seconds per A4 page and one touch buttons that automatically create an image file, PDF file, a colour copy or an email attachment in one simple step.

The scanner also features 9600 x 9600 dpi optical high resolution, 48-bit superior gradation, automatic dust and scratch reduction as well as backlight, fading and grain correction.

Canon brand manager, Alyson Barden says, “Users can expect impressive results with the LiDE700F scanner. The combination of its stylish and compact design, reliability and most importantly, high quality scans makes the LiDE700F a great addition to the home office or small business.”

The LiDE700F comes with the ScanGear CS software that allows a user to adjust image settings, brightness/contrast, gamma histogram, tone curve palettes and grey balance. The ScanGear CS drive also saves time for users enabling multiple photos to be scanned at once using the multi-scan mode which automatically aligns, scans and names each image as a separate file.

 Key features: 

  • 9600 x 9600 dpi resolution and 48-bit gradation
  • 12 seconds per A4 page at 300 dpi
  • 4 touch buttons that allows you to copy, scan, pdf or email
  • Comes with an image correction software that includes dust and scratch reduction, and backlight, fading and grain correction.

Pricing and Availability

The LiDE700F is available through Canon dealers nationally from 1 April, 2009 with an RRP of $249.

See: www.canon.com.au

Tough New Notebooks From Panasonic

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Panasonic has expanded its Toughbook range with the launch of a semi-rugged notebook, a light but tough handheld, and a ‘business rugged’ notebook designed for the business professional.


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The CF-52 Toughbook has been purpose-built for the business user requiring a flexible, high-performance notebook solution for both in the office and out on the road. The CF-52 comes with a 15.4-inch widescreen display, a battery life of over eight hours, and comes with Wi-Fi built-in.

The CF-52 also features a tough, magnesium alloy case, and a carry handle for easy mobility. It also has a shock-mounted, quick release HDD for extra data security and can withstand a fall of 76cm. The keyboard is moisture and dust resistant, protecting the unit from accidental spills.

Panasonic Australia’s Group Manager for Toughbook, John Wood said, “The CF-52 has enhanced video and graphics capabilities, increased drive capacity at 160GB and Wi-Fi performance expanded to include 802.11 Draft-N. This new notebook is also equipped with enhanced security features, including the Trusted Platform module (TPM v1.2) security chip, and an optional fingerprint scanner and SmartCard reader.

Panasonic Toughbook CF-52 Key Specifications:
– 15.4 inch widescreen display
– Intel Centrino Core 2 Duo Processor Technology
– Magnesium alloy case with handle
– Shock-mounted, quick release hard drive
– Drop and spill-resistant
– Wi-Fi as standard, with optional WWAN (3G)

 


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Panasonic’s CF-U1 is a 3G-ready handheld computer for use where ‘conditions are harsh, space is confined, or ultra-portability is critical.’ This Toughbook has a 5.6-inch widescreen for easy outdoor viewing, can withstand drops of up to 1.2-metres, and is resistant to shocks, vibration, dust, water, altitude, and temperature extremes.

The U1 sports Intel’s latest Atom processor, and comes fully customisable for specific use. Options include: a camera, fingerprint reader, Smartcard reader for security, Magstripe reader that allows for credit card payment, barcode scanner, and optional GPS. The U1 lasts up to nine hours and operates with dual hot-swappable batteries, allowing a user to change batteries without shutting down the device.

The unit is fully-sealed in Magnesium, integrates a solid state drive, users a full-function Windows Vista or XP, built-in with WLAN, Bluetooth, and optional WWAN for on-the-go Internet access.

Panasonic Toughbook CF-U1 Key Specifications:
– Intel Atom Processor
– Wi-Fi and Bluetooth as standard
– Options: barcode, Fingerprint and Magstripe scanners, Camera, GPS, and 3G mobile broadband
– SDHC Memory Card slot
– Up to 9 hours battery life
– Hot-swappable twin Li-Ion batteries
– Solid state drive
– MIL-STD-810F and IP54 compliant – four-foot drop, rain, spill and dust resistant
– 5.6-inch LED touchscreen (1024 x 600 WSVGA)
– Backlit QWERTY keyboard
– Weight: 1kg

 


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The business-rugged Toughbook, the CF-W7, also withstands drops of up to 76cm, can resist up to 100kg of force, and also offers wireless options for anywhere connectivity.

The W7 sports a 12.1-inch screen, weighs 1.4kg, has 7.5 hours battery life, sports a full magnesium alloy case and shock mounted HDD, and uses 1GB of RAM, 120GB storage space, as well as an integrated DVD-multi drive.

John Wood added: “As business travellers and mobile executives are becoming increasingly reliant on their notebooks, the demand for durable and reliable technology is growing. The business rugged Toughbook W7 offers professional an ultra-portable, lightweight notebook solution with the advantages of robust, rugged design to withstand inevitable everyday drops, shocks, and spills.”

Panasonic Toughbook W7 key specifications:
– Full magnesium alloy case
– Shock mounted hard disk drive
– Drop and spill resistant
– Ultra-portable 1.4kg
– 7.5-hour battery life
– Wi-Fi and Bluetooth as standard, with optional WWAN (3G)

Availability and Pricing:
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-52 is now available with an RRP of $2,999.
The Panasonic Tougbook CF-U1 is now available with an RRP of $3,499.
The Panasonic Toughbook CF-W7 is now available with an RRP of $3,599.

See: www.toughbook.com.au

Vodafone Upsizes Mobile Broadband Plans

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Vodafone Hutchison Australia announced that it has overhauled its mobile broadband plans on Vodafone. The new plans now have bigger data allowances, lower excess data charges, and offer various payment plans.Vodafone’s new postpaid mobile broadband plans, available on month-to-month or 12-month contract are as follows: $15 per month for 1.5GB (previously 1GB); $29 per month for 4GB (previously 3GB); $39 per month for 8GB (previously 6GB); and $49 per month for 10GB (previously 8GB)

The USB modem is free on the $29, $39 and $49 12-month plans. Customers who choose the $15 per month for 1.5GB 12-month plan either buy their own modem or pay an additional $4 per month for a modem to be supplied. Customers who want month-to-month plans can buy a Vodafone modem outright for $79.

In addition, Vodafone has also dropped excess data charges on all caps from 10 cents per MB to 2 cents per MB.

Vodafone Hutchison Australia’s General Manager of Voice and Mobile Broadband, Edward Goff, said: “We’ve listened to our customers. They’ve told us they want more generous data allowances; they want the freedom and flexibility to choose the exact duration of their contracts; and the want fairer pricing when they have an internet- and data-intensive month and need to go over and above their usual data allowance.”

The company also announced a new ‘Data Plus Starter pack’ to its Prepaid mobile range. This pack includes a free USB stick modem and a massive 6GB of included data with 3-month expiry for $99 (normally priced at $129).