Asus Nova mini PC
Asus is caught (again) making super small computers and this time, it’s not a notebook, it’s a clean little box called the Asus Nova. It caters the mac-mini audience with height of two only inches (less than twice the thickness of many laptops). While the design is not as cool as the Mac mini, but with the addition of a USB Media Center TV tuner (like this one), the Nova would become an uber-cute Windows Media center PC. It is powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo.
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Add comment November 29th, 2007
Intel has named the University Notebook Challenge winner - a Spanish team (Polytechnic of Madrid) whose computer is based on a pedal machine powered by human energy. The energy produced by cycling action is converted into electricity that powers the notebook thanks to a power electronics converter. This simple idea was chosen to take top spot since it demonstrates the team’s systematic approach to deal with all aspects of the challenge – from its ease of implementation to the innovative quality of its electronic components – with special features to allow for a realistic usage model. In addition to being user-friendly, it also allows the laptop user to take breaks without causing any power disruption to the laptop. Should this idea take off and be implemented, we could soon see executives heading to the office in their gym get up instead of the standard issue tie and coat. [Press Release]
XtremeMac has a brand new line of leather cases for the recently released iPod touch, iPod nano 3G and iPod Classic. These cases are made of hand-crafted genuine cows, minus the meat and bones of course. Soft interior lining ensures its precious cargo won’t get scratched, while the leather on the outside gives it an elegant look whist offering protection from nicks and scratches. The Verona Flap series boasts a front flap that can be folded and snapped into a rear panel, doubling up as a stand whenever you want to catch a movie on your iPod without having to hold onto it. These cases will come in a wide range of designs and varying prices to boot - ranging between $24.95 and $29.95.
Apple is currently developing a hardware solution that enables the shipping of software on mini-discs that could subsequently be used in slot-loading optical drives specially built for standard 12cm CDs and DVDs. Known as the “Compact Memory Disc Adapter and Methods of Use Thereof,” the patent filing was made in May of 2006 and mentions that conventional rotating memory storage discs such as CDs and DVDs are currently produced in standard 12 cm and reduced diameter 8 cm configurations. This move will help reduce shipping costs in addition to production costs, since a fair number of applications today use up far less storage capacity than available on those discs. This “compactable memory disc adapter” will be shipped in a compact form and can be fitted around the edges of a 8cm mini-disc. What do you think of this effort? Will it be a hit or miss?
The EyStar Bluetooth GPS receiver from Secure Digital Applications will be released in the US, aiming to make GPS navigation available to just about anybody with a Bluetooth-enabled cellphone, PDA or laptop. The pocket-sized receiver has enough juice for up to 15 hours, and is accurate as can be thanks to the 20-channel all-in-view tracking SiRF Star III GPS receiver. While getting the EyStar Bluetooth GPS receiver might not complement your car’s dashboard well, it will be easy on your pocket since it will retail for under the $100 mark when released in Q1 2008. Just remember to save up extra to pick up the Microsoft Street and Trips navigation software.
PMPs from China are dime a dozen, and many of them take after the design of more famous, products especially the iPod. The M42410 portable media player doesn’t copy any design though, and instead boasts a rather retro control design that features a moving trackwheel as found in the first generation iPods. Audio and video support includes AVI, MP3, WMA and WAV formats, while a 2.4″ TFT LCD display, a miniSD memory card slot, an integrated speaker and a USB 2.0 port rounds off the list of features. While the firmware can be upgraded, I’m not too sure whether support for the M42410 portable media player will last long into its life.
Logitec’s new SATA-to-USB converter comes in an interesting form factor, featuring a cartridge slot design that makes any external hard drive docked within look cool. The semi-transparent case folds up to cover the drive, and there is more than enough back support to prevent the hard drive from toppling over, accidentally or otherwise. Inserting the SATA drive doesn’t require you to power down the unit, making installation a cinch. In addition, you get a 4-port USB hub with it, making this one interesting addition to any desktop. Pricing and availability details are currently unknown.
The Séura LCD TV mirror comes in 15″ and 20″ variants, making it perfect for bathroom use. I’m not too sure how many of you love to watch TV in the buff, but should you actually fork out $2,999 for one of these, you had better start doing so whether you like it or not. Features include speakers as well as a lovely side panel finish that reflects your exquisite taste. You can choose from surface-mount and recessed configurations, depending on your preference.
If you’re thinking of serenading the love of your life with your song before popping the question, why not do it yourself (assuming you have the musical talent to go along with it) instead of relying on a 4-piece band in the background? The iCoustic guitar makes it possible, featuring a built-in self-amplification switch that amps up the guitar’s resonance to make it sound like a full-sized model. In addition, you can dock your MP3 player to playback different tracks before accompanying those with your very own solo, with the iCoustic acting as a speaker. The iCoustic will range between $499 and $749, depending on the manufacturer of the base guitar and are powered by a single 9-volt battery.
