Gadget Reviews

iE33 xMATRIX system offers expanded clinical applications in cardiac ultrasound imaging

Royal Philips Electronics announced the enhanced iE33 xMATRIX cardiac ultrasound system featuring a new ergonomic solution for more efficient adult echocardiograms, the X5-1 transducer. With this enhanced technology, Philips continues its tradition of simplified, patient-focused healthcare solutions by providing a more complete imaging solution. The system enables expanded cardiac-related diagnostic capabilities related to ischemic disease detection, structural heart disease assessment, as well as systolic and diastolic heart failure and arrhythmia. Aimed at supporting workflow improvements as well as providing clinical benefits, the iE33 xMATRIX cardiac ultrasound system will be a highlighted display at the European Society of Cardiology Congress (ESC) in Stockholm, August 28 through September 1.

“The new iE33 xMATRIX ultrasound system represents a significant breakthrough in ultrasound; technology that gives clinicians new diagnostic tools and helps them examine patients more quickly,” said Andrew Hatt, vice president and interim general manager, Ultrasound, for Philips Healthcare. “In addition, clinicians who have experienced scanning fatigue will appreciate that the X5-1 transducer combines the ergonomics of 2D transducers with the three-dimensional technology they need, to make the most informed patient care decisions possible.” Read the rest of this entry »

Teams to Design Software for Small Satellites on the International Space Station

NASA is challenging high school teams to design software to program small satellites aboard the International Space Station. The competition centers on the Synchronized Position Hold, Engage, Reorient, Experimental Satellites, or SPHERES.

SPHERES are bowling ball-sized spherical satellites used to test maneuvers for spacecraft performing autonomous rendezvous and docking. Three of these satellites fly inside the station’s cabin. Each is self-contained with power, propulsion, computing and navigation equipment.

The Zero-Robotics investigation, run by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge, Mass., is designed to inspire future scientists and engineers. The teams are asked to address challenges of satellite docking, assembly and flight formation. The 2010 Zero-Robotics Challenge expands on a limited pilot program performed in fall 2009. This expanded pilot, called HelioSPHERES, will involve high schools from across the country during the 2010 – 2011 academic year. This new education program builds critical engineering skills for students, such as problem solving, design thought process, operations training, teamwork and presentation skills.

The first 100 high school teams to register by Sept. 10 will be selected for the competition. Their full proposals are due by Sept. 14. More information and registration instructions are available at: http://zerorobotics.mit.edu/ Read the rest of this entry »

Brilliant new Android smart phone available worldwide, including U.S.

DivX and Samsung Electronics announced that the Galaxy S is now DivX Certified for HD video playback at 720p resolution. The Galaxy S is the world’s first Android mobile phone that is DivX Certified for HD and the second overall DivX HD Certified phone, following the successful launch of the Samsung Wave.

Now available in the United States, Europe and Asia, the Galaxy S has a large 4-inch super AMOLED display, which delivers an unrivaled screen quality for a better viewing experience. Powered by a 1GHz processor, the Galaxy S dazzles with amazing 3-D graphics, faster upload and download times, and a rich multimedia and gaming experience. As an Android-powered device, the Galaxy S also provides access to the more than 70,000 applications from Android Market.

To enjoy DivX video on the Galaxy S, consumers can load their video libraries of both standard definition and HD 720p movies in the DivX format on the internal and external memory (expandable to 32GB) and then watch their collections anywhere they choose. In addition, the Galaxy S can connect directly to other DivX Certified devices, such as HDTVs, turning it into a powerful mobile set-top box in the living room. The Galaxy S will also support the secure playback of major Hollywood titles in the DivX format from leading studios. Read the rest of this entry »

Latest a (alpha) Offers Full HD Movie Capture, 3D Sweep Panorama and More

Sony introduced an a (alpha) DSLR camera (model SLR-a560) that leverages Sony’s Exmor (TM) APS HD CMOS sensor to make it easier for active shooters to get the best shot without missing a moment. Along with the a33 and a55 cameras (also announced today), the a560 model is one of the only DSLR cameras with Multi-frame Noise Reduction, Sweep Panorama(TM) mode, 3D Sweep Panorama and Full HD 1920×1080 60i video capture.

This 14.2 megapixel a560 camera offers the same features of its predecessor, the innovative a550, which introduced Quick AF Live View, 7fps continuous shooting and Auto HDR to the step-up DSLR class.

Additionally, Sony is adding to its already strong line-up of more than 30 A-mount lenses with new models made for seasoned photographers and those new to the DSLR space. Today, Sony expands its A-Mount lens line-up for a DSLR cameras with three new lenses–a Carl Zeiss® Distagon T* 24mm F2 ZA SSM (model SAL24F20Z), a DT 35mm F1.8 SAM (model SAL35F18) and an 85mm F2.8 SAM (model SAL85F28).

“These new lenses and camera show our commitment to the DSLR market and that we will never stop innovating,” said Kristen Elder, director of the Digital Imaging business at Sony Electronics. “These products complement our overall Sony® Alpha(TM) lineup, which we are significantly expanding today. The camera offers a choice to those consumers who want to gain the benefits of professional level shooting speed as well as be able to capture video with in a traditional style DSLR.”

The a560 camera provides excellent picture quality, particularly in low-light scenarios. A new generation of Sony Exmor (TM)APS HD CMOS sensor employs low-noise processing for high-quality pictures. The BIONZ ® image processor has color-noise reduction that helps achieve low noise up to ISO 12800, without sacrificing fine detail. Multi-frame Noise Reduction stacks a high-speed burst of six frames, creating a single low-noise exposure that boosts effective sensitivity as high as ISO 25600. Read the rest of this entry »

Kodak expands award-winning digital video camera portfolio

Kodak introduced the new KODAK PLAYTOUCH Video Camera, a sleek and stylish addition to its award-winning digital video camera portfolio. The pocket-size KODAK PLAYTOUCH Video Camera features a 3-inch capacitive touchscreen so consumers can easily glide through their HD videos with the swipe of a fingertip. With new on-camera editing and Kodak’s exclusive Share Button, the PLAYTOUCH Video Camera makes it easy for consumers to share their favorite moments with friends and family in full 1080p HD.

Complementing its unique design, the KODAK PLAYTOUCH Video Camera boasts an array of features to help consumers capture their memories with clarity and precision, including built-in image stabilization, LCD glare shield, and an external microphone jack. To make sharing videos simpler, the PLAYTOUCH Video Camera has a built-in USB arm and Kodak’s Share Button lets consumers tag videos and pictures directly on the camera for automatic upload to popular social networking sites once they connect the camera to the computer.

“Kodak has firmly established itself as a leader in the digital pocket video camera space since introducing its line in 2008, and continues to be one of the most highly rated and recommended in this category,” said Phil Scott, Vice President of Marketing, Digital Capture and Devices, Kodak. “We’re committed to providing our consumers with innovative and intuitive products that satisfy their needs. Whether it’s a night out on the town with friends or your child’s school play, the KODAK PLAYTOUCH Video Camera makes capturing and sharing your favorite moments simple and fun.” Read the rest of this entry »