Nov/090
ViewSonic’s VMP70 media player
The WD TV is still more or less the king of the tiny media player boxes, but now Viewsonic is getting into the game at a lower price point — and minus the whole network compatibility bit. The VMP70 is a “direct connect” media device, so it will play content from your choice of USB-compatible storage, pumping it at up to 1080p to your display over HDMI or component cables, also sporting composite for lower-def fare. It packs an S/PDIF port to get clean audio, and supports a slew of formats including the usual suspects (DivX,Xvid,H.264) along with some slightly less usual ones (RM/RMVB, DTS, OGG). It’s all available for an MSRP of $129.99, but order now and you’ll get special holiday pricing of $98.99. Operators are standing by… somewhere… probably.
Nov/090
Belkin Takes Out Windows 7 Certified Easy Transfer USB Cable
Just when I thought I was going to finish a week with joy everyday, nothing spoiling my mood, it had to happen to meet the scenarios where someone, a company actually, I trusted just came up with something that makes me think they really consider users stupid, namely Belkin, presenting the Easy Transfer Cable for Windows 7.
The company says this provides a quick and easy way of transferring files, user accounts, and setting to the user’s new Windows 7. Easily migrate your files, music, photos, user accounts and more from your current PC running an older version of Windows to a new Windows 7 computer with this Easy Transfer Cable that was especially designed to comply with Windows Easy Transfer utility from Microsoft. It ensures an uninterrupted transfer and even post-migration report so users can be offered a comprehensive detail of what was transferred.
Just like the maker, I’ll mention again that this easily transfers your files faster than burning CDs, setting up a network or other means of data copying, as well as migrating settings and customizations for Windows, files and folders, program settings and data files, email messages and contacts. The custom selection in the software lets you select exactly what you want to transfer.
The quick setup features three easy to follow steps – installing the software, connecting the cable and following the on-screen instructions. It sets up the user’s computer in minutes with their favorite settings from your old computer and other devices (what other?!). The above mentioned post-migration report offers you a detailed list of what was transferred, along with a list of all programs and applications installed with links to the latest versions, so you can quickly get your workstation on track.
According to Belkin, this cable was specially designed for Microsoft Windows Easy Transfer utility and can move files between two PCs at speeds of up to 480Mbps, reaching about 7,500 songs moved per hour. The cable is even Windows 7 32 and 64-bit certified and has a 2.43 meter length. Pricing asked by Belkin for this is $33.99, already available in the US, and coming in Q1 2010 in Europe and Asia. See how powerful advertising can be? It can turn a USB cable into a device.