Alternative to Cabled Hi-Fi Systems
The Elonex SoundBar range went on show for the first time in the world at GITEX. Elonex, which is seeking partners in the Middle East, launched three models: The compact SoundBar i22, the mid-sized i32 and the full size D42 model. All feature iPod docking, FM/AM radio, sleep and alarm function, remote control and USB hosting. All can be used stand-alone or as a TV sound system. Prices on the models start from $200.
The large SoundBar D42 is 42 inches in length with a front digital display. It fits below a large flat wall or stand mounted TV panel, while the side loading CD/DVD option comes with full HDMI, component and SVIDEO ports, ideal for a cable and clutter free room.
“People are looking for an alternative to bulky and space-hogging speakers but did not have a real alternative until now — unless they were prepared to pay a lot of money,” said Demetre Cheras, marketing director at Elonex ([email protected]). “Not only have we produced an excellent base sound, but we have achieved a stunning sound quality, comparable with professional audio systems.”
Share Your Book Lust
Shelfari (www.shelfari.com) is a social media site for people who love to read. A powerful yet simple interface enables Shelfari users to build virtual bookshelves and socially interact around the books they care about. The site offers a discussion platform that allows readers to start their own clubs and discussion groups around books or topics that are of specific interest as well as a blog widget that gives bloggers a simple way to publish and share what they are reading.
All Things Google
Gmail. Blogger. Google Book Search. Google Web Search. Google AdSense. Google AdWords. Google Calendar. Google Checkout. The Internet’s most popular search site encompasses more than simple web searches. So Michael Miller’s “Googlepedia: The Ultimate Google Resource, Second Edition,” from Que Publishing, aims to provide advice on how to master Google’s wide variety of cool web and software tools.
The first edition of this publication was one of the best-selling computer books of 2006. The second edition has been updated to cover all the latest Google developments, from new versions of Blogger and Picasa, to completely new services. The book is available now at Informit.com.
Should Pluto Be a Planet?
Since being re-classified as a “dwarf planet,” Pluto has sparked lively discussions around the world. Now, students can explore this controversial topic with the latest installment of the Sally Ride Science blog at http://sallyridescience.com. The new blog theme, “Should Pluto Be a Planet?” runs through the end of September.
The “Should Pluto Be a Planet?” blog provides an engaging way to introduce students to the assorted planets, moons, asteroids and Kuiper belt objects in our solar system. It focuses on Pluto and other dwarf planets such as Ceres, the largest asteroid, and Eris, a Kuiper belt object.
Four Arms Are Better
Adept Technology (www.adept.com), a provider of intelligent vision-guided robotics and global robotics services, has introduced the company’s newest high-speed robot, the Adept Quattro s650. The Adept Quattro is a new type of kinematic robot with a unique four-arm design that was created exclusively for high-speed pick-and-place applications. The robot is aimed at complex packaging applications, where the robot can work at high speeds for hours without suffering the repetitive strain injuries common in human factory workers.
