Thursday, December 19, 2013

Winter Storm Falco: New York City Plans for Possible Rush Hour Headaches Tuesday

Winter Storm Falco is forecast to sweep into parts of the Northeast Tuesday morning, just in time to make rush hour ugly.

( FORECAST: weather com nyc.com/news/weather-winter/winter-storm-falco-forecast-20131216">Winter Storm Falco)

"It won't be the biggest snow storm in the world, but what's going to happen is it's going to impact an entire stretch of tens of millions of people," explained Dr. Tom Niziol, winter weather expert for The Weather Channel.

The New York City tri-state area is among the major areas that could see wintry weather Tuesday before rush hour starts, and the New York City Office of Emergency Management (OEM) issued a Travel Advisory. OEM is reminding people to check road conditions before they head out. The agency is also asking pedestrians to "have heightened awareness of cars" as they head to work Tuesday.

( MORE: Live Updates | Check Airports)

The city's Department of Sanitation has also issued a snow alert for Tuesday at 4 a.m.

Residents can monitor the status of the storm at nyc.gov/oem, or by calling 311.

This latest brush with winter comes just days after Winter Storm Electra brought as much as half-a-foot of snow to parts of New York City.

MORE ON WEATHER.COM: Winter Storm Electra

Trafford pensioners Christmas present appeal success

More than 300 presents were donated to an appeal to provide gifts for elderly people, who might otherwise not receive anything

Rev Barbara Sharp and Alan Savage with all the gifts donated

The community has rallied round to spread Christmas spirit to pensioners.

More than 300 presents were donated to an appeal to provide gifts for elderly people, who might otherwise not receive anything.

The 'Be a Santa to a Senior' appeal, was organised by care company Home Instead and community group Sale Square Mile.

The presents will be delivered with a guide to local events and handmade Christmas cards from children from St St Mary's, Woodheys and Springfield Primary Schools.

The gifts were wrapped at a community open day at St Paul's Church in Sale, which was attended by organisations including Washway Road Medical Centre, Trafford Carers Centre, Age UK, Parkinsons UK, the Stroke Association and local businesses.

The organisations will help to distribute the gifts to older people in Sale and Altrincham and Wythenshawe Hospital.

Owner of Home Instead Altrincham and Sale, Alan Savage, said: "It's great to see the whole community get behind what we were trying to do.

"It's wonderful how everyone has worked together to bring a bit of festive cheer to some of our elderly people this Christmas.

"I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone involved, including all the retailers and the children who made blank christmas cards to accompany the gifts."

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

'American Idol' on the Charts: For Carrie Underwood, the Sound of Music Is Ka-Ching!

DOWN NONNBERG ABBEY ROAD: Combine hit recording artist Carrie Underwood and a Richard Rodgers/ Oscar Hammerstein score and there's no way you can miss the Billboard charts. The cast recording of NBC's The sound of music soundtrack of Music makes its debut just one week after the live broadcast, entering The Billboard 200 at No. 17, the Top Soundtracks tally at No. 2 (unable to dislodge Disney's Frozen) and Top Digital Albums at No. 17.

The two previous major recordings of The Sound of Music both did very well on the Billboard album chart. The Broadway cast LP, released in 1959, spent 16 weeks on top in 1960. The film soundtrack, issued in 1965, replaced another soundtrack at No. 1 -- the Beatles' Help! -- and remained in pole position for two weeks.

It isn't just the album that's doing well on this week's charts. Underwood's duet with Audra McDonald on "My Favorite Things" debuts at No. 47 on Holiday Digital Songs. This is the second time the song has appeared on this chart in the last two months. In November, Kelly Clarkson's take on the song, from her album Wrapped in Red, bowed at No. 7.

Idols have charted with the same song before, but for a different reason (and a different season). Season four's top two -- Underwood and Bo Bice -- both released the coronation song "Inside Your Heaven" in 2005. Underwood's recording went to No. 1 and Bice's version peaked at No. 2.

In 2009, Kris Allen and Adam Lambert both recorded the coronation song "No Boundaries" and both versions were released. Allen's peaked at No. 11 on the Hot 100 and Lambert's at No. 72.

PHOTOS: 'American Idol' Season 13 Ad Campaign Champions the Everyman

DOING 'WITHOUT': This is the 26th week on the Adult R&B chart for "Without Me," the single by Fantasia featuring Kelly Rowland and Missy Elliott. After half a year on the survey, the track springs to a new peak position, jumping 4-2, after seven consecutive weeks at No. 4. That puts the song in reach of first place. If "Without Me" moves up just one rung next week, it will be Fantasia's fourth Adult R&B chart-topper, following "Truth Is," "Free Yourself" and "Bittersweet." If the song does ultimately end up peaking at No. 2, it will be Fantasia's second time topping out in the runner-up spot. "When I See U" reached No. 2 in July 2007.

Fantasia currently has two other songs on the Adult R&B list. "Love & Sex," a duet with Joe, is down one notch, 16-17, and her new single, "Side Effects of You," is up 25-23.

STORY: 'Sound of Music' Live: The Best Twitter Reactions

'TREE' PERSON: Kelly Clarkson's holiday ode "Underneath the Tree" spends a second week at No. 1 on the Adult Contemporary and Adult Contemporary Audience charts. She has two more songs in the AC top 10: "Blue Christmas" leaps 12-7 and "Please Come Home for Christmas" jumps 13-8.

"Underneath the Tree" is growing on a number of charts. It soars 34-12 on Holiday Songs, debuts at No. 92 on the Hot 100 and No. 41 on the Canadian Hot 100, rockets 17-6 on Holiday Digital Songs and bows at No. 24 on Pop Digital Songs.

The parent album, Wrapped in Red, rebounds 6-3 on The Billboard 200, climbs 9-6 on Top Internet Albums, advances 9-3 on Top Digital Albums and holds at No. 2 on Holiday Albums.

BITS AND PIECES: Jennifer Hudson's latest single, "I Can't Describe (The Way I Feel)," moves up again on Adult R&B, 15-13... Mandisa's "Overcomer" is No. 1 for the 12th week on Christian Adult Contemporary... Scotty McCreery's "See You Tonight" takes a 12-point hike, up 42-30 on Country Digital Songs, and his Christmas With Scotty McCreery bounces 8-4 on Top Country Catalog Albums while jumping 165-116 on The Billboard 200... Kellie Pickler's The Woman I Am travels 31-28 on Top Country Albums and re-enters The Billboard 200 at No. 194, while the single "Little Bit Gypsy" is up 53-50 on Country Airplay.

Saturday, December 14, 2013

Church news for Saturday, December 14, 2013

Christmas Play, 4 p.m., Centenary United Methodist Church, 1501 Rivermont Ave., entitled "Centenary Card Shop, After Hours," written and directed by Denise Bryson and youth assistant, Rick Smallshaw, followed by our traditional birthday party for Jesus.

Christmas Program, 4 p.m., Tyreeanna United Methodist Church, 5219 Tyreeanna Road, entitled, "An Old Fashioned Christmas In Tyreeanna," presented by Tyreeanna Choir.

AMHERST

Women In Red Program, 5 p.m., First Baptist Church Coolwell, guest preacher, Minister Pearl Braxton, with music by her daughters.

CAMPBELL

Christmas Play, 5 p.m., Mt. Plain Baptist Church, 3746 Johnson Mt. Road, Evington, entitled, "Christmas Family Reunion," followed by a fellowship meal. Sponsored by The United Sunday School Fellowship of Evington & Vicinity.

Gospel Concert, 6 p.m., Bethany-Ebenezer UMC, 663 Dearingford Road, Lynch Station, featuring Bishop Hardy and the Sons of Thunder, along with an opening group.

Christmas Bazaar, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Yellow Branch Baptist Church, 8395 Wards Road, Rustburg, many vendors will be present for your Christmas shopping, and baked goods will be for sale.

SUNDAY

LYNCHBURG

Christmas Cantata, 11 a.m., Keystone Baptist Church, 212 Fleetwood Drive, entitled, "A Decade of Christmas Praise," by the animated christmas card Choir.

Honorees Service, 4:30 p.m., Promise Land Ministries, 612 Grady St., guest speaker, Evangelist Denise Rose. For more information or transportation, call: (434) 528-3342 or 509-5136.

Christmas Musical, 6:30 p.m., Chestnut Hill United Methodist Church, 4660 Fort Ave., entitled, "Let There Be Light."

Gospel Singing, 3 p.m., Peaceful Baptist Church, 2009 Park Ave., featuring Pilot Mountain Men's Chorus, sponsored by the Senior Usher's Ministry.

New Pastor, 11 a.m., First Baptist Church, 11 th and Court Sts., the Rev. Jim Carter will preach his initial sermon.

Candle Light Service, 6 p.m., Fifth Street Baptist Church, 1007 Fifth St., Pastor Moore will deliver the Christmas Sermon, with music will be provided by the combined choirs of Fifth Street.

Advent Adult Offerings, 9:30 to 10:15 a.m., St. John's Episcopal Church, 200 Boston Ave., (1) NOOMA: films exploring our world from Jesus' perspective, featuring Rob Bell; (2) Book discussion: Emergence Christianity: What It Is, Where It Is Going, and Why It Matters, by Phyllis Tickle.

Advent Cantata, 10 a.m., Quaker Memorial Presbyterian Church, 5810 Fort Ave., the Chancel Choir will present "Nun Komm, Der Heiden Heiland" (Now Come, Savior of the Heathens), under the direction of Dr. Jong Kim. Featured soloists, Lynchburg College students, Gillie Martin, soprano and Tevin Ware, tenor, and Chancel Choir member, Gerald Doyle, bass; and organist, Rose Peak and a woodwind ensemble.

An Afternoon of Christmas Music, 2 p.m., Peakland United Methodist church, 4434 Boonsboro Road, featuring the Children's, Chancel, Handbell Choirs, guest instrumentalists, and the Horizons Praise Team. Free.

AMHERST

Christmas Program, 3 p.m., ScottZion Baptist Church, Madison Heights, followed by refreshments, sponsored by the Youth Ministry.

Christmas Cantata, 11 a.m., First Baptist Church of Monroe, 139 Francis Ave., Monroe, entitled, "One Small Child."

Christmas Play, 2:30 p.m., Bolling Hill Baptist Church, Madison Heights, sponsored by the Sunday school.

Appreciation Service, 3 p.m., Timothy Baptist Church, 2061 Buffalo Springs Turnpike, for Deacon John Carter, guests: the Rev. Meredith Tinsley, male chorus, ushers and church family of Galilee Baptist Church, Gladstone.

APPOMATTOX

Christmas Cantata, 11 a.m., New Hope Baptist in Vera, 6227 Old Courthouse Road, filled with joy by song and music; and at 7 p.m., children's program, followed by light refreshments.

BEDFORD

Christmas Cantata, 3 p.m., Bethany United Methodist Church, Bethany Church Circle (behind VA Memorial Park), entitled, "Emmanuel."

CAMPBELL

Christmas Program, 6 p.m., Evington United Methodist Church, corner of Colonial Highway and Church Lane, followed by light refreshments.

Christmas Program, 11 a.m., First Baptist Church, 12 th and Franklin Sts., Altavista, a Christmas program and dinner.

Christmas Program, 5 p.m., Staunton Baptist Church, Long Island, entitled, "Let's Celebrate the Birth of Jesus."

WEDNESDAY

LYNCHBURG

A Christmas Miracle, 7 p.m., Keystone Baptist Church, 212 Fleetwood Drive, presented by the Keystone Kids Muppets.

Midweek Community Advent Service, 11:45 a.m., prelude, Fort Hill UM Church, 106 Oakridge Blvd., guest minister, the Rev. Rick Ecklund, Centenary UM Church; Organist-Johnson Scott, Centenary UMC; Soloist-Marcia Thom, soprano, Sweet Briar College.

Midweek Advent Service, 12:10 and 7 p.m., Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 1000 Langhorne Road.

THURSDAY

APPOMATTOX

Lesson and Carols, 6:30 p.m., St. Andrew's Chapel, 1916 Redfields Road, the text taken from Messiah libretto, with guest minister the Rev. Davidson Morse, New Covenant Schools; Messiah (Christmas portion) Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m. at Liberty Baptist; and Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion service, 11 p.m., at St. Andrews.

CAMPBELL

God's Storehouse, 2 to 5 p.m., Lakewood Baptist Church, 2469 Sunburst Road, Evington, food bags and hygiene/paper products for families in need. Please have driver's license or photo ID with a current address. Call: (434) 525-1234.

DECEMBER 21

AMHERST

Christmas Program, 4 p.m., New Jerusalem Baptist Church, Rt., 60 W. to 778 S., entitled, "The Shepherds," with singing and praise dancing.

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Nikkei eases further off 6-month high; Panasonic, Nikon up

* Nikon D5300 CouponsSources say Panasonic to sell 3 Japan chip plants, stock up * Rakuten jumps after being promoted to main board Topix By Dominic Lau TOKYO, Nov 27 (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei share average edged lower on Wednesday on profit-taking, peeling further away from a six-month high, though traders said investors were looking for opportunities to pick up bargains. Nikon Corp, Ricoh Co Ltd and Canon Inc were in demand, up between 0.8 and 3.1 percent after U.S. Hewlett-Packard Co beat revenue forecasts. Nikon is down 23.6 percent year-to-date and is the worst underperformer in the Nikkei this year, while the benchmark has rallied nearly 49 percent. The Nikkei shed 0.4 percent to 15,461.20 in mid-morning trade on Wednesday, easing further away from a six-month high hit on Monday. "The market itself is a little bit down today, but still people are looking for opportunities on the long side," a Tokyo-based sales trader said. "Now that the earnings are over, people are looking for growth scenarios," he added, referring to the company earnings reporting season. Panasonic Corp rose 3 percent to a near three-year high after sources said the consumer electronics maker will sell three semiconductor plants in Japan to Israeli chipmaker TowerJazz, bringing it closer to completing the overhaul of its loss-making businesses. The sources also said Panasonic is in talks with another company to sell its five overseas chip factories. Rakuten Inc jumped 10.2 percent after the Tokyo Stock Exchange said the e-commerce operator will be promoted to the main board Topix from Jasdaq for emerging companies, starting Dec. 3. Currency-sensitive exporters came under pressure as the yen came off a six-month low against the dollar overnight. Honda Motor Co Ltd, Mazda Motor Corp, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd and Daikin Industries Ltd were off between 0.4 and 2.4 percent. As of Tuesday's close, Mazda Motor and Fuji Heavy Industries were the second- and third-best performers in the Nikkei this year, with gains of about 160 percent. Mobile operator SoftBank Corp was the best performer, though the stock was down 2 percent on profit-taking on Wednesday morning. A senior trader from a U.S. bank in Tokyo said he did not expect massive profit-taking in the next few days as November tends to be the year-end for many hedge funds. "Hedge funds have made good money this year and that those who were planning on getting quieter towards the year-end have already reduced their positions," he said. Underscoring the positive momentum, the pace of deterioration in Topix's one-month earning momentum slowed to -0.65 this month from -1.83 in October. The Topix dipped 0.2 percent to 1,250.70, with volume at 27 percent of fully daily average for the past 90 trading days.
Source: Reuters

Saturday, November 23, 2013

Latin Times

<Nikon D5300 Cheapp>By Armando Tinoco, Nov 22, 2013 09:05 PM EST

DSLR Cameras For Black Friday

Black Friday 2013 is getting closer and DSLR cameras will have their prices slashed at a number of retailers. DSLR cameras are perfect for taking pictures as the image quality is much more crisp and shutter speed that much faster. The cameras have better color reproduction, dynamic range and perform better under low light situations. Black Friday makes the perfect excuse for one to update the little point and shoot camera and take pictures like a professional as there are various discounts on this busy shopping day extravaganza. With a new DSLR camera you'll be ready to snap photos this Christmas and New Year's and store memories so you will never forget. Check out the Black Friday deals we have found for you down below! RELATED: Tablet Black Friday 2013 Deals: See The Best Sales For iPad, Kindle Fire, Galaxy Note And More!

RELATED: Black Friday 2013 Deals Roundup: Guide To All The Best Sales At Walmart, Best Buy, Target For Tablets, Laptops, Televisions And More!

BEST BUY: The Canon EOS Rebel T3 DSLR camera with 18-55mm IS Lens is $399.99 with a free camera bag. If you pay $449.96 for the same camera plust the 75-300mm lens you get the free camera bag plus a 16GB SDHC memory card. The Nikon D3200 DSLR camera double zoom lens kit with 18-55mm VR lens and a 55-200 mm lens is $499.99 with a free camera bag and a 16GB memory card. For the Canon EOS Rebel T3i DSLR camera which has the 18-55mm IS lens include it is $549.99, if you buy the bubdle with an additional 55-250mm IS lens, a 32GB memory card and the camera bag, the cost will be $749.96. The Nikon D7000 DSLR camera with 18-140mm VR Lens is $799.99 and the bundle is $1099.96 with a 55-300mm VR lens, 32GB memory card and a camera bag. RELATED: Apple Black Friday 2013 Deals: Where And How To Get iPad Air, iPad Mini, iPhone 5S Discounts

only has the Nikon D3200 2-lens bubdle with the 55-200mm zoom lens and the 18-55mm standard lens at $499.99. WALMART: The Nikon D5100 is $499 with a 18-55mm lens that shoots video in 1080p costs $499. The Canon T3 bundle includes a 75-300mm lens, a camera bag and an 8GB memory card for $449. Digital cameras are also on sale with the Nikon L27 for $49, Canon Powershot SX160 at $79 and the Fujifilm S4420 at $99. TARGETSTAPLES has a deal with the Canon Rebel T3 kit with the 18-55mm lens for $449.98 if you buy the 75-300mm zoom lens as well. The Canon Powershot SX170 is $149.99 and the Canon PowerShot A2500 is $79.99, while the A1400 model sets you back $69.99.

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Source: Latintimes

Thursday, November 21, 2013

New And Exclusive Micro-Site Content

ePHOTOzine's Micro-Site Roundup - Find out what's been happening on our five Micro-Sites.

Posted:

Here's a roundup of the exclusive content we've got for you to have a read of on our five micro-sites this week:

On PENTAXPORTAL this week, you can take a look at some top tips for photographing seals with your Pentax camera, and check out some top Pentax sunset photos. Plus, the brand new K-3 DSLR has been reviewed on site this week, and there's news of new images from Ricoh Imaging brand ambassadors.

Over On EIZO ColorZone, you can learn how to perform a monitor viewing angle check and find out why ColorNavigator software is a great tool for aiding calibration. Plus, there's news of a new 3D CG colour management handbook that's now available.

Meanwhile, on Olympus Image Space this week, there are techniques on how to use blur creatively, and there's news on Olympus workshops taking place over the coming months with Damian McGillicuddy and Steve Gosling. Plus, news on the Olympus Impressions 'Fall' competition, and £100 accessory cashback when you buy an Olympus OM-D E-M1 camera have also gone live.

On Totally Tamron this week, you can learn some top tips for taking better photos of ice with your Tamron lens, plus there are some top Tamron portrait photos for you to take a look at. Don't forget to take a look at David Pritchard's blog the days zoom past, too, as he's been out-and-about with his newly acquired Tamron 24-70mm lens.

Last but not least, on Nikon Nation this week, you can check out some ideas and tips for on location portrait shoots, get creative with colour balance and lots more. Plus, don't miss the Nikon D5300 Cyber Monday Deal DSLR review and news of ono-to one training with Nikon School in December.

Make sure you check back to the Micro-Sites regularly, as new and exclusive content is posted weekly!


Source: Ephotozine

Wednesday, November 13, 2013

Nikon D5300 Rumors, Specs, Price and Release Info: Camera Company Recently Releases Full Specs

<Nikon D5300 Couponsp>Nikon has recently come out with a full list of specs for the new D5300.

The latest model of the DX-format DSLR has 24.2 megapixels, a DX-format CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter, built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, a built-in GPS, a durable light body, a 3.2-inch 1037k-dot vari-angle LCCD monitor with wide viewing angle, NAL-1 features for zoom/focus assist, and more.

It also has a full-HD 1920x1080/60p capability for movies, where selection can range from 24, 25, 30,50, and 60p. There are also 9 special effects for creative expression.

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As previously reported, Nikon Rumors reports that the Nikon D5300 is expected to be introduced before the Photo Plus show in NYC at the end of the month or the CES show in Las Vegas in January.

It is reported that this will be the first camera to get the new EXPEED 4 processor. Some other rumored specs include 24 Megapixels, 39 AF points, built-in Wi-Fi and built-in GPS.

Photography Bay reports that the D530 will be introduced as an entry-level APS-C format camera. There are no reports yet of whether or not it will have better image quality over the D5200, but it would make sense to add additional video features to the D5300.

No prices have been reported yet either, but Inferse reports that it may be priced lower than the D5200 was when it first was released.


Source: Designntrend

Saturday, November 9, 2013

Nikon finally adds built-in Wi-Fi to its DSLR line-up with the D5300

<Nikon D5300 Couponsp>

As cameras all around them have gained built-in wireless capabilities, Nikon DSLRs have begun to feel strangely dated with their need for an additional Wi-Fi adapter to keep up with their wireless sharing and remote shooting counterparts. But with the freshly announced D5300, Nikon has finally revealed its first DSLR with built-in Wi-Fi and GPS.

The Nikon D5300 is an update to the mid-range D5200 which was released last year and arguably closes the gap to the enthusiast-targeted D7100. While it still features a 24 megapixel DX format (23.5 x 15.6 mm) APS-C CMOS sensor, and a 39-point autofocus system with nine cross-type sensors, the D5300 has now been designed without an optical low-pass filter to enable it to capture a greater level of detail than equally megapixeled cameras.

It's also been upgraded to use the Nikon EXPEED 4 image processing engine which enables a larger ISO range of 100 to 12,800 (expandable to 25,600 equivalent) though the camera still has a top continuous burst speed of 5 frames per second. Other improvements include the flipping, tilting and turning LCD on the rear which now measures 3.2 inches and has a 1037K dot resolution. Full HD 1080p video can now also be recorded at 60/50 fps and a new pentamirror increases viewfinder magnification to approx. 0.82x.

But it's the built-in Wi-Fi ability which will arguably be seen as the biggest improvement over the D5200, which required the optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. Wireless functions in the Nikon D5300 include the ability to transfer images without interrupting your shooting, and to manually select the files you want to send to a phone or tablet for instant sharing.

There's also the option to use an iOS or Android device as a remote monitor or controller for things like adjusting focusing and shutter control when not directly with the camera. This can be handy for things like shooting group pictures with yourself in, or just times when awkward camera positioning would make it too difficult to use on-camera controls. Built-in GPS also means images can be geotagged with latitude, longitude, and altitude data, without the use of external adapters.

Measuring 125 x 98 x 76 mm (4.9 x 3.9 x 3 inches) and weighing 530 g (1 lb 2.7 oz) the D5300 is slightly smaller and lighter than its predecessor. Nikon says this is because it's used a newly developed monocoque-structure with carbon fiber reinforced plastic material for the camera body, allowing it to be both more compact and durable.

The Nikon D5300 will be available in black, red or gray in November. It's due to sell for US$800 body-only, or $1,400 with a AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm F3.5-5.6G ED VR kit lens.

Product page: Nikon D5300


Simon is a journalist and photographer who has spent the last ten years working for national UK newspapers - but has never hacked a mobile phone - and specializes in writing about weird products and photography technology. When not writing for Gizmag, Simon is often found playing with LEGO and drinking far too much coffee. All articles by Simon Crisp

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Friday, November 8, 2013

Nikon D5300 hands-on review

Nikon Nikon D5300 Black Friday Deal at a glance:

  • 24.2-million-pixel, APS-C-sized CMOS sensor
  • 1.037-million-dot, 3.2in, 170° LCD screen
  • Expeed 4 image processor
  • 39-point AF system with nine cross-type sensors
  • ISO 100-25,600
  • Price £730 body only
  • See product shots of the Nikon D5300

Nikon D5300 - Introduction

While the serious enthusiast is unlikely to be swayed into buying a Nikon DSLR over a Canon model purely because the Nikon camera is newer, the reality is that at the non-premium end of the market this is how some people make their buying decisions. 'Newer' must mean 'better'.

This demand for the 'new' explains why we see such short product cycles in the camera market, and why manufacturers feel the need to introduce even small advances in technology or feature sets in cameras with completely new names - rather than a 'Mark II' type of naming format.

Those familiar with Nikon's range of DSLRs may not see the sense in the company's introduction of the new D5300, especially as Nikon will maintain the D5200 alongside this model in the range - new and old together. By doing so, though, Nikon expands the number of cameras it has on offer and the number of price points it can cover, while also being able to have a model that can carry a 'New' sticker, and which introduces new features to the price band in which it will sit.

That's not to say that the Nikon D5300 isn't different to the D5200, though, as a new processor, new body design and the integration of wireless communications do genuinely bring additional benefits to the photographer.

Nikon D5300 - Design and handling

Nikon is very pleased that it has achieved a new way of constructing camera bodies, which it describes as a 'monocoque'. Instead of there being a chassis, onto which the components and the body shell are attached, the D5300 is designed to have everything screwed to the insides of the body form itself: exoskeleton, rather then the usual endoskeleton.

Image: The top of the camera houses only a few control points, keeping the layout simple and unintimidating for newcomers. A stereo microphone lives in front of the hotshoe

The D5300's body shell is also made of a new material, although Nikon won't say what that new material is - just that it is new. The upshot is that the body is less heavy than it might have been, and is 25g lighter, including the battery, than the camera it doesn't replace, the D5200.

I'm not entirely sure that when I used the camera I could appreciate the exact weight loss that has occurred, but I was able to enjoy the fact that this is truly a lightweight DSLR, of the type that we might not mind carrying all day, over the shoulder, in a bag or in a large pocket. The body is very small too, although it is balanced with a reassuringly large grip for the right hand. It seems ironic that a small and light camera should need a large grip, but I found it allowed me to be aware I was carrying the camera, and should a larger lens be attached it will help to support the forward pull of such a weight distribution.

Image: The body styling will be familiar to those used to the Nikon 5000 series, as will the standard menu. The 3.2in flip-out screen has impressive visibility

The buttons are arranged much as one might expect, with all the principal controls falling easily to the finger or thumb. The rear 3.2in LCD is very nicely bright and clear, with its 1.037-million-dot resolution. Nikon has set the viewing panel into the glass screen, so there are no gaps or internal reflections, which produces good contrast and a clear view from a quoted angled of up to 170°. I am impressed.

In live view, the screen works well when the camera is held low or high, and I found the AF quick enough and seemingly accurate. The response of the shutter in live view also seems good.

Image: Nikon has retained its choice of layouts for the rear-screen display, with text-based and graphically expressed options to suit personal preferences

Nikon D5300 - Still to test

The principal changes in this model are of the sort that will only be proved in testing, but at this stage their potential is worth pointing out. Using the higher-capacity Expeed 4 processor, Nikon claims it has been able to reduce noise in its images through the use of more complicated calculations. A related benefit is that now noise levels are lower the company is comfortable offering a higher ISO setting - the Nikon D5300 allows ratings of up to ISO 25,600. More complex calculations also provide the potential for better white balance assessment in automatic modes via a more comprehensive assessment of the scene, and a better rendition of colour overall.

Lower noise should also lead to better resolution of detail from the 24.2-million-pixel sensor, as should Nikon's decision to do without the micro-blurring effects of a low-pass (anti-aliasing) filter. Leaving the low-pass filter off the sensor has become very fashionable, and I suspect it will be a great draw for many photographers. Moiré in images created by a sensor with 24 million pixels, even an APS-C-sized sensor, is still something that is quite likely to occur, but there is also plenty of software to correct it after the event.

The other thing to note is that this model sees the introduction of a new battery cell, which Nikon says increases capacity from 500 shots to 600 compared to the cell used in the D5200. It annoys me when companies change their battery forms, but on this occasion the new cell and that used in the D5200 are interchangeable.

Obviously, I couldn't test the battery life of the camera, but we should take the increase as good news. I will also have to wait to test the Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities of this new model, but neither can be held as negative points just for their inclusion. The Wi-Fi integration means users will be able to control the camera from an Android or iOS device, and will be able to wirelessly transfer images for viewing, editing and sending while on the go.

Image: The new battery, which is backwards compatible with the D5200, offers a longer life. There is no low-pass filter on the sensor, for extra resolution

Nikon D5300 - Conclusion

It would be easy to dismiss the Nikon D5300 for being too similar to the D5200, but that really isn't the point. There is not much wrong with the D5200, and the changes that this new model brings can only make it better. Perhaps Nikon could have called it the D5200 ll, but I'm not sure it matters one bit.

The Nikon D5300 will cost around £730 body only and be available from 14 November.


Source: Amateurphotographer

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Nikon D5300 DSLR Unveiled, 24.2MP Successor to the D5200

Posted on 18. Oct, 2013 by Steve in Digital Cameras

Nikon D5300 Buy Cheap-with-18-140mm-Nikkor-lens.jpg">Nikon has unveiled the successor to the popular Nikon D5200 digital SLR, which the company launched almost one year ago, the new model is named Nikon D5300. The new Nikon D5300 will start to ship early next month with a retail price that is just under $800 for the camera body. The D5300 and the D5200 both share a similar body design, but there are minor differences or improvements that the D5300 has to offer buyers.

The improvements list is short and consists of features that enhance the photographic abilities of the camera and a feature that brings the camera up-to-date with a new digital camera market trend.

Improvements that will help the overall performance of the new Nikon D5300 over the now-old D5200 include a newly designed and higher resolution CMOS image sensor along with a brand new image processor.

Between the Nikon D5200 and the new Nikon D5300, the 24.2 megapixel D5300 has just 0.1 megapixels more resolution than the 24.1 megapixel D5200, however the D5300′s sensor has no built-in OLPF (optical low pass filter) and Nikon say's that will help with image clarity, both the old D5200 and new D5300 use similarly sized DX-format CMOS image sensors.

Nikon D5300 digital SLR gallery:

The new image processor that you will be getting with the upcoming Nikon D5300 is Nikon's newly developed EXPEED 4 image processor. According to Nikon, the new EXPEED 4 offers fast performance while 'maximizing energy efficiency, reducing image noise and delivering true-to-life colors'. The D5200 digital SLR features the EXPEED 3 image processing engine.

After the new image sensor and processor the only other major new feature included with the new Nikon D5300 digital SLR is Wi-Fi. The camera will be shipped with Wi-Fi capabilities built-in that don't need any external accessories like the Nikon WU-1a. The built-in Wi-Fi will let you pair your D5300 to your mobile devices iOS or Android after you install the Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility free app. Also the Wi-Fi working with the cameras built-in GPS can geo-tag files all without external accessories.

However, with the Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility app you will be able to complete functions like remote shooting where you can use your mobile device as a live view enabled wireless remote for snapping photos, wireless transferring of photo and video files, manual file upload for sending files to your mobile device even when you're not paired to the device (the image just downloads later when you are paired).

After you consider all of those differences the Nikon D5300 isn't really a radically new camera compared to the out-going Nikon D5200. However nobody should have expected a totally different camera given the very short gap between the two cameras launches, the D5200 was launched November of last year.

Some big similarities include Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps, continuous Shooting up to 5 fps, expandable ISO from 100-25600, 39-Point auto-focusing system, active D-Lighting and built-in HDR, Nikon F mount support, and an at eye-level pentamirror optical viewfinder.

From an exterior design perspective you can really see the lack of a re-design in the D5300 compared to the D5200. The only difference in looks is the vari-angle LCD is now 3.2-inches with the D5300 instead of 3.1-inches. Even with the color options the new Nikon D5300 is much like the D5200, the new camera will be offered in Black, Red or Grey colors.

Camera seller B&H Photo Video is offering pre-orders for the Nikon D5300 body at $796.95 (same price for each color) and they are offering a body+14-140mm telephoto zoom lens kit (pictured first above) for $1,396.95. With this particular retailer you can expect your pre-ordered D5300 camera to ship on November 14, 2013 according to notice put on each listing.

Tags: 1080p, 3.2-inch Vari-Angle LCD, 720p hd, active D-Lighting, auto-focus system, cmos sensor, digital camera, dslr, DX-format DSLR, full hd, FullHD, gps, hd, hdmi, hdr, image stabilization system, interchangeable lens, memory card, Nikon, Nikon D5300, Nikon dslr, Nikon Expeed 4, Nikon F mount, Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility, optical low pass filter, optical viewfinder, pentamirror optical viewfinder, sd memory card, sdhc memory card, sdxc memory card, tilt LCD, Video, wi-fi


Source: Digital-cameras-planet

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Nikon D5300 DSLR Unveiled, 24.2MP Successor to the D5200

Posted on 18. Oct, 2013 by Steve in Digital Cameras

Nikon D5300 Buy Cheap-with-18-140mm-Nikkor-lens.jpg">Nikon has unveiled the successor to the popular Nikon D5200 digital SLR, which the company launched almost one year ago, the new model is named Nikon D5300. The new Nikon D5300 will start to ship early next month with a retail price that is just under $800 for the camera body. The D5300 and the D5200 both share a similar body design, but there are minor differences or improvements that the D5300 has to offer buyers.

The improvements list is short and consists of features that enhance the photographic abilities of the camera and a feature that brings the camera up-to-date with a new digital camera market trend.

Improvements that will help the overall performance of the new Nikon D5300 over the now-old D5200 include a newly designed and higher resolution CMOS image sensor along with a brand new image processor.

Between the Nikon D5200 and the new Nikon D5300, the 24.2 megapixel D5300 has just 0.1 megapixels more resolution than the 24.1 megapixel D5200, however the D5300′s sensor has no built-in OLPF (optical low pass filter) and Nikon say's that will help with image clarity, both the old D5200 and new D5300 use similarly sized DX-format CMOS image sensors.

Nikon D5300 digital SLR gallery:

The new image processor that you will be getting with the upcoming Nikon D5300 is Nikon's newly developed EXPEED 4 image processor. According to Nikon, the new EXPEED 4 offers fast performance while 'maximizing energy efficiency, reducing image noise and delivering true-to-life colors'. The D5200 digital SLR features the EXPEED 3 image processing engine.

After the new image sensor and processor the only other major new feature included with the new Nikon D5300 digital SLR is Wi-Fi. The camera will be shipped with Wi-Fi capabilities built-in that don't need any external accessories like the Nikon WU-1a. The built-in Wi-Fi will let you pair your D5300 to your mobile devices iOS or Android after you install the Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility free app. Also the Wi-Fi working with the cameras built-in GPS can geo-tag files all without external accessories.

However, with the Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility app you will be able to complete functions like remote shooting where you can use your mobile device as a live view enabled wireless remote for snapping photos, wireless transferring of photo and video files, manual file upload for sending files to your mobile device even when you're not paired to the device (the image just downloads later when you are paired).

After you consider all of those differences the Nikon D5300 isn't really a radically new camera compared to the out-going Nikon D5200. However nobody should have expected a totally different camera given the very short gap between the two cameras launches, the D5200 was launched November of last year.

Some big similarities include Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps, continuous Shooting up to 5 fps, expandable ISO from 100-25600, 39-Point auto-focusing system, active D-Lighting and built-in HDR, Nikon F mount support, and an at eye-level pentamirror optical viewfinder.

From an exterior design perspective you can really see the lack of a re-design in the D5300 compared to the D5200. The only difference in looks is the vari-angle LCD is now 3.2-inches with the D5300 instead of 3.1-inches. Even with the color options the new Nikon D5300 is much like the D5200, the new camera will be offered in Black, Red or Grey colors.

Camera seller B&H Photo Video is offering pre-orders for the Nikon D5300 body at $796.95 (same price for each color) and they are offering a body+14-140mm telephoto zoom lens kit (pictured first above) for $1,396.95. With this particular retailer you can expect your pre-ordered D5300 camera to ship on November 14, 2013 according to notice put on each listing.

Tags: 1080p, 3.2-inch Vari-Angle LCD, 720p hd, active D-Lighting, auto-focus system, cmos sensor, digital camera, dslr, DX-format DSLR, full hd, FullHD, gps, hd, hdmi, hdr, image stabilization system, interchangeable lens, memory card, Nikon, Nikon D5300, Nikon dslr, Nikon Expeed 4, Nikon F mount, Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility, optical low pass filter, optical viewfinder, pentamirror optical viewfinder, sd memory card, sdhc memory card, sdxc memory card, tilt LCD, Video, wi-fi


Source: Digital-cameras-planet

Sunday, October 20, 2013

Free Pumpkin Carving Stencils, Designs And Patterns

free pumpkin carving ideas Easy Pumpkin Carving Patterns Online

Now that you have your pumpkin, it's time to spruce it up a bit. You can find pumpkin carving patters for free right from your home. Since everyone seems to be in the penny pinching habit these days, here are a few sites to check out. They are listed with their difficulty level posted.

Easy:
Choose from 13 different designs here. Don't forget to check out page two for number 13. These patterns are perfect for a beginner, those short on time or those wanting to share quality time helping their kids have fun.

Medium:
This link requires some medium range skills. If you have kids, you will love this site. This is a collection of Disney patterns.

Medium to Hard:
For those seeking a challenge check out this site:
This site offers bone chilling skulls, Halloween icons and legends, too. Just take a look at the Elvira, Marilyn (yes, as in Monroe) or Lily Munster. For those looking for something a tad spookier, take a peak at the screaming skull if you dare.

Thanks to the convenience of the internet, you can find all sorts of free pumpkin carving patterns online. You can print them from your home and have a blast without spending a penny, other than buying your pumpkin of course.

Here are A couple cool pumpkin carvings that should inspire you.

Tags: Canada Living News, Cool Pumpkin Carving, Cool Pumpkin Ideas, Easy Pumpkin Carving, Easy Pumpkin Ideas, halloween, Halloween Ideas, Halloween Pumpkin Carving, Pumpkin Carving Halloween, Pumpkin Carving Idea, Pumpkin Carving Patterns, Pumpkin Carving Stencil, Pumpkin Patterns, Unique Pumpkin Carvings, Video



Source: Ecanadanow

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Fun Halloween Games Have Been Released On Kids Activities Blog

<ghost laminated halloween signp>Dallas, Texas (PRWEB) October 13, 2013

Halloween is just around the corner. Let the kids have a blast with fun Halloween games and Halloween themed coloring pages this fall. Seasoned moms are sharing their fun ideas on Kids Activities Blog this week.

The three festively decorated Halloween printable games feature a candy corn design. The first game is a Halloween word search perfect for kindergardeners through grade school. The Halloween printable maze is fun for any age child. The third game features the fun legend of the candy corn story, where kids or even adults can fill in the blanks to make the story come alive.

Let the kiddos have a blast with the silly monster coloring pages. The pages feature a shaggy headed monster with striped legs, a dew drop shaped monster with glasses and a bow tie, a ghostly fellow with a painter's hat and work boots, and lastly, a one-eyed monster ready for bed with a hot chocolate.

Color the pages with anything but markers and crayons. Use colored glue or paper strips to fill in the pages. Another fun idea is laminating the pages and let the kids have a blast coloring them over and over again with dry erase markers.

For detailed instructions and to get additional fun ideas, check out Kids Activities Blog this week. Come get inspired to let the kids have a blast this Halloween season.

About Kids Activities Blog

Kids Activities Blog is a website created by two moms (who collectively have 9 children), Rachel Miller and Holly Homer from June Cleaver Nirvana. It is their daily goal to inspire parents and teachers to play with kids. This interactive website publishes simple things to do with kids twice a day. Kids Activities Blog is a great tool for moms and teachers to find kid-friendly activities that create memories and sneak learning into the fun.



Source: Prweb

Sunday, October 6, 2013

OtterBox Commuter Series Wallet Case Protects Your iPhone

If you're anything like me, you always have your smartphone with you. I always have a fear of losing something in my pocket, especially my car keys, so it drives me crazy to have a lot of things stuffed inside the pockets of my jeans. If you like to go a bit more minimalist and don't want to have to carry your smartphone and your wallet, OtterBox has a new case that you might appreciate.

The case is called the Commuter Series Wallet and is available for the iPhone 5/5S and the Samsung Galaxy S4. This certainly isn't the first case on the market to offer wallet capability, but it does look like OtterBox's offering will hold more than a lot of other 5s iphone cases otterbox defender for iphone 4 on the market. OtterBox is also well-known for making cases that actually protects your phone in the event of a drop.

Rather than having slots, this smartphone case has a sliding drawer on the back that appears to be approximately a quarter of an inch deep. You can cram credit cards, driver's license, and cash inside the wallet drawer and have them with you at all times. The only downside I see is that the case is rather thick and might not fit in your pocket if you're the sort who wears skinny jeans.

The Commuter Series Wallet is available now from OtterBox for $44.95(USD).


Source: Technabob

Saturday, October 5, 2013

LifeProof Debuts Two New Galaxy S4 WaterProof Cases

Case maker LifeProof has announced two new additions to its popular case line, both of which are compatible with Samsung's latest flagship device: the Samsung Galaxy S4.

The first case in the new Galaxy S4 compatible line-up, the LifeProof nuud Galaxy S4, offers much of the same profile that users get with the nuud Samsung Galaxy S3. That includes the company's drop protection for falls of up to 6.6 feet, water resistance for up to 6.6 feet and clear rear-facing and front-facing shell. That clear shell allows users to still showcase the color of their device, while protecting the particularly fragile Galaxy S4 from dirt, dust snow and ice. Although the case does nearly completely encapsulate the Galaxy S4, users shouldn't have a problem accessing its buttons and jacks. The LifeProof nuud, will debut at $89.99.

For $79.99, Galaxy S4 fre case allows users to protect their investment completely, thanks to a built-in screen protector. That's in addition to the case also being fully submersible in water for 6.6 feet, and rated for drops as high as 6.6 feet. Users can still show off the color of their phone with the rear-case window and it too allows users access to the headphone jack and USB port of the Galaxy S4 without any trouble.

As for looks and functionality, both 5s iphone cases lifeproof belt clip mirror the LifeProof nuud Galaxy S3 case GottaBeMobile reviewed last month. We found the case to be particularly well made, going so far as to declare it the "best Galaxy S3 waterproof case we've tried."

Read: LifeProof nuud Galaxy S3 Review: Waterproof Case

While users can't purchase either of the cases just yet, they can sign up to receive an email alert from LifeProof the moment the cases are available. A press release made available to GottaBeMobile indicated that users should expect each case to go on sale this month.

Although some users might balk at both cases' price tags, it's likely that they will thank themselves for making the large investment should they ever drop their device in water or on a hard surface. The Galaxy S4 is legendary for providing small software based features meant to enhance user's lives, however most users would agree that its somewhat flimsy back and plastic edges mean the phone is very susceptible to trauma.


Source: Gottabemobile

Thursday, October 3, 2013

Easy way to check iPhone 5s in-store availability near you

5s apple iphone cases-Availability.jpg">

If you are in the USA and trying to buy an iPhone 5s, head over to http://iphone-check.herokuapp.com/, enter your zip code, cellphone carrier and pick a color, and then it will show you availability at Apple Stores "near you."

I used the site to find a Verizon, 16 GB, Space Gray iPhone 5s in my area. I placed an order for in-store pickup, and about two hours later I was walking out of the Apple Store with a new iPhone.

Two caveats: First, "near you" is a relative term. The site seems to always show 20 Apple Stores, but some of them might be quite a distance from you. For me, the last store on the list was about 350 miles (and nearly a six-hour drive) away. Each result is linked to an Apple Retail Store, so if you aren't sure where it is, click on it to get the address. Second, availability can change fast. My local Apple Retail Store said that they were only filling orders through http://store.apple.com, which had been designated as "in-store pickup." The good news is that I knew I had an iPhone waiting for me before I got into the car. I definitely recommend using that method rather than driving to the store and hoping that they still have what you want in stock.


Source: Tuaw

The New Curated Consumer Marketplace Model: 10 Criteria For Success

<collectionp>The Wild West of online marketplaces is over. From 1999 until 2006, eBay and Amazon Marketplaces dominated the field, offering platforms that brought buyers and sellers together. But over the last seven years, more than 20 new marketplace companies have emerged, representing more than $15 billion of market capitalization and ushering in a whole new era of consumer services. This level of innovation is unprecedented.

These new marketplace companies are upending many industries. They are following some of the same rules as eBay and other first-generation marketplaces, but they are adding a new layer of consumer requirements. In this article, I look at what differentiates these new marketplaces and provide 10 rules for success.

Today's consumer marketplace is curated and controlled. This new level of curation and control really depends on the customer promise for a given market as well as the diversity of inventory; see the spectrum of marketplace models:

Airbnb, for example, has so many different types of accommodations, they cannot control price or service levels exactly. RelayRides, essentially the Airbnb for car use, is to the right of Airbnb on the spectrum because they have to control pricing to be competitive. Wello, a fitness marketplace, started out with open pricing and found out they did not have enough differentiation across trainers since they were vetting carefully, so they have now moved to one consistent price and a subscription model for more frequent customers. If a marketplace offers a service that requires consistency in service levels and pricing, it moves all the way to the right like Uber or Yourmechanic, which control pricing, inventory, delivery, quality, and more.

Restriction can mean friction

A marketplace must evaluate every curation and control decision carefully to avoid alienating users. For example, RelayRides started with a strictly controlled model, involving itself in all communication between renters and owners and requiring owners to install hardware in their cars. For casual renters, this bar was too high, so growth was slow.

Realizing they needed to make it absolutely frictionless, RelayRides ditched the hardware and encouraged anyone to create listings. They pivoted to long-term rentals and away from the 1-2 hour, instant mobility options that Uber and Lyft offer at such low expense. Now they are seeing 40% month-over-month growth.

Setting the bar-and raising it

Generally, the more curation, the higher the cost, so marketplaces need high margins to support growth. Airbnb pays for photographers to make their listings both beautiful and consistent. Both Airbnb and RelayRides have to offer insurance to their owners to make the proposition worthwhile. To balance that expense, RelayRides implemented a stringent vetting of potential drivers, rejecting 15% of renters to increase quality and reduce costs.

The stronger a marketplace gets in terms of market share, the more it can raise the bar on quality. For example, Airbnb just hired a hotelier to train their hosts to provide more consistency across the different Airbnb experiences.

The giants pivoted, too

Even eBay has evolved from a completely open platform. From 1995 to 2006, eBay 1.0 did not dictate key elements of the experience such as shipping or payments, or even offer any kind of guarantee. The quality of the pictures and item descriptions varied, and users had to work to find the item they wanted, but buyers were thrilled at the novelty of finding items online.

By 2007, eBay was losing ground to Amazon Marketplaces. I led the eBay turnaround from 2008 to 2010 as senior vice president of eBay.com. We had to transition to a curated marketplace model with strict requirements for sellers. We also introduced a buyer guarantee. And finally, we improved the user experience to ensure we showed the best item from the best seller at the best price for a given query, not simply the auction ending the soonest. This transition seems obvious in hindsight, but it was a big shift at the time that required a whole new search back-end.

Let's explore some common rules for success among these examples:


Source: Forbes

Virgin selling iPhone 5s, 5c at $100 discount

<5s iphone iphone 5s cases otterbox pinkp>Buyers interested in the iPhone 5c or the iPhone 5s may want to give Virgin Mobile another look. As we mentioned last week, the low-cost Sprint-owned carrier is offering the new models as of Tuesday, but they're doing so at a cheaper price than you'll find elsewhere.

Virgin tends to sell phones for the full unlocked cost, but in this case it's offering $100 off that unsubsidized price. That means if you're looking for an iPhone 5s, you can pick one up for $550, $650, and $750 for 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB, respectively. An iPhone 5c, likewise, goes for $450 for 16GB and $550 for 32GB. All that on top of Virgin's generally cheaper monthly plans, which start at $35, offer unlimited data and text messaging, and do not require a contract.

Of course, Virgin is one of the smaller carriers in the U.S. and it relies on Sprint's network, which is somewhat smaller than those offered by AT&T and Verizon. It's also worth keeping in mind, however, that the Sprint version of the iPhone 5c and 5s used by Virgin are not compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon (though they do work with several smaller carriers), so your switching options are limited.


Source: Macworld

Unofficial iPhone 5s tracker helps customers find gold

Summary: An inventory tracker was developed by an enterprising Apple developer looking for the fabled gold iPhone 5s iphone cases otterbox camo ap blazed iphone 4.

Remember the rumor that Apple was going to update its Apple Store app to include real-time iPhone inventory status? Well, it never came to pass, at least the way I imagined.

In 2008 a developer built an iPhone 3G tracker by scraping the Apple Store's JSON data feed (Apple quickly pulled the feed). Then in 2009 Apple posted an official iPhone 3GS tracker that was updated hourly and linked to its sales system.

Unfortunately, it's 2013 and the current implementation is incredibly obtuse and difficult to use. There's no simple chart that simply shows where to find an iPhone 5s in stock. It's a huge step backwards from 2009.

To find an iPhone 5s near you, you need to go to Apple's buy page, click on the configuration you want, then click on the tiny blue "check availability" link in the right navigation bar. From there, you can enter your zip code to see availability at five stores at a time, for that configuration. If you want to check another color or configuration, you need to start over.

Enter iPhone-Check by Mordy Tikotzky (@Tikotzky), an Apple Developer from NJ.

Frustrated with not being able to find a gold iPhone 5c for his wife he build a slick iPhone tracker that scrapes store.apple.com for the most up to date iPhone 5s inventory information.

According to Tikotzky iPhone-Check started as a little project running on his local computer and then he decided to share it with the world. Tikotzky wrote it in an hour (using expressjs.com on top of nodejs.org) with the support of his employer (@homeandstone) who let him do it on their time. He spent another two hours tweaking it in the evening.

iPhone-Check must be scratching an itch. The site broke 100k unique visitors Wednesday and has topped 1 million page views since it was launched less than a week ago. It's a shame that Apple couldn't offer a proper iPhone tracker, because clearly there's demand.

Now where all these gold iPhones I keep hearing about?


Source: Zdnet

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Miley Cyrus vs. 'The Fox' in a Halloween costumes battle

<halloween costume goddessp>Miley Cyrus Halloween costumes are definitely going to be big this year. According to a Sept. 28 report by Perez Hilton, foam fingers like the one that Miley wore during her infamous MTV VMAs twerk-fest are quickly flying off of store shelves, so clubs are going to be full of twerking Miley clones twerking . However, another musical performance might also have a big influence on 2013 Halloween costumes. According to Billboard, Ylvis' "The Fox" has flown up the Hot 100.

Miley is definitely the hottest musician right now since her song "Wrecking Ball" is sitting pretty on top of the Hot 100, but it's her popularity that makes for a boring Halloween costume idea. Luckily, Halloweencostumes.com has created a guide that shows fans of "The Fox" how to make cute DYI fox costumes that are a little more covered up. And if it's cold on Halloween, you'll definitely want something more than Miley Cyrus' giant foam finger to warm yourself up with.

Of course everyone will be asking you "What does the fox say?" all night long if you dress up like the mysterious-sounding critter, so you'll want to prepare your answers, which include "Ring-ding-ding-ding-dingeringeding" and "Wa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pa-pow." It might be difficult to sound like a fox, but at least people won't be asking you to twerk.

If you're planning on going out with a big group of friends on Halloween, you can study Ylvis' viral video to copy some of the other various animal costumes in it-there are birds, dogs, elephants, mice, and seals. And if you can't make up your mind between being Miley and being "The Fox," then you could always combine Halloween costumes to become a twerking fox that can't keep its tongue in its mouth.

So did the question "What does the fox say?" inspire your 2013 Halloween costume, or did you decide that you just had to be Miley after seeing her naked wrecking ball riding?


Source: Examiner

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Electronics Design Show 2013 preview

When Findlay Media launched the Engineering Design Show last year, the move was greeted with a degree of scepticism, yet the event proved a roaring success.

Catering specifically to their professional needs, the event attracted 1600 design engineers to the Ricoh Arena, Coventry. The Conference programme attracted more than 600 delegates and the Workshop sessions on the show floor were often standing room only.

It's fair to say that electronic design engineers in the UK have not had the best of service when it comes to national events. Event organisers have often blamed the lack of an 'exhibition culture' for poor attendance, but the fact remains that if an event is interesting and worthwhile, then people will go to it.

Research showed that 41% of last year's attendees were electronics specialists and that there was a real desire amongst them for a dedicated electronics event, hence the launch this year of the Electronics Design Show as part of a much enlarged exhibition.

'Bigger and Better' have been this year's watchwords, borne out by a show that will take up all three halls of the Ricoh's Jaguar Exhibition Centre. The Electronics Design Show, the Engineering Design Show and a new section named 'Engineering Materials Live!'.

This year, it is hoped that more than 2500 visitors from all aspects of engineering design will attend, while around 200 exhibitors will be showing their wares. In addition, Conference programmes will run for both the Engineering Design Show and the Electronics Design Show.

This year's show will be bigger and better in every way. We look forward to seeing you there.

REASONS TO ATTEND
* The show has been created specifically for electronic design engineers
* Review the latest techniques and technology from more than 80 market leading suppliers
* FREE practical technology workshops, providing information to help you with your design projects
* Learn from 16 conference speakers
* Network with other design engineers

EXHIBITOR ROUND-UP
There will be a huge amount of variety on display at the Electronics Design Show - a blend of components, products, tools and services that covers the majority of interests of the design engineer.

Starting with new products, Direct Insight (stand - L60) will be promoting the TRITON-TXFB baseboard, only a few weeks since its release on the market. The new TRITON-TXFB turns the TRITON-TX series of pin-compatible SOMs into complete production board solutions, offering a range of processors - from a low-end ARM9, up to a quad core ARM Cortex-A9. It offers the first completely configurable and flexible production solution for Linux, Windows CE and Android projects, says the company.

TRITON-TXFB can be used with any of the current generation of pin-compatible 3.3V I/O TRITON-TX modules, from an low-cost TRITON-TX28S based on a Freescale i.MX283, to a TRITON-TX48 based on the TI AM335x processor as used in the popular Beaglebone community board, and the TRITON-TX6Q with quad ARM Cortex-A9 based i.MX6 from Freescale. In each case, the combination of baseboard and module forms a complete production-ready dual-board solution.

Freescale (Stand - K75) is concentrating on its innovations in the consumer, industrial and networking markets. Live demonstrations will include: Mad Catz Wireless Force Feedback Racing Wheel based on a Kinetis K20 MCU; PROFIBUS field communication technology used in industrial automation systems with Freescale's PowerQUICC and QorIQ communication processors; Kinetis energy efficiency with the Kinetis L series MCUs; and the Home Health Hub showing connected weight scales, blood pressure cuff and pulse oximeter

The new NI cRIO-9068 software-designed controller is part of the most advanced and open system design platform for embedded control and monitoring systems, claims National Instruments (Stand - G25). Maintaining full LabVIEW and I/O compatibility with the CompactRIO platform, the controller integrates technologies including the Xilinx Zynq-7020 All Programmable SoC, which combines a dual-core ARM Cortex-A9 processor and Xilinx 7 Series FPGA fabric. The resulting system benefits from increased processor performance and significantly greater bandwidth for communication to the FPGA fabric. The new NI Linux Real-Time OS on the cRIO-9068 gives developers access to community-sourced libraries and applications to augment their control and monitoring systems.

On Stand M30, Pacer will demonstrate a range of optoelectronic sensors, thermal and pyroelectric detectors, magnetic encoders, focus-variable lenses, high power LEDs and RFID components. Information displays range from compact, rugged handheld tablets up to the latest 84" ultra high definition screens and scalable video walls. New products include uncooled MWIR imaging detectors, LCD modules controlled by SPI and I2C, and Silicon photomultiplier modules capable of extremely low light level detection.

Also in the optoelectronics sector, OMC (Stand L40) will include a demonstration of its Profiled LED backlighting technology. This complements custom LCD glass modules, for the first time enabling designers requiring displays for relatively low volume applications to be able to choose a full-custom option. OMC's Profiled backlight technology ensures that very consistent illumination is provided across the entire display. Uniquely, they can feature single or dual chip LEDs depending on power output availability and requirements, and they are available in full RGB and blue/white colours. The company also now offers, and will be discussing at the Show, a fibre optic link service specifically tailored to meet the requirements of the high voltage market.

Rhopoint Components (Stand N20) has a large range of non generic resistors and passive components in addition to its range of sensors and feed-throughs. Some of the main ranges on show include: precision, power, low ohmic, high voltage and high temperature resistors; digital isolators; circuit protection; temperature products including RTDs, platinum sensors, thermocouples and heatflux sensors. Other sensors, regulators and interconnection products will also be on display.

Although strictly in the Engineering Materials Live! section of the adjacent Engineering Design Show, Tecman (Stand A15) will be of interest to design engineers looking for best practise information about bonding methods and materials. The company will showcase its range of high precision die cut components and Bond44 high performance industrial adhesive tapes.

Congatec (Stand K45) will presents its fastest COM Express module based on 4th Generation Intel Core processors. The conga-TS87 module features improved vector processing, more efficient floating point calculation and better graphics without an increase in power consumption. Improvements to the previous architecture have led to efficiency gains that also boost performance. This is particularly evident in the embedded graphics, where the number of integrated graphics units (execution units) has been increased, resulting in higher 3D performance in the range from 28 to 60%, compared to previous generations.

Analog Devices (Stand K30) will highlight its partnerships with industry leading FPGA OEMs and software developers. It will also demonstrate its solution expertise, as a complete signal chain solution, from field transmitter to actuator. Incorporating a selection of reference circuits, the demonstration will feature a loop powered field instrument with HART interface, universal analogue input board and analogue output with HART connectivity.

Royalty-free real-time operating systems (RTOS) Express Logic (Stand J45) is introducing its Downloadable Application Modules (DAM) for ARM Cortex-M3/M4 systems using its ThreadX RTOS. DAMs enable ThreadX-based applications dynamically to run application code not statically linked with the main system executable image. Also, each module can be memory-protected (using the Cortex-M3/M4 MPU) from the rest of the system to prevent access outside its own memory area, thus protecting the system from any unintended actions of threads within a module.

Euroquartz (Stand L45) is showing its new ranges of high precision low jitter oscillators and VCXOs. Typically available in as little as 5 to 10 days, the new HTQF and HPQF series oscillators and GDQF, GPQF and GTQF series VCXOs have been developed as precision frequency control components. The GDQF (LVDS), GPQF (LVPECL) and GTQF (CMOS) VCXOs all combine low integrated phase jitter of
Many other components will be highlighted on the stands of the distribution companies. For example Avnet Memec (Stand K5) will be showing new technologies from Intersil (digital power modules and the latest "Aspen" Graphical User Interface); Maxim (modular power solutions, energy harvesting, micropower light sensors and integrated audio solutions); Microchip (wired and wireless connectivity solution); Microsemi (multi-port switches and Hubs and the new IGLOO2, and SmartFusion2 FPGA families); and Silicon Labs (32-Bit microcontrollers, CMEMS oscillators, isolation and power solutions, and the latest wireless ISM Sub-GHz Transceivers).

Specialist display and component distributor Ginsbury (Stand K25) will be demonstrating a range of new Kyocera Advanced Wide View and Value Line TFT display modules and high-reliability DC-DC converters from US manufacturer Pico. Kyocera's Advanced Wide View TFT displays have been developed to provide superior image quality and wide viewing angles with maximum colour accuracy. Advanced Wide View achieves a viewing angle of greater than 170° (horizontally and vertically) and ensures that the colour fidelity of the display image is accurately represented when viewed from any direction.

Premier EDA Solutions (Stand K10), as the UK reseller of Altium, will run a programme of presentations illustrating the key features and capabilities of the electronics design software. Their Applications Support team will also be on hand to give up-close demonstrations and Altium's Industry Specialist; will deliver his Managing Electronics Design Data - From Concept to Production workshop on each day of the Show. Premier passionately supports the UK electronics industry and is looking forward to highlighting British design innovation. This includes bringing along solar-powered racing car Endeavour from Cambridge University Eco Racing (K86) and Angelic Bulldog, the streamliner aiming to break the world motorcycle land speed record at 400mph (B40). There will be an updated showcase of work designed in the UK with Altium a special prize draw to celebrate this. Also of note from Altium is its partnership with Desktop EDA to provide PCB designers improved ECAD and MCAD integration with Dassault SolidWorks, Siemens Solid Edge and Autodesk Inventor.

Another distributor with specialist interests is Toby Electronics (Stand M15) who will highlight the benefits of custom connector design. Alongside the company's own Valcon range, highlights of the Toby linecard include Samtec's innovative range of connectors and cable systems. Visitors will have a chance to learn more about the benefits of using custom-designed connectors to enhance system performance, strengthen IP protection, improve supply chain traceability and simplify manufacturing processes.

BCD Microelectronics (Stand L5) aims to use the Show to raise awareness of its RF and wireless capability through its links with CSR and software partners such as Stollmann, Flaircomm, Blue Creation. The company believes it has the most cost effective, lowest risk and highest performance Bluetooth Low Energy and Dual Mode Solutions - solutions that are easy to design in whether it's a simple cable replacement or iOS and Android Apps. There will also be a demo of the latest CSR Coach 14 SoC for IP and Security Cameras.

Meanwhile distributor Anglia is focussing on two initiatives on Stands K20 and K40. AngliaLive is the new online ordering service from Anglia. The website aims to enable projects to be taken seamlessly from embryonic design to volume production. Anglia M2M is a specialist division of Anglia that is dedicated to machine to machine technology using embedded wireless communication. The division offers wireless technologies such as GPRS/3G/4G, WiFi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, antennas and SIM services from a line-up of more than 15 market leading suppliers.

For RS Component's (Stand H15) the Show is of most use as a meeting place - 'a great opportunity for us to connect with our customers and continue to understand more about their daily challenges.' So feel free to visit the stand an air your views. There will also be some of the latest design solutions - some which have yet to be launched.

Services are not limited to distribution. There are a number of companies promoting their prototyping and manufacturing capabilities. You can win an Apple IPad if you visit Contract Production (Stand J10) who will be talking about its tailored contract electronics manufacturing service for low to medium volume manufacturers with all work manufactured under an ISO9001 approved quality system.

Gemini Tec (Stand M45), is another EMS company whose services span rapid prototyping and NPI to batch production orders of 1 to 1000 units. One novel service that this company offers and will be talking about at EDS is solder jet printing technology. This process is particularly useful in prototyping as it means a new solder paste stencil does not need to be cut for every new version of the design.

Arrival Electronics (Stand - L10) is an EMS company that offers design services, kitting and inventory management, as well as manufacturing services. One aspect of Arrival is its component distribution business, providing to support customers at the start of their product's lifecycle. It focuses on four main product categories, Power, Storage, Interface and Design. At the Electronics Design Show, Arrival will have products on show in each of these areas, from Ethernet WiFi solutions and USB3.0 Hub controllers, to Solid State Drive Technology including the Single Chip Solid State Drive IC from Silicon Motion, and GSM / GPS modules from Janus and Navsync.

Consultancy services are also well represented at the Electronics Design Show. ByteSnap Design (Stand L30) will be showing off some of the embedded hardware and software projects that have helped it win electronics industry awards, including a 'Highly Commended' for Design Team of the Year at the British Engineering Excellence Awards. Boards and software on the stand will include a live demonstration, using racing toy dogs, of how ZigBee technology can be used to monitor a remote device and communicate with Windows and Linux display units at the same time. Also on show will be ByteSnap's cross-platform user interface technology, which allows internationalised versions of desktop and mobile software for Windows, Linux, Android and Samsung Bada to be developed in days rather than weeks.

Experienced at developing sophisticated communications modules for the data networking industry and equally at home creating simple, cost-effective embedded controllers, Xentech Solutions' (Stand N15) team of engineers can help with projects such as; updating an existing design for a new user experience using faster, more power-efficient microprocessors; or adding touchscreen capability; or using Ethernet or Wi-Fi to control and monitor an already proven system. Xentech can also help customers work with third parties like test house and contract manufacturers.

A little forward thinking and sourcing supply of memory products from the experts pays off in the long-term, enabling right first time designs and faster time to market. That will be the message from Nexus (Stand K15) who specialise in rugged, industrial memory and will be offering all visitors to its stand, who have a valid embedded design application that they wish to kick-start into prototype stage, a six week trial of their development kits.

Other design tools will be on display. Future Facilities (Stand M50) will showcase the latest release of 6SigmaET - a thermal modelling tool specifically designed for the electronics industry. At the show, Future Facilities will demonstrate how using thermal analysis can shorten your time-to-market by reducing the risk of thermal design issues.

Several companies are also showing the latest in test tools and techniques. GOEPEL electronics (Stand J40) will exhibit its JTAG/Boundary Scan hardware and software and will demonstrate how to overcome test access problems by utilising most modern technologies. New features in the test and programming software SYSTEM CASCON for Boundary Scan compliant with IEEE Std. 1149.x and the even wider support of chip-embedded instrumentations by innovative ChipVORX extensions should be of interest for design and test specialists as much as new integration opportunities in ATE systems.

XJTAG (Stand K50) is another company who believes that boundary scan is way forward when it comes to improving the design and testability of electronic products. XJTAG provides boundary scan test solutions to help spot flaws in designs, better design-for-test, test 'untestable' devices such as those in BGA packages and also provide faster programming. The exhibition stand will also feature kits for demonstration, product brochures and a chance to win a Raspberry Pi.

Finally, Pickering Interfaces (Stand M40) will be introducing a comprehensive new range of cost effective PXI Microwave switch solutions comprising 21 new modules. The 40-784A family supports one, two or three Radial microwave switches in just two slots of a 3U PXI chassis, with available configurations of four way (SP4T) and six way (SP6T) multiplexers and a choice of DC to 6GHz, 18GHz, 26.5GHz or 40GHz operating frequency ranges. The 6GHz/18GHz/26.5GHz configurations feature extended life with a guaranteed 10million operations per position and typical life of 25million operations. The single and dual switch models are fitted with channel selection LEDs to simplify system operation and debug. The minimal two slot PXI occupancy allows test system designers to provide high density solutions for complex microwave switching applications.

CONFERENCE
A varied conference programme should certainly inform visitors, but it may well entertain and inspire as well. Attendance is free, but to reserve a place register online.

Wednesday, 2nd October 2013
09:00-09:45
Raspberry Pi - from Consumer to Creator
Pete Lomas - Raspberry Pi Foundation

The seven-year journey (which includes sales of over 1.5 million units) has sometimes been a tough one for Raspberry Pi , but it's been a journey with some significant successes, including the repatriation of manufacturing to the UK and the associated job creation. What does the future hold for the project? How close are we to meeting our original goals; were our ambitions the right ones? Have we managed to build an awareness and interest in engineering, or has the status quo remained? And crucially, how do we move forward in engaging with tomorrow's engineers?

10:00-10:45
Car-to-x
Visteon

Connectivity has reached the car. Plans are being drawn up that will enable cars to talk to other vehicles to improve road safety and to a transport infrastructure that will provide such information as traffic and weather updates. The so called Car-to-x system may also enable road tolling to be introduced. What are the challenges in developing Car-to-x technology and what is the best way for cars to communicate?

11:00-11:45
The future is flexible
Ian Reid, Strategic Marketing Director , Plastic Logic

New technologies continue to evolve and influence electronic product and system design. This presentation explores how the features of flexible electronics technology are driving innovation in this area. It highlights how Plastic Logic is working with partners to transform concepts into real product designs, while overcoming practical challenges.

12:00-12:45
Speaking up for voice-controlled devices
Eddie Sinnott, Wolfson Microelectronics

Today's interface of choice is the touchscreen. In the future it may well be the human voice - one of the consequences of enabling MEMS technologies.

13:00-13:45
Is the driverless car a reality?
Freescale

Google has already run tests of a driverless car in California, so far without mishap, but it will be some time before autonomous cars appear in the showrooms near you. Will we get to a state where the driver can trust the vehicle to drive? There are a number of challenges to be overcome before that situation can become a reality. The presentation will look at these challenges, but will show that the journey towards self-driving cars is an exciting and positive one, leading to safer roads

14:00-14:45
As Low As Reasonably Practicable
Chris Hills, Technical Specialist, Phaedrus Systems

The process of developing safety critical software gives rise to a number of topics, including: processes; requirements capture/ management; design; coding standards; static analysis; and unit test/dynamic analysis. The term ALARP - As Low As Reasonably Practicable - is a term widely used when discussing risk and safety. But what is ALARP when it comes to assessing risks in a system?

15.00 - 15.45
Long Live the LED - How to Increase Reliability of LED Lighting Designs
Gary Bentley, European Field Applications Manager, Littelfuse Europe

LED lamps are highly complex entities and very sensitive to overvoltage and overcurrent failures. Therefore the proper protection of LED strings is critical. Gary Bentley speaks about the benefits of LED lighting and the importance of LED design protection.

Thursday, 3rd October 2013
09:00-09:45
Electronic Systems: Challenges and Opportunities
Warren East, former Chief Executive of ARM Holdings

The recently published ESCO Report believes the UK's electronic systems sector could grow its revenues by 55% by 2020, while increasing employment to more than 1 million people. Electronics Systems Leadership Forum chair Warren East outlines the opportunities available to UK electronics companies and provides hints on ways to take advantage of those opportunities.

10:00-10:45
Meet the Cortex-M Family
Trevor Martin, Hitex

An overview of the Cortex- M family, giving architectural descriptions supported with practical examples, enabling the engineer to easily develop basic C programs to run on the Cortex- M0/M3 and M4. Trevor Martin will then examine the more advanced features of the Cortex architecture such as memory protection, operating modes and dual stack.

11:00-11:45
The key role of electroncis and software in surgical innovation
Fabien Schmitt, Senior Consultant - Technical Design, PDD Group

Electronics and software have played a key role in enabling breakthrough medical and surgical innovations and this influence will continue to grow, creating new business opportunities for UK electronics companies.

12:00-12:45
How will we connect 50 billion devices?
Matthew Bailey, Founder Member of Cambridge Wireless and Co-Chairman of the Weightless Marketing SIG

The internet of things may allow up to 50billion devices to communicate - and many of those devices will do nothing but 'talk' to another device. What's involved in taking advantage of the internet of things? Is it as easy as 'dropping in' connectivity, or is there more to it? And is the communication infrastructure capable of dealing with the traffic?

13:00-13:45
Micro and nanoelectronics components and systems: opportunities for European cooperation
Willy Van Puymbroeck, Head of unit 'Components', European Commission Directorate

This presentation will firstly address the European Strategy for micro- and nanoelectronics Components and Systems adopted by the Commission on 23rd May 2013, offering opportunities for European collaborative research and innovation. Second the presentation will focus on work currently supported under the EU's seventh R&D Framework Programme in the area of electronic component and smart systems integration, and finally a brief outlook on the next framework programme HORIZON 2020 and focus on innovation will be presented.'

14:00-14:45
Beating the counterfeiters
UL International

Product counterfeiting is a thriving multi-billion dollar global industry. It is highly profitable and the risks of significant legal consequences are low. For consumers, it means increased health and safety risks, purchasing inferior products, and job loss. In the United States alone, it is estimated that the crime of counterfeiting has caused the loss of more than 750,000 jobs. What can be done?

WORKSHOPS
The extensive workshop schedule is spread across two workshop theatres. Like the Conference attendance is free and allows delegates the opportunity to get up close and personal with specific technologies. Reserve a place by registering online at www.electronicsdesignshow.co.uk, where there will also be updates on the programme.

Wednesday 2nd October 2013
10:15-10:55
Signal chain designer: a new way to design online
Chris Cokayne, Technical Solutions Engineer, Analog Devices

Signal Chain Designer is an advanced selection and design environment that enables custom design creation and direct interactive access to more than 200 tested application circuits and verified product combinations. This session will provide an overview of the new environment, and demonstrate how it integrates with the new engineering tool: Analog Filter Wizard.

10:15-10:55
Brewing with Maxim in the 21st century
Keith Welsh, Senior Applications Manager , Maxim UK

Join Maxim Integrated in a tour of our virtual brewery and see where Maxim's highly integrated IC solutions for Industrial Automation and Process Control are used to run modern factories more safely and efficiently.

11:15 - Managing electronics design data - from concept to production
Robert Huxel, Industry Specialist - Enterprise Solutions - EMEA, Altium

As the process of developing electronic products has increased in complexity and involved more engineering domains, managing the huge array of design data that is sourced and generated has become a crucial part of this task.

11:15 - High speed board development and test
Nick Hardy, FAE, XJTAG Ltd

JTAG has moved from being a manufacturing test tool to a key part of the R&D and hardware development process - becoming essential for boards with BGA devices, FPGAs, microprocessors and DSPs.

12:15 - National Instruments

12:15 - Microsemi

13:15 - Exclusive product launch
RS Components will be launching a revolutionary new product to the market

13:15 - How to streamline your design process and maximise reuse to boost design efficiency
Nikola Kontic, Business Development Manager, Zuken

With 80% of total product costs determined during the design and development phase, streamlining your design process and aiming for maximum efficiency at every stage makes economic sense. Designing with an integrated solution that allows you to consider the complete system from the concept stage allows continuous trade-off and helps reduce design cycle time.

14:15 - Integrating switchmode power for OEMs
Matt Smith and Keith Barclay, Application Support Engineers, TDK-Lambda

This seminar will provide the key pointers for a fast, successful integration of today's switch mode technology for OEM designers.

14:15 - Where to begin developing systems for the IoT using Freescale Solutions
Gordon Padkin, Microcontroller Marketing Manager, Northern Europe, Freescale Semiconductor

In this session Freescale will present an overview of the current IoT landscape across different markets, outlining the key challenges for a successful IoT rollout, and then looking at how the Freescale portfolio is evolving to address the requirements for data collection, data transfer (connectivity) and data processing.

Thursday, 3rd October 2013
10:15 - Tektronix

10:15 - Bringing NFC to anything with a micro
Mark Dickson, Senior Marketing Manager for NFC/RFID, ams AG

The AS3953 NFiC product from ams AG will be introduced. This is a NFC Forum front end that allows by directional communication between a NFC mobile phone and anything with a micro. Simpler, lower cost and quicker to implement than a NFC reader, it is enabling new markets and applications, which will be discussed in this session.

11:15 - UK Patent Box: maximising tax savings for innovations
Tony Albutt and Julia Mills, Partners, D Young & Co LLP

The UK government's Patent Box scheme, under which a company can apply a lower rate of corporation tax to profits earned from its patented inventions, came into effect on 1 April 2013. The Patent Box is an opt in scheme for obtaining a reduced rate of corporation tax on certain IP derived profits in the UK that seeks to encourage innovation and long-term growth of technology companies in the UK. D Young & Co LLP, will present the ins and outs of the Patent Box and how it might benefit you and your business.

11:15 - Design and analysis of low power MCU applications made simple
Matt Saunders, MCU Marketing Manager - EMEA, Silicon Laboratories / Avnet Memec

This session will cover the most important aspects of selecting an MCU for a low power application from the point of view of MCU architecture, MCU system flexibility and Tools to assist with low power mode configuration and validation.

12:15 - Managing electronics design data - from concept to production
Robert Huxel, Industry Specialist - Enterprise Solutions - EMEA, Altium

(See Wednesday 11.15).

12:15 - CSR

13:15 - Reducing Time to Market with Advanced Thermal Modelling Techniques
Tom Gregory, Consultant Engineer, Future Facilities

Thermal modelling has been used to replace rules of thumb and best guesses and can be used to identify issues early in the design process. This workshop will show how 6SigmaET's ECAD and MCAD import, intelligent objects and powerful parallel solver will enable creation of accurate thermal models.

Supporting Information

Websites
http://www.electronicsdesignshow.co.uk

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Source: Newelectronics

Sunday, September 22, 2013

Liberace's Scott Thorson -- NOT Invited To Emmys

Scott Thorson -- a central character in the HBO movie, "Behind the Candelabra" which has 16 nominations -- is getting anything BUT fabulous treatment, because he's NOT invited to the Emmys.

An Emmy official tells TMZ -- it's simple ... Thorson -- who is played by Emmy nominee Matt Damon ... doesn't have a ticket and the event is sold out.

It's not as if Liberace's former lover -- who's currently in an outpatient facility for drug abuse -- didn't want to go. TMZ obtained a letter dated August 8th and written by Scott's drug counselor, asking a drug court judge to give him a weekend pass to attend the Emmys.

Rather than feeling snubbed, Scott now says it's a good idea that he stay away from Hollywood -- too tempting, and all that.

You may recall ... Scott recently tested positive for meth. He could have gone to jail on a probation violation but the judge showed him mercy and ordered him to continue outpatient drug counseling.


Source: Tmz

Honeywell introduces first voice-activated home thermostat

Honeywell launched its own version of Siri on Thursday when it introduced its industry's first voice-activated thermostat, a system that will heat up or cool down homes with the simple chirp of "Hello, thermostat" followed by a request.

Honeywell's new "Wi-Fi Smart Thermostat with Voice Control" recognizes a list of voice commands such as "make it 4 degrees warmer" or "make it much cooler," even when the request is uttered from across the room.

Once installed, the cloud-based system is programmed to recognize the homeowner's voice. Over time, Honeywell officials said, the device will accept an increasing number of verbal commands as it interacts more and more with the homeowner. The temperature also can be changed remotely through a smartphone.

Beth Wozniak, president of Honeywell's Golden Valley-based environmental and combustion controls business, cheered the innovation.

"Honeywell created the first programmable thermostat, the first touch-screen thermostats and the first with a color customizable screen," she said. "Now we are the first with voice control."

Honeywell expects the new device to be a benefit to busy homeowners, and to those with visual impairments.

The system will be available in November and cost about $349.

Dee DePass * 612-673-7725


Source: Startribune