Soundmatters www.soundmatters.com, the leader in high-quality, portable speakers founded by former NASA engineer/audio legend Dr. Godehard Guenther, announced today the availability of the new foxL Vehicle Bracket Mounting System and foxL Universal Bicycle Mount for the ultimate wireless portable speaker on the road – the foxLTMv2 Hi-Fi Bluetooth speaker. Now use your foxL’s Wireless speakerphone for answering calls, or listen to tunes while driving or bicycling with the new mounts designed by ProClip, the award-winning mounting company.
Vehicle & Bicycle Mounting Systems Work with Any Car or Bike!
The mounts were designed to fit all foxL and foxLv2 speaker models and feature custom mounted swivel brackets for virtually any car model and year, with a variety of mounting locations available in each car. They mount in about 2 minutes with no cutting required. The weatherproof Universal Bicycle Mount works with any bicycle for listening to music or for phone calls.
“When TIME magazine named foxL a Top 10 Gadget of the Year, they applauded its on-road application and we’ve since had lots and lots of customers ask us about using their foxL in their vehicles and for biking, both for music AND as a speakerphone. We couldn’t really talk up the benefits until now,” said Lee Adams, Vice President, Soundmatters International, Inc. “The folks at ProClip have now provided us a really nice bracket and mounting system. And for bikes, we’re bundling their foxL bracket with a really nice bike mount.”
The perfect travel companion, foxL is both a speakerphone AND the first pocket-sized wireless speaker that audio purists will love, with a range of unique sound features, such as foxL’s patented “Twoofers,” “BassBattery,” and other technologies. foxL provides amazingly smooth deep bass and an “open & airy” listening experience that provides iPhones, iPads and other Bluetooth devices with the superior sound quality they so desperately need to let you enjoy your portable movie and music experience to the fullest.
Priced at approximately $65 for the foxL Vehicle Bracket Mounting System and $49.95 for the foxL Universal Bicycle Mount, the products are immediately available for purchase exclusively from Soundmatters at: www.soundmatters.com. The foxLv2 Bluetooth hi-fi speaker is also available, sold separately, priced at $199.
For more information, see the Soundmatters site at: www.soundmatters.com.
About Soundmatters
Soundmatters International, Inc. www.soundmatters.com was founded in 1998 by physicist, former NASA engineer, and audio design legend Dr. Godehard Guenther. A world-renowned pioneer in the field of audio, Dr. Guenther introduced many firsts to the audio market, including the world’s first in-wall speaker; in-wall subwoofer; component loudspeaker for car hi–fi; switching power supply for car hi–fi; multi–channel car amplifier; hi–fi television monitor; and first complete digital time-delay system for surround sound. Through Soundmatters, Dr. Guenther is dedicated to developing exceptional performance audio products that enhance, rather than complicate consumer’s lifestyles.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
FOXLV2 HI-FI BLUETOOTH SPEAKER NOW AVAILABLE FOR CARS & BIKES
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MOBILE DIGITAL TELEVISION ON TRACK TO REACH TWO-THIRDS OF U.S. HOUSEHOLDS BY EARLY NEXT YEAR
Consumer device profiles, conditional access system on tap
Washington, DC -- Aug 04, 2011 / (http://www.myprgenie.com) -- Mobile Digital Television is on track to reach two-thirds of U.S. households by early 2012, as dozens of TV broadcast stations are now installing new transmission equipment that will allow live, local TV signals to reach viewers wherever they go in a local market. Based on a new survey of member plans, the Open Mobile Video Coalition of America's (OMVC) broadcasters today announced that 96 stations are now on-the-air with Mobile DTV and that the total number of Mobile DTV stations is expected to grow to 126 in 48 markets by the end of the year.
In addition, OMVC announced today that its Mobile DTV Trust Authority, managed by Neustar, is now operational and in discussions with several companies developing new Mobile DTV products operating with conditional access. Manufacturers of Mobile DTV capable devices are entering into agreements directly with Neustar to obtain the digital certificates and keys necessary for secure use of Mobile DTV service by these devices.
Recently, the Mobile Content Venture (MCV), a joint venture of 12 national television station groups, including Belo Corp., Cox Media Group, E.W. Scripps Co., Gannett Broadcasting, Hearst Television Inc., Media General Inc., Meredith Corp., Post-Newsweek Stations Inc. and Raycom Media, all of which are part of the standalone entity known as Pearl Mobile DTV, LLC, as well as Fox, ION Television, and NBC, announced Dyle(TM) mobile TV, its new consumer brand for services delivered through MCV member stations. Dyle mobile TV will feature content from NBC, FOX, Telemundo and ION, as well as local news, weather and other local content, across 32 markets, reaching 50 percent of the U.S. population in 2011.
"Our stations throughout the country are now deploying the equipment needed to bring Dyle mobile TV to millions of viewers," said Erik Moreno and Salil Dalvi, co-GM's of MCV. "We're very excited about the rollout of the Dyle service to consumers," they added.
"OMVC members are making the investments needed to make Mobile DTV available to millions of viewers," said Colleen Brown, CEO of Fisher Communications and chair of the Mobile 500 Alliance. The Mobile500 Alliance represents more than 400 local TV broadcasters who are planning to add Mobile DTV capability to their digital broadcasts. "Mobile DTV channels now being transmitted are providing viewers with the latest news, emergency weather information, traffic updates, and their favorite programs," Brown continued.
Coming Soon: Device Profiles, Model Conditional Access System
The OMVC's Mobile DTV Forum is working to complete Consumer Electronics Device Profiles for new programming services later this summer. The profiles are baseline technical guidelines that will give CE manufacturers details about how broadcasters will implement new services and the inputs needed to build consumer electronics products that receive Mobile DTV. The Mobile DTV Forum is comprised of TV technology companies, consumer electronics firms, and broadcasters.
In the fall, the OMVC will initiate a model Conditional Access System in the Washington, D.C. market, a move designed to help CE companies test gear that receives, decodes, and displays mobile broadcast signals. Conditional Access is an essential element in Mobile DTV, to facilitate both robust audience measurement and the eventual deployment of subscription programming.
Last month, OMVC announced a new Predictive Model for reception of UHF Mobile DTV signals, a tool intended to predict signal coverage in automobiles and for personal viewing. OMVC is also making available recorded Mobile DTV signals, a new library of content that will help broadcasters and product developers improve Mobile DTV service and consumer products.
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About the Open Mobile Video Coalition
Representing over 900 TV stations across the country, the Open Mobile Video Coalition is a voluntary association of television broadcasters whose mission is to accelerate the development of mobile digital television in the United States. The OMVC is composed of 36 members that own and operate over 500 commercial television stations, as well as the Association of Public Television Stations, Corporation for Public Broadcasting and the Public Broadcasting Service, which represent an additional 360 public television stations. Membership in the OMVC is open to all U.S.-based television broadcasters. For more information, please visit: www.OMVC.org.
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Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Transformative Engineering Selects Gordon Sell Public Relations
Transformative Engineering Selects Gordon Sell Public Relations
NORWOOD, MA (8/3/11) -- Jay Trieber, the president of Transformative Engineering (T-E), a new manufacturer of audio-video systems integration technology, announced the selection here today of Gordon Sell Public Relations (GSPR) of Flemington, NJ to handle communications with publications and other media serving the A-V custom installation and systems integration marketplace.
As Transformative Engineering enters its second year, the company is already delivering two market-leading products that have been well received by custom installers and integrators, and several distributors have also purchased these products for relabeling under their own brands. The company's line includes one of the first applications of the new HDBaseT standard, which facilitates the cost-effective distribution of a variety of video, audio, and multimedia data formats in large residential and commercial structures.
"Transformative Engineering is growing because we saw a market poorly served with over-priced products made with discount parts," said Trieber. "Now that we've produced quality products for this market, our dealers are seeing a clear difference in terms of performance and reliability. With GSPR's help, we look forward to expanding education and awareness of Transformative Engineering's product solutions in the systems integration marketplace."
Gordon Sell Public Relations has provided long-term, high-quality media relations services to clients in the consumer electronics industry since 1988. In addition to Transformative Engineering, the agency represents Onkyo USA, Integra, Atlantic Technology, Parasound, and DDG. GSPR draws on its namesake's 30+ years of experience in electronics, journalism, and public relations, and a fascination with hi-fi that took seed while serving as US Army helicopter avionics technician. A GI-bill-funded degree in journalism from NYU eventually lead to a role as technical editor of the AV industry's leading magazine, Stereo Review. This up-close experience working with journalists and manufacturers has formed the basis of GSPR's successful approach to CE media relations.
About Transformative Engineering
Transformative Engineering (T-E) designs and manufactures audio, video, and data communications devices and related components that are used by custom installers and systems integrators to create sophisticated home and commercial systems. These products are the result of its founders' decisions to rethink the design and purpose of certain common-use custom installation and systems integration devices that were underperforming because of substandard quality. The company has grown out of the collaboration and enthusiasm of three veterans of the Electronics Industry: Jay Trieber, President; Peter Tribeman, VP of Marketing; and Engne Tang, Chief Technology Officer. Each of these three founders felt there was a “better mousetrap” to be made, and the results would be enthusiastically received by the Installer community. Their continuing experience with custom installation in their primary companies will infuse this new company with the insight to create the right products for dealers and installers.
In addition to being the president of Transformative Engineering, Jay Trieber is also the President and CEO of Home Theater Concepts, a 'Tier-one' systems integration company specializing in residential and commercial custom electronic installations. He is also President and CTO of The Service Bench, Inc., a large service provider for high-end electronics in the consumer and commercial fields.
Peter Tribeman, Vice President of Marketing for T-E, is also Chairman of Atlantic Technology, President of Outlaw Audio; and also a Board Member of the Consumer Electronics Association. Over the years, Tribeman has founded or created many of the most famous brands in the industry, including Proton and NAD Electronics, in addition to Atlantic Technology, and Outlaw. In the early 80’s Tribeman assembled a team, including Dolby Laboratories and LucasFilm, to demonstrate the world’s first home theater employing surround sound.
Engne Tang, T-E's Chief Technology Officer, is also the President of VAC-com, Inc., a prime OEM producer of components and finished products since 1993. Many brands within the electronics industry source their products from his associated factories. “Tang”, is also the co-founder of Sherbourn Technologies. His vast experience in electronic design and the ability to source the best components bring the most cost effective method of manufacture to this new Company as well.
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DisplayLink USB Virtual Graphics Enable Ease of Use, Daisy Chained Connections for New LG U-Series
Education and other cost-conscious users can daisy chain LG’s innovative
U-Series Zero Client Network Monitor via a simple USB connection
PALO ALTO, Calif., Aug. 3, 2011 -- LG Electronics and DisplayLink today announced that the new LG U-Series Zero Client Network Monitor is enabled by DisplayLink USB virtual graphics connectivity enabling a simple, economical workgroup solution connected via USB, ideal for the educational institutions and small businesses.
The new U-Series Network Monitor from LG enables ease of use through USB connectivity and further expands connectivity enabling users to daisy-chain up to three monitors together when running Windows MultiPoint Server operating system on a host, with each monitor acting as an independent workstation. Depending on the capacity of the host PC, up to 15 U-Series Zero Client Network Monitors can be networked on a single host PC. And it spreads across a physical radius of 15 meters from the host with multiple daisy chains.
Monitors acting as virtual PCs, can be positioned up to five meters, or 16-1/4 feet, from each other, to allow for optimum physical spacing. “With USB connectivity and virtual graphics from DisplayLink, the LG U-Series is more than a networkable monitor,” said Dennis Crespo, DisplayLink executive vice president of marketing and business development. “Each monitor, with USB linking it to the host PC, can become a virtual PC workstation.”
With enough capacity on the host PC, up to 15 LG U-Series Zero Client Network Monitors can function as network workstations. The U-Series wide-screen LED screen measures 18.5 inches diagonally and each monitor is equipped with ports for a keyboard, mouse, audio and thumb drive plus an onward daisy chain connector enabling connection to the next U-Series Network Monitor in the chain. No thin-client device is needed, and the Zero Client Network Monitor delivers a significant cost advantage in hardware acquisition, low power consumption, and easy operation.
“LG has capitalized on DisplayLink technology to offer a complete zero-client solution without the traditional zero-client device,” said Si-hwan Park, vice president of the Monitor Division, LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company. "By connecting the LG U Series Network Monitor system to a single host PC, the host's processing power is virtualized on each monitor, creating an efficient networking solution with less hardware and lower maintenance costs."
With the U-Series Network Monitor and Windows MultiPoint Server 2011, LG customers can quickly install and quickly begin operating a very economical multi-user network. DisplayLink virtual graphics with USB 2.0 connectivity allows the host PC running Windows MultiPoint Server 2011 to drive the graphics on each workstation.
LG U-Series Network Monitor will be available in worldwide in October 2011. Technical specifications and details of the U Series system can be at www.LGsolutions.com.
About the LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company
LG Electronics, Inc. is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 93,000 people working in over 120 operations around the world. With 2010 global sales of $48.2 billion, LG comprises four business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, and Air Conditioning & Energy Solutions.
The LG Electronics Home Entertainment Company is a top global player in flat panel displays, audio players, video products, monitors, commercial displays and security systems for the consumer and commercial markets. While focusing on creating feature-rich devices, the company is also pursuing stylish designs and pushing technological boundaries to improve the home entertainment experience. The LG Home Entertainment Company is also a leader in providing commercial (or B2B) products such as digital signage, video conference system and IP security cameras.
About DisplayLink
DisplayLink Corp develops hardware and software solutions to enable easy connectivity between computers and displays over standard interfaces such as USB, Ethernet and wireless networks. DisplayLink technology is used in dozens of globally branded PC accessories including monitors, universal docking stations, display adapters, projectors, and zero client systems that make expansion of the desktop visual workspace possible, at significantly lower cost and energy usage than traditional solutions.
DisplayLink is ranked the fourth fastest-growing EMEA Company by Deloitte, and was awarded the CES 2011 Best of Innovation Award Honoree in the Enabling Technologies category for its Interactive Networked Graphics for SuperSpeed USB. For more information and product details, visit the DisplayLink Shop
and follow DisplayLink on Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube and Twitter.
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DisplayLink is a trademark of DisplayLink Corp. All other trade names and trademarks referenced are the property of their respective owners. This news release contains forward-looking statements that reflect Company expectations with regard to future events. Actual events could differ significantly from those anticipated in this document.
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New Patriot Memory Pyro SATA III
FREMONT, CALIF., USA – August 3rd, 2011 - Patriot Memory, a global pioneer in high-performance memory, NAND flash, storage, and enthusiast computer products, today expanded their new line up of SATA III solid-state drives with the launch of its new Pyro line powered by SandForce’s® new SF-2281 SSD processor. The Patriot Memory Pyro series raises the bar on what’s expected from performance class SSD drives delivering enterprise-like performance to consumer desktops and notebooks.
The Pyro series utilizes the new SandForce® SF-2281 processor enabling it to eclipse previous mid-tier SSD performance scores with up to a blazingly-fast 550MB/s sequential read and up to 515MB/s sequential write speeds provided through a SATA 6.0 Gb/s interface. The Pyro series will feature a standard 2.5-inch form factor for compatibility with notebooks and select desktops and will ship with the latest 3.1.9 firmware
The Patriot Memory Pyro will continue to aggressively expand on what consumers can expect out of performance class solid state drives.” Says William Lai, Patriot Memory’s Product Manager. “With near enterprise level performance by utilizing the new SandForce® SF-2281, coupled with Patriot Memory's reputation; Pyro will deliver unmatched price per performance."
General details
• New Patriot Pyro series SSDs
• 60GB, 120GB, & 240GB capacities
• SandForce® SF-2281 SSD processor
• SATA 6.0 Gbps interface
• Up to 550MB/s sequential read speeds
• Up to 515MB/s sequential write speeds
• Up to 85K 4K random write IOPS
• TRIM Support
About Patriot Memory
Patriot Memory designs, manufactures and markets high performance, enthusiast memory modules, flash products, and computing technologies. Patriot products have become world renown for their extreme performance, reliability and innovation. Patriot Memory sells its products through original equipment manufacturers, retailers, e-tailers and distributors throughout the world with operations in North America, Asia and Europe. Patriot Memory LLC was founded in 1985 and is headquartered in Fremont, California, USA.
All company and/or product names may be trade names, trademarks and/or registered trademarks of the respective owners with which they are associated. Features, pricing, availability, and specifications are subject to change without notice.
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Monday, August 1, 2011
Kicker KS65.2 6.5 Inch Two-Way Convertible Component Speaker System Review
audio it is sometimes difficult to know which manufacturers to go with. There are a lot to choose from. When in question, it is usually safe to go with tried and true. Kicker is one of those manufacturers that have been around for decades. And they are still around because of their reputation for high quality components. The Kicker KS65.2 is one of those high quality components.
The Kicker KS65.2 with an MSRP of $249.95 is a two way component speaker system. It comprises of a 6.5 inch midrange and 1 inch tweeter,and a passive crossover network. The Kicker KS65.2 is also unique in that it is a convertible system. This means that you can mount the system as components, with the tweeter and midrange mounted seperately, or as a coaxial. The system comes with a special adapter that allows you to mount the tweeter over the woofer as a coaxial. This convertible design allows more mounting options for the user.It's features and specs are:
WOOFERS [in, cm]: 6-1/2, 16.5
TWEETERS [in, cm]: 1, 2.5
TWEETER DOME MATERIAL: titanium
IMPEDANCE OHMS, RATED [DC resistance]: 4 [3.3]
POWER WATTS [peak/RMS]: 150/75
SENSITIVITY [dB 1w/1m]: 88
FREQ. RESPONSE [Hz]: 35-21k
WOOFER MOUNTING DEPTH [in, cm]: 2-1/8, 5.4
FLUSH MOUNT TWEETER DEPTH [in, cm]: 13/16, 2.1
CROSSOVER POINT [Hz]: 4k
CROSSOVER SLOPE [dB/octave]: 12 hi/12 lo
HIGH FREQ. ATTENUATION LEVEL [dB]: 0, +4.5, +9
GRILLES: included
•Massive motor structure provides ultimate power handling, high efficiency and best performance
•Extended Voice Coil (EVC™) technology for high excursion and superior bass response
•Tapered curvilinear polymer cone with Santoprene® surround provides smooth transition from mid to high frequencies for accurate reproduction of the complete audio bandwidth
•Calibrated aluminum-dome tweeters with phase alignment reveal every detail of your music
•Four tweeter mounting options including clever coaxial mounting assembly
•External crossover network features illuminated protection and three-position adjustable tweeter levels for high-frequency precision
The quality was very good. It started with the packaging. The box was pleasant looking with photos of what the components looked like, and some specs. Opening up the box showed custom molded styrofoam to protect all of the speakers and components. Also included are all of the necessary mounting screws, adapters, grills, speaker wire, as well as the tweeters, midranges, and passive crossover network. Build quality and fit and finish was also very good for all of the components. The materials used were very high in quality. The stamped baskets work well. The terminal leads were well secured, and the speaker cone and rubber surround were put together well. The tweeter and crossover network were also equally well put together. I would expect nothing less from Kicker.I really liked the installation options. The tweeter can be mounted flush, surface mounted or as a coaxial. And if your personal choice is for coaxial mounting, you still get better quality. Unlike other coaxial speakers, with the Kicker KS65.2 you will also have the crossover network for better quality sound.
Well, the Kicker KS65.2 looks like a really nice speaker system. They have great features and specs. They are also very well put together. Now let's see how they sound, and how it all comes together.Fresh Aire II: Going to Another Place, the strings were very crisp and the flute had a good amount of air. The piano was natural sounding. The bass was also nice and clean with good extension and played with good authority. Imaging was also very good.
Def Leopard: Rock of Ages, the opening kick drum was pretty clean, fairly well controlled, and had surprisingly good authority for a midbass driver that is a fairly shallow mounting speaker. I really wasn't expecting that output. The cow bell at the beginning was also pretty clean, well defined, and had good dynamics. The guitar was also nice and in your face sounding. Vocals again were natural sounding. The resolution was good. When pushed however, the tweeter did get just a tad bright and edgy. But they did like to play loud, which is fitting as they are Kickers.I expected good things from the Kicker KS65.2. I was not disappointed. Overall they sounded very good with just about any type of music. Areas of improvement were just being knit picky. Based on their design, features, and performance, they have earned our Highly Recommended Award. Keep up the great work! For more info and specs, check out their website at www.kicker.com.
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NuForce Introduces a Lustrous Gold-Plated Digital Audio Converter for the Most Discerning Headphone Enthusiasts
The uDAC-2 Signature Gold Edition is a high-performance 24bit/96kHz USB digital audio converter that lets you discover your digital music’s true headphone potential in chic elegance
Milpitas, Calif. – August 1, 2011 – NuForce, Inc., a leader in professional and consumer audio solutions, announces today the availability of its uDAC-2 Signature Gold Edition USB digital audio converter. The uDAC-2 SGE combines a USB DAC and a headphone amp into one ultra-portable device, perfect for those seeking high-performance audio from their digital music files. Retaining the classic look of the uDAC-2, the elegant uDAC-2 SGE is adorned with a genuine Swarovski crystal on the volume control and encapsulated in a lustrous 24K gold-plated chassis with stainless steel front and back panels.
This uDAC-2 SGE was designed for the refined consumer that desires audio products with exquisite design, while retaining superior sound quality. The uDAC-2 SGE connects a user’s personal computer to their home stereo system, desktop sound system or headphones for superior sounding audio. Its compact size, power and performance make the uDAC-2 SGE the ideal companion for any discerning music enthusiast.
When the uDAC-2 SGE is connected to a computer via the included USB cable, it processes incoming music data files via its audiophile-grade USB audio receiver and then uses a high performance D/A converter chip to translate the data into analog signal, which is then piped out to the connected stereo component, active speakers or headphones. This convergence process allows users to unlock the audio potential of their digital music files and hear their music the way it was intended.
The headphone amplifier within the uDAC-2 SGE enables users to plug in their favorite headphones into its 3.5mm jack. This amplifier can enhance the auditory performance in a pair of headphones by properly powering them, delivering optimal amperage which will allow for greater audio clarity.
The uDAC-2 SGE comes packaged with an ensemble of very fine accessories such as protective leather case, premium USB cable, cleaning cloth and carrying pouch.
Product Specs:
Inputs: USB (USB 1.1, 2.0 compatible)
Outputs: •Analog RCA
•Digital Output: coaxial RCA
•3.5mm Headphone
Dimensions: 2.68” x 1.50” x .82”
More Features: •Circuit board is enhanced with a cryogenic process
•Double jitter-reduction mechanism at data level and oversampling filter stage
•High voltage 2V analog output
•High-quality analog volume control
•No capacitors in any of the audio signal paths
•Low power consumption: USB self-powered, no external power supply required
The uDAC-2 SGE is available now from signature.nuforce.com for $399. For more information on this or any other NuForce products, contact PR representative Jessica Darrican at 305-576-1171 x.16.
About NuForce:
NuForce is a California-based company devoted to the development of exceptionally fine yet reasonably priced consumer-electronic products. NuForce launched its brand in 2005 with audiophile-quality switching amplifiers based on patented, proprietary technology, thereby promptly becoming a leader in audio's high-end marketplace. NuForce has won Power Amplifier of the Year awards both in the United States and Japan and has since expanded into other aspects of consumer electronics. In addition to its celebrated two-channel and mono amps, the NuForce line now includes headphones, loudspeakers, a music server, CD player, preamp, multi-channel amplifier, and cables.
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TRANSFORMING MOTHERBOARDS FOR MOTHER EARTH
Motherboard Gifts Transforms the Elegance of Technology to Create Gifts that are
Earth Friendly, Sophisticated and Always Cool
LAKE ZURICH, IL (AUGUST, 2011) -- Too often technology clashes with our desire to respect and protect our environment. Sadly, modern technology and industrial innovation frequently adds waste to the earth. However, there are companies and entrepreneurs that create ways to transform waste into beauty. Motherboard Gifts is one such company that has learned how to convert technology into gift items that are beautiful, sophisticated and always cool.
Motherboard Gifts designs gifts and promotional items made from recycled circuit boards. Owned and operated by Jay Silver and his wife Maida, Motherboard Gifts is a family owned American company that converts defective and abandoned circuit boards and transforms them into objects of beauty.
Motherboard Gifts captures the intrinsic, and often overlooked, elegance of technology while providing an alternative to disposing of defective and abandoned circuit boards into landfills. From technophiles to corporate leaders to eco-conscious consumers, Motherboard Gifts creates gift ideas that are earth-friendly, beautiful and elegant.
“Our motto is ‘sophisticated cool’, states Jay Silver, Motherboard’s President. “We always strive to create products that are elegant and beautiful and we constantly receive praise from customers that they are incredibly “cool”. Combined with the fact that our product line is totally earth-friendly, consumers who are looking for a distinctive, special gift or promotional item will love what we have to offer.”
The range of products to choose from is impressive, clever and fun. From clocks and cuff links, to business card holders, money clips, coasters, cigar holders and heart-shaped pendants, the choices are vast and will match just about anyone’s interests and taste.
About Motherboard Gifts
Based in Lake Zurich, Illinois, Motherboard Gifts designs gifts and promotional items made from recycled circuit boards. Motherboard Gifts transforms the elegance of technology to create gifts that are beautiful, sophisticated and always cool. Motherboard Gifts is a family owned American company that converts defective and abandoned circuit boards and transforms them into objects of beauty. Since 1991Motherboard has proudly created and assembled 100% of its products in the USA and is the original manufacturer of circuit board gift items nationwide. For more information visit: www.MotherboardGifts.com or call (847) 550-2222.
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Kingston Digital Ships SandForce-based HyperX SSD
Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced it is shipping the HyperX® SSD, its first SATA Rev. 3.0 6Gb/s solid-state drive. The Kingston® HyperX SSD features the latest SandForce® controller and is designed for enthusiasts, gamers and performance users.
Kingston HyperX SSD highlights include:
•120GB and 240GB capacities*. Ships as a standalone SSD (includes HyperX branded 2.5" to 3.5" desktop mounting plate); or as a bundle with the HyperX Upgrade Kit for easy installation (includes Acronis® True Image™ HD migration software, desktop mounting plate, external drive bay, multi-head screwdriver, SATA data cable.
· Incredible sequential read/write throughputs of 555 / 510MB/s1.
•SandForce SF-2281 controller featuring SATA Rev 3.0 (6GB/s).
· Max 4KB random read/write of 95,000 / 70,000 IOPS2 (120GB).
· Premium Intel 25nm Compute NAND (P/E 5K).
Kingston HyperX SSD
Capacity and features
Street Pricing3 Amazon.com, Buy.com, Newegg.com, TigerDirect.com
(U.S. only)
SH100S3/120G
120GB Stand-alone SSD
$ 269.99
SH100S3B/120G
120GB HyperX Bundle Kit
$ 284.99
SH100S3/240G
240GB HyperX Stand-alone SSD
$ 519.99
SH100S3B/240G
240GB HyperX Bundle Kit
$ 539.99
* Some of the listed capacity is used for formatting and other functions and thus is not available for data storage. For more information, please consult Kingston’s Flash Memory Guide at Kingston.com/Flash_Memory_Guide.
1 Based on internal testing. Performance may vary based on system settings.
2 Based on “out-of-box performance with IOMeter08.
3 Limited time at launch.
Editors Note: If you would like to embed our video visit http://youtu.be/cOt0n4E2_E0
About Kingston Digital, Inc.
Kingston Digital, Inc. (“KDI”) is the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the world’s largest independent manufacturer of memory products. Established in 2008, KDI is headquartered in Fountain Valley, California, USA. For more information, please visit www.kingston.com or call 800-337-8410 .
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Samsung Electronics Announces Second Quarter 2011 Results
Consolidated operating profit reaches 3.75 trillion won on revenues of 39.44 trillion won
SEOUL, Korea – July 29, 2011 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced revenues of 39.44 trillion Korean won on a consolidated basis for the second quarter ended June 30, 2011, a 4-percent increase year-on-year. For the quarter, the company posted consolidated net income of 3.51 trillion won, representing an 18-percent decrease year-on-year. Consolidated operating profit for the quarter was 3.75 trillion won.
In its earnings guidance disclosed on July 7, Samsung estimated second-quarter consolidated revenues would reach approximately 39 trillion won with an operating profit of 3.7 trillion won.
By business segment, Telecommunications drove revenue growth in the second quarter, with sales rising 43 percent year-on-year due to strong demand for Samsung’s GALAXY SII smartphone and other mobile devices. Digital Media & Appliances saw sales increase from the previous quarter supported by improved demand for flat panel TVs.
Operating profit declined year-on-year from the record-setting second quarter of 2010, as weakened demand reduced margins in the Semiconductor and Display Panel businesses. The bottom line was supported by an operating profit of 1.67 trillion won from the Telecommunications businesses.
“Despite the challenging business environment and global economic uncertainties, we achieved continued year-on-year revenue growth in the second quarter driven by mobile device sales, particularly the success of our smartphones,” said Robert Yi, Vice President and Head of Samsung Electronics’ Investor Relations Team. “Heading into the third quarter – which typically sees increased consumer demand for electronics – we expect competition to remain tight, and will continue to enhance our cost competitiveness and technology leadership in the components businesses.”
Capital expenditure for the second quarter was 5.6 trillion won, bringing the total investment for the first six months of 2011 to 11.2 trillion won. Samsung said the annual projected capex of 23 trillion won remained unchanged, however a shift in allocation to increase semiconductor and reduce LCD investment was possible.
Weak Memory Demand Sees Profit Decline
Samsung’s Semiconductor businesses recorded a consolidated operating profit of 1.79 trillion won in the second quarter, improving from the 1.64 billion achieved in the first quarter but declining from the 2.94 billion won registered the previous year. Revenue reached 9.16 trillion won, a 4-percent decrease year-on-year. The operating profit margin was 19.6 percent.
The Memory Business posted 5.89 trillion won in revenue for the quarter, a 12-percent dip from the same period a year earlier. Demand for commodity DRAM remained weak as global PC shipments saw low-single digit growth, however higher growth was seen in server-related memory sales for data centers and for high-density mobile memory products for smartphones and tablet manufacturers. In response to continued oversupply in the market, Samsung strengthened its cost competitiveness through further migration to 30-nm-class DRAM production and reinforced its focus on high-value added products. For NAND, demand was also driven by orders for mobile device applications while spot prices decreased on weak seasonality.
Sales for the System LSI Business increased as demand for mobile application processors and high-quality image sensors rose. Samsung also announced its foundry business is now ready to start 28nm process manufacturing as it continues to strengthen investment in research and development.
In the third quarter, increased seasonal PC shipments are expected bolster demand in the key DRAM segment, although concerns remain over high inventory levels among PC manufacturers. NAND supply is forecast to be tight due to strong seasonal demand driven by smartphone and tablet sales.
LCD Panel Prices Fall
The Display Panel Business recorded an operating loss of 210 billion won on revenue of 7.09 trillion won, down 9-percent in sales compared with the same period last year.
Overall market shipments of LCD panels increased 8 percent quarter-on-quarter in expectation of the upcoming peak season and Chinese National Day, but panel inventory levels remained high due to slow set sales. Samsung’s total panel shipments increased in the mid 10-percent range compared with the first quarter.
While the average sales price for light-emitting diode (LED) panels for notebook PCs and monitors climbed moderately, prices dropped for TV panels over 40-inches in diameter.
With the peak season approaching, total industry panel shipments for the third quarter are expected to increase 6 percent quarter-on-quarter to 184 million units although global economic uncertainties will continue to weigh on consumer demand. Samsung aims to expand sales of premium panels for 3D and Smart TVs, while further enhancing the efficiency of its productions lines and supply chain.
Smartphone Sales Boost Telecom Profit
The Telecommunications businesses – including mobile communications and telecommunication systems – posted an operating profit of 1.67 trillion won on revenue of 12.18 trillion won. The businesses achieved an operating profit margin of 13.7 percent for the quarter.
Samsung’s Mobile Communications Business saw revenues rise 45 percent year-on-year to 11.69 trillion won. Shipments of mobile handsets increased in the high-single-digit range quarter-on-quarter driven by brisk sales of smartphones including the flagship GALAXY SII, which began to be rolled out globally during the quarter. The average sales price of handsets increased by more than 10 percent.
Samsung expected market demand for mobile handsets to increase by more than 15 percent in the second half, driven by consumers upgrading to smartphones. In the third quarter, Samsung will continue to drive sales of the GALAXY SII and strengthen its product lineup with new mobiles featuring Long-Term Evolution technology. The company will also proactively respond to increased demand for tablet devices with its GALAXY Tab portfolio in various sizes. The Mobile Communications Business is on track to achieve its 2011 goals of outperforming market growth and maintaining a double digit operating margin.
For the Telecommunications Systems Business, revenue and operating profit improved year-on-year supported by increased investment from mobile carriers in LTE network infrastructure.
Digital Media & Appliances Defies Market Conditions
The Digital Media & Appliances businesses – including Visual Display, IT Solutions and Digital Appliances – posted revenues of 14.07 trillion won for second quarter. The operating profit of 510 billion won represented an improvement on the 100 billion won registered the same period last year.
Samsung’s flat panel TV shipments and profitability both increased for the quarter, as sales of LED TVs continued to pick up in developed and emerging markets. LED TV sales accounted for roughly half of all Samsung LCD TVs sold for the quarter, reflecting the wide acceptance of the new technology.
Overall, flat panel TV market demand in the third quarter is projected to increase in the mid 10-percent range quarter-on-quarter supported by strong seasonality. Samsung aims to expand sales of Smart TVs by providing region-specific TV applications and content for viewers.
As for Digital Appliances, revenues grew strongly on sales of premium products such as air conditioners and refrigerators in both Korea and emerging markets, especially Latin America.
About Samsung Electronics
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is a global leader in semiconductor, telecommunication, digital media and digital convergence technologies with 2010 consolidated sales of US$135.8 billion. Employing approximately 190,500 people in 206 offices across 68 countries, the company consists of nine independently operated business units: Visual Display, Mobile Communications, Telecommunication Systems, Digital Appliances, IT Solutions, Digital Imaging, Memory, System LSI and LCD. Recognized as one of the fastest growing global brands, Samsung Electronics is a leading producer of digital TVs, semiconductor chips, mobile phones and TFT-LCDs. For more information, please visit www.samsung.com.
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