OCZ Releases OLED Gaming Keyboard

Category: Input Devices
Posted: June 22, 2009 09:20PM
Author: Dale Shuck

OCZ has announced the release of the Sabre OLED keyboard which features nine OLED programmable hotkeys. The OLED keys can be programmed to dynamically display icons representing each key's functionality. The keyboard comes with 128MB of onboard flash memory and management software designed to allow the user to program the functions of the hotkeys ranging from simple shortcuts to more complex series of macro commands. The keys' functionality can be application specific so that loading your favorite game can cause a pre-defined series of commands to be assigned to the keys making you favorite in-game shortcuts and weapons load out and the associated text or icon images to be availability. The remainder of the keys are backlit with amber LEDs and the Sabre also features blue side lighting for those who prefer to game in a darkened environment. The tilted keyboard design and rubber coated keys are designed for comfort  and the 5-million duty cycle keys are made to last. Unfortunately no pricing or availability details were released.

Clickable Trackpads Coming Soon to PCs

Category: Input Devices
Posted: June 5, 2009 11:58AM
Author: Rpbert Bergem

If you've used one of the new Macbooks, then you know what a clickable trackpad is. Instead of using buttons below the trackpad to click, Apple decided to use the entire trackpad as a button. To click, the user simply depressed the whole trackpad. I've used one of the new Macbooks and found the clickable trackpad to be a very nice feature. The Macbooks also support finger gestures on the trackpad to accomplish tasks such as, zooming in or out, scrolling up or down, and rotating pages. All of those features are nice for laptops when a standard mouse isn't available. Now, Synaptics is bringing clickable trackpads to smaller PC notebooks and netbooks. The new trackpads were on display at Computex this year. Synaptic's trackpads will be called ClickPads. They currently support two-finger right clicks, two-finger scrolling, two-finger PinchZoom, two-finger pivot rotate, three-finger flick, and three-finger press gestures. These gestures are similar to what Macbooks use. The devices will be available to OEMs in the third quarter of 2009. I'm actually anxious to see what the ClickPad can bring to the table.

Apple's New In-Car Touchscreen

Category: Input Devices
Posted: March 30, 2009 08:52AM
Author: Rpbert Bergem

Apple has recently filed a patent for a new in-car touchscreen device. The device should make the use of touchscreens in automobiles safer than they currently are. Current touchscreens in automobiles allow any person within reach of the touchscreen to operate it. This gives the driver the oportunity to use the touchscreen. If the driver is using the touchscreen, he or she is distracted from actually driving the vehicle. This distraction, no matter how small, increases the possibility of a crash. Apple has set out to eliminate the distraction from the driver.

The new touchscreen Apple is developing will incorporate a suite of features that would hopefully prevent the driver from using the touchscreen and becoming distracted. Apple envisions using sensors situated around the vehicle to determine who is attempting to operate the touchscreen. The patent suggests that the sensors may look at which direction and at what angle the touchscreen is being approached from. These sensors would disable the use of the touchscreen if they determine the driver is trying to operate it.

While these features would increase safety, they do not seem practical. Many people don't have passengers with them when they are driving. I know it would be a major inconvenience if I had a touchscreen and couldn't use it while I was driving. Most of the time, I'm alone when I'm driving. Now, if the touchscreen is able to be used by the driver while the car is stopped, that wouldn't be so bad. Anyways, keep an eye on this and see where it ends up and if anything develops from it.

Sharkoon is Gliding on Fire

Category: Input Devices
Posted: March 13, 2009 08:00AM
Author: MrAlex

Sharkoon this week unveiled its new FireGlider Gaming Mouse! It's ergonomically designed, so hopefully you won't have to worry about pains anytime soon, and it comes with a wide range of features. This new gaming mouse also has a laser with a maximum resolution of 3600 DPI with the capability of changing the DPI on the fly all the way down to 600. It's not too heavy either, weighing between 118 and 135 grams. There are six buttons along with the usual scroll wheel, and is connected with a 1.8m cable. The suggested retail price for this baby is 25 EUR.

Coming Soon: USB 3.0

Category: Input Devices
Posted: March 10, 2009 02:29PM
Author: redtigerdragon

Compatibility test specs for USB 3.0, currently dubbed “Test specification 1.0”, could be ready as soon as the first half of 2009. This is according to Jim Choate, who is Agilent Technologies Inc.’s USB Applications Product Manager. Agilent is currently in charge of the test specification, and Mr. Choate’s seminar in Tokyo, the company plans on releasing the spec at the end of June, 2009. If all goes according to plan, we could see USB 3.0 by 2010.

OCZ Introduces New Keyboard

Category: Input Devices
Posted: February 19, 2009 08:47AM
Author: Brentt Moore

The flash based company has proven very successful with their line of power supplies, memory, and even computer related peripherals. Now, the company is introducing a new keyboard called the Alchemy Illuminati, which builds on top of the already popular Alchemy series. It comes with fourteen separate multimedia keys to help users access their moves, music, and video even faster, while also featuring rubber coated keys for extended use. Another feature that OCZ is equipping the keyboard with is the ability for the device to be backlit by either blue or red LEDs that will help users in low light environments. For durability, the company is stating that the Illuminati can resist over five million cycles, which should prove useful for the massive gaming community that may use it. Currently no price tag is set, and no availability information is being released.

Ever Wondered How Logitech Designs Its Peripherals?

Category: Input Devices
Posted: January 14, 2009 01:11PM
Author: Ben Grantham

Well now you can gain a little bit of insight with the help of some flickr images and descriptions courtesy of designpartners industrial design consultancy. Now, if you have ever been an ID student (hint: I have) then the process probably won't be all that surprising. What becomes apparent is the importance of early concept work using materials such as foam, which are used to hone the shape (and therefore feel) of the products. Deciding where all of the touch points on mouse will be placed is also a pretty involved process. The overall message is you don't get class leading products without investing time and skill when it comes to the design and development process. Unfortunately the images don't show much of the work that didn't make it through to the later stages (which is almost guaranteed to be a lot).

Razer Launches New Gaming Peripherals

Category: Input Devices, Speakers/Headphones
Posted: January 8, 2009 03:13PM
Author: Dale Shuck

Razer today unleashed two new gaming peripheral products including the Razer Mamba, a high precision wireless laser gaming mouse, and the Razer Carcharias, a circumaural audio headset. Designed with proprietary Razer technologies, these latest products will help gamers amplify performance levels with faster response times, increased precision and offer unique design features. The Razer Mamba is an ergonomic, lag free gaming mouse with 2.4GHz gaming grade wireless technology featuring dual mode wired/wireless functionality allowing users to seamlessly switch from wired to wireless play. The Mamba features a 1ms polling rate, as compared to traditional wireless mice that poll at 8ms, enabling virtually lag-free game play. The Razer Mamba also includes Razer Synapse on-board memory that lets gamers store and bring their mouse settings wherever they go. The Razer Carcharias headset focuses on comfort with a circumaural shape and interchangeable ear pads and a fully adjustable headband. The Carcharias headset boasts superior audio clarity, deep, thumping bass and features a noise-filtering microphone and an inline remote that enables users to quickly and easily adjust volume and mute the microphone. The Mamba is expected to be available March 2009 at a suggested retail price of $129.99US (€129.99) while the Carcharias should be available by February for $79.99US (€79.99).

ASUS Eee Box Keyboard and Mouse Coming

Category: Manufacturers, Input Devices
Posted: December 26, 2008 07:03PM
Author: Brentt Moore

Users of the Eee Box from ASUS bought the computer because of many factors, such as its low price, small design, and decent performance. While there have obviously been a great amount of options to use as far as keyboards and mice come, some owners are craving for something more. ASUS is gearing up a wireless keyboard and mouse combo, that are both black in color, but feature white accents. The electronics company is also going to offer a remote that features an array of multimedia buttons and options. The remote is also a black and white colored device, though not as dark colored as the keyboard and mouse combo.

Logitech Introduces New Gaming Keyboard

Category: Input Devices
Posted: December 10, 2008 04:08PM
Author: Brentt Moore

Logitech, who is mainly known for their large amount of various computer peripherals, is now releasing a new gaming keyboard known as the G13 Gameboard. The gameboard is a 25 programmable key device that is made to work alongside a standard keyboard and mouse, and is supposed to offer a advantage for games that use heavy keyboard use. It features its own built in memory that can store user defined settings, and also features a LCD screen that has a resolution of 160x143, which can show live game statistics. While the device will be available in stores this month, it is expected to be released in the UK sometime early next year.

Computer Mouse Reaches 40th Birthday

Category: Input Devices
Posted: December 9, 2008 11:42AM
Author: Ben Grantham

The mouse was first demonstrated on the 9th of December 1968 by Douglas Engelbart to show novel ways of working with computers. That mouse was made of wood and had one button and two wheels to provide control over a tracking spot on the screen. The basic principles haven't changed much since then, though the technology used to track movement has improved significantly. Many of the researchers behind that original demo will be reunited today as a celebration is planned in California. Some people may argue that life begins at 40, but in the case of the mouse some wouldn't be so sure. However, I don't think we'll see it disappearing from our desktops any time soon.

Keyboard Strokes Susceptible to Remote Electronic Monitoring

Category: Input Devices
Posted: October 21, 2008 06:47AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Van Eck phreaking is a concept that's been around for over 20 years. It refers to the practice of remotely capturing the electromagnetic signals radiated by a computer monitor and reverse engineering the signals to reproduce the image on a second monitor. First proposed by Dutch computer scientists Wim van Eck in 1985, the concept is more than just a theory and can present a real threat to sensitive information. Now two doctoral students at the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland have applied a similar type of technique to detect the signals emitted from wired keyboards when the keys are pressed. While the idea has been thought theoretically possible, the two students believe this is the first time it has been demonstrated to be feasible. Using different techniques they were able to pick up and reproduce the typed text from 11 different keyboards, including laptop keyboards, from up to 20 meters away. Sounds like it may be time for the more paranoid among us to begin work on that giant Faraday cage you've always wanted.

Microsoft Releases New BlueTrack Mice

Category: Input Devices
Posted: September 9, 2008 09:28PM
Author: Dale Shuck

Microsoft announced two new mice featuring its patented BlueTrack technology. Billed by Microsoft as a laser-killer, BlueTrack is designed to function on virtually all surfaces including reflective surfaces where laser and optical mice fall short. The new Explorer mice will come in two versions - one regular sized and an Explorer Mini that is a travel sized version selling for $100 US and $80 respectively. Microsoft continued it new product spree with its Arc mouse and Wireless Mobile mouse, ergonomic and gaming keyboards and two new web cams. These new products will become available beginning in late September and continuing through October and November.

Control Devices With Your Tongue

Category: Input Devices
Posted: August 25, 2008 10:01AM
Author: ClayMeow

Input devices have evolved greatly over the years, from keyboards to joysticks to mice...even to devices controlled by eye movements or your mind. So it goes without saying that the next evolution in input devices would come in the form of...your tongue. This isn't to control an on-screen avatar or aim your gun in games though, but instead to provide a new way for disabled people to control key components of their every day lives, such as maneuvering a wheelchair or turning on a light. The aim of the device, dubbed the Tongue Drive System, is to transform the mouth into a virtual computer; the teeth become the keyboard, and the tongue manipulates it all as a joystick of sorts. Why the tongue? One of the main reasons is because the tongue and its functionality is often spared in paralyzing accidents, as the tongue is attached to the brain and not the spinal cord. In addition, the tongue is flexible, sensitive and tireless, making it an ideal instrument for more complicated actions and prolonged use. The system uses a small magnet placed under the tip of the tongue, and the movement is tracked by sensors on the side of each cheek, which then sends data to a receiver atop a headgear. Software then converts those signals into commands for various devices, like a wheelchair. The device is still in its infancy, but it's already promising to researchers, as well as testers.

NZXT Announce Avatar Performance Gaming Mouse

Category: Input Devices
Posted: August 11, 2008 12:37PM
Author: Ben Grantham

The market for gaming mice is a competitive one, with many companies vying for the best performance using the most accurate sensor technology. You are probably more familiar with NZXT as a case manufacturer, so the introduction of a gaming mouse may come as a slight surprise. The Avatar mouse features a 2600 DPI optical sensor and a programmable 7 button configuration. A four speed DPI switch allows you to adjust the DPI from 650 to the maximum 2600 and an LED indicator tells you which setting you are currently using. Retailing at $59.99, it will be going up against some tough competition. Whether it holds its own or not is something we will be sure to let you know should we get our hands on one.

Carpet Keyboard

Category: Input Devices, Gadgets
Posted: May 29, 2008 02:04PM
Author: ClayMeow

File this one under the "what will they think of next?" category. Apparently, Maurin Donneaud felt that typing with his hands has become boring. Thus, he decided to build a giant carpet keyboard that allows him to type with his feet.  It's definitely an interesting device, but one has to ask whether it's really worth the effort, because God knows it's got to get tiring real quick.  You can view a slew of pictures at his Flickr site.

USB 3.0 to hit the shelves sometime in 2009

Category: Input Devices
Posted: April 8, 2008 06:44PM
Author: Andrew Robinson

Jeff Ravencraft (the USB 3.0 Promoter Group Chairman) has said that USB 3.0 is on its way and that we should expect some primary releases in 2009. SuperSpeed USB 3.0 can deliver a maximum data rate of 5Gbit/s, that is enough throughput to download a 27GB HighDef movie in a bit over one minute. SuperSpeed USB 3.0 is most likely geared toward the increasing speeds of flash based media as the current hard drive tecjnology wouldn't benefit from such a speed increase.

Gigabyte to make PC peripherals

Category: Gaming, Input Devices, Gadgets
Posted: March 18, 2008 04:12PM
Author: Andrew Robinson

Gigabyte which is (known for its motherboard production) will be producing high-end gaming peripherals starting in late march. Their products will be marketed at a lower price then Razer which has a plethora of gaming peripherals in the market already. The first gaming product Gigabyte will release is the GK-K8000 (Ghost Gaming Series) keyboard which will be priced at $113, however the current MSRP of all four of Razers keyboards are under $99.

Razer Introduce Entry Level 'Salmosa' Mouse

Category: Gaming, Manufacturers, Input Devices
Posted: March 4, 2008 06:03AM
Author: Ben Grantham

Razer -

Razer, a company known for producing gaming mice of the high-end persuasion have chosen the CeBit trade show in Hannover to launch its first effort at an entry level mouse. Now Razer's idea of entry level probably differs a little to what a regular user might have in mind and as such the Salmosa still gets a 1800dpi Razer Precision 3G infrared sensor, 1000Hz Ultrapolling, On-The-Fly sensitivity adjustment and other features you'd associate with some of Razer's previous offerings. The style of the mouse is certainly in keeping with others in the company's line up, with a sleek and compact design. The Salmosa also happens to be particularly light, which is something that will suit gamers who like to play with a deft touch. Of course, the main motivation for Razer to introduce an entry level model is to appeal to those who may not considered a Razer mouse before. The $39.99 (29.99 euro) is certainly more reasonable (could it be called entry-level?), but I'm not sure about that name. Razer also happen to be running a contest to win a Salmosa over at the read link.

Hardware Roundup: Wednesday Edition

Category: Video Cards, CPU's, Cases, Input Devices, CPU Cooling
Posted: February 13, 2008 06:07AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Our middle of the week wanderings turned up some goodies from our affiliate sites so let's get started by visiting a couple of videocard reviews.  First in line is Neoseeker and their look at the VisionTek HD 3870 which differs from the reference design with the inclusion of an oversized heatsink and a more powerful fan.  For double the GPU fun on a single card, TechSpot has the ATI Radeon HD 3870 X2.  For a comprehensive look at over 336 graphics cards you can check out the Desktop Graphics Card Comparison Guide from Tech ARP which has updated to include several Intel integrated graphic processors.  Speaking of TechSpot, did you know they have a sister site written in Spanish?  They've just published  Prueba de desempeño AMD Phenom.  Next up we have a couple of CPU cooling products.  The Asus Triton 77 Heatsink that comes equipped with a "Sunon MagLev 92mm vapo-bearing PWM fan".  Sounds impressive, but how well does it perform?  Head on over to FrostyTech to find out.  Bjorn3D evaluates the Thermaltake Bigwater 760i and finds it somewhat lacking.  Can the SteelSeries Ikari Laser Mouse make you a better gamer?  Head on over to ThinkComputers to find out.  If you're looking to tame the noise from your rig, Virtual-Hideout has a look at the Nexus Caterpillar ATX Quiet Case to see if it can do the job.

Hardware Roundup: Thursday Edition

Category: Video Cards, Networking, Power Supplies, Input Devices, General News
Posted: February 7, 2008 06:15AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Thursdays seem to be a slow day in the roundup so that gives us a perfect opportunity to welcome our newest affiliate Fudzilla and give you a chance to check out their review of the Diamond dual slot 3850 512MB Ruby Edition.  On the green side ThinkComputers offers up the Palit GeForce 8600 GT Super+1GB Video Card.  3dGameMan has posted a video review of the Tuniq Ensemble 1200W Power Supply.  Powerline networking is one of those technologies that seems to offer a lot of promise but so many of the products out there have failed to deliver.  Techgage evaluates the Actiontec MegaPlug AV200 Mbps Ethernet Adapter to see whether it offers a viable option to extend your network.  PCApex has published an interview with Mark Friga Jr. owner of FrozenCPU.com.  Before you go, be sure to check out the SteelSeries Ikari Laser Gaming Mouse at OCModshop.

Hardware Roundup: Friday Edition

Category: Motherboards, CPU's, Cases, Operating Systems, Mobile, Input Devices, Storage / Hard Drives, General News, CPU Cooling, VGA Cooling
Posted: February 1, 2008 07:20AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Our Friday roundup seems to have picked up a bit after yesterday's lull with a good mix of items.  Tech ARP starts off with a bit of news telling us Windows Vista Service Pack 1 Out Next Week, at least for OEMs.  PC Perspective has some additional news in their podcast as they look at AMD Q4 results, NVIDIA ESA, VIA Isaiah x86 CPU, AMD 3870 X2 and more.  The AMD Spider platform is designed for its line of Phenom processors.  Today we get a chance to examine the MSI K9A2 Platinum AMD 790FX Motherboard from HotHardware.  For Intel fans we have two more boards from MSI based on the P35 chipset.  First in the queue is a TweakTown review of the MSI P35 Diamond Motherboard.  This board supports DDR3 memory and offers onboard X-Fi sound.  Buying a new board based on the P35 chipset means choosing between DDR2 and DDR3 memory formats.  The are trade offs involved with going with either format.  Viper Lair reviews the MSI P35 Platinum Combo board that offers you the option of using either memory type.  What could be easier?  Then there's the choice of which processor to buy.  TechSpot has a look at Intel Core 2 Duo 45nm Wolfdale vs. 65nm Conroe to see what the new 45nm technology has to offer.  Back over at TweakTown we get a look at the ASUS Triton 75 CPU Cooler that uses a passive design but also allows you to attach a 120mm fan.  Also in the cooling arena, Techgage pits two aftermarket VGA coolers against each other in their GeForce 8800 GTS/GTX Cooler Comparison.  Next off you get to compare two other products with the Razer Pro|Click Mac Gaming Mouse at Virtual-Hideout and the Steelseries Ikari Optical Gaming Mouse at Tweaknews.  Computer builders are always looking for the perfect place to house their rigs.  With so many choices it's always a tough decision and motherboards.org has a look at the Ultra Products M998 Case.  Your iPhone deserves a case of its own as well. The Otterbox for iPhone Defender Series at ThinkComputers is a good way to protect your investment.  Bjorn3D has a review of the Thermaltake Muse X-Duo Raid external storage unit.  Finally PCSTATS has another installment in their ongoing series with the Beginners Guides: Setting up an FTP Server in WindowsXP.

Hardware Roundup: Friday Edition

Category: Video Cards, CPU's, Cases, Mobile, Manufacturers, Gaming, Input Devices, Storage / Hard Drives, Gadgets, Modding
Posted: January 25, 2008 08:45AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Time for another spin around the web.  Yesterday we were treated to a look at VIA's new Centaur technology and today we're back with more.  First we have VIA Isaiah Processor Architecture Preview - Low Power CPU from PC Perspective.  [H]ardocp returns with Centaur Technology Tour in Pictures with a look at the Centaur offices in Texas.  The Styx Gaming Mouse may not do for you what the river by that name did for Achilles but RBMods gives us a chance to check it out.  If you love your current mouse but it's looking a little worn, then head on over to Tech ARP for some advice from their Logitech MX510 Paint Mod Guide.  Gaming seems to be the focus of a lot of hardware these days and Sapphire's Ultimate HD 3850 and Atomic HD 3870 from HotHardware affords us another look at the recent AMD/ATI cards.  Neoseeker publishes a look at Core 2 Duo Scaling in Gaming.  Aeneon is a new line of memory products being offered by Qimonda.  While that name that might not be familiar to a lot of folks, you'll find their chips in a lot of applications including some of the best performing video cards.  Today Bjorn3d reviews the Aeneon Xtune DDR3-1333.  Also in the memory/storage department we have the Super Talent Pico A 2GB Flash Drive at ExtremeMHz.  Raidmax is well-known for their cases.  Find out why ThinkComputers says the Sagitta 2 PC Case isn't your typical gaming case.  In the gadgets arena we found the CoolIT Beverage Chiller at Overclockers Online and the iSkin Revo & Revo Clip for Apple iPhone at Legit Reviews.

Hardware Roundup: Thursday Edition

Category: Video Cards, Motherboards, CPU's, Cases, Cooling, Gaming, Music / Video Players, Input Devices, Monitors, Gadgets, VGA Cooling
Posted: January 24, 2008 06:16AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Many hardware manufacturers are beginning to tout their products as supporting the ESA standard and are even prominently display the ESA logo.  Just what is ESA?  PC Perspective explains it all in their NVIDIA ESA: Enthusiast System Architecture article.  AMD/ATI has been getting some of the limelight with their HD 3850/3870 video cards.  TweakTown shares the MSI Radeon HD 3870 X2 OC Graphics Card with us and you need to pay attention to the "X2" in the name because this is the new dual GPU version!  Sharing the spotlight is the fact that AMD also just released two other cards as well and Legit Reviews looks at the ATI Radeon HD 3450 and Radeon HD 3650 Video Cards.  For NVIDIA fans there is always the Inno3D 8800 GT iChill at Overclocker Cafe which sports a factory overclock and an Arctic Cooling Accelero X1 cooler.  There's another new video technology making its way onto the market these days and you can head over to Techgage to read about DisplayLink - Multi-Display Setups with USB.  Crysis is a game known for bringing many a system to  its knees.  What does it take to play this game at the highest resolutions?  HotHarware has the Crysis v1.1 NVIDIA 3-Way SLI Performance Update.  What good is a new video card without a large monitor to show off all that eye candy?  That's where the Samsung SyncMaster 275T TFT LCD comes in and LAN Addict gives us a chance to check it out.  Madshrimps just posted their Foxconn P35AP-S Motherboard Revisited: New BIOS.  FrostyTech looks at the Xigmatek MAC-S3501 DDR/DDR2 Memory Heatspreaders and questions just how necessary is an active memory cooling solution.  The Lian Li PC-P80 Case garners some pretty strong superlatives in the video review from 3dGameMan.  Low power CPUs are more often found in mobile devices, not in enthusiasts' machines so find out what [H]ardocp has to say about VIA's New Centaur Designed Isaiah CPU Architecture.  TechReport has a quick look at SanDisk's Sansa Clip MP3 player for those of you looking for a small music player whose name doesn't begin with an 'i'.  When gaming, if your hands sweat like a kid on his first date then the Logitech ChillStream Actively Cooled Gamepad at Tweak News might be the answer for you.  Don't forget to check out the Geeks 7" Digital Picture Frame over at Monster-Hardware before you go.

Hardware Roundup: Wednesday Edition

Category: Video Cards, CPU's, Power Supplies, Gaming, Input Devices, Storage / Hard Drives, CPU Cooling
Posted: January 23, 2008 06:02AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Our roundup netted some interesting items today.  In addition to the normal reviews, we turned up some launch information on new video cards from AMD/ATI.  These new cards are based on the 55nm RV635 and RV620 GPUs and HotHardware has the AMD ATI Radeon HD 3650 and 3450 Refresh Launch.  Bjorn3d brings us more details in their AMD HD34X0 and HD3650 Info.  For even more video card reviews check out Overclocked GeForce 8800 GTS 512 MB Roundup from [H]ardocp where they look at three different factory-overclocked products.  Tech ARP has also updated their Desktop Graphics Card Comparison Guide. What can you expect from a $50 power supply?   [H]ardocp has a look at the SilverStone Strider ST400 400w Power Supply and lets us know what you get in this entry-level product.  On the other end of the performance spectrum TweakTown checks out the Tuniq Miniplant 950watt Power Supply.  We often see reviews of single CPUs but today TechSpot is looking at the AMD Phenom processor family performance including the Phenom 9500, 9600, 9700 and the 9900.  Keeping those processors cool is a tough job. FrostyTech has the Arctic Cooling Alpine 7 Pro Intel Heatsink.  For a more exotic solution, check out the CoolIT Freezone Elite CPU Cooler at Techgage.  Gamers will want to read about the Microsoft Sidewinder Gaming Mouse at motherboards.org.  Coming to the Wii in October is the new fight game Bleach: Shattered Blade and Bona Fide Reviews fills us in on the details.  PCSTATS has posted their Beginners Guides: Formatting and Partitioning a Hard Drive.

Hardware Roundup: Monday Edition

Category: Motherboards, CPU's, Gaming, Input Devices, Speakers/Headphones, Gadgets, CPU Cooling, Mouse Pad, Trade Shows/Conventions
Posted: January 21, 2008 06:27AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Today's roundup kicks off with the BlueAnt X5 Stereo Bluetooth Headset at Legit Reviews.  We have several items for you gamers today.  Performance and control are two features gamers look for in a mousing surface and the SteelSeries SP Pro Gaming Mousepad aims to offer a combination of both.  OCModShop lets us know if it delivers on those promises.  The X-Arcade Tankstick Dual Controller with Trackball from HotHardware might have you reminiscing about the all the quarters you spent at the arcade (see the OCC review here).  Not every game can be played with a mouse and keyboard and if you're a flight sim fan you need to check out the Saitek X52 Joystick at motherboards.org  (you can also read the OCC review here).  If you're still trying to decide which Intel processor to include in your next upgrade head over to Tech ARP for a look at their Intel Core 2 Performance Comparison Guide.  Much has been written about the current state of AMD's processor lineup and the Phenom vs. Core2 Quad debate so why would AMD offer another entry in the AM2 family?  See what Virtual-Hideout has to say about the AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ Black Edition CPU  (don't forget to read the OCC review as well).  TweakTown has the ATI Catalyst 8.1 Analysis - XP & Vista.  Bjorn3D reviews the ASUS Maximus Formula (Non-SE) based on Intel's X38 chipset.  Few enthusiasts ever choose to use a stock CPU cooling solution.  However, choosing the best alternative is always a trade off in price, performance and noise levels.  RBmods looks at the GlacialTech Igloo 5750 Silent CPU Cooler and sees if this dual-fan model is worhty of your consideration.  CES 2008 converage continues with Best of CES 2008 at Techgage.  ThinkComputers also brings us more CES 2008 goodies with Lunch@Piero’s, Cooler Master and Sands Expo.

Hardware Roundup: Wednesday Edition

Category: Video Cards, Motherboards, Cases, Optical Drives, Cooling, Sound Cards, Power Supplies, Mobile, Input Devices, CPU Cooling, Trade Shows/Conventions
Posted: January 16, 2008 06:00AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Looking around the web today we turned up an interesting article titled Limited Release Of NVIDIA GeForce 8800 GS? at Tech ARP speculating on NVIDIA's move to position new products to stop some of AMD/ATI's success they're seeing with its HD 3850/3870 cards.  You can read about more fallout in the HD format wars in the Next-Generation Content War Continues to Ravage HD DVD from Madshrimps.  Many CPU cooling solutions make use of heatpipes these days.  One innovative twist on this approach can be seen in the Xigmatek HDT-S983 Exposed Heatpipe-Base Heatsink reviewed by FrostyTech where the design puts the heatpipes directly in contact with the CPU.  Keeping your investment future-proof is tough in the ever-changing world of computers.  The Foxconn DigitaLife X38A Intel X38 Express Motherboard at PCSTATS tries to address this by offering support for both DDR2 and DDR3 memory formats.  As sometimes happens, we ended up with a two-fer on this product as TweakTown also has a look at this motherboard today. 3dGameMan has a review of the all aluminum Thermaltake Xaser VI Case.  As home theater systems gain in popularity, people are finding out how difficult to operate them from the comfort of the couch.  One solution is a wireless keyboard and motherboards.org looks at the XGene Trackball Keyboard.  Corsair may be best known for its memory products, but they also offer some solid performing power supplies as RBMods reveals in their Corsair TX750W Power Supply review.  DarkVision Hardware brings us a look at the Vizo Ninja II Notebook Cooler.  PC Perspective gives us a chance to see what the ASUS Xonar D2 Sound Card and U1 USB Audio Station have to offer as an alternative to Creative's X-Fi products.  We end the roundup with continuing CES 2008 coverage from Thinkcomputers as the look at Targus, Dell and ASUS.

Hardware Roundup: Tuesday Edition

Category: Video Cards, Cases, Memory, Cooling, Mobile, Gaming, Input Devices, Speakers/Headphones, CPU Cooling, Trade Shows/Conventions
Posted: January 8, 2008 05:54AM
Author: Dale Shuck

CES 2008 starts its second day today so be sure to check back during the day as our team provides continuing coverage of this huge event.  Our roundup takes us first to The Witcher Gameplay and Performance at [H]ardocp where they analyze the game and evaluate its performance using four different video cards.  Water cooling enthusiasts will want to check out the Danger Den Water Box Plus and Kit at 3dGameMan.  If water cooling isn't your thing, FrostyTech  looks at the Apack Zerotherm Nirvana 120 Heatsink.  nVidia's 8800 series cards have generated a lot of interest and NVNews reviews the XFX 8800GT Alpha Dog Edition.  We also have a pair of DDR3 memory kit reviews with the OCZ 2x1GB DDR3-1333 Gold Edition Memory Kit at Virtual-Hideout and the Corsair Dominator DDR3 1800MHz Intel XMP Memory at PC Perspective.  TweakNews has a look at the SteelSeries Siberia Neckband Gaming Headset and comes away pleased with what they heard.  Refresh products often fail to impress, but Bjorn3D finds the Thermaltake Armor+ a worthy upgrade to the original product.  Check out MetkuMods to see if the same holds true for the Logitech G15 Rev2.  The Tech Report has a look at Asus' Eee PC 4G sub-notebook.  Other CES coverage comes from [H]ardocp as they fill us in on announcements from Intel and nVidia.

The Witcher Gameplay and Performance @ [H]
Intel Unveils 16 New Processors @ [H]
Danger Den Water Box Plus and Kit @ 3dGameMan
Apack Zerotherm Nirvana 120 Heatsink @ FrostyTech
NVIDIA Hybrid SLI Technology @ [H]
XFX 8800GT Alpha Dog Edition @ NVNews
OCZ 2x1GB DDR3-1333 Gold Edition Memory Kit @ Virtual-Hideout
SteelSeries Siberia Neckband Gaming Headset @ Tweaknews
Thermaltake Armor+ @ Bjorn3D
Logitech G15 Rev2 @ MetkuMods
Corsair Dominator DDR3 1800MHz Intel XMP Memory @ PC Perspective
Asus' Eee PC 4G sub-notebook @ The Tech Report

Logitech Unveils Mini-Keyboard for Total Control of PC Entertainment from the Sofa

Category: Input Devices
Posted: January 7, 2008 11:51AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Logitech -

Logitech unveiled the diNovo Mini keyboard with media remote at CES over the weekend.  The palm-sized device is designed to interface with home theater PC systems and makes it easy to control your HTPC from the sofa via a Bluetooth 2.0 wireless connection. For easy navigation, the diNovo Mini keyboard features backlighting and an innovative ClickPad, which can be used as a touch pad to point, scroll and click – or as a directional pad to navigate menus and make selections.  The keyboard features a keypad, dedicated hotkeys for media players and Web browsers, as well as prominent Page Up and Page Down buttons, which allow people to scroll when surfing the Web as well as zoom in and out of documents and images. The keyboard even offers a dedicated button that launches Windows Media Center, as well as a row of media controls that allow people to adjust volume and easily play, pause, stop, fast forward and rewind. "The Logitech diNovo Mini keyboard extends Logitech’s tradition of developing innovative products to meet the changing times," said Denis Pavillard, vice president of product marketing for Logitech’s keyboards and desktops. "Today, more and more people are hooking up their PCs to their TVs. The sleek, minimalist design and thoughtful function make the diNovo Mini keyboard the perfect complement to the living-room or home-theater PC." The diNovo Mini comes with rechargeable Li-ion batteries that last up to one month between charges. The keyboard is expected to be available in the U.S. and Europe beginning in late February for a suggested retail price of $149.99US.

Hardware Roundup: Monday Edition

Category: Video Cards, Motherboards, Memory, Gaming, Music / Video Players, Input Devices, Monitors, Gadgets, CPU Cooling, Trade Shows/Conventions
Posted: January 7, 2008 06:57AM
Author: Dale Shuck

Our Monday roundup marks the official opening of CES 2008 and OCC has already begun its coverage along with with some of our affiliates.  But first we need to see what else is up for review today.  We have a daily double from Tech ARP with their Crysis Benchmarking Guide and their updated Desktop Graphics Card Comparison Guide.  Virtual-Hideout takes on the Razer Lachesis Gaming Mouse.  Motherboards.org has a look at the V7 D24W33 24 Inch (HDMI) LCD Monitor from Video 7.  DD@ memory is still alive and kicking and TweakTown reviews the PNY DDR2 XLR8 PC2-9384 2GB Memory Kit.  For those of you looking for an easy way to get into water cooling, Tweaknews has the Thermaltake Bigwater 760i Liquid Cooling System up for review today.  In the budget motherboard department, Bjorn3D has a look at the Gigabyte GA-P31-DS3L based on the Intel P31 chipset.  If you didn't get a new music player under the tree this year, head on over to RBMods for a review of the Apple iPod Nano 3rd Generation.  Now, on to CES coverage.  In addition to OCC's own coverage, today we have CES Unveiled 2008 at ThinkComputers.org, CES Unveiled & Logitech Announcements at Techgage and Warner Home Video Fallout Hits CES 2008 from Madshrimps.

Crysis Benchmarking Guide @ Tech ARP
Razer Lachesis Gaming Mouse @ Virtual-Hideout
V7 D24W33 24 Inch (HDMI) LCD Monitor @ Motherboards.org
Nyko Intercooler for Playstation 3 @ OCModShop
CES Unveiled 2008 @ ThinkComputers.org
CES Unveiled & Logitech Announcements @ Techgage
Desktop Graphics Card Comparison Guide @ Tech ARP
Warner Home Video Fallout Hits CES 2008 @ Madshrimps
PNY DDR2 XLR8 PC2-9384 2GB Memory Kit @ TweakTown
Thermaltake Bigwater 760i Liquid Cooling System @ Tweaknews
Gigabyte GA-P31-DS3L @ Bjorn3D
Apple iPod Nano 3rd Generation @ RBMods