PC Supporter

Wednesday 23 November 2011

Top 20 Free Android Apps | Download Now

If you are a long-time Android user,

Some of these apps will look familiar, although in a few cases, the best apps in a certain class aren�t necessarily the ones that have been most popular for a stretch of time. New comers are supplanting some tried and true favorites.

As Android apps grow, so will our list, so stay tuned for updates to the Blog. http://software-review2010.blogspot.com

Dolphin Browser HD | Download Now

Dolphin browser HD for Android - PC Supporter

Dolphin Browser HD is a veritable trickster of a mobile browser. You can change this Android app�s look and feel through custom themes, add capability with Add-ons, or even navigate by gesture. When you encounter a pesky mobile site, you can don a disguise, for example, you can masquerade as an iPad � to unlock the un-cropped page. Flummoxed by Flash? No more, so long as you�re running Dolphin and Android versions 2.2. The browser lacks a full syncing service, but it does support Google Bookmarks.

Google Maps | Download Now

Whenever I ask people to name their five favorite Android apps, �Google something� almost always makes the list. Google Maps may be one of the most popular of the Android apps from Google. A few of its signature features, such as navigation and layers, work better on Android than most other mobile operating systems. It�s indispensible for finding addresses, service providers nearby, and just for simply getting around.

Wikidroid for Wikipedia | Download Now

Looking up information on a smartphone should not only be easy, but also something you do frequently. Otherwise, what�s the point of having so much data at your finger tips? Wikidroid pulls articles from Wikipedia and optimizes their display for easy reading and searching from your mobile phone. The app has elegant search functionality, too.

LastPass Password Manager Premium | Download Now

LasPass manages and fills in your user names and passwords for you automatically. You�ll only have to remember one password ever again: the one to get into LastPass, so make it strong. Another advantage of using a password manager is it ensures you use a different password for all the sites you visit, as recycling passwords leaves you prone to identity theft and other online crimes.

Wheres My Droid | Download Now

How many times have you claimed your phone was stolen, only to find it, days later, wedged between the couch cushions, muffled from ringing loud enough to hear when you called it? If you are prone to losing your phone, Wheres My Droid will put your mind at ease. The app helps people find their lost or stolen Android phones by forcing it to ring at maximum volume or vibrate when the phone receives a text message containing a specified phrase, such as �Where�s my Droid?� The app can also tell you the phone�s location, as long as its GPS is enabled.

Dropbox for Android | Download Now

If your files live all over the place, your office computer, home desktop, laptop � having a dependable syncing program is a must. Dropbox, the service that lets you store your files in the cloud and access them from anywhere you have a signal, fills that role nicely with an Android app. It has a simple interface, easy uploading, and swift syncing across all accounts.

Astrid Task [Todo List] | Download Now

Many Android users gravitate to Astrid because it is, quite simply, the best list maker and task manager that exist for Android phones. Astrid has all of the features every list-maker needs, including due dates and alarms, and it also conveniently syncs with Google Tasks. Unfortunately, it doesn�t sync with Remember the Milk, although it used to.

Yelp for Android | Download Now

The most comprehensive review app, Yelp turns out to be a pretty invaluable tool for finding businesses nearby, especially when you�re in a town you don�t know well. Yelp�s mobile app has helped me find a hairdresser when I was in a pinch in Washington D.C., and a suitable lunch while driving through Ohio. The quality of the reviews can be touch and go but for finding businesses and services, and vetting out ones that are very poorly received, Yelp�s the app you need.

Facebook for Android | Download Now

Social networks thrive with a reliable app, and Facebook for Android is undeniably solid. The Android app has the quintessential, familiar, Facebook-branded interface, but it also offers some unique functionality that�s absent in Facebook�s iPhone app. This includes a side-scrolling preview pane of recently shared photos in the dashboard area. Very cool.

Twitter for Android | Download Now

The best app for Twitter is Twitter. Plenty of third-party Twitter apps and social media aggregators have graced the Android Marketplace, some with pretty terrible performance track records, but the one that works best is Twitter�s own. Starting with version (2.1.2), Twitter for Android adds support for multiple accounts as well as optional push notifications (alerts that appear on your phone similar to an alarm or incoming text message), two features that had been sorely lacking prior to this release. A clean user experience and smart design doesn�t hurt either. Best of all, if you don�t have a Twitter account and aren�t interested in joining, you can still use the app to search and read the site.

ooVoo Video Calls | Download Now

Stable and reliable video chat apps for Android aren�t easy to come by, but ooVoo is terrific. The Android video chat app supports group video, voice calls, and instant messaging � across iOS, OSX, Android, and Windows! Not only do you get solid Android video calling, but you can practically video chat with anyone.

IMO Instant Messenger | Download Now

Multi-purpose instant message apps can falter on mobile phones, crashing frequently or draining the phone�s battery. While it�s not perfect, IMO Instant Messenger is by far one of the lesser offenders. Android reason it�s better than some others is it supports instant messaging across an impressive 11 networks: MSN, Yahoo!, AIM/ICQ, Google Talk, Myspace, Skype, Facebook, Jabber, imo, VKontakte, and Hyves.

Movies App for Android from Flixter | Download Now

Movies, by Flixster (some people know the app better by the developer�s name), puts theater times, release dates for movies and DVDs, film reviews, and trailers in the palm of your hand. If, for example, you need to know the exact date that A Very Harold & Kumar Christmas will be hitting theaters, Movies can confirm the November 4, 2011, release. By default, the app pulls movie ratings from Rotten Tomatoes, although you can override this feature if perhaps you don�t think The 400 Blows deserves a 100 percent critics� approval rating. You�d be wrong, but you can do it.

Angry Birds for Android | Download Now

There�s just no denying that Angry Birds has been the hit game across mobile devices. The casual puzzle game challenges you to destroy structures by flinging crotchety little birds at it using a giant slingshot. The franchise has dozens of titles, like Angry Birds Rio and Angry Birds Seasonal, but the original Angry Birds is the one to download to your Android phone first. (Also see The Best Free Android Games.)

Words with Friends Free | Download Now

The Scrabble-like game from Zynga, Words with Friends, is among the most popular mobile social games around. If you own an Android phone but your friends are on other devices, such as iPhones or iPads, you can still challenge them to head-to-head wordplay, as it doesn�t matter on which platform your opponents are playing. While some Android users have reported stability problems with the game, Words with Friends is in such high demand that most people will grin and bear it, especially since it�s free.

Kindle for Android | Download Now

Read books, magazines, and newspapers right on your Android phone without ever buying an e-reader. The Kindle app is by far the most popular reading app in the Android Marketplace because it gives you access to buy or download for free hundreds of thousands of books, and more than 100 different newspapers and magazines. And while some users have complained that they can�t uninstall Kindle once they�ve downloaded the app, it is possible (but it takes a little effort).

NOOK for Android by B&N | Download Now

Anti-Amazon book lovers might prefer an app by Barnes & Noble for reading on their Android phones. NOOK and Kindle largely do the same thing (give you access to an impressive library of books newspapers, magazines, and other things to read), although their interfaces and experiences are different. Whether you like Amazon or B&N is largely a matter of personal preference. The NOOK feels a little more graceful in its design, whereas the Kindle app looks more utilitarian.

Pandora Internet Radio for Android | Download Now

Of the music streaming apps available to Android phone owners Pandora steals hearts for having very good quality streaming even over a 3G signal. Newcomers to the Android arena, including Slacker Radio and Spotify, are earning more and more market share every day, but Pandora tends to be the most reliable, likely because it has a longer history running on Android.

FxCamera App for Android | Download Now

Not every smartphone running Android has a great camera, so get better photos with the help of software. FxCamera adds filters and effects, like �toy� and fisheye lens, to enhance even modest pictures. It also helps to arm yourself with some additional tips for getting better photos from your phone.

ESPN Score Center for Android | Download Now

ESPN�s free app lets you check the game quickly, and discreetly when necessary (with your phone under the dinner table, (for example). Sports fans of all stripes will find this app useful; it covers more sports types than most other sports and news apps out there. It can pull game data from baseball, basketball, American football, the sport the rest of the world calls football (soccer), ice hockey, cricket, rugby, and more. For stat lovers, ScoreMobile is a fine option, but only if it has the sport you follow, as it misses a few, like rugby and boxing.

App�s reviewed by PC Mag � 2011

Selection and Published by PC Supporter � 2011

Nikon Coolpix S6150 | Imaging Device Review

Creative Mind Digital Camera , Imaging Device

Touch Screen Controls, fantastic value and great features make the Nikon Coolpix S6150 a tempting buy.

Key features:

16MP

Optical 7 x zoom, 7.5 cm (3in), approx 460k-dot

Wide-viewing angle TFT LCD screen

720p video

Peer into the core of the Nikon Coolpix S6150 and you�ll find a 16MP CCD sensor with Nikon�s Expeed C2 image processing system, which promises enhanced 720p HD video recording and high sensitivity performance.

Motion detection and lens-shift vibration reduction help to compensate for camera shake, and Nikon�s Best Shot Selector choose the sharpest image from a swquence of 10. The emphasis here is on automatic operation 19 scene modes and a scene auto selector will appeal to those who prefer to simply point and shoot. The Smart Portrait mode offers a range of useful features, including skin softening, blink warning and smile shutter. You can further improve shots via the Retouch menu, Nikon�s D-Lightning contrast adjustment is probably the most useful.

As you�d expect from Nikkor ED glass, the versatile 5-35mm zoom on the Nikon Coolpix S6150 delivers sharp images with plenty of detail.

Images exhibit a hint of grittiness even at the lowest ISO settings when viewed at 100 percent, although you won�t notice it unless printing is pushed to extremes.

Colors are generally accurate, occasionally erring on the warm side. 720p movies from the Nikon Coolpix S6150 are good, appearing smooth and finely detailed. Filming controls are limited though you can only change autofocus, white balance and wind noise reduction. The stereo microphone has a tendency to pick up the sound of the zoom.

It�s slim but sturdy build, rubberized finish, raised lens mount and thumb rests provide confident, assured handling. The touch screen is less tactile, although it does make pictures look glorious. Most importantly, the Nikon Coolpix S6150 can produce detailed, balanced images.

PC Plus [Marcus Hawkins]

Nikon J1 | Compact Size

Creative Mind Digital Camera , Photography

Source: PC Magazine - November 2011

It�s Compact, But Focuses and Fires Like a D-SLR.

Nikon�s J1 marks the company�s entry into the compact interchangeable lens camera market. Nikon�s J1 is not that much larger than a point and shoot, but manages to capture sharp images and focuses and fires faster than many D-SLRs, even though its image sensor and lenses are much smaller.

The J1�s included zoom lens covers a 3x zoom range, matching the field of view of the lens included with our Editor�s Choice Sony Alpha NEX-C3. The NEX-C3�s larger sensor packs more pixels and delivers best in-class low-light performance, but if you are put off by its larger lens, which is closer in size to that bundled with most D-SLRs, the J1 is worth a close look.

The J1 measures 2.4 by 4.2 by 1.2 inches (HWD), and weighs 8.3 ounces without a lens. The included 10-30mm kit lens is collapsible, which helps to conserve some room in your bag. Thanks to the compact optics, J1 is also noticeably smaller than the Sony NEX-C3, which features a kit lens that is the same size as that of a standard D-SLR.

The J1 is a compact speed demon. Although it is hindered by a just-ok 1.8 sec and start up speed, autofocus speed is excellent, the camera is able to lock onto a subject in about three-tenths of a second.

Shutter lag is virtually non-existent; we measured it at 0.04 seconds when the lens was pre-focused.

Nikon�s J1 is a very good choice if you are looking for a compact camera that delivers D-SLR-level performance. It offers a manual shooting mode that will satisfy serious photographers, and its burst-shooting capability and Smart Photo Selector mode make it possible for almost anyone to capture the perfect shot. But some shooters may feel limited by its fixed rear LCD and lack of a hot shoe or accessory port, which makes it impossible to use an EVF or a better flash. The same-priced Sony Alpha NEX-C3 offers a larger image sensor, and accessory port, and a tilting LCD.

Jim Fisher

Good Bye Start Menu | Windows 8

Creative Mind software review , Windows

Windows 8 | Start Screen

The Windows Start menu, a �universally recognizable element of the Windows interface� has left the building, because no one used it anymore.

Microsoft said it replaced the Windows 7 Start menu with a Start screen in Windows 8 because the menu�s usage dipped by 11 percent between Windows Vista and Windows 7, with many specialized Start functions-such as exploring pictures declining as much as 61 percent. The Start screen is full of live files that are either application launchers or widgets containing information.

Photo Printer Shopping Guide

Creative Mind Hardware Review , Photography

Inkjet

Dye sublimation

Multifunction Inkjet

Inkjet printers create your own great-looking custom prints at home.

Tiny dye sublimation printers like this offer exceptional portability and picture quality.

Multifunction inkjet printers deliver sharp photos and pages of text, plus they let you scan, copy, and even fax documents.

Photo Printer Shopping Guide

Photo printers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but they all do one thing: they transform your brilliantly colored digital pictures into high-quality photo prints. Thanks to the popularity of digital cameras, most photo printers are now surprisingly affordable and easy-to-use -- and many of them don't even need to be connected to a PC.

Will it work with your camera?

You can choose a photo printer with a media slot that accepts the same kind of memory card your camera uses, or a printer that connects directly, via a proprietary cable, to your camera. Then you can print photos directly from your camera without using a computer. If you do prefer to use your computer though, simply connect it to your printer via a USB, drop the photos onto your hard drive, edit them as needed, and print them from there.

What printing technology do you prefer?

The two main kinds of technology you'll see in photo printers are dye sublimation and inkjet. Both can produce stunning images, but there are some key differences between them:

Dye sublimation printers use heat to vaporize and deposit solid dyes onto the surface of a sheet of glossy photo paper. These dyes permeate the paper's surface, creating smooth, lifelike gradations of color before returning to a solid form. The printer then applies a special coating to the paper to protect your photos from fading and provide resistance to moisture and fingerprints. Lots of folks prefer dye sublimation printers because they excel at producing realistic colors with even, continuous tones.

Inkjet printers, on the other hand, "paint" the image onto photo paper with a series of tiny dots using ink from a number of small cartridges. These printers remain popular because of their relatively inexpensive supplies and ability to print photos in a wider variety of sizes than most dye sublimation models. Most inkjet printers are also capable of printing crisp-looking text on plain paper at high rates of speed; many even come as part of a "multifunction" component that can scan, copy and fax your documents.

If you only plan to print a few photos here and there -- sending a few to relatives during the holidays, for example -- then a dye sublimation printer could be your best choice. If you'll be printing lots of photos, or want the versatility of printing text documents too, consider an inkjet model. Just remember that a printer optimized for photo printing will do a significantly better job at that than a general-use printer.

How much resolution do you need?

The higher the resolution, the crisper your print. For example, 300 dpi (dots per inch) resolution is finer than a 200 dpi resolution. Today's dye sublimation photo printers typically offer 300 dpi resolution, while inkjet printers feature 1200 to 9600 dpi. From those numbers, it might sound like inkjet printers will always produce finer-quality prints. But keep in mind that resolution cannot be accurately compared between dye sublimation and inkjet printers -- a dye sublimation print made at 300 dpi often looks as nice as a 4800 dpi print made on an inkjet printer.

Other features to consider:

Portability -- Some printers work with optional batteries, so you can take them with you to parties, family reunions, and other get-togethers to print and share your photos on the spot.

Editing capabilities -- Some printers actually let you edit your digital photos, and printers with built-in color LCD screens make this especially easy. These editing capabilities can range from simply adding a time/date stamp or text caption to your photos, to cropping image sizes and performing multiple picture enhancements before printing. The type you choose depends on whether you want to do any editing at all, and if so, whether you'd prefer to do sophisticated edits on a computer, or make quick, simple adjustments from the printer.

PictBridge direct printing -- A common format called PictBridge� makes it possible for cameras and printers of any brand to work directly with one another by way of a simple USB connection. Using PictBridge, you can connect a compatible camera to a compatible printer and print photos without having to send them through your PC. If your camera has this feature, you may want to look for a printer that offers it as well.

Print sizes -- We generally recommend choosing a printer that can handle at least two different print sizes, such as wallet and 4" x 6". Keep in mind that printers capable of making large prints, like 8-1/2" x 11", will offer a wide range of smaller prints to choose from as well.

Cost of paper and ink -- Dye sublimation photo printers usually require special paper and ink cartridge kits made specifically for them. This gives you excellent color accuracy and photo print longevity, but the price of these kits often mean a higher per-print cost. If you're going to be printing a lot of photos, an inkjet printer can sometimes offer less expensive alternatives when it comes to paper and ink options.

Printing speed -- Most dye sublimation photo printers can produce a 4" x 6" borderless photo in about one minute. Inkjet printers' speeds tend to vary quite a bit depending on the number of ink nozzles in the print head and the quality level selected for printing. You can expect speeds that range from as little as roughly 20 seconds to as much as a minute, or more. If you plan on printing a lot of photos, a high-speed inkjet model might make a sensible choice.

Wireless network printing -- Some newer printers feature built-in Wi-Fi�, so multiple users on a wireless PC network can enjoy easy access from anywhere in a home or office. These models can also be hooked up to a wired network via an Ethernet port for shared printing capabilities with connected computers.

Nikon D5100 - Imaging Device Review

Creative Mind HD Wallpapers , Imaging Device

Nikon D5100 �Creativity from any point of view.�

Imaging Quality

A high-resolution Nikon DX-format CMOS image sensor with an effective pixel count of 16.2-million pixels, an image-processing engine that provides superior image quality and rich expression of tones, and the new High Dynamic Range (HDR) function
The D5100 is equipped with the same DX-format CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 2 image-processing engine as the high-end D7000 digital-SLR camera. These features enable capture of high-resolution images with excellent expression of tones. With standard sensitivity settings of ISO 100 - 6400 and additional increases up to Hi 2 (ISO 25600 equivalent), the camera offers improved capability with shooting under dim lighting, such as in the evening or indoors, and also produces better results with capture of rapidly moving subjects.

Image result in low lightning conditions

The High Dynamic Range (HDR) function captures two shots of varying exposure each time the shutter-release button is pressed, and then combines the two shots into a single image with a broad dynamic range. Resulting images beautifully recreate the scene as seen with the naked eye, even with shooting of backlit scenes, with little or no loss of detail in shadows or highlights.

Vari-angle LCD monitor lets you take pictures from unique viewpoints.

The new, large 7.5-cm (3-in.) vari-angle LCD monitor opens horizontally up to 180� and flips up and down from +180� to -90�. Now you�re ready to view, shoot and record your subjects from unique perspectives. Try angle for overhead shots, waist level for candid Live Vie and movie shooting, or a low vantage point for a look from ground level. You can also place the D5100 on a tripod or other stable surface and still see yourself while composing self-portraits.

Visibility has been increased with the large 3-inch, approximately 921k-dot high-resolution vari-angle monitor adopted for the D5100. In addition, the range of colors that can be reproduced by the monitor is equivalent to that of the sRGB gamut.
Adoption of a side hinge for the vari-angle monitor prevents the monitor from hitting the tripod when it is opened while the camera is mounted on a tripod. The vari-angle monitor opens from 0 to 180� to the side, and can be rotated up to 90� clockwise and up to 180� counter-clockwise when it is open. This enables shooting from a wide variety of angles, from low to high, making even self portraits possible.

D-Movie for recording and editing of Full-HD movies

The D5100 is equipped with the D-Movie function that enables recording of high-definition

movies (1920 x 1080p, 30p) exhibiting superior video quality. Autofocusing during movie recording is possible using contrast-detect AF. When the focus mode is set to full-time-servo AF (AF-F) and the AF-area mode to subject-tracking AF, the camera automatically maintains focus on a subject moving throughout the frame. The D5100

also offers in-camera movie editing functions that allow users to save a single frame as a still JPEG image or delete unnecessary portions from the beginning and/or end of movie files. What's more, the D5100 is equipped with built-in support for stereo audio recording via the Stereo Microphone ME-1 (available separately), and the mode dial and live view switch have been positioned on the same spindle in consideration of operational ease.

The optional Stereo Microphone ME-1 can be used to record sound in stereo while also preventing noise caused by lens vibration being recorded during autofocus.

The first Nikon digital-SLR camera to offer Special Effects mode.

The D5100 offers special effects that can be selected and applied with both shooting of still images and recording of movies. Special effects are displayed with the view through the lens in the monitor before shooting or recording begins, allowing users to confirm the desired results in real time. Users can easily enjoy adding special effects to movies. This mode was adopted to respond to the creative intent of users searching for a way to express their own unique style and creativity. The Special Effects mode built into the D5100 offers seven special effects, including Selective Color and Color Sketch.
Favorite Special Effects

Selective color All colors other than those selected by the user are recorded in black and white. Up to three colors can be selected at a time.

Color sketch The camera detects and colors outlines for a color sketch effect. Users can use the monitor display to adjust the vividness of colors and the thickness of outlines.

Miniature effect Distant subjects appear as miniatures for a diorama effect. Users can choose the orientation (vertical/horizontal) and width (narrow/normal/wide) of the area that will be in focus.

Night vision When this option is selected, extremely high ISO sensitivities are used (up to ISO 102400 equivalent). This enables shooting under conditions of darkness while verifying the subject and composition in the monitor.
* RAW recording is not possible. Still images can only be recorded in JPEG (black-and-white) format. Only contrast-detect AF can be used.

Additional Features and Functions

High-speed continuous shooting at up to approximately 4 fps1, and a very precise and durable shutter unit that has passed testing for 100,000 cycles.

Equipped with Quiet shutter-release mode for shooting in situations in which quieter shutter operation is desired. Infrared receivers for remote control operation on the front and back of the camera enable wireless control over the shutter from both in front of and behind the camera (optional ML-L3 wireless remote control supported).

Equipped with 16 scene modes that enable the simple capture of beautiful photos of the desired scene with automatic optimization of camera settings.

Built-in HDMI-CEC compatibility enables control over playback of still images and movies using the television's remote control when the camera is connected to a high-definition TV via the HDMI connector.

For more information Download Complete Boucher.

Tablet PC: The Essential Consumer's Guide

Creative Mind Android , Apple

Tablet PC: The Essential Consumer's Guide | PC Supporter

If you are currently on the market for a slate PC or tablet PC but overwhelmed by the sheer number of tablets currently available on the market, you are in luck because this essential buyer's guide will help you find the right tablet PC for you. This guide will break down the things you should consider when considering to purchase any tablet currently available on the market. The factors that you should consider that will be discussed in this buyers guide are needs, budget, platform, specification and style.

Needs

When considering buying a tablet PC, you should think about your needs and whether if you really need a tablet. The great Steve Jobs once described the Apple iPad as a tablet that fits somewhere between laptops and smartphones as tablets can provide a better email and web browsing experience than smartphones. This definition can be applied to all tablets and you should think whether your needs can solely be satisfied from a tablet if you already own a desktop PC, laptop or Smartphone. Some may argue that tablets don't quite beat laptops yet in terms of business productivity but nevertheless, tablet PCs remain on everyone wish lists.

Reasons

There many reasons why people buy tablet computers but some examples include tablets are lighter and more portable than laptops, the web and email experience is better than on Smartphone or on a laptop, provides better battery life and has a fast boot times. If any of these reasons apply to you than having tablet might be appeal to you.

Budget

Tablet PC's come priced in many different price ranges and depending on your budget, your choices can be either be limited or unlimited. Whether you are on a tight budget or have lots of money to spend, there are many models available that cater to all budgets. At the low-end tablet market, you can happily pick up a tablet from $80 to $900 for a high-end model. In most cases, your budget will determine your tablet choices.

Platform

At present, the major tablet platforms available are Apple's iOS, Google's Android operating system and RIM's BlackBerry Tablet OS. Which platform to go for will entirely depend on what users are familiar with using, For example, BlackBerry users might be more comfortable to use RIM's BlackBerry Tablet OS because it supports and integrates with the BlackBerry service while other users might opt for the Android operating system because it offers full combination with Google services where as other users might opt for Apple's iOS because it's very intuitive to use. In any case, it would be best advised to go to your local retailer to try out the platforms to ensure you can comfortable use it day-to-day.

Specification

Without going into technical jargon about the specifications, it is best advised to purchase the best or highest specification tablet that your budget allows to ensure your new tablet can last for many years to come. Technology develops at a fast pace and today's' best specifications can quickly become out of date within six months so it's advisable to ensure the tablet you do end up buying is the best you can afford.

The basic specifications that all tablet PC buyers should consider is screen size, speed of the CPU, amount of RAM, hard drive space and battery life. The general rule is the higher the number, the better equipped the tablet PC is. For example, the popular Apple iPad 2 has a 9.7-inch screen, 1 GHz dual-core CPU, 512MB of RAM, 10 hour battery life and storage is available in 16GB, 32GB, and 64GB models.

Style

Finally, you should consider how the tablet looks. Style and look of a tablet is objective as what might look cool and great to one person might look awful to another.

I hope you have found this tablet PC guide useful in finding the right tablet PC for you and understanding what to consider when purchasing any tablet. You can learn more about current tablets, future tablets, tablet PC reviews by visiting PC Supporter.

Intel Ultrabooks challenge MacBook Air

Creative Mind Apple , Laptops

Intel Ultrabooks challenge MacBook Air | PC Supporter

Ultrabooks � Intel�s new slim line form factor for portable laptops could help laptop manufacturers strike back at the dominance of Apple�s MacBook Air. We managed to get our hands on some of the first models to go on show at the IFA Technology Show in Berlin.

First up was the Acer Aspire S3. It�s not the thinnest Ultrabook available, but it�s still incredibly small, measuring 17mm at its thickest point and tapering to a slender 13mm. It weights just 1.3kg, thanks to its aluminum-magnesium alloy construction, and you�ll barely notice it in a satchel or laptop bag.

The thin, 13.3in glossy screen has been made using a new construction process that recesses the LCD directly into its chassis. We noticed a fair amount of flex, but considering its thickness that wasn�t a surprise. The 1,366x768 resolution is fairly standard for this screen size, but there was no mention of a possible upgrade to 1080p or 1,600x900. On the incredibly bright show floor, the display�s brightness looked a little low, but we�ll withhold judgment until we�ve seen one in our labs.

The Aspire S3 doesn�t deviate too far from Intel�s original design document. Each model in the Ultrabook range will use an ultra-low voltage version of Intel�s second-generation Core i3, i5 or i7 processors, with various memory and storage configurations, However, storage is a different matter; the S3 is currently the only Ultrabook available with the choice of an SD or traditional hard disk. As well as faster read and write speeds, SSD models will benefit from enhanced battery life � typically up to seven hours, compared with six from a unit equipped with a hard disk.

Acer Aspire S3 Video running Windows 8

Next was Toshiba�s Protege Z830, the thinnest Ultrabook announced at just 15.9mm, This is about as slim as you�d care to go, as the Z830 is only thick enough to provide full sized USB ports � there are three, one of which is the faster USB3 standard � along its edges. There�s also Ethernet, HDMI, VGA and a card reader. Any thinner design would have to resort to compromises such as hinged ports behind flaps.

Toshiba�s Protege Z830 Pictures - PC Review

The Z830�s chassis is made of a magnesium allow, much like Panasonic�s Toughbook line. And it�s been designed to be extremely portable, especially given its 13.3in display size. It weighs just 1.12kg, making it the lightest Ultrabook to date, and one of lightest laptops we can think of. Full dimensions weren�t supplied, and unfortunately we didn�t have a tape measure, but we�d estimate that it sits between Apple�s 13in MacBook Air and Pro designs.

Again, the screen lid has a lot of flex, but there�s no surprise given the thickness. The backlit keyboard was nice to type on, with positive feedback despite its minimal travel.

Toshiba was very circumspect on the actual specification and would only say that it will have an Intel processor and either a 128GB or 256GB SSD. Battery capacity and life was unavailable. What�s certain is that we�re due to get a series of incredibly small, light and attractive laptops coming soon.

Source: Computer Shopper � December 2011

FujiFilm Finepix Z900EXR | Review and Specs

Creative Mind Digital Camera , Hardware Review

FujiFilm Finepix Z900EXR in Review and Specifications | PC Supporter

Source � Computer Shopper | December 2011

It turned the issue of megapixel one up-man-ship on its head by becoming either a 12 megapixel camera (for those who are impressed by big numbers of pixels) or a 6 megapixel camera (for those who don�t like excessively noisy photos), depending on the selected mode. The camera achieved this feat at sensor level, and not simply by downsizing the 12 megapixel shots. It also helped that the sensor measured 1/1.6in across, giving a much larger surface area than the 1/2.3in sensors used in most compacts � this too helped to keep noise levels down and picture quality up.

Since then, FujiFilm has watered down the benefits of EXR, first by shrinking the sensors to 1/2in and then by raising the megapixel count. The sensor in the Z900EXR has 16 or 8 megapixels, depending on its mode. That�s a disappointing development, but taken on its own terms, an 8 megapixel sensor in a low cost camera is exactly what we�ve been pining for.

Its other specifications belie the low price, with 1080p video recording, an HDMI output, a 5x zoom lens, a classy ultra compact aluminum shell and a 3-1/2in touchscreen.

We have mixed feelings about touchscreen cameras, and the Z900EXR encapsulates them perfectly. it�s put to good use in the track focus mode � after touching the screen, the camera tracked our chosen subject extremely responsively. The onscreen buttons are sensibly laid out in grid formation rather than as scrolling menus, and they rotate automatically when you hold the camera in portrait orientation. However, the menus didn�t always keep up with us, the camera sometimes beeped to confirm that we�d pressed it but failed to act on our request.

FujiFilm Finepix Z900EXR in Review and Specifications

We started by testing the Z900EXR in 16 megapixel mode, but this didn�t last long. The lens struggled to resolve that level of detail, and photos were predictably noisy. Switching to eight megapixels showed a distinct improvement, with much less noise and, as a result, greater detail retention in low light. The 8 megapixel mode also unlocked another benefit of EXR technology, which is that it can underexpose the brightest parts of images to avoid clipped highlights. It raised performance, too, improving shot-to-shot times from 2.4 seconds to two seconds, and doubling the longevity of the 3fps burst mode to six shots.

However, EXR technology seemed to bring fewer benefits when shooting in bright conditions. There was still some noise, giving a slightly scruffy, vague appearance to fine details. Neither the sensor nor the lens could match those of the superb Canon lxus 115 HS. The Canon also nudged ahead in low light, as its f/2.8 lens gathers more light than the FujiFilm�s f/3.9 maximum aperture. Both cameras shoot 1080p video, but the FufiFilm has the advantage here with its ability to zoom and autofocus while recording.

Ultimately, the Canon�s superiority in bright conditions is the most significant difference between the two cameras, both technically and in terms of practical use. The Z900EXR is still an impressive compact, though, and comes a close second.

By - Ben Pitt

Setting Up a New Hard Disk | Windows 7

Creative Mind Hardware Review , Operating Sys Review

Setting Up a New Hard Disk | PC Supporter

Whether you�re installing Windows on a brand new hard disk or simply adding a new disk to an existing system, it�s a good idea to consider how you want to use the new storage space before you begin creating volumes. If your goal is to set up a large space for backup or media storage, for example, you might want to devote the entire disk to a single volume. On the other hand, if your plan is to establish two or more separate volumes�perhaps one for each family member on a shared home computer, for example�decide how many gigabytes you want to assign to each partition. You can change your mind later, but it�s easiest to adjust the number of volumes on a disk and their relative sizes before you�ve put a lot of data on the platter.

Installing Windows on a New Disk

When you run the Windows 7 Setup program on a computer with a single, raw hard disk, Setup presents you with a screen identifying the disk and its size. If you want to create a single volume encompassing the entire disk, click Next to proceed . Otherwise click Drive Options (Advanced) . On the screen that follows, you can use the Size control to specify how large a volume you want to create for your Windows installation:

If you decide not to use the entire disk for Windows, you can create additional volumes from within the Setup program. But there�s no particular need to do this. After you have installed Windows, you can use Disk Management to create one or more additional volumes in the unallocated space remaining on the disk.

Adding a New Disk to an Existing Windows Installation

In the graphical pane of Disk Management, a brand new hard disk, whether internal or external, appears like this:

To make this disk available for storage, you need to create one or more volumes, assign drive letters, label the volumes (if you don�t want them to be identified in Windows Explorer as simply �New Volume�), and format the new volumes. You can carry out all of these steps from within the New Simple Volume wizard.

Wednesday 23 November 2011

If you are a long-time Android user,

As Android apps grow, so will our list, so stay tuned for updates to the Blog. http://software-review2010.blogspot.com

Dolphin Browser HD | Download Now

Google Maps | Download Now

Wikidroid for Wikipedia | Download Now

LastPass Password Manager Premium | Download Now

Wheres My Droid | Download Now

Dropbox for Android | Download Now

Astrid Task [Todo List] | Download Now

Yelp for Android | Download Now

Facebook for Android | Download Now

Twitter for Android | Download Now

ooVoo Video Calls | Download Now

IMO Instant Messenger | Download Now

Movies App for Android from Flixter | Download Now

Angry Birds for Android | Download Now

Words with Friends Free | Download Now

Kindle for Android | Download Now

NOOK for Android by B&N | Download Now

Pandora Internet Radio for Android | Download Now

FxCamera App for Android | Download Now

ESPN Score Center for Android | Download Now

Monday 21 November 2011

Touch Screen Controls, fantastic value and great features make the Nikon Coolpix S6150 a tempting buy.

Sunday 20 November 2011

It�s Compact, But Focuses and Fires Like a D-SLR.

Windows 8 | Start Screen

Saturday 19 November 2011

Photo Printer Shopping Guide

Friday 18 November 2011

Nikon D5100 �Creativity from any point of view.�

Imaging Quality

Vari-angle LCD monitor lets you take pictures from unique viewpoints.

D-Movie for recording and editing of Full-HD movies

The first Nikon digital-SLR camera to offer Special Effects mode.

Additional Features and Functions

Tablet PC: The Essential Consumer's Guide | PC Supporter

Wednesday 2 November 2011

Intel Ultrabooks challenge MacBook Air | PC Supporter

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Tuesday 1 November 2011

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