Wednesday, April 29, 2009

NEC's Eco Friendly Wireless Router


NEC released two new wireless lan routers from the AtermWR8150N Series, (BGN), with an Eco Button,when pushed switches off ALL LEDs except the Power to provide 30% less power consumption. If you're too lazy to push a single button you can set your router into Eco Mode where it will do it automatically depending on your usage and predefined settings.

Source
NEC

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

DRV-XD08, Pioneer’s Latest External High Quality Audio CD Player


At 15,000 Yen (€11, the USB 2.0 external DVD and cd player burner isn't the average crap, but a high-end CD audio player with DVD burning capabilities with both Pioneer's PURE READ and PowerRead Technology… Not sure it will be Pioneer’s best seller this year, but just in case… If you're into this kind of stuff, you know what to get.

Source
Pioneer

Monday, April 27, 2009

Century Dual SATA Bay NAS


Century has a new dual SATA bay NAS, the CRNS35NAS. Nothing specal, this NAS is a DLNA, iTuner server, Gigabit Ethernet… Basic NAS stuff and will be sold in Japan for less than 20,000 Yen (€160).

Source
Akihabaranews

Sunday, April 26, 2009

Nissan to Release a New Skyline Crossover This Summer in Japan… Finally


t's about time, but what can you expect from a bunch of old salarymen form Nissan Japan. I mean they make pretty decent cars sometimes for the overseas market, like the latest Infiniti SUV… And while many in North America and Europe can enjoy these beauties… We, in Japan, will have to wait for summer… To Nissan Japan and Carlos Ghosn … Please do us all a favor; launch a heavy wave of early retirements at your Japan HQ…

The all-new Skyline Crossover makes its foray into the crossover segment with a unique and distinctive design, that arrives from a fusion of a coupe with an SUV. The luxury crossover utilizes smooth, soft-to-the-touch and high-quality materials to provide an elegant and personalized interior space.

Powered by a VQ37VHR engine with VVEL technology, the powertrain delivers high response and high torque for an exhilirating driving experience. The powertain also offers cleaner emissions and good fuel-efficiency. Powerful, seamless and continuous acceleration is realized by mating the powertrain to a 7-speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode. Stable handling and supple ride comfort are optimally balanced for a pleasurable drive.

The all-new Skyline Crossover will be showcased at Nissan Galleries nationwide starting April 18, 2009.

Source
Nissan CrossOver

FIA GT1 GT-R, the Ultimate 600hp Nissan GT-R





Last week in the South of France Nissan and Nismo unveiled their FIA GT1 ready GT-R, a “little” 600hp modified 5.6l V8 engine (VK56DE) that provides no less then an incredible 650Nm of torque achieveing a quite honorable 2:05.447 lap time by Paul Ricard…

We hope both Nismo and Nissan are as successful on the old continent as they are here in Japan!

Media Days and the Official Test Session for the FIA GT were held at Circuit Paul Ricard HTTT (5.842km) in the South of France on the 6th and 7th April.

At the Press Conference of SRO, the official promoter of the FIA GT Championship, which took place at midday on the 6th April, the R35 NISSAN GT-R, built according to the 2010 FIA GT1 regulations was unveiled in front of more than 200 people.

The objectives for NISMO's FIA GT program for 2009 is to develop GT-R race car which shall be available for sale to the privateers who wish to take part in the FIA GT World Championship from 2010 and onwards.
The team is going to race at Silverstone (UK, 3rd May), Oschersleben (GER, 21st June), 24 hours of Spa (BEL, 25th - 26th July), and is planning an additional race in Europe.

GT-R will be driven by Michael Krumm (GER) and Darren Turner (UK).

Under the observant eyes of the media and other competitors, the GT-R ran 119 laps and completed all test menus as planned without any major trouble throughout the 2 days. As the GT-R is built according to the next generation 2010 FIA regulations, which allow less modification, lap times cannot be compared with the current GT1 cars, however the best lap time was 2:05.447.

The team will participate in the next official test at Algarve (POR) on 15th and 16th April.

"I am very excited about the FIA GT program as it is 10 years since I participated in an international racing with NISMO." said Michael Krumm. "I am very happy to race in Europe with the NISMO people I have worked in Japan for years. The test at Paul Ricard went very well, and I really enjoyed the test with other cars. Since the shakedown in last December, the GT-R has improved a lot. We still need to work very hard to make the car competitive, but I am confident that we are in a right direction."

Darren Turner said "I'm looking forward to helping NISMO and Gigawave MotorSport to develop the GT-R to make sure it is competitive in time for the new regulations in 2010. It is a real privilege to play a part in such an exciting program. It's also good to be racing in the FIA GT Championship again as I have had good results there in the past."

Source
NihonCar

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Hitachi lied about its Eco appliances… Really?


It seems that Hitachi is a big fat lying company after all, well at least for some of its Eco friendly fridge which apparently where no way near being “Eco”

The Japanese Newspaper Yomiuri, reported earlier today that some of Hitachi fridge which were supposed to been built in the most advanced Eco process, and reducing up to 48% its CO2 emission during the production process was just a big fat lie.

On top of this quite shameful discovery, the Yomiuri report that both the “Eiyo Ikiiki Shinku Chirudo V” and "Big & Slim 60" series, 9 fridges in total, announced to have been built thanks to recycled material… Were in fact built with regular material, Well actually only 3 of them were built with 50% of recycle material and the 6 other never seen any of this Eco friendly recycled material at all…

To make things worse, and after being caught lying, Hitachi announced that they have no intention whatsoever to compensate or refund the 150 000 owners of these fridges in Japan…

Source
Yomiuri

Friday, April 24, 2009

evanui μ, your ultimate omnidirectional Speaker


ViV laboratory will propose in Japan the evanui μ, an high-end luxury wooden omnidirectional speaker featuring the FDM technology (Floating Diaphragm Mechanism) sold at the end of this month, and more precisely for my birthday, April 30, for 210 000 Yen (1660€).

The evanui μ offer a maximum output of 100W with an impedance of 8Ω and work on 80Hz-30kHz frequencies.

Source
ViV

Thursday, April 23, 2009

Kenwood gorgeous Glass Speaker with LED Stand


Kenwood propose in Japan for just a little bit more than 100 000 Yen (765€) a pair of gorgeous glass speaker the SP0001 offering a not so impressive 10Wx2ch at 8Ω output power. I am sure that if you are interested in these speakers’ performances may not be exactly what you are looking for immediately. Anyway for a little extra, Kenwood also propose a set of stands with white and blue LED giving your speakers the perfect touch to show how wealthy you are !

Source
Kenwood

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

DVR-DS120, Mitsubishi latest DVD Recorder


For just 40000 Yen (300€) here you are Mitsubishi latest DVR, the DVR-DS120, with 250GB of internal HDD, a DVD burner, a Digital TV tuner and the capability to record HD Video thanks to its support to AVCREC. Definitively not the most powerful DVR ever made but if you just need to record Magnum PI time to time, this will be far to be enough !

Source
Mitsubishi

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

DC-ACPCDP, the Latest Acrylic Cowboy PC Tower

It's been a while since Digital Cowboy introduced an new acrylic PC case.

Just enough to hold your motherboard (ATX and Micro ATX), your power supply, HDD and ODD, these acrylic PC cases are extremely popular among Japanese geeks.

With a strict minimum the new DC-ACPCDP/B gives you, on top of the basic ATX / Micro ATX 2 LED and a power OFF/ON, a reset button, and a holder to carry your setting around.





Source
Akihabaranews

I-O Data latest 26mm thick NAS


Far from being a real competitor to Apple time capsule, the HDLP-G Landisk is I-O Data latest ultra compact NAS (126x130x26mm). Available in 3 different capacities, with 250, 320 and 500GB, the HDLP-G has been built to be your TV best friend, if at least your TV is compatible with the DLNA v1.0 standard.
The 500GB model will be sold in Japan around 23000 Yen (175€).

Source
Akihabaranews

Monday, April 20, 2009

Sunday Stories:

TRD Upgrade Kit for the Toyota Wish


Just announced in Japan, the Wish can now be purchased with an sport upgrade kit from TRD. It comes with a selection of front spoilers, a set of 17” aluminum wheels (TF4), a TRD Start/Stop button, and a sportive suspension set…

It many not improve your overall performance, but will greatly add to your car's style…




Source
Nihoncar

Sunday Stories:


Scion Reveals iQ Concept at the 2009 New York International Auto Show

Scion’s iQ concept is the intelligent answer to this need for highly emotional and efficient urban transportation. The convenience of having work, entertainment and culture nearby for young city-dwellers is a significant draw to urban centers. The vehicle must be able to navigate narrow, congested streets, park in tight places, have impressive fuel economys, and have compelling design and function.

“Scion’s iQ concept turns traditional auto design upside down,” said Jack Hollis, Scion vice president. “Traditionally small vehicles have been thought of as being basic. The iQ concept is just the opposite with its innovative features and iconic urban design, and we believe it fits in well within the Scion brand. Our young, trendsetting buyers are creative and innovative forward thinkers, and we think they will appreciate what iQ has to offer.”

The production iQ is currently sold in Japan and Europe. Five Axis of Huntington Beach, Calif. took the iQ to the next level with aggressive exterior and interior modifications that show the vehicle’s potential for personalization.

With its 78.7-inch wheelbase, the three-door hatchback can deftly maneuver through city traffic. At the same time, its overall length of 126.9-inches, overall width of 71.4-inches, and short front and rear overhangs allow the iQ to fit in virtually any city parking space. The front-mounted differential and repositioned steering rack decrease front end length. In addition, the iQ is equipped with a flat gas tank housed beneath the floor that reduces rear overhang.

Pushing the wheels of the small, bold concept towards the four corners of the body gives the iQ a confident stance. The custom 18-inch wheels with a nickel finish and wide tires fill the wheel well, adding to its surefootedness. The iQ’s custom front air dam, aero headlamps and high-intensity LED driving lamps signal urban road readiness.

“We believe the Scion iQ micro-subcompact concept is the future of transportation,” said Hollis. “If it should join our future line-up, I think it could reach iconic status like our xB. Its styling will attract attention and if it’s a Scion, you know it’ll be easy to personalize.”

The iQ’s profile is defined by a strong and high beltline. Smooth lines glide from the large, dark finish headlamps, up the A-pillar, across the roof and wrap around the rear emphasizing the concept’s geometric beauty. Side mirrors with integrated turn signals accent the clean design.

The rear emphasizes the vehicle’s modern style. Trapezoidal lines run toward the wheels, from the hatch to the thick rear diffuser, creating a substantial presence. A center-mounted trapezoid exhaust adds to the vehicle’s distinctiveness, while large, matte-finished rear taillights help keep the vehicle visible.

The iQ’s interior fuses function, style and entertainment. Attention to detail and modern accents can be seen in the illuminated door handle; the swiveling spotlight that hovers over the dash; an illuminated iQ logo on the passenger-side dash and nickel and raw aluminum toned interior panels. Iridescent green and gray honeycomb upholstery covering the door panels and seating areas, combined with the custom exterior paint, provides a balance of freshness and sophistication. Black matte scuba-like polyurethane covers the seat bolsters and is also used on the headliner with a bright green topstitch for a contemporary finish.

The iQ features a 10-inch panel LCD screen on top of the center cluster that serves as the main entertainment console and navigation system interface. With the push of a button, the touch-screen articulates to reveal the entertainment hub. The touch screen can also play movies while the vehicle is parked. When not in use, the screen lays flat on the dash with a translucent cover that emits a colorful display of light patterns to make the interior even more unique.

A few quick strokes to the black panel below the entertainment hub, or steering wheel controls, command the audio system to shuffle through a music library. The center cluster also features three control knobs for dual front heating and air conditioning settings. The driver and front passenger each have a knob that displays their desired temperature and controls their temperature and fan settings. The center knob dictates zone control for both occupants.

The instrument panel has a speedometer, warning lamps, and a multi-information display. The multi-information display allows the driver to toggle through the odometer, average speed, temperature and eco lamp. The eco lamp illuminates during efficient driving to help the driver achieve maximum fuel economy.

Comfortable front passenger legroom was achieved with a newly-engineered, compact air conditioning unit located behind the center of the front console. The iQ employs a glove bag, with the same textured, honeycomb fabric as the front and rear seats, that can be easily snapped on and off for storage or additional legroom.

Rear seating can accommodate one adult behind the front passenger and a child, small package, or pet behind the driver. Extra slim front seat backs provide rear passengers with legroom. The rear seats are 50/50 and fold flat for increased utility. In addition, the rear seat cushion lifts up to reveal a small flat storage space that can be used for pocket-sized portable music players, small books, digital cameras, or slim laptops.

The iQ does not skimp on safety and is equipped with Vehicle Stability Control (VSC); an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD); Brake Assist (BA); and nine SRS airbags, which includes the world's first rear window curtain airbag. Other airbags include driver and front passenger front airbags; driver and front passenger seat-mounted side airbags; side curtain airbags; a driver knee airbag; and a front passenger seat cushion airbag.





Source
NihonCar

Sunday, April 19, 2009

I-O Data's Latest SSD Express Card


Not sure if this will be the ultimate setting for those wantling to install an SSD on their PC. Just in case, here's I-O Data's latest SSD Express Cards with a 32GB capacity (16,800 Yen) and a 64GB (24,000 Yen).

Source
Akihabaranews

Saturday, April 18, 2009

Gateway's Netbook



Alongside Acer’s Aspire One D250 and AS3935, we had the pleasure of discovering the ID5800-25K (15.6” 1366x768 0, a stylish notebook designed by Pininfarina for Gateway. It's powered by an Intel Core 2 Duo P8600, 4GB of RAM, a GeForce G105M with 512MB of VRAM, 320GB of HDD, DVD Super Multi, WiFi ABGN, Bluetooth, Multigesture trackpad… And sold in Japan for just 119,800 Yen (€91.

Definitely more compact, Gateway also introduced a N280 Atom powered Netbook, the LT2000. It's available in either black or red with the usual 1GB of RAM, 945GSE Chipset, 10.1” LCD with a 1024 x 600 resolution, Dolby headphones, WiFi B/G… Sold for 49,800 Yen (€381)



Source
Akihabaranews

Novac's Latest Mp3 Wonder: Cassette Tape to Digital


There are plenty of LP to MP3 solutions, but not many cassette tape to MP3. If you're looking for one, well, we happen have exactly what you're looking for, Novac's latest cassette to digital MV-CM001U.

Simply put an old cassette tape in this little wooden box, hit "record," and voila! You've digitally saved your music as an MP3, WAV, or WMA file.

Source
Akihabaranews

Friday, April 17, 2009

The AVC-1610, Denon's Latest HD AV Amp


Here's Denon's AVC-1610, a 5.1 AV amp (130Wx5ch at 6 Ω) that supports HDMI 1.3a, Dolby True HD, DTS-HD Master Audio, Dolby NR professional logic IIz… Available in Japan from middle of May for around 55,000 Yen (€420).

Source
Akihabaranews

Nikon announces 10-24mm F3.5-4.5G ED lens

Nikon launches the AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24MM F/3.5-4.5G ED


New ultra-wide-angle zoom with SWM

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 14th April 2009 Nikon Europe is pleased to announce the introduction of the AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24MM F/3.5-4.5G ED lens. This new NIKKOR DX-format ultra-wide-angle zoom lens has a focal range starting at 15mm equivalent in FX/35mm format.

At a very affordable price, this new lens with superior build quality would be a great addition to anyone’s Nikon system. It is perfect for users wanting to shoot scenes that require a wide angle perspective effect such as in a small room, or for shooting architecture and landscapes.

Ludovic Drean, Product Manager Lenses at Nikon Europe B.V says: “This great new lens is perfectly suited for Nikon D300 and D90 users, and works very well with our other mid-class DSLRs too. Thanks to its Silent Wave Motor, it is also suitable for models without a built-in motor such as the D40 and the D60, for example. Its affordable price is no reflection on its superior quality, though, as its high-reproduction performance, minimum distortion and build quality are almost equivalent to those of the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 12-24mm f/4G IF-ED.”

Superior quality build and excellent reproduction capacity
The AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24MM F/3.5-4.5G ED offers a focal length between 10 to 24mm and a picture angle equivalent to a focal length of 15 to 36 mm in FX/35mm format. Thanks to its ring-type Silent Wave Motor (SWM), its autofocus is quiet and fast. Housed in a compact and lightweight body with Nikon’s unique high-quality exterior design, the NIKKOR advanced build quality ensures smooth operation and durability.

The optical system features ED glass and a-spherical lenses optimised for digital SLRs with an excellent capacity for accurate image reproduction, delivering high-resolution, high-contrast images whilst minimising chromatic aberration. Using the internal focusing (IF) system, the lens barrel length does not change whilst focusing, giving it a more durable build and allowing for the use of heavy attachments.

The lens also has two focus modes – M (Manual) and Manual-priority auto (M/A). M/A mode enables a user to switch rapidly between autofocus and manual focus by merely rotating the focus ring even during AF operation. This allows precise focus adjustment without taking your eye off of the viewfinder.

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24MM F/3.5-4.5G ED is supplied with 77-mm snap-on front lens cap LC-77, rear lens cap LF-1, bayonet hood HB-23 and flexible lens pouch CL-1118.

The AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24MM F/3.5-4.5G ED will be on sale from May (TBC) with an MSRP guide price of EUR849.

AF-S DX NIKKOR 10-24MM F/3.5-4.5G ED specifications

Maximum format size DX
Focal length 10-24mm
35mm equivalent focal length

15-36mm

Diagonal Angle of view (APS-C)

109º - 61º

Maximum aperture F3.5-4.5
Minimum aperture F22-29
Lens Construction

• 14 elements/9 groups
• 2 ED glass elements
• 3 aspherical elements

Number of diaphragm blades

7, rounded

Minimum focus 0.24m /0.8 ft
AF motor type Silent Wave Motor (SWM)
Focus method Internal
Image stabilization

None

Filter thread 77mm
Supplied accessories*

• 77mm Snap-on Front Lens Cap LC-77
• Rear Lens Cap LF-1
• Bayonet Hood HB-23
• Flexible Lens Pouch CL-1118

Weight 460 g (16.2 oz)
Dimensions 83 mm diameter x 87 mm length
(3.3 x 3.4 in)

MTF Charts

Click here to understand the MTF Chart (link to Nikon USA site)

Additional image

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Nikon D5000 DSLR: Announced and Previewed

Amsterdam, the Netherlands, 14th April 2009 - Nikon Europe is pleased to announce the introduction of a new DSLR for the hobbyist and for family fun: the D5000. Packed with features that make taking pictures easy and fun, this camera stands out above the competition with its unique vari-angle LCD monitor, which allows you to shoot easily from any angle you can imagine.

The D5000 has inherited the D90’s groundbreaking HD movie capability, Nikon’s proprietary D-Movie function. Coupled with extensive in-camera editing features, a wide choice of scene modes, 12.3MP sensor and high-sensitivity between ISO 200 and 3200 (which can be extended to ISO 100 and ISO 6400 equivalent) for shooting in a wide range of lighting conditions, this camera makes it easier than ever to take great quality pictures.

View life from a different angle
The D5000’s 2.7-inch vari-angle LCD monitor offers a whole new perspective on photography, allowing you to take pictures easily from any angle. Its flexible, moving screen allows you to position the camera perfectly to suit the angle or shot you’re trying to take - so whether you’re at a concert and you want to get a clear view above the crowd for your shot or you want to take a picture from ground level, you can adjust the vari-angle monitor to give you the best view of your subject. Close it to protect the monitor or place it in the standard position for regular shooting using the viewfinder. You can even reverse the monitor for effortless, perfectly-framed self-portraits. Thanks to Nikon’s ergonomic design values and the downward opening direction of the screen, it will never get in your way, and you’ll be able to maintain a steady grip on the body which will prevent camera shake. The choice is limitless.

D-Movie and Live View
Shooting movie clips with a DSLR will allow you to get really creative. For example, you can change the lens for a new perspective and enhance the emotional impact of your movies using the Picture Control settings before you even start shooting. The D5000 offers D-Movie (with audio) - high-definition movie capture perfectly compatible with the latest television screens and an HDMI output for easy connection. The single button access to the Live View function allows you to view and compose your shot or movie on the vari-angle LCD monitor for optimal framing. When taking still shots, the camera offers four types of contrast AF (wide area, normal area, face detection and new subject tracking) to make capture as easy as possible. In subject tracking AF mode, the camera will even restart tracking the subject once it leaves the frame and then returns, so your target will always be in focus.

Setting the Scene
With a total of 19 scene modes, you don’t have to know the ins and outs of digital photography to take great pictures. Simply turn the dial to ‘scene’, choose the appropriate scene mode setting and the camera will do the rest for you. The camera will even display a sample scene to make the scene selection easier for you. Another easy-to-use feature is the camera’s extensive range of built-in editing function, with which you can edit your pictures and create visual effects in-camera, before you even get to a computer.

There’s more
In addition to all these features, the D5000 is a high quality camera in its own right. With its high-sensitivity 12.3 effective megapixel CMOS image sensor, Nikon’s innovative EXPEED high-speed image-processing system, fast and precise 11-point AF system and highly-durable, high-performance shutter, it is also perfectly suited to those with a higher level of photographic knowledge. Image quality is guaranteed further by the image sensor cleaning mechanism with airflow control system, Active D-Lighting and Picture control. The different playback options of the D5000 are as enjoyable as they are practical. You can view photos in batches of up to 72, and there is also a calendar view that organises images by date and time. And for serious photo enthusiasts, the D5000 can display a histogram on magnifies areas of the image to facilitate exposure control. It feels good to handle, too, with Nikon’s typically ergonomic design in a compact, light-weight body. Those who shoot pictures in quieter settings will appreciate the new Quiet shooting mode and, the built-in pop-up flash which will automatically detect when the flash is needed. For those on the move, GPS-compatibility with Nikon’s GP-1 unit will come in handy when pinpointing shooting locations as will the HDMI output when you finally want to present your great shots to your family and friends. The Nikon D5000 is compatible with a wide variety of AF-S and AF-I Nikkor lenses.

Nikon D5000 specifications


Additional images

LCD images