Sony unveils two tablet computers in iPad challenge

TOKYO (AFP) – Japanese electronics and entertainment giant Sony Corp. unveiled its first tablet computers, codenamed S1 and S2, in a direct but belated challenge to Apple's iPad.

The "Sony Tablet" S1 has a single screen and is for home use while the portable S2 has two screens, Sony told a news conference.

The tablet devices will have access to online content to buy and download videos, music and other entertainment and be compatible with existing PlayStation games, Sony official Kunimasa Suzuki said.

Digital books can also be downloaded and read on the multimedia computers which are Wi-Fi and 3G/4G compatible for email and Internet access.

The S1 has a 9.4 inch (24 centimetre) screen, and front and rear cameras while the folding clamshell S2 has dual 5.5 inch colour touchscreens and fits into a pocket.

"This design is particularly relevant for reading digital books whose content is displayed on screen as two pages side-by side," Suzuki said.

Both screens can be used together as a single large screen or for playing games on one and displaying control buttons on the other.

The S1 can also work as a universal remote to control audio-visual equipment or send content to television screens or music to wireless speakers, Sony said.

The two devices use the Google Android 3.0 operating system, known as Honeycomb, which is optimised for devices with larger screen sizes.

"I'm excited about 'Sony Tablet' as it will further spur the development of applications and network offerings which users are looking for," said Andy Rubin, senior vice president of Google's mobile division.

The announcement comes as Sony looks to focus more on pushing its content such as games and music through hardware platforms including game consoles, smartphones and tablet computers.

Sony said earlier this year it planned to be the number-two tablet maker by 2012 but until Tuesday had given little indication of how it intended to compete in a market already dominated by Apple's iPad.

The iPad, which was released in April of last year, accounted for 83.9 percent of the total 17.6 million tablets sold in 2010, according to technology research company Gartner.

New entrants have flooded into the tablet computer market, but Sony's devices are not due to go on sale around the world until the northern hemisphere autumn, well behind its rivals.

The company did not give any indication of pricing.

Sony also announced a new line of "hybrid" notebook computers which feature a slide screen covering a keyboard.

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Wild Zoo - Kids and Computers

Everything is online nowadays. If you're looking to find answers to your questions, all you need to do is fire up your computer and open your favorite search engine. This is a great thing that we have to take advantage of. It's sad that a lot of people are choosing not to take advantage of this wonderful invention. If you've been online for the past few years, then you know that they're missing out on a lot of things.

Parents are now slowly but surely introducing the world of computers and the Internet to their kids. In the past, this would have been met by violent reactions with matching shaking heads. But now, it's not ridiculous anymore. The Internet is a wonderful tool that can help you develop your kid.

The Internet is full of resources that you can use. Sure, you can stay behind and rely on boring flash cards to teach numbers to your kid. You can also use a boring blackboard to teach letters to your little one. But you're missing out on the opportunity of using highly-interactive tools that can teach just about anything to kids. Yes, you can teach letters, numbers, shapes, colors, sounds and just about anything needed to give your kid the head start needed for school.

However, there are a lot of things that you have to consider. First, you have to make sure that you have the right furniture for the computer and its accessories. This is where companies like Wild Zoo come in. They manufacture durable computer tables for kids that can help with his exploration of the Internet.

It's important that you buy furniture sets that are designed for kids. It's true that you probably have a computer table at home. However, how can that help your kid if he can't reach it? He'll have a stiff neck before he can learn his ABC's. Most adult furniture sets are also not designed for kids so they may be unsafe.

If you check out companies like Wild Zoo, your kid can have a computer table that is tailor-fit for him. He'll be at perfect eye-level with the computer screen and he'll be at the perfect distance to make sure that he can see what's happening but it's not too much on his eyes. You can also make sure that your kid is sitting comfortably and as a bonus, he has everything within reach.

Of course, the Internet has its bad side and this is why you should also guide your kid. This is to make sure that he won't click on something that he's not supposed to click. This is also to help make sure that he's not going to break anything because that can endanger him. With your help and by using furniture from companies like Wild Zoo, your kid can take advantage of the benefits of the Internet.

Wild Zoo is your number 1 choice for kids computer tables. Check them out at Wooden Toddler Toys to enjoy free shipping!

Scuba Diving - Migrating From Dive Tables to Dive Computers

Dive (or decompression) tables have been rendered obsolete by some diving instructors and scuba enthusiasts. Who uses them anyway?As many recreational divers would quip nowadays. But then, dive tables have been employed for many years to theoretically determine the No Decompression Limits (NDL) and stage a safe ascent to the surface; whether for a recreational diving activity or in the plan of underwater combat missions. And despite its diminished popularity among divers, there is no better way of learning decompression theories and concepts than studying the use of dive tables.

Like most manual devices that have lost its function to the advent of electronic gadgets, the serviceable decompression tables are slowly being replaced by high performance dive computers. These modernized pieces of scuba equipment calculate decompression limits based on actual depth and time to generate least conservative results and allow repetitive dives at minimum surface intervals.

It won't hurt for a scuba diver to migrate to the more progressive functions of the dive computer and enjoy its convenience features during multi-level dives. The computations generated from dive tables can still be used nonetheless by cautious divers who prefer to dive under more conservative decompression parameters in order to increase their margin of safety. Furthermore, dive table calculations can also be utilized as a back up device in case a dive computer malfunction occurs that may arise from the improper maintenance of the scuba equipment's batteries.

Given a more constructive outlook on the utility of dive tables, let us now survey the convenience and safety features of high performance dive computers retailed in many scuba diving shops.

Automated Activation. If you are taking repetitive dives, there is a tendency to overlook the simple push of a button to activate the dive computer. Surely you won't fancy an empty reading of vital info from your scuba equipment display upon descent to the depths.

Alarms for Safety Stop and Maximum Depth. Alarms serve as the ultimate safety feature of dive computers in the intent of preventing decompression sickness. Get prompted for a safety stop at least 15 feet below the surface or receive a warning through the display if you've breached the maximum depth of your dive.

Nitrogen Tissue Loading and Dive Time Remaining Monitor. Get a periodic, theoretical reading of nitrogen loading rates in relation to dive time and depth. Likewise be informed of elapsed dive time.

Automated Altitude Compensator. Whether its sea water or fresh water you are diving in, most dive computers are programmed to recalibrate settings for no-decompression times and depths for altitudes of up to 14,000 feet.

Ascent Indicator and Depth-Dependent Ascent Rate. Don't know if you're ascending the surface too fast? Visual indicators are outfitted into dive computers to alert you of your ascent rate and likewise provide better cruise control.

These features are now bundled with the Aeris XR-2 Wrist Dive Computer [http://www.scubasuppliers.com/site/1408308/product/10.2610]. A compact and easy to use scuba equipment, the XR-2 will prove to be a very handy tool as you pursue multi-level dives. The device also comes featured with a dive simulation planner, battery hot swap functions and is Nitrox compatible as well.

Felix Tero produces web content for Scuba Suppliers, Inc. Get the scuba equipment that's right for you at [http://www.scubasuppliers.com]

Linux For Desktop PC And Notebook Computers

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Get Rid of E-Waste by Reusing, Donating, Or Recycling Computers

Have you ever been to the basement of your office building and seen hundreds of obsolete or broken computers sitting in the hallway? What do you do with those CRT monitors you have at home after you replace them with flat screens? What do you do with all of that e-waste? Previously, many people would just toss the computer or monitor in the trash. Thankfully, recycling computers is now easy even for the home user.

Computer technology changes faster than we can keep up. That coupled with the lower cost of computers means that we are replacing obsolete machines at an alarming rate. Why is it important to recycle? If not disposed of properly, computers can turn into toxins or carcinogens when left to rot in a dump. This causes materials such as lead and mercury, to seep into the soil and invade the water table.

Computers contain many resources that can be removed during the recycling process and eventually reused. These elements include tin, silicon, and plastic. Some reclaimed minerals, such as copper and gold, are too valuable to be left in a landfill.

For consumers, recycling e-waste is becoming more and more convenient. One popular method is donation. You can give your computer to a charity. Some common organizations that use the donated computers include libraries, foster homes, animal shelters, or community centers. This helps a cause, and will help you get a bit of a tax break at the end of the year.

Before purchasing a computer, consumers should research to see if the manufacturer offers some type of recycling or take back program. Most of the major manufacturers do offer some sort of program. They will typically require consumers to mail in their obsolete equipment or arrange for a pickup from the company. Some programs are free, while others will charge you a nominal fee if the machine is not their brand.

Companies may also exchange your old computer for a new one. If the computer is still in good working condition, the manufacturer will refurbish the old machine and offer it for sale at a discounted rate. These typically come with some sort of warranty for the new owner. This program is helpful to those that may otherwise not be able to afford a computer.

Businesses, unfortunately, do not have as easy of a time with getting rid of their bulk e-waste. Most manufacturers have corporate recycling programs but will not take back bulk computers that are not theirs. This typically leads business to contact third-party e-waste recycling companies to handle their bulk waste. Corporations must be careful, however. Even if they contract out their e-waste recycling, they are still held responsible if the computers are not disposed of properly.

People may view e-waste recycling and disposal as unnecessary. However, when you think of the number of toxins we are adding to our environment everyday, recycling is vital. By doing a little research and maybe making a trip to a store or post office, you can do your part to help our environment.

At low prices and with such convenient access, computer recycling is an economically viable option for those seeking quality technology. Another recommended alternative is renting computers, which allows users to conserve money and test the platform first-hand.

The Impact of Table Computers on Retailers Selling Magazines and Newspapers

In a smart move, the Virgin organization is providing free access between Christmas and the New Year to the launch issue if Project, their digital only magazine available through the iPad. I grabbed my copy yesterday. It's pretty cool - making good use of video and some clever navigation techniques as is de rigueur for iPad magazines. I like the experience and think Project will appeal to iPad users.

After looking through the magazine, I thought about whether I would subscribe. Probably not. While the content is quite unique and the experience very iPad friendly, I am looking for an experience which takes me completely away fro the magazine experience. This is where I think we are headed.

The iPad experiences being developed today are to help people transition to the device. The real innovation will be in second generation apps and beyond, where the experience is not like today's print magazine experience. Indeed, the experience will not be anything like a magazine as we know it.

How people access, consume and share news and information has changed dramatically in the last few years. Magazines, print, online and digital on devices like the iPad, are still coming to grips with this. The world is quite different to the world in which their older style products were conceived.

The challenge for older model publishers is that the needs of advertisers are out of sync with the needs of consumers. Look at any local viral story from the last year. A decade ago, the story would have sold tens of thousands of copies of newspapers. Thanks to Twitter and mobile phones, viral stories now spread faster than any older model media outlet could handle.

This is the experience I am looking for from my iPad, connecting me with breaking stories closer to the source and with the capacity to comment, add, forward and otherwise interact with the story. This is what next generation apps will offer, making the currently cool looking Project app seem out of date quite soon.

That said, I also want the device to connect me with analysis and review - I am happy for this to be in a more traditional newspaper or magazine experience. However, given what I can get today online for free, I am not so sure that I will pay for it on the iPad.

Now, before newsagents and other magazine retailers think that I see print as being dead... no, not yet. The next three to five years will see magazines continue to be important in our businesses. Beyond that... it's anyone's guess. And that is what makes being a newsagent today exciting. We are part of a reinvention of the model.

Mark Fletcher is a retailer, business advisor and author writing at http://www.newsagencyblog.com.au.

Chess Computers - Should You Get One?

The chess computer is a tool, a skill builder if you will. For those that truly enjoy the game of chess, there is no better partner to play with. While many that enjoy playing chess would like to own one of these computers, it should be said that they are often costly and often are complicated to use to a beginner computer user. But, for others, these are the most excellent of tools for your chess career.

The Good

There are a number of benefits to owning your own chess computer. For example, you can play whenever the mood strikes you from early morning to the middle of the night. You don't have to wait around for your friend to be in the mood. You also have the ability to use tutorials that can help you to learn to play or to increase your own playing abilities with these computers. They are designed to allow for all sorts of play, so you get to do what you feel is necessary. You can also restart a game that has gone bad ;-)

The Bad

There are some disadvantages of owning these computers as well. A chess player that is not human can not make the mistakes that a human can make. Therefore, the computer is a much more difficult competitor. Not only that, but they also do not prepare you for the reactions of human play. And, of course, they can be quite an investment as well. You can find various options to choose from, though, from software programs to complete programs.

The Verdict

It's important to weigh the advantages and the disadvantages when it comes to computers like these chess computers. For many, the goal of owning a chess computer is only a dream. You should realize that they are mainly for those who are advanced players who are playing chess at the club level. Then again, to get to this point, many will need a chess coach. The chess computer can be the chess coach that you need to take your game to the highest level it can be at. If you have the funds for a chess computer and a true love of the game, making that purchase can put you one step ahead of the rest.

Mike Singh is a successful webmaster and publisher of chess-made-ez.com . He provides the basic chess rules [http://www.chess-made-ez.com/Basic_chess_moves.html] and excellent chess tips [http://www.chess-made-ez.com/Chess_tactics.html] to take your game to the next level.

Computers and Kids: How to Make Children Smart

Although research on the use of computers in education plods along slowly compared to the progression of the technology itself, there are already positive correlations between children's education and computer use. If employed effectively and within a comprehensive educational program, computers can: help a student increase critical thinking skills, allow for customization and learning based on the individual students' interests and pre-existing knowledge, aid in memorization through interactivity, enhances collaboration among students who are not in the same geographical location, and can simulate complex or real-life tasks. In short, programs that incorporate computer use and technology for learning are many times, more effective than instruction that does not.

The use of computers for learning does not need to stop once school lets out. Creating a home "computer learning center" for your child will create an environment that encourages learning outside of the classroom. To create an educational home computer environment, you will need to do the following:

The physical computer workstation. Your child will need a comfortable computer desk. Because children are smaller than adults with a shorter reach, it's important to find a desk that's ergonomically designed to fit his/her body. We found several high-quality, affordable options at Versa Products, Inc. (an American manufacturer or classroom tables with adjustable heights and various desktop sizes that sells direct to the public). They will also need a comfortable chair.

Buy a computer. If this isn't a computer that will be shared by the whole family (for example to be used for financial management, online shopping, etc.), don't spend a lot of money. The computer needs to be reasonably fast with a high speed internet connection, but it doesn't need extra hard drive storage space or other fancy features available for exorbitant prices.

Make the computer internet-safe. Your child will need internet access for research purposes and email. The internet allows children to explore new places and learn things they wouldn't otherwise. But the internet can also be a dangerous place for a child with the prevalence of easily accessible adult websites, chat rooms, etc. Take time block inappropriate sites, create filters, and actively monitor the history of the sites visited after your child is done with his/her session on a daily basis.

Buy appropriate software. Scott Foresman and Scholastic are two of our favorite educational software companies that offer a wide range of subjects for student education.

Set rules. Although the computer is a tool to enhance education and exploration, too much of even a good thing can reduce its benefits. Children still need to be involved in group activities with other children and adults (in-person) as well as physical activities and non-computer play. The American Heart Association suggests limiting computer activities at home to no more than two hours per day. If those two hours are well spent doing internet research or playing educational games, that amount of time should be sufficient. Encourage your children's learning by taking an interest in their progress on games and becoming involved in conversation about interesting topics they've discovered.

Christopher Stormer
Computer Lab Furniture

Linux For Desktop PC And Notebook Computers

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