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News & Opinion
News & Opinion
The Mac Tablet Revolution Is Here: OWC/Axiotron
Modbook
PR: The Axiotron Modbook is the first and only Mac tablet
computer solution! Ideal for: Mobile Users, Business Professionals,
Artists, Students, and Technology Leaders.
- Write and draw directly on screen!
- True pen & handwriting recognition
- The only Mac solution with an optional built-in GPS
- Aircraft grade magnesium alloy for all terrain use
Engineered in the US by a renowned team of German and American
designers, the Modbook's condensed form factor and integrated
pen-based user experience makes it the ultimate solution for
applications and situations where a keyboard only gets in the
way.
Designed in California by Axiotron's team of German and
American engineers, The Modbook is at its core an after-market
hardware modification kit, which allows standard off-the-shelf
Apple MacBook systems to be converted into high-end slate- style
tablet computers. With its condensed form factor and integrated
pen-based user experience the Axiotron Modbook is the ultimate
companion for applications and situations where a keyboard only
gets in the way.
Built for mobile users, artists, students and professionals, the
Modbook enables its user to draw and write directly on the screen,
while the handwriting recognition built-into Mac OS X Tiger not
only turns hand scribbles into text in every application, but also
provides extended control of the system through gesture
recognition.
The Modbook
comes standard with built-in iSight camera and an integrated CD/DVD
combo drive that can be upgraded to a 8.5 GB DVD burner, and it is
the only portable Mac solution that also features an optional
built-in Global Positioning System (GPS).
- Mod-kit for MacBooks - Convert your standard MacBook into a
tablet computer.
- Slate-style Tablet Mac - Ideal for mobile users, artists
students & professionals.
- True Pen & Handwriting Recognition - Draw, paint, scribble
and write directly on the screen.
- Optional Built-in GPS - No clutter, always ready, never ask for
directions again
The Modbook is the only portable Mac solution that features an
optional built-in Global Positioning System (GPS). The optional
Axiotron Modbook GPS Module is based on the industry leading
SiRFstar III chipset for faster first location fix times and
improved tracking capabilities in challenging urban and outdoor
environments.
State-of-the-Art Pen Input
The Axiotron Modbook is built using the unique digitizer
technology from WACOM, the industry leader in graphics tablets for
professional artists and consumers.
The Modbook pen digitizer is:
- Fast - 133 position updates per second
- Accurate - 20x display resolution
- Sensitive - 256 pressure levels
- Efficient - No batteries required
The included Axiotron Digitizer Pen features a replaceable pen
tip, 2 programmable side buttons plus an eraser. Requiring no
batteries or magnets, the pen always feels light and nimble and due
to the radio-based digitizer technology, users can even write with
their hand resting on the screen. This technology also allows the
cursor to be controlled while the pen is hovering over the screen,
providing for an intuitive, mouse-like interface with a zero
learning curve.
The Modbook is fully compatible with Apple's Inkwell, a Mac OS X
Tiger feature that provides system level handwriting and gesture
recognition instantly to all Mac applications.
When the Going Gets Tough
Both the Modbook's top shell and the interior display frame are
built from top grade, aircraft quality magnesium alloy, giving the
Modbook superior structural strength for almost every situation.
Its satin textured top shell is plated with chrome over a set of
copper and nickel layers. This provides for an extremely scratch
resistant and aesthetically pleasing surface, while also offering
optimum protection against oxidation. Both the LCD panel and the
built- in iSight camera are protected by replaceable screen covers
made from
Chemically Strengthened (CS) glass. Compared to cheaper
non-glass-based solutions found in most tablet computers, CS glass
provides superior optical and aging properties as well as far
improved scratch resistance.
The display screen cover has been treated on both sides for
optimized optical properties. The LCD facing (in)side features an
anti-reflective coating to increase the light transmissivity for a
brighter image. The user facing (out)side has been acid treated to
achieve an etched surface, carefully calibrated to match the
display resolution. This provides for a crisp, paper-like writing
sensation, while keeping perceived haze and light refractions to a
minimum.
Because Looks Do Matter
The Modbook is equipped with a new and improved LCD panel
offering wider viewing angles (Horiz./Vert.: 100°/90° vs.
90°/55°) and a higher contrast ratio (500:1 vs. 400:1) for
darker blacks and stronger, more saturated, lush colors, while
maintaining the same resolution (1280x800 pixel) and aspect ratio
(113 ppi) of the original MacBook display. The included Modbook
ColorSync profile offers a solid base calibration which can be
adjusted or replaced using the Mac OS X Tiger display calibration
tools.
Built-in iSight Camera
While the Modbook utilizes the original iSight camera of the
MacBook base system, it is mounted slightly tilted downwards to
better frame the face of the user.
Built-in CD/DVD or DVD Burner
The Modbook is the only slate-style tablet computer with an
internal CD/DVD combo drive, which in addition can be upgraded to a
6x DVD burner with up to 8.5 GB capacity. In combination with its
13.3" wide screen LCD, this also earns the Modbook the title of
"Largest Screen Portable DVD Entertainment System".
Built-in Mounting Locks
Inconspicuous locking points, designed into the magnesium top
shell, allow the Modbook to be securely placed in optional
multifunctional mounts i.e. for use with VESA compatible desktop
arms.
Warranty and Warranty Extensions
Every complete Modbook solution purchased through Other World
Computing (OWC) includes a 1 year OWC warranty and can be extended
to up to 3 years. To learn more about OWC warranty coverage or to
purchase the optional 2 year OWC warranty extension, visit Where to
Buy Please visit www.macsales.com/modbook or call +1.800.275.4576
to purchase your complete built-to-order MacBook solution
Kensington Keeps Mobile Professionals Connected
with Eight New Accessories
PR: Kensington Computer Products Group, a worldwide
leader in mobile computing accessories has announced 9 new products
designed to help consumers stay connected while on the go. The new
products include additions to the award-winning line of iPod
accessories, to the line of media and communication devices and to
the popular line of notebook mice and keypads.
Reports indicate that 2007 will see an increase in the volume of
business travel worldwide with continued and sustained growth.
According to a recent survey by the Travel Industry Association,
today's travelers bring a surprising amount of technology with them
in order to stay connected. While cell phones remain the must have
item when traveling, nearly one-quarter or 24 percent of all
travelers also packed their laptops and 11 percent brought an iPod
or MP3 player. Across the board, Kensington offers the products and
accessories that enhance the user experience no matter what
technology device they choose to travel with.
"Business travel is on the rise, and we are delighted to
announce a wide range of products that help our customers better
enjoy their mobile lifestyles," said Christine Dumery, Marketing
Communications Director, Kensington. "Our expanding line of smartly
designed yet easy to use products allows mobile professionals to
stay productive and enjoy their technology while traveling on
business or for leisure, locally, domestically or
internationally."
When Travel is a Must - Kensington has You Covered
Kensington accessories have wide appeal for mobile users who need
to have ultimate productivity and enjoyment while on the go.
Kensington answers this need with a variety of products that allow
for the best computing experience.
Play it iPod Accessories
Mobile professionals love their music too, whether it's from an
iPod or an MP3 player, Kensington keeps the tunes playing in the
car or between meetings.
- FX500 Speaker To Go (SKU 33390) - Perfect for travelers, the
FX500 Speaker To Go plays your MP3 or iPod tunes with quality
stereo sound thanks to its built-in speakers. The speakers are
housed in a 1.25" ultra thin case to store and protect your music
player while in use so it's ready to go wherever you want. SRP
$49.99
- Car Mount for iPod and MP3 Players (SKU 33412) - Keep your iPod
or MP3 player safely in place while you drive. Flexible arm
positions your player in view without taking up space or blocking
dashboard controls. Adjustable, padded cradle secures player
without scratching. No installation needed - the unique
suction mount grips tightly, yet releases quickly by lifting a
lever. SRP $29.99
Connect it
As more mobile professionals rely on Internet communications to
conduct business calls or stay in touch with family and friends
around the world, Kensington expands its line of VoIP accessories
that simplifies making Internet calls through a computer.
Additionally, Kensington has a solution that allows mobile
professionals to exchange more content between media devices.
- Vo200 Bluetooth Internet Phone (SKU 33406) - Using your
Bluetooth-enabled PC, the Kensington Vo200 Bluetooth Internet Phone
lets you make clear calls and get hours of talk time -- over three
hours and up to 30 hours standby time. When you're finished, just
slide it into your notebook's PC Card slot to conveniently store
and recharge. Always make clear calls with advanced echo
cancellation and noise suppression technology. Use the convenient
hands free mode or change to handset mode for more privacy. The
Vo200 Bluetooth Internet Phone is compatible with your favorite
Internet phone services including Skype,
MSN, Yahoo and Google. SRP $89.99
- 7-in-1 Media Reader for ExpressCard Slot (SKU 33407) -
Conveniently transfer pictures and music between your notebook and
media devices while on the go! Just plug in your memory card then
drag and drop your files. With the 7-in-1 ExpressCard Media Reader,
you won't hassle with USB cords and wait on slow downloads again.
It fits neatly into your ExpressCard notebook slot so it's ready to
use in the office or on the road. SRP $39.99
Control it
Allowing consumers to get the most out of their computing
experiences, Kensington also offers four new products to the
Control it line, including a Bluetooth-enabled mouse and USB
enabled notebook keypads, for ultimate productivity.
- Notebook Keypad/Calculator with USB Hub (SKU 72274) - Offering
the fastest, most convenient way to enter numeric data. This is one
smart device -- a calculator, full 19-key pad and USB hub, all in
one. Enter numbers even faster with this keypad that doubles as a
stand-alone calculator. Convenient mode switch lets you quickly
make and enter calculations then whiz through 10-key data entry.
Plus, the keypad contains 2 USB ports for your other accessories.
No software needed, just plug it in to use. SRP $29.99
- Wireless Notebook Keypad/Calculator and Mouse Set (SKU 72273) -
A faster, more convenient way to enter numbers while traveling.
This set includes an ergonomic keypad that doubles as a stand-alone
calculator and an optical mouse. Handy mode switch lets you quickly
make and enter calculations then whiz through 10-key data entry.
Just one receiver connects both mouse and keypad. Ideal for mobile
professionals that work on financial applications and spreadsheets.
SRP $59.99
- Si670m Bluetooth Wireless Notebook Mouse (SKU 72271) - Instant
connection with no receiver! Designed for people who want the best
out of their computing experience, this wireless mouse connects to
your Bluetooth-enabled notebook, without a receiver. That means no
wires, no receivers, and no clutter. Work quickly and accurately on
almost any surface thanks to the 1000 dpi performance optical
sensor and 4-way tilt scroll. Plus, the ergonomic design helps you
work comfortably all day long. SRP $49.99
- Si750m LE Wireless Notebook Laser Mouse (SKU 72272) - Designed
for women, Kensington's new Si750m LE Wireless Notebook Laser Mouse
offers a unique combination of technology and style. With a
comfortable sculpted design fitting comfortably in a woman's hand,
laser precision and wireless convenience, it provides the ultimate
in mobility and precision on the road. This limited edition mouse
comes in an attractive titanium and pink color. SRP $49.99
With the launch of this product, Kensington is proud to announce
its support to the American Heart Association's Go Red For Women
movement to help fight heart disease, the # 1 killer of American
women. To show its full support to the movement, Kensington is
donating $125,000 to the American Heart Association to help raise
funds and awareness so women can lead longer, heart-healthy
lives.
"Heart disease touches all our lives. It affects the women we
know, the women we love," said Dumery. "Kensington is proud to
support the American Heart Association's Go Red For Women movement.
By helping to raise funds and awareness, we can make a difference
in women's lives."
Go Red For Women is the America Heart Association's national
call to increase awareness of heart disease and to inspire women to
take charge of their heart health.
Link: Kensington
Targus Travel USB 2.0 4-port Hub with Notebook
Light
PR: Targus Inc., maker of the world's top-selling
notebook computer cases and accessories, today launched a unique
line of travel hubs that combine useful functions with practical
functionality. Space is a precious commodity, and with the new
Travel USB 2.0 4-port hub with a notebook light it is perfect for
the traveler on-the-go.
The Targus Travel USB 2.0 4-Port Hub with Notebook Light allows
a notebook user to simultaneously connect up to four USB devices
such as mice, keyboards, USB drives and MP3 players while also
illuminating the keyboard. With the unique integrated light that
swivels 180o, a user can maximize keyboard illumination. In
addition, the built-in notebook clip conveniently attaches to a
notebook screen to provide overhead lighting to the keyboard. A 2
ft. extension USB cable is included to extend the hub's
functionality as a clip-on light. Both compact and lightweight, the
hub does not require an AC adapter, making it ideal for travel.
Features and Benefits:
- Expandability - Instantly expand a computer's USB ports and
connect up to four devices simultaneously.
- High-Speed USB - Supports high-speed transfer rates of up to
480 Mbps
- Functional Design - Designed to either connect directly to a
notebook or to clip on a screen while using the included 2 foot
extension USB cable
- Plug and Play - No drivers required, simply plug into your
notebook's USB port
- Notebook Powered - Hub draws power directly from a
notebook.
Targus' new Travel USB 2.0 4-Port Hub with Notebook Light (part
number: ACH76US) has a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)
of $29.99 and includes a limited one-year warranty.
Link: Targus
Kensington Maximizes Notebook User Productivity This Tax
Season
PR: Kensington Computer Products Group, a worldwide
leader in mobile computing accessories, announced today new keypads
that make number crunching when you are mobile as easy as it is
when you are at your desk.
Kensington's wireless notebook keypad and wireless optical mouse
set provides a faster way for mobile users to key in numbers.
Unlike other devices on the market, it features a smart two-in-one
keypad which can be used as a stand-alone calculator or full
numeric keypad. The new Kensington wired notebook keypad also
doubles as a stand-alone calculator and contains two USB ports to
accommodate extra accessories.
"These product line additions offer design enhancements that
provide significant benefits to notebook users," said Eleanor
Sales, Kensington Senior Product Marketing Manager. "Our objective
is to maximize your productivity, wherever you are. These are the
ultimate productivity tools for number crunchers." Typical
applications include tax preparation and catalog numeric data
entry. "Because the devices make full keypad use possible, they are
particularly well suited for accounting and spreadsheet
applications," Sales added.
With the introduction of these products, Kensington continues to
address the needs of the growing notebook computing market.
According to industry analysts, US sales of notebook PCs now exceed
those of desktop PCs, with the notebook PC market expected to grow
some 30% this year. Notebook computer users want the functionality
and ease-of-use associated with desktop computing solutions but
with the added benefits of a mobile computing solution.
"Our new keypad and keypad/mouse set are designed to provide
notebook users with the ability to enter numerical data quickly and
reliably. With these tools, users no longer have to struggle with
those awkward notebook number keys along the top row," Sales
said.
Wireless Notebook Keypad/Calculator and Mouse Set
- The Kensington Wireless Notebook Keypad/Calculator and Mouse
Set (SKU 72273) is a wireless keypad and calculator with a wireless
optical mouse connected to a single receiver. Because it is totally
wireless and connects to one receiver, it provides a "tangle-free"
workspace, a requirement of the traveling user. A convenient mode
switch feature lets the user easily switch from calculations to
data entry. While in keypad use, numbers can get quickly inserted
into excel files straight from the keypad. In addition, with a
convenient mode button, the keypad can be used as a stand-alone
calculator. The unique LCD screen allows users to view
calculations, making the keypad just like a traditional calculator.
Suggested retail price: $59.99.
Notebook Keypad with Two USB Hubs
- The Kensington Notebook Keypad/Calculator with USB (SKU 72274)
is a single smart device that features a three-in-one design,
providing a fully functional calculator, a 19-key keypad for data
entry and an integrated USB hub with two high-speed 2.0 USB ports
for plugging in extra accessories with ease. The full 19-key pad
enables quick data entry, while switching to stand-alone calculator
mode allows the user to easily make and enter calculations. In
addition, it's clear LCD display works in a variety of lighting
conditions. Suggested retail price: $29.99.
The Kensington Wireless Notebook Keypad/Calculator and Mouse Set
(SKU 72273) and Notebook Keypad/Calculator with USB Hub (SKU 72274)
will be available in December 2006 at various retailers.
Link: Kensington
