Wondering how to make your business secure? Discover the smart way of getting peace of mind with the Panasonic range of security and surveillance solutions. From dome cameras to fixed network cameras, the Panasonic range ensures you can keep an eye on everything, in crystal clear HD quality. Combined with multi-channel recording capabilities and user-friendly viewer software, Panasonic security systems help to keep people and data safe with ease, every day. So get in touch with any of our passionate engineers, and start seeing the world the Panasonic way.
• INTELLIGENT BUILDINGS • TELECOMMUNICATIONS • SECURITY & SURVEILLANCE • SYSTEMS INTEGRATION • BROADCASTING • PRO AV • IT & NE TWORKING • CABLING
Oman Marketing & Services Co.
PO Box 2734, Ruwi, Muscat 112,Sultanate of Oman Tel: +968 24565696, 24563762 Fax: +968 24568985 Email: nishat.qamar@omasco.com.om Web: www.omasco.com For more details contact Nishat Qamar on 99248825
SYSTEM SOLUTION
SEPTEMBER 2010
OMAN’S ONLY TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
Home Screen Game on The gaming industry is one of the largest in the interactive entertainment business. Exploring this issue will give our readers an idea of the scope of the industry. Our cover story this time has a run-down on both E3 and ComicCon, showcasing some of the latest advancements from the three big names in the business: Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo. In addition, we have reviewed the latest and long awaited RTS masterpiece from Blizzard. With the release of Nvidia’s 3D vision technology, it was just a matter of time before this technology hit laptops. Asus’ new G51 JX is one of the first of its kind, in the Omani market, to use this technology. We managed to get hold of one for an in-depth review. The latest generation of LED projectors from Casio can be found in the Video Zone. And we have interviewed the product manager, Canon Middle East, to get an overview of Canon’s presence and future plans in Oman. We are here to guide you, to buy that perfect product this Eid, to share with your loved ones at home. To do so, we have completely revised the ‘TECH Favourites’ section to give you the widest choice possible, providing you with more information, a wider range of product categories and updated prices. So, explore TECH to find the product you are looking for. We hope to influence your choice for the better and give you what you asked for. Eid Mubarak to all
EDITORIAL
Editor-in-chief
Hatim al Taie
Content Head
Content Manager
Asst. Content Manager
Senior Designer Designer
Malcolm X Crasta Sujata Sengupta
Poornima Ramani Shyniben Koyakkil Muneeb Khan
CORPORATE Managing Director
Abdullah al Taie
General Manager
Rathish Ramachandran
Asst. General Manager
Terry Mathukutty
Sales
Emily Matthews
Mehri Vantanparast
Sami Dalwai
-Ed
Produced by
Deenar Press and Publishing LLC PO Box 139, PC 102, Al Qurm, Sultanate of Oman Tel: + 968 24 696868, Fax: +968 24 693569 E-mail: info@deenarmedia.com
$
Model: Debolina Mukherjee Photography: Shakeel al Balushi Console: Rami el Sidawi
Talk to us!
If you have any queries, contact us at tech@deenarmedia.com
2010 © All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form in whole or in part without the written permision of the publishers; while every care has been taken in the preparation of this magazine, the publishers cannot be held responsible for the accuracy of the information herein, or any consequences arising from it.
Printed at Oman Printers & Stationers, Sultanate of Oman
ISSUE 5
OMAN’S ONLY TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE
CONTEN TS Q&A
08
Tech News
10
Nuovo Tech
14
Mobile Zone
16
Photography
18
Video Zone
21
Buyer’s Guide
22
Computing
24
The Show
30
Business Tech
36
Interveiw
38
Dashboard
40
Gamers’ Delight
44
Quiz
47
OP-ED
48
Time Zone
50
Home Zone
52
Bargain Hunter
55
Tech Favourites
56
Tech Directory
63
If you have any queries, mail us on tech@deenarmedia.com, and we will try to answer them in our next issue. You may even be the lucky winner of a HP wireless optical mouse!
Last month’s winner:
A.Indumathi Hi Tech Team, You are doing a marvellous work guys. Oman is in need of a magazine of this type and you have come at a right time. Now my question is: For a long time now we have been watching movies using DVD players. Lately, technology has advanced and everyone has started talking about Blu-ray players. What is the main difference between the two and why are Blu-ray Players so expensive? What are its advantages? Thanks, A.Indumathi
Dear Indumathi, Thank you for your words of encouragement. To answer your question, Blu-rays are the new format that is to supersede DVDs. Its primary advantage is its capacity – it can store upto 50GB of data on a dual-layer disk. In comparison, DVDs can only manage a total of 8.5GB. Basically, the 1080p movies and 3D movie playback that you get from using a Blu-ray player are not possible on DVDs. Blu-ray disk technology is constantly being enhanced and BDXL disks can now store up to 128GB of data. On July 20 this year, the research team of Sony and Japanese Tohoku University announced the joint development of a blue-violet laser, which will help in creating a dual layer Blu-ray disc with a capacity of 1 TB! With this capacity increase a lot more data can be crammed into disks allowing for much higher quality video playback. Advancements in technology comes with an increase in price, which is why the players are so expensive. The major format war that took place between Blu-rays and HDDVDs didn’t help matters either. As the format becomes more mainstream prices will continue to drop. We experienced one such drop two months back. Besides, one of the best players is also one of the most cost effective – the PS3. -Ed When trying to buy mobile phones, I have come across something called Android mobiles. What does this mean? Lucy Saunders Dear Lucy, Like computers, mobile handsets also run on an operating system (OS) that manages the hardware and efficiently executes applications. There are numerous operating systems available depending on the phone that you purchase and the Android OS is just one of them. You may have also come across the Windows Mobile OS, Apple OS, Symbian OS and Samsung’s Bada. The Android OS can also run on tablet computers and netbooks, both of which are becoming increasingly popular. If you are planning to pick up an Android based mobile, it is important that you find out what version of the OS is installed. Most of the newer models come with Android OS 2.1 (also known as Eclair). This is a good version to start with, so avoid any versions lower than this. It is important to note that V2.2 is out and goes by the name of Froyo. This upgrade adds some much needed features and enhancements; so find out if the update is available for your phone in this region or not. Good luck phone hunting. - Ed
tech NEWS
Icon of beauty Signalling the company’s first dealership in Oman, British luxury sports cars brand Aston Martin has opened a new showroom in Oman’s capital, as the demand for luxury cars across the Gulf region continues unabated. Al Muhannad Al Hashar – Aston Martin Oman Showroom brings the total
number of Aston Martin dealers in the GCC to seven, with the new Muscat branch located in the Al-Sarooj district. Attending the ribbon-cutting ceremony were the Chairman of the Board of Al Muhannad Al Hashar, Sheikh al Muhannad bin Saeed al Hashar; the CEO, Sultan bin Surour bin Mohammad al Kharousi, together with senior
management from the Aston Martin team. Incorporating the British marque’s key retail branding, the new Aston Martin showroom offers a private display area of 300sq.m and has been designed to house the full Aston Martin model range including the V8 and V12 Vantage, DB9, DBS and the new four-door Rapide.
Business minded Panasonic has launched a cost- effective and eco friendly range of products, which are being tipped as vital tools for business across Oman. Offering the latest features, the KXMB3000 Series increase efficiency. With high speed laser printing, 3.6-inch LCD screen, high resolution colour scanning and with email and FTP capabilities, the printers are a truly unique offering from Panasonic. The company has also launched a range of new technologies within the unique Panasonic Panaboard UB-T880 Series. The interactive whiteboard offers an unparalleled working environment which allows the display of the contents of a computer screen directly onto the board. This enables users to operate their own software applications for business presentations or school lessons. 12 / TECH
Available in the impressive 82-inch wide version, or the more compact 77-inch, the elite Panaboard UB-T880 Series comes complete with a built-in amplifier which connects to USB speakers, built into two USB hub-ports and up to 3-finger touch. Panasonic also announced the release of the next-generation KV-S5055C A3-sizecompatible colour document scanner with advanced proprietary self-cleaning, image management, and paper-handling technologies. The scanner’s extreme speed and 200-sheet Automatic Document Feeder, coupled with Panasonic’s industry-leading durability and multi-sensor ToughFeed mixeddocument paper feed mechanism, make it an optimal choice for high-volume document processing centres in the health care, insurance, transportation, government and financial sectors.
Four for the road The Mazda2 will be available in a 1.5-litre engine, producing 113hp, with a number of features as standard, such as central locking, power windows and mirrors, ABS, EBD, dual air-bags, CD-MP3 with auxiliary audio input and four speakers. It is available in hatchback and sedan versions in Oman.
As another first from Oman’s automotive sector, Towell Auto Centre launched four new models of Mazda on a single day – the Mazda2, CX-7, new CX-9 and the new Mazda6.
The CX-7 roars in with a 244hp, 2300cc turbo charged four-cylinder engine and a six-speed activematic transmission. It is available with a number of features including ABS, EBD, TCS, six air-bags, leather seats with
memory, 18-inch alloy wheels and more. The all new CX-9 is backed by a 275hp 3700cc six-cylinder engine and a sixspeed activematic transmission. The seven-seater features tri-zone AC, ABS, EBD, TCS, RSC, eight air-bags, leather seats with electric adjustments and memory, 18-inch alloy wheels and more. Last but not the least, the upgraded Mazda6 is available in 2.0l and 2.5l variants with the latter producing 188hp. Features such as keyless entry, ABS, EBD, TCS, DSC, dual air-bags, six CD-MP3 in-dash changer, AM/FM radio with eight BOSE speakers with a built-in subwoofer, 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlamps and more are available in the new Mazda6.
ZAG to sponsor Oman’s jet ski team The Ministry of Sports Affairs recently announced that the Zubair Automotive Group, in association with Sea-Doo, will be the main and only water sports brand to sponsor the sultanate’s very first National Jet Ski Team as they prepare to make their debut at this year’s World Championship Tournament in Arizona, USA, as well as the Asian Beach Games, scheduled to be hosted in Oman this December. Jointly hosted by Zubair Automotive Group and the Ministry of Sports Affairs, the press conference saw the formal announcement of the official partnership cemented by His Excellency Engineer Ali bin Masoud al Sunaidi, Minister of Sports Affairs, HE Rashad bin Ahmed al Hinaai, Under Secretary of Ministry of Sports Affairs, Mr Hani bin Mohammed al Zubair, the Chairman Zubair Automotive Group, as well as official members of the Oman
Water Sports Committee. The Oman National Jet Ski Team, formed by the Ministry of Sports Affairs, is a first for Oman and shows the country’s
commitment to promoting water sports across the sultanate, particularly among the Omani youth, as well as attracting sporting events to the region such as the Asian Beach Games.
Jag’s XJ reinvented Jaguar has announced the arrival of the all-new XJ at the Mohsin Haider Darwish showroom. Sleek, sporting and sophisticated, the all-new Jaguar XJ brings a daring new spirit to automotive luxury. It offers a seductive mix of striking design, breathtaking performance and engineering without compromise. Distinguished by unique exterior and interior design features, the XJ includes an innovative new panoramic glass roof, an integral part of the all-new XJ’s design concept, enabling the car to have
a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside. The all-new cabin offers four specification levels – Luxury, Premium Luxury, Portfolio and Supersport – allowing the customer to tailor the car to suit their tastes of choice in colours, veneers and leathers, not seen before in a Jaguar. The XJ also benefits from the most advanced, powerful and efficient Jaguar powertrains ever. It features a 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with 385 horsepower or a 5.0-litre supercharged V8 available in 470 and 510 horsepower versions. Sept ‘10 / 13
Winner of TECH quiz awarded Aisha was very excited that she was selected as the lucky winner of the first TECH quiz, featured in the July issue. A Sonic Gear Spectra 300 was presented to her by Ujjawal Tankha, country head, Emax operations, and Terry Mathukutty, AGM, Deenar Press and Publishing. The prize, sponsored by Emax, was received by Aisha’s children on her behalf. Asked about his opinion on TECH, Tankha said, “We are happy to be a part of the sultanate’s only technology magazine and to sponsor the prizes for the quiz contest.” Emax is the single largest electronic store and has been in operation for almost four years. All top brands are available with them under one roof. Abdullah al Taie, managing director of Deenar Press and Publishing,
congratulated Aisha on her winning, saying, “We would like to thank Aisha for participating in the quiz and it is motivating to see such passion among the ‘TECH Society’ in Oman. We would also like to wish the large number of respondents better luck next time.” Deenar Press and Publishing is a dynamic company that believes in growth, and reflects its ideals in each of its publications. In addition to TECH, Deenar Press and Publishing also brings out Bon Voyage, a travel magazine that reflects the spirit of travel; The Majestic, National Day homage to His Majesty; The Hotel Guide, the first in-depth guide of its kind in the sultanate, featuring hotels scattered in the nine regions of Oman, and the recently launched Renaissance Day book, The Sultanate, a tribute to the people of this country.
Aisha’s children, Ahmed, Ayman and Maryam, receive the prize from Ujjawal Tankha and Terry Mathukutty
Big on luxury The all-new 2011 Infiniti QX, the second generation QX and the new flagship SUV for the Infiniti range, was officially unveiled at a graceful ceremony at The Grand Hyatt by Suhail Bahwan Automobiles. The full-size performance luxury SUV offers a bold exterior, a world-class luxury interior, powerful yet efficient VVEL 5.6-litre DIG V8, and features advanced technology, including a Hydraulic Body Motion Control System. It has been totally redesigned from the platform up. Its new highstiffness frame structure enhances ride comfort while reducing noise, vibration and harshness. The new engine combines the responsive acceleration of Infiniti’s
VVEL technology with the efficiency of Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG) and a seven-speed automatic transmission. With a class-leading 400hp and 57.1 kg-m of torque, the QX posts impressive outputs but also returns a 12 per cent better fuel economy than the previous generation QX. The Infiniti QX will be offered in two specification grades and with full-time 4WD as standard. The QX comes in either ‘Excellence’ or higher specification ‘Luxury’ grade with each grade having the option of either seven seats (with 2nd row captain’s chairs), or eight-seat format (with a second row bench seat).
Secure investment Cyberoam is the only Identity-based Unified Threat Management solution that offers unified network security over a single platform. Get complete visibility into and control over your internal users, even in dynamic IP environments like DHCP and Wi-Fi. Secure valuable confidential and proprietary information on your network by giving controlled network and web access to your users and by blocking file transfers over IM and P2P applications. Cyberoam helps you lower capital and operating expenses of maintaining multiple security solutions and lowers the need for technical help 14 / TECH
while using and configuring the device. Here is how some key security concerns are handled by Cyberoam: Bandwidth optimisation: Allocate and prioritise bandwidth for your users, groups and applications based on time and importance of function with Cyberoam’s Bandwidth Management. Controlled access to the Internet: Create web access policies based on users’ work profile, department and time of the day to prevent inappropriate and indiscriminate web usage.
Virus protection: Get powerful, realtime protection against all spyware/ malware from entering your network with Cyberoam’s Anti-Virus/Anti-Spyware. Identity-based reporting: Get real-time reports on usage of the Internet and applications by each user, allowing instant corrective action in case of security breach. Network Security: Secure your network against sophisticated blended threats with Cyberoam’s seamlessly integrated security solutions like Firewall, IPS, and others.
nOUVO tech
Exercise in style
Designed by Luca Schieppati, a young designer from Milan, and manufactured by the Lamiflex Group in Bergamo, the Ciclotte breaks with the designs of gym equipment that have always emphasised the functional aspects. They address a target market of progressive, dynamic users that appreciate both physical and aesthetic lines. Thanks to its lines, which are the result of research that was inspired by ergonomics and providing the essentials, Ciclotte is both a piece of fitness equipment and a furniture accessory that can be integrated into the most varied living contexts.
The large wheel forms the cornerstone of the project. A large circle that is reminiscent of the oldfashioned motorcycles from the end of the 1800s, has been transformed into an object of superior engineering. Other distinctive features include the unusual carbon handlebar, the touch screen display inspired by home automation systems, and the support arms with their unique curvature. From a technical viewpoint, it has been designed to faithfully reproduce the dynamics and performance of on-road pedalling, and is also ideal for high intensity aerobic training, like spinning.
Panasonic’s 3D contender in Oman Panasonic and Omasco have launched the 2010 line of VIERA Plasma High Definition televisions. These include the Full HD 3D television featuring a screen size of upto 50 inches, and the VIERA Series of flat-panel plasma and LCD TVs, for 2010. Plasma technology offers a number of important advantages with respect to 3D, such as cross-talk reduction, crisp and clear high-quality moving pictures, enhanced luminance efficiency, and improved picture quality even when viewing 2D content. The first two models of Full HD 3D VIERA Plasma will be available this year. The VT20 line-up will initially consist of
Twice the fun The flagship models of the Samsung DualView camera family, the ST600 and ST100 have each received an upgrade to their front LCD screens. Activated by a simple tap, each now measures 1.8 inches compared to the 1.5-inch front LCD found on their predecessors. With larger front LCD screens, the ST600 and ST100 make it easier for consumers to properly frame 16 / TECH
themselves in their photos and videos, and be part of the action by stepping out from behind the camera and joining friends and family in front. The Samsung DualView ST600 and ST100 are available in stylish, mood-inspired colors, including purple and pink, and are encased in a slim and sleek compact frame with a metallic finish, to deliver a new sense of fun and modern functionality.
the 50-inch TH-P50VT20 and will be expanded gradually. Both will incorporate a sophisticated design with a frame in bronze metallic colour, and a Panasonic 3D eyewear will be included with this model. To create the best possible 3D picture, Panasonic has developed a new, faster screen phosphors coupled with its Full Time Full HD drive technology. The brain then combines the images and perceives them as 3D. By enhancing the video reproduction capability of PDP, thanks to Full Time Full HD, which has full moving picture resolution, the technology enables crisp and clear, high quality 3D images.
Quick shot One of the disadvantages of longer zoom compacts is relatively slow auto focusing. Typical compacts rely on contrast detection, which fixes the focus by searching for contrast differentials. Some expensive cameras, including many DSLRs, use two focusing systems in tandem to improve the time taken to auto focus. Phase Detection AF works by dividing the incoming light into pairs of images and calculating the phase difference, to find if the object is in front focus or back focus position. Contrast AF is generally better in lowlit scenes, while Phase Detection AF is
extremely responsive in good light. Having both systems on one camera is perfect. The FinePix F300EXR uses both Contrast AF and Phase Detection AF to offer
auto focus speeds as good as, or sometimes better than, expensive DSLRs. To achieve the incredible AF speed of 0.158 seconds, while still maintaining its 15x zoom level, Fujifilm engineers placed pairs of phase detection sensors on the EXR sensor, which work exactly like external sensors on DSLRs. The F300EXR automatically selects the optimum focus system by measuring the amount of light or contrast in the scene. The benefit for the photographer is immediate and obvious: an almost instantaneous capture of the subject in the viewfinder, with no missed shots or subjects half out-of-frame.
Your weapon of choice The Logitech G510 Gaming Keyboard delivers the tools you need to win. The keyboard features 18 programmable G-keys with three mode states, giving you up to 54 possible macro settings per game. You can pre-define macros for your favourite games, or you can create new ones on the fly for easy customisation. The Logitech-exclusive GamePanel LCD gives you real-time game stats and PC performance data. Customisable RGB backlighting makes it easy to keep keyboard controls in plain sight — day or night. And it includes 3.5mm audio jacks, so you can plug in an analogue headset for clear digital communication over USB.
Upgraded pros Apple has updated its all-in-one iMac line with the latest Intel Core i3, Core i5 and Core i7 processors, and a new GPU. The new line is the fastest ever with dual-core processor speeds up to 3.6GHz, quad-core speeds up to 2.93GHz, and discrete graphics including the powerful ATI Radeon HD 5750. Apple has also unveiled a new Mac Pro line with up to 12 processing
cores and up to 50 per cent greater performance than the previous generation. Featuring the latest quadcore and six-core Intel Xeon processors, all-new ATI graphics and the option for up to four 512GB solid state drives (SSD), the new Mac Pro continues to deliver amazing performance and expandability, for the most demanding consumers and professionals. Sept ‘10 / 17
MOBILE ZONE
Building on the success of their Walkman and Xperia models, Sony Ericsson has just unveiled two new phones to share the experience with an even broader audience
The Yendo With more than 140mn Walkman phones sold world-wide and touchscreen technology increasingly gaining popularity, Sony Ericsson have listened to consumers and provided them with the perfect combination – the first full-touch Walkman phone, named Yendo.
By marrying the popular four-corner UI debuted on the successful Xperia X10 mini, with that of the award winning Walkman phone experience, consumers can now have a unique communication and entertainment experience
The phone also gives you quick access to social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter or Orkut, while the 2.0MP camera can be used to upload photos to the web or sent to friends
The Yendo is expected to be available in selected markets from Q3 this year, in the following colours: black, blue, green, orange, pink, purple, red, silver, white and yellow
The Yendo is powered by an ARM946 CPU clocked at 156MHz and although it only has 5MB of built-in memory it does come with MicroSD card support
18 / TECH
The Yendo is jam-packed with Walkman phone features, including Touch TrackID (find out the name of a song with just one touch), MediaGo (to easily transfer your music from a PC to the mobile phone) and PlayNow (gives you access to your favourite and new songs quickly and easily)
The Sony Ericsson Yendo with Walkman supports GSM GPRS/EDGE Rx 850/1900 and GSM GPRS/EDGE Rx 900/1800
The phone features a 2.6-inch capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 320x240 and 256K colours
The Xperia X8 Building on the success of the Xperia X10 mini, the X8 is an interesting entertainment smartphone that extends the appeal of the Xperia collection to newer market segments
The open Android operating system delivers great smartphone functionality and access to thousands of applications on Android Market
The X8, like the Yendo, is expected to be available in selected markets from Q3 in a multitude of colours including white, dark blue/ white, aqua blue/ white, pink/ white and silver/ white
The X8 utilises a three-inch 16mn colour scratch-resistant TFT capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 320x480 pixels
Although the X8 comes with a relatively low 128MB of internal memory, it does comes packaged with a 2GB MicroSD card. The XPERIA X8 supports GSM GPRS/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900, UMTS HSPA 900/2100 and UMTS HSPA 800/850/1900/2100
Not only does the 3.2MP camera support geo tagging and video recording but it also supports direct picture uploads to Facebook
The user interface is similar to that of the Xperia X10 mini and the Yendo, with the four corners that give easy one-hand use and can be customised for onetouch access to your favourite applications
The Xperia X8 also includes Timescape for easy access to all your social networking sites and the infinite button for one-click access to a world of content
Sept ‘10 / 19
PHOTOGRAPHY
Changing with the times Sony has just revealed the world’s first consumer HD camcorder with interchangeable lenses. It is also the first Handycam featuring an extra-large Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor. Targeting video enthusiasts and photographers, the NEX-VG10E opens up unique artistic possibilities not achievable with conventional consumer video cameras
With a photo-realistic 921k dot resolution, the three-inch type Xtra Fine LCD features TruBlack technology for an exceptionally detailed, high contrast view of images and menu settings
At the heart of the NEX-VG10E is a 14.2 effective megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor that is teamed with Sony’s powerful BIONZ processor to capture high resolution video and still images; it is approximately 19.5 times bigger than the standard sensor found in most other consumer camcorders
The LCD is supplemented by a high-resolution (1152k dot) electronic viewfinder that assists easy framing and monitoring
Full HD 1920x1080 video images are captured in AVCHD format up to a maximum of 24Mbps for superlative detail and clarity
The Quad Capsule Spatial Array Stereo Microphone uses advanced processing algorithms to combine signals from four separate omnidirectional microphone capsules - the result is exceptionally clear stereo audio with a highly directional response
Alongside the three currently available E-mount lenses, users of the NEX-VG10E can experience a wide variety of A-mount DSLR optics by using the optional LA-EA1 mount adaptor There’s a jack for adding an optional external stereo mic, plus a headphone jack for audio monitoring The NEX-VG10E comes supplied as standard with an imagestabilised E18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS lens that offers a powerful 11x optical zoom range
20 / TECH
Depth Perception 3D Photography has finally hit the consumer market thanks to the new Panasonic HDC-SDT750
The SDT750 also features a largediameter (46mm) F1.5 Leica Dicomar lens and Crystal Engine PRO, a highspeed processing unit – both components contribute to the effectiveness of the camcorder’s light gathering, increased sensitivity and reduced noise when shooting
Panasonic offers a 5.1-channel audio recording sound system that uses five highly-directional microphones to record sound from the front, right, left and back and can be played on a 5.1-channel home cinema system
The high-sensitivity 3MOS image sensor has 7.59mn effective motion image pixels (2.53MPx3) and separates the light received through the lens into the three primary colours and processes each independently, producing images with rich colour quality, detail and gradation
Even without the 3D conversion lens attached, the Panasonic SDT750 is an innovative and high-performance full HD camcorder that is equipped with a wide range of sophisticated functions, including the 3MOS System
The Panasonic SDT750 features Time Lapse Recording which plays a scene such as a sunset or a blooming flower at an accelerated speed, similar to a fast-forward, by setting the recording interval to one second, ten seconds, 30 seconds, one minute or two minutes and the feature is even available when the 3D conversion lens is attached While shooting HD video, the iA function offers the following six features: Face
The specially-designed 3D conversion lens, which is included, records right-eye and left-eye images simultaneously through its two lenses (each with 1920x1080 pixels), thus resulting in video that can be viewed in 3D
Recognition, the new HYBRID O.I.S. (provides extremely accurate hand-shake correction with its four-axis blur detection, resulting in steady images while zooming or shooting on the move), AF/AE Tracking, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Detection and Intelligent Contrast Control
Large three-inch touchscreen LCD allows icons to be easily operated by touching them with a fingertip and recorded 3D images are displayed only as 2D images recorded with the left lens
The Panasonic HDC-SDT750 is expected to be available in October 2010 with a suggested retail price of approx USD 1,399.95 (approx OMR540) Sept ‘10 / 21
An artists’ dream Olympus SP-800UZ is easy to shoot and share
O
lympus revealed the latest from its ultra-zoom camera series, the SP-800UZ (approximately OMR170). Equipped with a 30x wide optical zoom covering a 28-840mm focal length, the 14MP SP-800UZ comes with a three-inch LCD. Whether snapping photos or trying out the new HD movie shooting option, an internal memory of 2GB gives you the freedom to capture more. The easy to shoot and share SP-800UZ comes in Titanium Silver. The SP-800UZ has a built-in dual image stabilisation that guarantees defined image
clarity. And high-speed shooting at up to 10fps means you can document the action blow by blow. The heavyweight internal memory of 2GB also means you can store plenty of videos and images and an SD card slot enables further storage capacity. A handy USB port facilitates battery recharging. Olympus now offers [ib], an integrated photo browsing and organising software and provides Photo Surfing options. Despite the lens, the camera is smaller and lighter than its predecessor. However, the SP-800UZ does not come with an
electronic viewfinder. At 14megapixels, the SP-800 becomes the highest-resolution megazoom available. It uses a traditional CCD and upgrades Olympus’ video capture capabilities to 720p HD from VGA. This latest in the ultra-zoom series has a Pet AF-tracking mode. This improves autofocus performance when shooting pictures of moving objects, especially animals. The Intelligent Auto (i-Auto) feature uses advanced automatic detection technology to allow the camera to recognise the five most commonly used scenes. The feature enables the capture of perfect photos without need for manual settings. The camera also features a Drawing Magic Filter. A Magic Filter is a point-and-shoot implementation of Art Filters which enables special artistic effects to be created directly in the camera. This includes Pop Art, FishEye, Sketch and Pin Hole. The Olympus SP-800UZ also comes with Shadow Adjustment Technology, direct print, Advanced Face Detection Technology, In-camera panorama preview, Automatic Pixel Mapping and PictBridge support, to name a few. Available at: Shah Nagardas Manji, 24703803
22 / TECH
video zone
Hybrid Projection
With Casio’s new line of Green Slim Projectors we can finally say goodbye to those expensive and cumbersome mercury lamps Earlier this year, Casio announced the creation of a mercury-free, laser and LED Hybrid Light Source, capable of highbrightness projection for use in nextgeneration projectors. Developed under
Three models of the Green Slim Projectors are currently available in Oman – XJA 130, XJA 140 and XJA 230; priced at OMR365 for the former and OMR429 for the latter two
The projectors also have an auto keystone feature that automatically corrects vertical distortion of the display due to the projector position. This enables effective use in diverse settings, ranging from small meeting spaces to large conference rooms and classrooms
the company’s ‘clean and green’ concept, the Green Slim line-up is the world’s first mercury-free range of high-brightness data projectors. Not only are these new projectors eco-friendly and affordable, they
Projection at maximum brightness is possible in a minimum of eight seconds, and no cool down is needed when turning the projectors off
are also versatile and can be used for a number of applications, including digital signage, education, business and home entertainment.
All models are equipped with an HDMI port which enables AV devices and PCs equipped with an HDMI output to be easily connected to the projectors
These environmentally-friendly projectors are extremely slim (1.7 inches) and lightweight (5lbs), and come in a standard paper-size body making them extremely easy to carry around
All products available at HiTec Centre, 24497384
The high-brightness light of 2,000 or more lumens is attained by projecting blue laser light, green light (converted from blue laser light with the fluorescent element), and light emitted by a red LED, through a DLP chip onto the screen
These models can project: presentations, spreadsheets, word-processor documents, PDF files and other data prepared on a PC, still images (JPEG/BMP), and moving images (AVI format: Motion JPEG); all without a PC, using the included EZ ConverterFA software and commercially available USB memory
Use of the mercury-free laser and LED hybrid light source increases the light source life to approximately 20,000 hours – nearly ten times that of conventional high-pressure mercury lamp projectors – which means less maintenance and lower operating costs. Furthermore, brightness deteriorates more slowly than with mercury lamps, so clear image quality can be maintained for a long time Sept ‘10 / 23
BUYER’S GUIDE
Spoilt for choice Both Plasma and LCD technology have improved greatly over the past few years but despite this there are some differences that can easily influence your decision. Here is a quick low-down on each one’s strengths and weaknesses
Viewing angle Plasma images do not normally suffer from the same quality loss at higher viewing angles that LCD TVs do as they do not rely on a backlight. The LCD pixels act like shutters, opening and closing, to let light through or block it, causing increasing variations in picture brightness as viewers move further off axis. Improvements in technology have greatly reduced this effect, with newer panels almost rivalling the viewing angles of plasma panels.
Screen size Average screen sizes for LCDs range from 19 to 70 inches and the largest LCD panel available is a 108-inch LCD from Sharp’s Aquos brand. The average screen size of plasmas range from 42 to 65 inches, with the largest being a 150-inch monster launched at this year’s CES show.
Power consumption It is a common belief that plasma panels use more power than similarly sized LCD panels. But again, recent advancements have greatly reduced that gap. In fact, Panasonic’s new plasma panels are nearly as energy-efficient as regular LCD panels. This goes to show just how far plasma technology has advanced over the past few years. 24 / TECH
Motion video Plasmas are about as good as CRT TVs at handling motion video; most are even capable of full 1080p motion video without blurring and degradation of video quality. LCDs, on the other hand, were initially built to handle still images. To play video their refresh rates had to improve. Today almost all new LCDs are capable of sub-10ms response times with some going as low as 2ms. While still not as good as plasmas, the difference is only noticeable in very high-speed videos.
Picture brightness, contrast and colour Plasma TVs, in general, have higher contrast levels than LCDs, because the latter are backlit and therefore light must be blocked to create blacks. Plasmas have individual pixels that either turn on or off, creating deeper blacks and better contrast. Plasma panels also have richer and warmer colour reproduction than most LCD panels. You may have noticed a number of panels at stores being referred to as LED TVs. These are not truly LED
TVs but rather LED backlit LCDs. While these TVs still use a standard LCD panel, the LED backlights offer improved contrast and brightness. There are primarily two types of LED backlighting – Full LED Backlit, where the LEDs are arranged in a grid pattern behind the screen; or Edge LED, where the LEDs are placed on the edge of the screen. Each technology again has its own advantages. Most fully backlit LED TVs have a unique feature known as
local dimming which can dim or even fully shut off clusters of LEDs in very dark areas of the screen, resulting in dramatically improved contrast and even more vivid colours. These can rival even those of plasma panels. On the other hand, edge-lit LED TVs make it possible for these panels to be remarkably thin. Also, LCDs are ususally brighter than Plasmas, making them a better choice for daytime viewing.
Thickness and weight Most LCDs are lighter and thinner than similarly sized plasmas, especially the edge LED backlit panels. If you are planning on mounting your panel on the wall this has to be taken into consideration. Plasma panels are also more fragile than LCDs. They should be handled with care during transportation. Again, as with other technologies in this list, newer plasma panels have been made to be more durable and lighter, making the difference less pronounced.
Sept ‘10 / 25
computing
There is a good chance that you have already heard of Cloud Computing. Here is a quick brief on what it really is
The name itself, a broader sense, gives you an explanation – ‘Cloud’ refers to the Internet and ‘Computing’ refers to any work that you would normally do on a computer. The term doesn’t exactly mean computing on the Internet; rather it uses the Internet as a medium to do your computing
elsewhere on a dedicated server, each designed to do a particular task. Cloud Computing describes a new supplement, consumption, and delivery model for IT services based on the Internet, and it typically involves over-the-Internet
Here are some advantages of cloud computing Cost
The most obvious advantage. Cost is greatly reduced and a company’s capital expenditure is now converted to operational expenditure. This is because the infrastructure is typically provided by a thirdparty and does not need to be purchased. Furthermore, the pricing is on a utility computing basis and is billed to the company either by contract or as per use.
Security
Because service providers are capable of devoting resources to solving security issues that many customers cannot afford, security is often as good as, or in some cases, better than in traditional systems.
provision of dynamically scaleable and often virtualised resources. While it is still in its infancy, it has already shown remarkable promise and is starting to become a booming business. While it does have some drawbacks, these are overshadowed by the number of advantages that it provides.
Ease of access
Because the infrastructure is elsewhere and all that is needed to access it is a means to access the Internet, it can be accessed from practically anywhere. This gives users great flexibility, and with growing Internet speeds worldwide this flexibility will only get better.
Multi-tenancy Resources are
shared across a large pool of users thus allowing for reduced costs and centralisation of data. Also, efficiency is greatly improved because the systems are always being utilised.
Maintenance
Metering
Because Cloud Computing resource usage is measureable and flexible, it will give clients the liberty to choose the vendor cloud on a cost and reliability basis. 26 / TECH
Cloud Computing applications are easier to maintain, since they don’t have to be installed on each user’s computer. They are easier to support and to improve since the changes reach the clients instantly.
The intelligent air-conditioning system
Outdoor Unit
Indoor Units
Ceiling Suspended Type
Wall Mounted Split Type
Ducted Built-in Type
Cassette Type
Over 55 indoors can be connected to a single outdoor Daikin developed the world’s first Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) system, it is equipped with built-in intelligence and flexibility that could truly enhance the way you live. The ‘State of the Art’ cutting edge inverter technology delivers improved energy efficiency and performance in high ambient temperatures, while ensuring satisfaction of demands throughout connected zones across the complete operation cycle.
Muscat Electronics LLC
For today’s intelligent buildings, Daikin VRV system offers • Advanced zoning capabilities • Enhanced energy efficiency • Space saving design • Reliability • Flexibility of combinations of indoor units • Designed and fully tested for operating temperature range -200C-520C
For Sales Enquiry: Tel: 24702982/5, Fax: 24702980 E-mail: daikin@muscatelectronics.com
For Service Enquiry: Tel: 24813408, Fax: 24811941 E-mail: service@muscatelectronics.com
3D Fragfest We put the first 3D gaming laptop from Asus, the G51JX 3D, through its paces to see if it performs as good as it looks 3D technology is the in-thing right now in the world of digital entertainment, especially with videogames, now that Nvidia’s 3D vision technology has been
launched. It was only a matter of time before we saw this technology move into gaming laptops. The first of these laptops comes from Asus’ Republic of Gamers
line of laptops, the G51JX, and we got hold of one to see if all the 3D gaming fuss is worth the steep price.
Design and aesthetics From the very first glance it is clear that this is not the kind of laptop to adorn business meeting tables. That said, it has a stunning glossy blue top with a very striking design. Down both sides and across the bottom half of the lid are three rows of blue lights which look stunning in a dark room. It is a very eye-catching piece of kit and screams out ‘serious gaming rig’ no matter how you look at it. The same theme follows through on the inside. You are greeted by a backlit keyboard, lined with a glossy black bezel, which also adorns the 15.6-inch display. The keyboard is comfortable to use, with the exception of a few undersized keys, and the backlight is a great addition for night-time gaming. The top is lined by a strip containing the Altec Lancing speakers and various touch-sensitive controls. Down the bottom there is a lovely rubberised palm rest, at the centre of which sits a large brushed metal-lined touchpad, not that you will be using it much, considering the system was built to play games on.
Display, Sound and Ports First thing to note is that the screen is not full HD. Its native resolution of 1366x768 is quite disappointing when you consider its high price, but for reasons which we will explain later this wasn’t such a bad idea on Asus’ part. Despite its resolution, it still has great
colour reproduction and decent viewing angles, only getting washed out when the screen is tilted too far back. The Altec Lansing speakers sound great in most respects and, like with most laptop speakers, only bass-heavy songs sound muffled. The G51JX is well adorned
with ports on both sides. The left side features two USB 2.0 ports, HDMI, VGA, FireWire 400, eSATA, and an ExpressCard slot. The right features an 8X DVD±RW drive, two more USB 2.0 ports, dual headphone jacks, and a microphone jack. The Ethernet port can be found on the back of the system.
The Asus nearly excelled in every test we threw at it, only struggling in highly demanding benchmarks. On PCmark Vantage, 3Dmark 2006 and 3Dmark Vantage, the system scored 5920, 10378 and 5501 respectively. These are all quite impressive scores for a laptop and this
performance shows in games as well. All games we played on the laptop, at their native resolution, play smoothly even on their highest settings. Battery life isn’t too stellar though, especially when you have the hardware running full-swing which, to be perfectly honest, was expected.
Performance A quick glance at the spec sheet and you know that this laptop packs quite a punch. We benchmarked the laptop on a number of tests and compared them to a HP Pavilion DV6 3061ee, which isn’t exactly a gaming laptop, but it isn’t exactly a slow piece of kit either.
28 / TECH
3D and its effects The true selling point of this laptop is its 3D capabilities in games. The effect is incredible and it is hard to get back to regular gaming once you experience it. But it comes at quite a cost. We ran the gaming benchmarks at exactly the same settings with 3D enabled, and the frame rates practically halved themselves. While this may not be too much of a problem in the games that we tested, it will have a significant impact on demanding games such as Crysis (which unfortunately wasn’t available at the time of testing) and on most graphically intensive future games. This will usually mean that you will have to make a trade between graphical
quality and the 3D effect in such games. This is why we said that it was a good call from Asus to include a lower resolution screen. This allows the games to run at better frame rates at the laptop’s native resolution, making its 3D capabilities actually feasible. For any higher resolution 3D gaming you will either have to switch to a powerful 3D-capable desktop or wait for significantly more powerful, and pricier laptops. But 3D is not just limited to games. The G51JX is also capable of 3D movie playback which is a nice addition, but without a Blu-ray drive your options are quite limited.
Verdict As a stand-alone gaming laptop, the laptop’s price of OMR849.900 is quite steep, and you can get other laptops that are as powerful, if not more powerful, at lower prices. But if 3D gaming is your thing then you have little choice in the matter. Besides, the G51JX is a very
powerful system which is more than capable of running nearly all current games at their best setting, and the 3D capabilities are a nice bonus. And to further justify its price, the laptop comes bundled with one pair of nVidia 3D Vision glasses and transmitter, a great Targus
backpack and a Razor gaming mouse. All-in-all, a great laptop with top-notch performance and an impressive package; but whether its high price is justified depends on how much you really want to experience 3D gaming.
B e nch m a r k Resu lts Gaming Benchmarks Gaming Benchmarks Resident Evil 5 Demo DX10 (fps) Resident Evil 5 Demo DX10 (fps) Resident Evil 5 Demo DX10 (fps) Stalker Call of Pripyat** (fps) Stalker Call of Pripyat** (fps) Stalker Call of Pripyat** (fps) Dirt 2 (fps) Dirt 2 (fps) Dirt 2 (fps)
Benchmark Settings 1280x720, no AA, All settings low 1280x720, 2x AA, All settings med/low 1280x720, 4x AA, All settings HighStreet 1366x768, no AA, All settings low 1366x768, 2x AA, All settings med 1366x768, 4x AA, All settings High 1366x768, no AA, Settings Preset low 1366x768, 2x AA, Settings Preset med 1366x768, 4x AA, Settings Preset High
Gaming Benchmarks Heaven benchmark DX10 (fps) Heaven benchmark DX10 (fps) Heaven benchmark DX10 (fps) PC Mark Vantage Cinebench 11.5 32Bit Cinebench 11.5 64Bit 3D Mark 2001 3D Mark 2003 3D Mark 2005 3D Mark 2006
Benchmark Settings 1366x768, no AA, Settings Preset low 1366x768, 2x AA, 2xAF, Preset med 1366x768, 4x AA, 4xAF, Preset High Default Settings Default Settings Default Settings Default Settings Default Settings Default Settings Default Settings
Asus G51JX 88.8 63.95 55.75 86.51 40.33 24.51 66.6 55.75 46.05
Benchmark Configuration Asus G51JX 3D 43.35 31.45 27.65 38.95 32.25 25.95
HP DV6 3061ee 62.95 47.8 38.6 76.75 34.98 23.38 60.25* 39.9* 24.6*
System CPU GPU VRAM Display Memory OS HDD Price
HP DV6 3061ee Intel Core i7-720QM ATI Radeon HD5650 1GB Dedicated 15.6” HD/LED @ 1366x768 6GB DDR3 1333 Windows 7 Home Premium 640GB OMR849.900
Synthetic Benchmarks Asus G51JX Asus G51JX 3D HP DV6 3061ee 30.1 25.7 22.3 19.6 19 15.2 5920 5356 CPU: 2.62 / OpelGL: 27.81 CPU: 2.65 / OpelGL: 22.50 CPU: 2.83 / OpelGL: 27.71 CPU: 2.81 / OpelGL: 21.99 33378 29495 25266 21048 16478 13107 10378 7626
Disclaimer: All items were tested in a controlled environment using the latest drivers available at the time of testing. All benchmarks were carried out using the default settings unless specified otherwise. Where specified the results are in ‘frames per second’. This test is not an international standard, and results are not to be compared to any other values except our own. While we use the best methods to maintain accuracy and results, TECH or its parent company cannot be held responsible for brandspecific superiority or even readers’ own choice. For further details of this test on non-competitive basis please send requests to tech@deenarmedia.com * Dirt 2 on the HP DV6 3061ee was tested using DirectX 11 rendering ** The results of Call of Pripyat are an average fps value of four automated tests
Tested Configuration System CPU GPU VRAM Display Memory OS HDD Price
Asus G51JX Intel Core i7-720QM nVidia GeForce GTS 360M 1GB Dedicated 15.6” HD/LED @ 1366x768 4GB DDR3 1333Mhz Windows 7 Home Premium 640GB OMR580.000
Sept ‘10 / 29
Bigger is better
Not only has Apple launched their new 27-inch LED display, they have also brought the joy of Multi-Touch gestures to their desktops with their new Magic Trackpad Apple has been on a roll recently, though not a very smooth one, with the release of the new iPhone, iPad, MacPro and iMac. The
company has also unveiled new devices to accompany the latter two – a 27-inch LED cinema display and the clever little Magic Trackpad.
The new display The display features a beautiful 16:9 edge-to-edge glass display on an aluminium stand, with an adjustable hinge that makes tilting the display almost effortless The new LED Cinema Display now includes a new ambient light sensor which automatically adjusts the display brightness, based on external lighting conditions
The Display features a built-in iSight video camera for video conferencing, an integrated MagSafe charger to keep Mac notebooks charged, a built-in Mini DisplayPort connectivity for video-audio input and a powered three-port USB 2.0 hub The Display uses in-plane switching (IPS) technology to provide a brilliant image across an ultra-wide 178 degree viewing angle
The Magic Trackpad The new Trackpad brings the intuitive Multi-Touch gestures of Mac notebook trackpads to the desktop
The Magic Trackpad can be configured to support single button or two-button commands, and supports tap-to-click as well as a physical click
30 / TECH
With its glass surface, the wireless Magic Trackpad enables users to scroll smoothly up and down a page with inertial scrolling, pinch to zoom in and out, rotate an image with their fingertips, and swipe three fingers to flip through a collection of web pages or photos
The new 27-inch LED Cinema Display, with its stunning 2560x1440 resolution, has 60 per cent more screen real estate than the previous 24-inch LED Cinema Display
Audiophiles rejoice, you finally have a one-stop-shop for all your audio needs Ever wanted to test the difference in sound quality between a Bose and JBL system? Well now you can do just that at Emax. The popular retail outlet has launched what they call the ‘Audio Wall’ – a corner of the retail store dedicated to speakers and related audio devices. This concept is unique to Emax and is the first of its kind in the region. It will be a test bed to gauge its response. Should it prove successful you can expect it to be carried over to retail outlets elsewhere. To ensure its success Emax has spared no expense in its construction. Every fitment for the wall has been tailor-made and brought here from Germany.
This unique idea was the brainstorm of Emax management here in Oman and was very favourably received by a number of brands including BOSE, JBL, Harman/ Kardon, among others. This is especially unique to BOSE who normally only showcase their speakers within closed rooms. With the aid of this wall customers can experience nearly the entire range of audio systems first hand, right from basic satellite speakers to professional amplifiers. There is nothing like comparing two extremely good systems side-by-side to aid your decision.
the show
THE BIG SHOWS A low-down on both E3 and Comic-Con and some of the most impressive launches at the two shows The Electronic Entertainment Expo, or E3 as it is more commonly known, is the world’s most exciting platform for interactive entertainment software and hardware news and launches. As per tradition, it was held at the Los Angeles Convention Center between June 15 and 17. This year’s show was one of the biggest ever and showcased some major surprises that showed the world just how technologically advanced and interactive
the gaming industry actually is. Comic-Con, held between July 22 and 25 at the San Diego Convention Center, is North America’s largest comic book and popular arts convention. It is also a popular follow-up to E3 in terms of launches and reveals for the gaming industry. Here are a few of the most impressive technological innovations launched, and a list of our ten favourite games of the shows.
Microsoft Kinect The technology behind Kinect comes from a reference design called the PrimeSensor, developed by PrimeSense. It essentially consists of four components that work in synchronisation with each other to make the magic behind Kinect come to life. The first is the infrared light
projector that blankets the room with an IR Light Coding image. This light is picked up by the CMOS image sensor and passed on to the PS1080 chip, the brains behind the whole operation. This method allows the system to calculate for depth and even be controlled in total darkness. When
this system was incorporated into Kinect, Microsoft added a secondary colour camera which matches up the colour image it receives pixel by pixel to the depth image the infrared camera sees. This final image is then sent to the Xbox 360 via the USB 2.0 port.
When Kinect is connected to the 360 the system replaces the regular interface for a simpler icon-based one which is easier to control with the peripheral Kinect’s motion-sensing technology tracks 48 points of movement on the human body
Kinect is equipped with a microphone so you can ‘talk’ to the 360
Kinect can perform full motion tracking of the human body at 30 frames per second and isn’t affected by what a user is wearing or what type of furniture is around
Video chat is possible with friends through Xbox Live or Windows Live Messenger, allowing you to not only talk, but even enjoy other activities such as watching a movie together
There will be 15 titles available at the time of launch Not only does Kinect have the ability to recognise faces and voices, it can even sign you into your account the moment it sees you and is also motorised to automatically track you
Xbox 360 S The naming and pricing of Project Natal was expected at E3 but Microsoft surprised the world with a new Xbox 360 console. Back in black, the new Xbox 360 is not only sleeker than its predecessor, also quieter. It introduces a couple of features that are only previously For those of you interested in replacing your current Xbox, you can transfer the data from your old machine in chunks using a large USB drive, or you can use the old hard drive transfer cable, both of which are compatible with the new machine It now features touch sensitive on/off and eject buttons similar to the PS3 The new 250GB hard drive is internal, but still swappable The new machine now features built-in Wi-Fi for easy online connectivity It comes equipped with a custom Kinect port so that the new controller can be connected without the use of a separate power source
available through peripherals on the current models. The new system, like its predecessor’s ‘Elite’ version, comes with everything you need to get started, and should already be on sale by the time you read this.
In terms of hardware changes, the system now features a 45nm integrated CPU and GPU The new system comes with five USB ports, two in the front and three in the back The two small fans from the current 360 has been replaced with a single large fan. As a result, the new machine runs significantly quieter Sept ‘10 / 33
Nintendo 3DS Nintendo changed the world of video games with touch-screen gaming on the Nintendo DS, in 2004. Nintendo then pioneered the motion-controlled gaming revolution with the Wii console and the Wii Remote controller, back in 2006. Now the company has unveiled an even
The System has built-in Wi-Fi allowing users to communicate or enjoy competitive game play, connect to LAN access points to access the Internet, allows people to enjoy games with others, automatically exchanges data with other Nintendo 3DS systems, or receives data via the Internet while in sleep mode
more immersive gaming experience: the Nintendo 3DS. At the E3 Expo, Nintendo gave the world the first look at a portable system that lets people view games in 3D, without the need for special glasses. Nintendo also
announced a substantial list of upcoming games for Nintendo 3DS: the Wii console and the Nintendo DS family of systems - a lineup that reads like a who’s who of some of the greatest franchises in video game history, with a completely new look and feel.
At the bottom is a 3.02-inch LCD touch screen with a resolution of 320×240 pixels
The system features one inner camera and two outer cameras, with a resolution of 640×480
The top screen is a 3.53-inch widescreen LCD display with 800×240 pixel resolution (400 pixels are allocated for each eye to enable 3D viewing) that enables 3D viewing without the need for special glasses
It includes a motion sensor, a gyro sensor and even a Slide Pad that allows 360-degree analogue input, similar to the one found on the PSP
The system will be backward compatible with regular DS games
Parental controls similar to the Nintendo DSi system will be included
34 / TECH
The system has a 3D Depth Slider to adjust the levels of 3D effect (it can be scaled back or turned off completely depending on the preference of the user)
Sony’s new toys Sony Computer Entertainment America announced some groundbreaking new products and services for its systems at E3. Since last autumn, the PlayStation business has experienced unprecedented
growth, fuelling huge momentum into the new year. The company is poised once again to deliver consumers unrivalled entertainment options this year. This includes the latest in 3D technology,
Playstation Move
introduction of PlayStation Move games and one of the best line-up of exclusives at the show including inFAMOUS 2, Twisted Metal, Gran Turismo 5, LittleBigPlanet 2 and Killzone 3.
The Stand alone PlayStation Move motion controller for the PS3 system will be sold at $49.99
More than 15 dedicated titles for use with the PlayStation Move motion controller will be available on launch day, and 40 more are slated to hit throughout the holiday season The new PlayStation Move navigation controller, which can be used alongside the motion controller for intuitive navigation of in-game characters and objects, will also become available at $29.99 (approx OMR11.500) In addition to their announcements on 3D games, Sony also announced the release date and pricing for their motion controller – the move
By utilising the ‘charging station’ users will be able to charge up to two PlayStation Move controllers, the motion controller or the navigation controller, all at once, without having to connect them to the PS3 system. The ‘charging station’ will become available concurrently with the motion controller launch in each region
Stereoscopic 3D Unlike any other console on the market today, all 35.7mn PS3 units used globally are capable of playing stereoscopic 3D games via a simple firmware update, that became available in April. In fact, four PS3 titles offering stereoscopic gaming experiences are already available for download from the PlayStation Network. These include PAIN, MotorStorm Pacific Rift, Super Stardust HD and WipeOut HD. SCEA also announced on stage at E3 that some of the company’s biggest titles will be available to consumers this year in 3D, including MLB 10 The Show, MotorStorm: Apocalypse, Killzone 3, The Sly Collection and Gran Turismo 5. Other beloved multi-platform franchises, that will also make their way into consumer homes in stereoscopic 3D on the PS3 system, include Crysis 2, Mortal Kombat, Shaun White Skateboarding, Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon: Future Soldier and Tron Evolution. The PS3 system will make 3D Blu-ray Disc movie support available later this year.
PlayStation Network
Sony announced that on September 19, 2010, it will release a PlayStation Move bundle comprising a PlayStation Move motion controller, PlayStationEye camera, Sports Champions game and PlayStation Move demo disc for $99.99. Additionally, Sony will also launch the same bundle with a PlayStation 3 system for $399.99 (approx OMR154)
With more than 50mn registered accounts worldwide, the PlayStation Network is currently one of the largest networked entertainment platforms, and continues to evolve with newly added content and services every day. At E3 the company also unveiled PlayStation Plus, a new subscription service offering users even more options in how they consume content on the PlayStation Network. PlayStation Plus will be available starting June 29 at a yearly fee of $49.99 (approx OMR19.300), and is designed to offer PlayStation Network’s power users added value, access and convenience. These include features with discounts on the PlayStation Store content, free and exclusive access to select games, full game trials, and much more.
Sept ‘10 / 35
Our 10 favourite games of E3 and Comic-Con Street Fighter X Tekken Announced at Comic-Con, Street Fighter X Tekken will make history, as fighters from these two bastions of the fighting genre come together for the very first time. Utilising the same technology that powered Street Fighter IV and Super Street Fighter IV, Tekken characters will make the transition into the Street Fighter universe
after having been re-imagined using the much-loved art style of these seminal titles. Their unique characteristics and signature moves remain as they go headto-head with classic brawlers from the Street Fighter franchise, in what promises to be the ultimate match up.
Gears of War 3 As if the trailer we saw prior to E3 wasn’t stunning enough, Gears 3 completely blew us away with their show. It ups the ante from Gears 2 in nearly every way – fourplayer co-op campaign (online only as revealed at Comic-Con, locally there will be two-player split-screen only), better graphics, a whole new enemy race, a
whole slew of new playable characters (including female COGs for the first time in series history), and finally a chance to actually play as the Locusts. Not just as alternative skins to COGs, but as actual characters, each with their own abilities and controls!
Metroid: Other M Metroid: Other M is the most groundbreaking leap in gameplay since the shift to 3D on the Game Cube. Developed in collaboration with Team Ninja, the masterminds behind the
Ninja Gaiden and Dead or Alive, Other M features an entirely new third-person perspective, great level design, stunning action sequences and some of the best graphics to ever grace the Wii.
Halo Reach While we have seen a lot of Reach until now and have even had a chance to sample the multiplayer beta, it was not until E3 that Bungie actually gave the masses a proper look at the single player campaign: a tale that takes you to the beginning of Halo lore. And at Comic-Con, Bungie announced further improvements by giving fans expanded
customisation options and creative tools while introducing fans to a completely overhauled Forge. If the past games are anything to go by, Reach will definitely be a stunner: both in terms of story and gameplay, regardless of Master Chief’s absence in the game. Besides, five Spartans are just as good, if not better, than the legendary Chief on his own.
Rage Sporting ID Software’s idtech5 engine and so called ‘mega textures’, Rage was easily one of the best looking games at the show. Although set in a post-apocalyptic world, Rage stands out from the now generic 36 / TECH
crowd, thanks to clever design choices, great atmosphere, stunning graphics and some of the most innovative gameplay we have seen to date.
Killzone 3 Unlike the first game in the series, Killzone 2 delivered on nearly every one of its promises and became one of the best FPSs on the system to date. Now, Killzone 3 is looking to blow it right out of the
water with a new arsenal of weapons, improved graphics, new environments and new gameplay mechanics. In addition, the game will be shipped with full Stereoscopic 3D support!
Gran Turismo 5 Gran Turismo has been a long time in development and from what they showed at E3 it seems that the game is almost ready. With over a 1,000 cars, more than 20 tracks with more than 70 variations, real-time damage, face tracking with the
PlaystationEye and the most impressive car models this side of a showroom, GT5 stole the show despite heavy competition from the likes of NFS Hot Pursuit 2, Motorstorm Apocalypse, and even Forza 4.
Dragon Age II Not much is known about the new game in the franchise at this time, aside from some basic plot lines. So far we know that the game thrusts players into the role of Hawke, a penniless refugee who rises to power to become the single most important character in the world of Dragon Age. The game will feature an all-new
story spanning ten years and players will help tell that tale by making tough moral choices, gathering the deadliest of allies, amassing fame and fortune, and sealing their place in history. While the game was only shown off in playable form at ComicCon, it was more than enough to get our mouths watering for more.
Metal Gear Solid Rising There was a lot we already knew about MGS Rising even before the show. For instance, we knew that the graphics would be great and that Raiden would be the main protagonist of the game. We also knew that the game would feature some really impressive swordplay. But despite this nothing could have prepared us for
the new ‘zan-datsu’ (literally translated, it means ‘cut and take’) swordplay mechanic. Basically, you can cut anything you want, however you want; this includes everything from vehicles, parts of buildings, enemies and, as the trailer so eloquently showed, even watermelons!
Dead Space 2 Engineer Isaac Clarke makes his return in a blood-curdling sequel to the survival horror masterpiece ‘Dead Space’. His new adventure takes place on an all-new space installation known as ‘The Sprawl’. The lone survivor of a horrific alien infestation, Isaac finds himself confronting a catastrophic new nightmare. In addition
to the stunning graphics and atmosphere that made the first game such a hit, Dead Space 2 features new locals, a boat load of new necromorphs, and a new arsenal of tools to dismember them with. We are already preparing for all the sleepless nights we will spend with the game, once it is released on January 25 next year.
Sept ‘10 / 37
business TEcH
Redefine your life with the latest security cameras from Panasonic Home and business surveillance cameras have redefined security and protection. The range of security cameras available in the marketplace has encouraged their use in more locations, and the latest advances in surveillance systems have elevated the level of security monitoring,
management and enforcement. Internet Protocol (IP) networks have now become the basic infrastructure in every aspect of personal and business life. And security is no exception. Panasonic’s advanced technology and its marketproven surveillance camera engineering
and manufacturing expertise makes professional surveillance possible. Panasonic’s i-Pro Series offers quality in every aspect: megapixels, progressive scanning, Super Dynamic III and super sensitivity with 30ips real motion video.
The camera supports two types of synchronisation modes: Internal and VD2
Analogue Cameras The WV-CF294 is equipped with the Auto Back Focus (ABF) that adjusts the positioning of the CCD sensor to provide accurate focus in both colour and B/W modes and reduces post-installation intervention
The cameras are equipped with unique correction features including Back-Light Compensation, Auto Tracing White Balance and Automatic Light Control
All products available at OMASCO, 24564310
The cameras have a high resolution of 540 TV lines (horizontal) and minimum luminance, thanks to the adoption of the newly-developed Digital Signal Processor (DSP), that enables the shadows and dark area transformation into natural and crisp images in real time
The WV-CP500 is equipped with the Auto Back Focus (ABF)
The camera offers superior low-light sensitivity of 0.1lux in colour and 0.07 in B/W mode 38 / TECH
The fixed box camera includes intelligent Video Motion Detection (i-VMD) to capture moving objects without distortion and object detection for items removed or left behind
The WV-CF284/294 series is known for its Day/Night feature. When surrounding areas dim the mode automatically switches from colour to black and white while sensitivity is increased
Panasonic introduces the next benchmark in camera performance with the launch of Super Dynamic 5 (SD5) image technology. It achieves exceptional image quality by combining 128x wider dynamic range with greater low-light sensitivity, more resolution (650 lines colour), and the implementation of Adaptive Black Stretch (ABS) technology to compensate for dark areas
Network Cameras The WV-NF284 is a compact, stylish network colour dome camera that operates in light as low as 1.5lux with MPEG-4 and JPEG dual streaming When this camera is connected to an optional i-Pro Series Network Disk Recorder images backed up on the optional SD memory card (during network failure) will be automatically transmitted to the recorder when the network is restored
The progressive scan CCD ensures clear images with less motion blur, and the Focus Assist function uses an on-screen display to indicate the best focus position, making accurate focus adjustment simpler
These cameras combine high sensitivity design and electronic sensitivity enhancement functions enabling them to capture colour images, even when the lighting is dim
Full duplex bi-directional audio allows interactive communication between camera and monitoring site
The camera comes with a built-in microphone and digital motion detector alarm to activate recording and also a built-in alarm function for external security devices Power over Ethernet (PoE) supplies power and transmits images over the same LAN cable, simplifying installation
The User/Host authentication feature enables the blocking of operations from unregistered users and hosts. Privacy zone masking for up to eight locations is also available
Additional features include the threedimensional hinge that makes adjustments easy
Equipped with the 1/3 inch 1.3 megapixel progressive scan CCD and the proprietary DSP, the WV-NP304 provides superior image of 1,280x960 pixels, enhancing identification capability
This camera can capture an area four times larger than conventional cameras, while maintaining the same image quality Various alarm sources including Terminal input, VMD and Panasonic alarm command, can trigger actions including SD memory recording, FTP image transfer, email notification, Indication on browser, Alarm terminal output and Panasonic protocol output Sept ‘10 / 39
interveiw
Point and Shoot TECH caught up with Vineet Wadhwa, product manager, CCI Marketing Department, Canon Middle East, to find out about Canon’s presence and future plans in Oman
I
n the Middle East, like the rest of the world, Canon is one of the market leaders in camera and camcorder sales. It is regarded as one of the top brands, especially in the DSLR segment and Wadhwa talks about the brand’s reputation in the international market. “There is no
doubt that the reputation has come from Canon’s heritage in the DSLR category. Canon recently celebrated 50 years of SLR camera sales which speaks volumes about its history and credentials in this segment. And during its 50 years’ sales, Canon has offered SLR cameras of the highest quality and technology with emphasis on lens and optical technology.” Over the recent years there has been a shift from point-and-shoot cameras to DSLR ones and Oman market has been no different, says Wadhwa. Canon has consistently been a vanguard of pioneering technology and continues to lead the way in setting new standards through innovation. And among its DSLRs, Canon is pioneering full HD video recording capability. Of course, Canon’s focus is
40 / TECH
not completely concentrated on developing new range of cameras. As Wadhwa says, “Canon’s EOS range in the DSLR segment along with its IXUS and Powershot ranges in the digital still camera segment have always been major players in the market with a huge presence in the region.” But their focus now is on improving customer experience and to help customers decide what product and accessory they need to buy. As a result a great deal of emphasis is being given to ‘in-store display’. “We have developed an in-store concept for DSLR which enables customers to understand DSLR and its accessories in a much better way and Canon invests approximately eight per cent of its turnover in R&D. This means that more advanced technology and consumer friendly products will be in steady supply in the future.” But now, despite more companies going 3D, both with cameras and camcorders, Canon has yet to reveal its plans for the technology.
“Consumers have only just been introduced to the idea of being able to watch 3D in the comfort of their own home. If the demand for 3D viewing grows in the coming years we will have to assume that all devices capable of video recording will look at 3D content as a selling proposition,” says Wadhwa, with confidence. And the adoption path of 3D will be quite similar to that of High-Definition content when this technology was first offered to consumers. But having come this far in technology it should definitely be interesting to know how far the brand has traversed to reach its current position as one of the market leaders in camera and camcorder sales. Starting out in a small laboratory dedicated to making high-quality cameras in a simple apartment room in the Roppongi area of Tokyo, in 1933, this brand has been through a lot to be what it is today. In the earlier days all high-quality cameras were European with the majority coming from Germany. And it was in this small room in Roppongi that youth with big dreams earnestly began their work on producing a high-quality Japanese camera, marking the beginning of Canon. Through hard work and with an enterprising spirit they eventually succeeded in building a prototype, which was named Kwanon after the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The following year, in 1935, Japan’s first-ever 35mm focal-plane shutter camera, the Hansa Canon, was born, along with the Canon brand. In 1950, Canon’s first president, Takeshi Mitarai, went to America for the first time to attend an international trade fair and having seen modern factories and a high standard of living first hand, built a fireproof factory of steel-reinforced concrete in the Shimomaruko area of Tokyo. This he saw as essential for
Canon to succeed in doing business with the world at large. Mitarai also made clear his respect for humanity by stressing the importance of the Sanji, or Three Self’s spirit, the guiding principle for Canon employees. In 1955, Canon took its first step into the global market with the opening of an office in New York City, USA. In 1957, Canon set up its sole European distributor, Canon Europa, in Geneva, Switzerland. And by 1967 exports already topped 50 per cent of the company’s total sales. By 1970, Canon grew to 44.8bn yen in sales and more than 5,000 employees. But hit by dollar and oil shocks, followed by problems with a defective electronic calculator display component in 1974, Canon fell on hard times. In the first half of 1975, it failed to pay a dividend for the first time since becoming a public company. And the next year, Canon unveiled its Premier Company Plan, an ambitious strategy to transform Canon into an ‘excellent global company’ through such means as introducing a vertical business group constitution and establishing a horizontal development, production and sales system. The plan proposed high ideals and pooled the strength of its employees, enabling the company to promptly recover.Then, in 1988, the 51st anniversary of the company’s founding, Canon announced its second inauguration and unveiled its new corporate philosophy. It also began promoting such progressive and environmentally sound activities as toner cartridge recycling in addition to globalising its development sites.
the company needed to improve its financial constitution if it was to carry out long-term R&D projects and launch new businesses. Fujio Mitarai became Canon’s sixth company president in 1995, and in 1996 the Excellent Global Corporation Plan was launched. Transforming the corporate mindset from partial to total optimisation and from a focus on sales to a focus on profits, the new plan was the start of the innovations that characterises today’s Canon. The year 1996 is therefore considered to be the first year in a new era of growth and a turning point for Canon. Coinciding with the final year of Phase III of the Excellent Global Corporation Plan, 2010 marks a renewed start of a strategy targeting sound growth. Says Wadhwa, “Oman is known for its natural beauty and wonderful mountains. This makes it a hot spot for the region’s photography enthusiasts. We also see a growing number of avid photographers coming up in Oman.” And this makes Canon’s presence in Oman necessary.
But by the mid-1990s, the business division system that had been in place since the 1970s was showing signs of wear. Canon also carried debt of more than 840bn yen, meaning Sept ‘10 / 41
dashboard
Crimson n o i t ef c r e P
If you ever thought that environmental concern and a love for cars are completely incompatible, think again
Powered by an electric motor, the DeZir’s sensuous lines are clear proof of the above statement. The DeZir project is the first to
42 / TECH
have been led by Laurens van den Acker, and marks the start of a sequence of concept cars that will provide an insight into
Renault Design’s new vision for the future. It also lays the foundations for the styling cues of Renault’s forthcoming vehicles.
The vertically-mounted 24kWph lithiumion battery is located behind the benchseat and provides the car with a range of 160kms The basic motor is the same as the unit used for Renault’s production electric cars, although an evolution has enabled its power and torque to be uprated to 150hp and 226Nm respectively DeZir’s aerodynamics have been carefully honed too, thanks to the full underbody
The ‘Z’ in the name DeZir is a direct reference to Renault’s Z.E. signature, and several features of its design are suggestive of two qualities readily associated with electric mobility: advanced technology and light weight
fairing and a rear diffuser – the result of this work is a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.25, as well as outstanding acceleration, with DeZir capable of accelerating from 0 to 100kmph in five seconds, and from standstill to 50kmph in just two seconds DeZir’s energy efficiency package also includes the recovery of deceleration energy which employs technology based on the same principles as the KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) seen in Formula1
The design approach of the DeZir coincides with the introduction of a new Renault design language, that, according to the company, takes its inspiration from the three keywords which communicate the brand’s vision: ‘simple,’ ‘sensuous’ and ‘warm’
Three battery-charging methods can be employed: A standard charge using a conventional household plug fully charges the battery in eight hours A fast charge using a 400V three-phase current charges the battery to 80 per cent of its capacity in 20 minutes A fast battery exchange thanks to Renault’s Quick Drop technology
Renault Design has revised its methodology, and a single team of designers will now be responsible for each new concept car and for the ensuing production model it previews
The DeZir is powered by an electric motor, which is mounted in a mid-rear position to optimise weight distribution over the front and rear wheels Sept ‘10 / 43
The driver’s door features a bright red lacquered finish, while the panel of the passenger-side door is trimmed in white leather
The one-piece, two-seater front benchseat provides cocoon-like comfort and comprises a number of interlocking elements trimmed in white leather with a quilted pattern on the passenger’s side, and a contrasting uniform finish on the driver’s side
The dashboard also features contrasting finishes, with one part trimmed in white leather and another which exudes a more high-tech feel with a grained effect that recalls the finish of certain exterior components
The central touchscreen display incorporates a smart navigation system that synchronises journey information with the driver’s diary in order to optimise task management and itineraries. All the while the software incorporated in the dashboard provides drivers with a real time indication of their energy management ability via a fun interface that uses videogame style graphics
The materials employed for the interior include white leather upholstery and trimming for the seats, dashboard and floor, along with a red lacquered finish for the console and accessories
44 / TECH
Battery cooling is ensured not only by the air channelled from the front to the back of the car, but also – and above all – by the flow of air that enters through the lateral scoops concealed behind the aluminium panels on either side of the body
The sides feature a combination of flush and recessed forms, that play on contrasting light patterns
The left- and right-hand gull-wing doors open in opposite directions and is meant to symbolise a ‘yin and yang-style amorous harmony’
The absence of a rear window is overcome by the fitment of two rear-facing cameras which provide the driver with a panoramic view of what is happening behind the car
In order to optimise range and dynamic performance Renault Design’s technical team has kept DeZir’s weight to a minimum: its body is made from Kevlar®, while its tubular steel frame is similar to that employed for the Mégane Trophy race car
The headlights take the form of backlit prisms which make them a highly graphic feature, while the perforated ‘eyelids’ add to this high-tech feel and contribute to DeZir’s specific lighting signature
Rear lighting is provided by an illuminated, seemingly floating strip that extends across the full width of the car
Sept ‘10 / 45
gamer’s delight
The world’s best loved RTS is finally back after spending over ten years in hibernation and despite it featuring only the Terran side of the campaign this is one adventure you wouldn’t want to miss With a legacy so grand, there are very high expectations for games such as Starcraft II. But soon after its announcement Blizzard dropped a bomb on its fans, saying that the story would be split into three parts, with each following the path of the three factions successively – Terrans, Zerg and Protoss.
Jim Raynor. Our famous protagonist has had it tough for the past few years, having lost the love of his life, Sarah Kerrigan, to the Zerg and then being branded a traitor and terrorist by the government that is at the beck and call of Arcturus Mengsk, the man who betrayed them both. Furthermore, Kerrigan was captured
The production values of the game are absolutely stunning and are easily the very best of what the industry has to offer. The CG cinematics are on par with, if not better than, nearly anything the movie or gaming world has on offer to date. Even the in-game cutscenes are nothing to scoff down. The characters’ expressions
The first ‘Wings of Liberty’ would feature the Terran campaign with the other two to follow at a later date. While this may indicate lesser content when compared to its predecessor, you can rest easy knowing that this is definitely not the case. Blizzard has once again delivered a game way better than one we could have ever expected.
and turned into a Terran-Zerg hybrid known as the ‘Queen of Blades’ and has since become the bane of the Terran’s existence. Now, four years after the end of the Brood War, while in the midst of Raynor’s ongoing struggle against the Dominion, the Zerg have once again risen up on a massive scale putting the lives of everyone in the galaxy at risk. What was initially a fight for freedom and opposition to the corrupt government soon turns into a fight for survival and leaves the fate of the galaxy once again in the hands of Raynor.
are near perfect, as is the voice work, with many of the actors from the first game reprising their roles in the sequel. Furthermore, the game’s graphics lends itself nicely to boost the presentation of the cutscenes. The game’s graphics engine is also very scaleable so you won’t need a killer rig to run it. But don’t let this fool you into thinking that the graphics aren’t up to snuff. The graphics and presentation are some of the best in the genre. With the graphics at its very highest setting, any skittering mass of
The story of Wings of Liberty puts you in the shoes of the morally conscious law enforcement officer from the first game,
Publisher: Blizzard Developer: Blizzard Platform(s): PC Genre: Strategy ESRB Rating: R/P
SCORE
9.6
The Good Stunning production values, well balanced armies, great story, two more games confirmed The Bad
We have to wait two more games to see the complete story
highly detailed zerglings filling the screen is enough to give even the best setup gaming rig a thorough workout. The gameplay itself, once in a mission, is very much like the original Starcraft. Considering that the system is based on a formula that Blizzard nailed perfectly the first time there was no need to change it. Instead, the largest changes stem from the game’s narrative. This has improved greatly form the first with story sequences and missions broken up by quick visits to your ship, the Hyperion. While onboard you can interact with various people, choose your next mission and hire mercenaries or buy persistent structural and unit upgrades for your army with the money you collect from
your expeditions. These upgrades and mercenaries, carried over from mission to mission, along with some key decision making sequences in the game, lends some feeling of permanence to what you do and gives the game your own personal touch as you go along. This feels far better than simply completing your objective and following the story as it is dropped in your lap. The missions offer terrific variety and on a number of occasions will force you to
change strategies on the fly. In some cases it does so by altering the environment itself to work against you. The difficulty settings are also perfectly setup so you shouldn’t have any problems finding your sweet-spot. The game also encourages replayability in the form of achievements that you can earn per mission, some of which can be quite difficult at times, but never impossible. The game’s multiplayer element is accompanied by Blizzard’s new Battlenet 2.0. The new system has a tonne of new features and advanced matchmaking to make your online career as simple as
possible. It is even designed to work across multiple Blizzard titles. Because life online can be quite harsh to beginners, Blizzard has even included a bunch of challenge missions that are designed to hone your skills at micro management and obtain supreme unit control. Furthermore, all three races are available from the get-go for online skirmishes.
Even the map editor is back and better than ever before. With several other new features and improvements added for good measure, Starcraft II’s multiplayer is by far one of the most comprehensive packages in this genre to date. If, like us, you thought that Blizzard set the bar in production values, gameplay and content with the first game, consider it raised once again. The two come together to deliver an experience that few in the business can match. And if anything, the game’s only flaw is the incomplete story. But when you consider how exhilarating the ride to the end is and the fact that there are two more games yet to come before the story is complete, this is one flaw that is easily forgiven.
Game Release Calendar September 2010 September 3 Valkyria Chronicles 2
Ace Combat Joint Assault
Publisher: Sega Developer: Sega Platform(s): PSP Genre: RPG ESRB Rating: R/P
Publisher: Namco Bandai Games Developer: Project Aces Platform(s): PSP Genre: Action ESRB Rating: R/P
Tom Clancy’s H.A.W.X. 2
Metroid Other M
Publisher: Ubisoft Developer: Ubisoft Platform(s): PS3, Xbox 360, Wii, PC Genre: Action ESRB Rating: R/P
Publisher: Nintendo Developer: Team Ninja Platform(s): Wii Genre: Action ESRB Rating: Teen
September 10
September 14
Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep
Halo: Reach
Publisher: Square Enix Developer: Square Enix Platform(s): PSP Genre: RPG ESRB Rating: R/P
Publisher: Microsoft Developer: Bungie Platform(s): Xbox 360 Genre: Action ESRB Rating: R/P
September 24
September 30
Quantum Theory
Final Fantasy XIV
Publisher: Tecmo Developer: Tecmo Platform(s): PS3, Xbox 360 Genre: Action ESRB Rating: Mature
Publisher: Square Enix Developer: Square Enix Platform(s): PS3, PC Genre: MMORPG ESRB Rating: R/P
48 / TECH
Choose the correct answer and send in your entries for a chance to win
Fax to 24693569
1) Which nation has setup a video game addiction hotline? a. England b. Japan c. South Korea d. UAE 2) What does PDF stand for? a. Page Draft Form b. Personal Desk File c. Portable Document Format d. Printed Data File 3) Which is the first country to make broadband Internet a legal right for every citizen? a. Finland b. USA c. Spain d. England 4) Who invented the light bulb? a. Marie Curie b. Charles Darwin c. Thomas Edison d. Alexander Graham Bell
Please send us your entries by 24th of September for a chance to win a SONIC GEAR SPECTRA 300 Name ___________________________________ Age ______ Mobile ________________________ Email ____________________________________ Occupation _______________________________
Last month’s winner:
Majid al Mageni wins his Spectra 300
Employees and family members of Deenar Press and Publishing and Emax cannot participate in the quiz. Judge’s decision is final. Please email the answers to tech@deenarmedia.com or fax this page to 24693569 by the deadline. Correspondence after the deadline will not be entertained. PLEASE WRITE CLEARLY. Incomplete or illegible entries will be disqualified. Winner must provide valid ID to claim the prize. Allow up to two weeks to process. Gift courtesy of E-Max
OP-ED
Taking the blame
Video games have been given a bad reputation and are usually the object of blame when a juvenile is involved in a crime. But how much of this is true and what can be done to prevent it? This is the question we attempt to answer
O
n April 20, 1999, 18-year-old Eric Harris and 17-year-old Dylan Klebold killed 12 students and a teacher in the Columbine High School massacre. Doom was at the centre of the investigation. In October 2004, a 41-year-old Chinese man named Qiu Chengwei stabbed 26-year-old Zhu Caoyuan to death over a dispute regarding the sale of a virtual weapon the two had jointly won in The Legend of Mir 3. Three years later, a Chinese man in Guangzhou, China, died after playing Internet video
games for three consecutive days in an Internet cafe. Incidents such as these are not uncommon and videogames are targeted as the cause or a component in crime. While there may be truth to this in some cases, it is just presumption in most. Videogames, like movies and music, are just another form of entertainment. Like all forms of media it has the capability to influence one’s thoughts and emotions. But what makes them such an easy target is the lack of awareness among non-gamers. Mohammed al Harami, an avid gamer, puts it best when he says, “I believe it’s not right to blame the game industry for these crimes. The movie industry has been doing the same thing for years now, but nobody seems to be complaining. The game industry has been held responsible for these crimes because people are still new to this kind of media. It is strange to them, and it is in the nature of people to act defensive.” The primary reason, in Mohammed’s opinion, is the fact that games started out as a casual form of entertainment for the family. As the industry gained momentum and the customer base grew, the genres started branching out. Later, mature games that were introduced carved a niche for themselves. In fact, the average age of gamers is 35 and only 25 per cent are aged under 18. As such, games targeted at older audiences makes up a significant chunk of what one might find in a store. Just like with movies, there are rating bodies worldwide such as the
50 / TECH
Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) and Pan European Game Information (PEGI) that give games a rating based on their content. Parents are usually oblivious to these. Kakoli Kanjilal, mother of two, claims, “Parents should keep a check on the kind of games their child plays and the time spent. Unfortunately, there is very little exposure and awareness in Oman about the rating of videogames. I was made aware of them quite recently.”
ratings are not passed on to the retailers by vendors.” Until now, although there has been little proof that games influence a person’s behaviour, people may be prone to being ‘triggered’ if they are psychologically susceptible or have had a disturbed childhood. According to Sean P. Neubert of Rochester Institute of Technology, a person who is biologically predisposed to aggression will be strongly influenced by violent scenes and will be at the risk of committing crimes. For example, someone with inherent antisocial personality disorder is more likely to shoot someone after playing Grand Theft Auto or games of a similar nature. Therefore, by exposing a person lacking a sense of judgment to violence, games act like the ‘trigger’.
With a lack of parental monitoring, it is now up to the retailers to avoid selling ‘mature’ rated games to people below 17. While this check may be happening in most countries, in Oman there is little or no control over this. Aamir J. Khan, head buyer, Emax, confirms, “There is little exposure and awareness in this region. As such, there is no control at the point of sale. Communication regarding the
A US Secret Service study, published in 2004, found that only 12 per cent of those involved in school shootings were attracted to violent video games, while 24 per cent read violent books and 27 per cent were attracted to violent films. An Australian study found that violent games had an impact on children predisposed to violent behaviour. Because of the growth of the industry and the sheer number of gamers, a person who commits a crime is likely to have played videogames. Ironically, a number of studies have shown that games are quite beneficial to aspects of
social and cognitive development and the psychological well-being of a person. It has been proved that action videogame players have better hand-eye coordination and visuo-motor skills. This includes their resistance to distraction, sensitivity to information in the peripheral vision and ability to count briefly presented objects. In Oman, the only way to regulate and avoid these isolated incidents is by being more responsible. According to Khan, “Responsibility should be collective. The industry should be careful and not create games involving too much violence and nudity. Games should also not be used to spread religious or cultural hatred. Also, retailers should make sure they don’t sell adult rated games to people under 18. Parental care and guidance are equally important.” So, keep an eye on what kids are playing and build your awareness on the gaming industry.
Sept ‘10 / 51
time zone
Hurricane warning To commemorate the Hurricane and the brave pilots who fought and fell with them, CX Swiss Military Watch have introduced their new pilot’s watch, the aptly named ‘Hurricane’ on the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Britain The RAF’s Hurricane, the trustworthy ‘workhorse’ of the British airforce bore the brunt of the battle that lasted from July 10 to October 31, 1940. A solidly built single engine aircraft equipped with eight Browning 303 machine guns,
Based on the Airforce I model, the Hurricane is equipped with the chronometer certified ETA cal. 7750 COSC and sets a new standard in its class
It has a limited production run of just 200 pieces with an asking price of CHF1,995 each (approx OMR749)
The solid stainless steel buckle – also in DLC – bears the CX Swiss Military Watch logo and is as indestructible as the watch itself
The stainless steel case, highly scratch-resistant due to the DLC (diamond-like) black coating, houses a bezel designed as a fully functional circular slide rule and is anti-magnetic as per ISO 764
52 / TECH
the Hurricane proved a formidable foe despite being slower than the German Messerschmitt. Generally the RAF’s Spitfire would intercept the German fighters, leaving Hurricanes to concentrate on the bombers. But despite the undoubted
abilities of the ‘thoroughbred’ Spitfire it was the Hurricane that scored the highest number of RAF victories during this period. The Hurricane - RAF’s forgotten fighter star of the Battle of Britain, is the plane “never known to fail”.
The bezel allows for all relevant aeronautical calculations while the anti-reflective sapphire crystal protects a rugged dial evoking the artificial horizon in a cockpit and the small second hand is constructed in the shape of a propeller
The nanotech Swiss-made leather strap is a new development, nearly impermeable and thus exceptionally long-lasting
The Hurricane is available in four dial colours - silver, black, RAF red and arctic blue – and is sold in a luxurious wooden gift box
The oversized pilot’s crown and the pushers are screw-down and the Hurricane is water-resistant upto 200 metres; the red colour of the pushers disappears once they are screwed-in and the watch is thus fully water resistant
home zone
Time to grill The latest in microwave ovens comes with smart features that make cooking a whole lot easier and, in some cases, even make the use of cook books obsolete
Panasonic NN-CD997S OMR149.900
The Turbo Defrost technology incorporates an advanced microwave sequencing system which lets you defrost frozen foods up to 43 per cent faster without compromising defrost performance
From the moment the microwave oven is turned on, you are given word-by-word instructions on features such as setting the Clock, Auto Defrost and using One Touch Sensor Cooking Recipe Prompting will give you step-by-step instructions for 30 different recipes and will advise you on which ingredients to use, cooking dishes required, what power level is needed and even how long to cook for, allowing you to cook without even looking at a cookbook
Inverter Cooking Technology is exclusive to Panasonic and gives the user better control over microwave cooking and with it, the food can be cooked at high, medium and low power for the entire cooking process, ensuring that there are no cold spots or overcooked edges
LG MP9489SCR OMR129.900
There are three kinds of micro power levels (180W, 360W and 600W) in speed combi mode
The oven has four defrost settings – MEAT, POULTRY, FISH and BREAD – and each category has different power settings
The oven has a safety feature that prevents accidental running of the oven, and once the child lock is set, the user will be unable to use any functions
The light oven SolarDOM has a combination cooking feature that allows the user to cook food with a heater and microwave at the same time, thus taking less time to cook the food
Speed auto cook menus are programmed and allow people to cook most of their favourite foods quickly by selecting the food type and the weight of the food
54 / TECH
Samsung CS1660 OMR69.500 It has 99min 90sec cooking time with six power levels for cooking versatility Conventional microwave ovens distribute microwaves from a single antenna, so the microwaves are concentrated on one part of the food, creating hot and cold spots. However, Samsung’s Triple Distribution System (TDS) overcomes this by having three antennae that distribute the waves more evenly, so that food is heated more evenly Samsung’s 45l Combi convetion microwave oven has a 900W microwave output power, and is a touch control type
It has five auto cook and auto defrost settings with convection output power of 1700W
The oven comes with a crusty plate and a fast preheat option
Sharp R-667BKA OMR42.000 The microwave has an 800W microwave output power and a 1000W top grill power, and comes with touch control operation and an LCD display
It combines the benefits of the microwave with that of the grill making food brown and crispy
A microwave with health menus is definitely the one to choose if you are health-conscious, and this unit offers three low fat and three vegetarian meals under its healthy menu feature
It also has 12 express cook and defrost functions, a timer, and an electronic control panel
Sept ‘10 / 55
Lighter than dust 100 years and still running, the Nilfisk vacuum cleaners make the job of cleaning easier with better results
Nilfisk Extreme Nilfisk Extreme offers a strong suction at low noise levels It is designed to be durable and features an ergonomic handle and telescopic tube The Extreme has a powerful motor, with high dust pick-up performance and an on/off/power level control on the handle in some of the models The unit has a HEPA filter and a HEPA tight construction with dust-proof gaskets, meaning that dirt comes into the machine, but clean air comes out The Nilfisk Extreme has a big capacity hygienic dust bag, and comes with a hard floor and turbo nozzle
Nilfisk Handy 2-in-1 This is a cordless, handy and highly manoeuvrable vacuum cleaner, with a rechargeable stick cleaner that does the job quickly and easily It has two machines in one, so the handheld unit can be removed from the stick and it can be used to clean the crumbs off the table and other higher surfaces The unit has an extendable crevice which makes it easy to clean hard to reach places, like the gap in between car seats
Available at Gulf Services & Industrial Supplies, 24811238
The vacuum cleaner was invented at a time when television was unheard of and radio transmission was still in its infancy. The Nilfisk vacuum cleaner was invented by P A Fisker in 1910, and it was the first machine in Europe that could be operated by a single person. It weighed a ‘mere’ 56 / TECH
It has turbo suction and with a rotating brush in the floor nozzle the unit can be used to pick up crumbs from hard floors and carpets It also comes with a washable filter and foldable handles
17.5kgs. At that time, the other machines were huge in comparison, needing four or more operators. Often the machine was situated outside the house with the hose dragged in through the window. The Nilfisk vacuum cleaner was in great
demand, and export was organised as early as 1911. In 1914, the first sales offices opened in Germany and Great Britain, and in 1922 Nilfisk launched a new vacuum cleaner. Today, NilfiskAdvance is a global company with sales companies in 42 countries and distributors in more than 70.
bargain hunter
Quietly Efficient Be kind to the environment with Ariston washing machines It is always a pain looking for that perfect combination of efficiency, speed, load capacity and low noise levels in washing
machines. But Ariston makes it easy with its range of A+ rated products with various load capacities to suit the customer’s
needs. And with the new sensor system the machine is constantly monitoring the wash cycles to ensure best results.
With a load capacity of 11.5kgs and a digital display, the EXT1400 is extremely efficient
The A+ rated washing machine is kinder to the environment, and uses less electricity while delivering high performance levels
Ariston washing machines have been awarded by the ‘Woolmark Platinum Company’, proving the quality and standard of their washing capabilities
The Mini Load programme will quickly wash just a few items without wasting time, energy or water The model has an overflow security system and a closed door indicator
The EXT1400 is currently on sale for OMR399, that’s OMR251 below the normal retail price Thanks to special soundabsorbing materials and a new tri-phase motor, the EXT1400 is able to ensure low noise levels Available at Sayed Bin Nasser Al Hashar, 24706004 Sept ‘10 / 57
Welcome to our revised ‘TECH Favourites’ section. With this new design we aim to bring you more information in a concise format. Please give us your feedback on the basis of which we can further improve it
3D TVs Grundig GBH-9041 OMR699.900
LEDs
A 40-inch LED with full HD and 2 megapixels display, this TV has dynamic contrast plus, 4 HDMI inputs, 100Hz motion and a contrast ratio of 1,000,000:1. It also has a DVB-T tuner.
Sony KLV60EX700 OMR1499.900
This is a 60-inch, full HD, 2-megapixel, edge-lit LED display with 100Hz motion flow. It sports 4 HDMI inputs, a USB port, P.I.P and Internet TV.
Sony KLV40NX700 OMR799.900
This is a 2-megapixel, full HD 40-inch edge-lit LED TV WITH 120Hz motion flow. It has 4 HDMI inputs, Internet TV, Wi-Fi, USB port and P.I.P.
Philips 46PFL9704 OMR1205.000
Besides the excellent design, this 46-inch LED TV is known for its ‘Ambilight’ technology. It supports various types of multimedia playback and has a three-way hybrid tuner that supports CI+ encryption.
Sharp LC60A77M OMR1359.000
This 60-inch LCD television has a full HD panel and a pure black filter that reproduces deeper black. It also has STS TruSurround, bass enhancer and RGB backlight system.
LG 60PS40 OMR964.900
No action sequence is too fast for the new PS40, 60-inch full HD plasma television. Its superior 600Hz Max Sub-Field Driving technology brings you 12 sub-fields per frame.
Panasonic TH-P50X20M OMR430.000
Panasonic’s plasma 50-inch TV has 3 HDMI inputs, 1-megapixel, HDReady display, 600Hz sub-field drive and a contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1. It also sports a Japan-made panel.
Samsung UA32C5000 OMR359.000
This is a 32-inch LED TV with a stunning picture quality and a 1080p display. It has two Dolby Digital and DTS decoders for a lush soundscape and includes 4 HDMI inputs.
LG 47LX9500 OMR1299.900
3D LED 47-inch screen, THX certified display, Wireless HD streaming, Magic Wand remote control, Internet enabled
LG 55LX9500 OMR1899.900
3D LED 55-inch screen, THX certified display, Wireless HD streaming, Magic Wand remote control, Internet enabled
Samsung PS63C7000 OMR2099.000 3D Plasma 63-inch screen, Dolby Digital Plus, SRS Theatre Sound, Real Black Filter, motion judder canceller
Panasonic TH-P50VT20M OMR1499.000 3D Plasma 50-inch screen, full HD, 4 HDMI/ PC input, THX surround sound, 5,000,000:1 contrast ratio
Sub – Players LG BD570 OMR119.900
Blu-Ray, JPEG photo playback, surround sound, Wi-Fi, Ethernet, cinema mode, built-in audio decoders
Samsung BDC6900 OMR159.000
Blu-Ray HD 3D support, Wireless LAN, 1GB built-in memory, full 1080p picture quality, ultra fast play
Sony DAV DZ910 OMR194.900
DVD/VCD/CD/MP3/JPEG/MPEG4/DivX playback, 5.1 Dolby digital surround sound, HDMI output, 4 floor-standing speakers
Philips HTS3568DW OMR179.900
5.1 surround system, full HD 1080p upscaling over HDMI, built-in FM tuner with 40 presets
Netbooks & Ultra Portables HP Pavilion dV6-3053 OMR480.000
Laptops
Intel Core i5 450M processor, 2.26GHz, 4GB DDR3 SDRAM, 512MB VRAM, 500GB HDD, 15.6-inch LED Touchsmart HD, DVD super multi drive, Wireless, Bluetooth, 5-in-1 digital media reader, 1.3MP web camera.
Asus A52J OMR415.900
Intel Core i5 430M processor, 2.26GHz CPU Speed, 4GB DDR3 RAM, 500GB HDD, 1GB ATI VRAM, 15.6-inch HD Glare LED, Wireless, Bluetooth, 1.3MP web camera, Windows 7 Home Premium.
Packard Bell TM86-JO-103AC OMR314.900
Intel Core i5 430M processor, 2.26GHz CPU speed, 4GB DDR2 RAM, 500GB HDD, 15.6-inch HD LED LCD, DVD super multi DL drive, Wireless, Bluetooth, 5-in-1 card reader, 1.3MP web camera.
Acer Aspire 5740-434G64 OMR319.900
Intel Core i5 430M processor, 2.26GHz CPU speed, 4GB RAM, 512MB VRAM, 640GB HDD, 15.6-inch HD Cinecrystal LED LCD, DVD super multi drive, Wireless, Bluetooth, web camera, Windows 7 Home Premium.
HP Pavilion dV8-1090ev OMR729.900
Asus 1201N OMR214.900
Intel Atom processor, 1GB DDR2 RAM, 250GB HDD, 12.1-inch LED display, Bluetooth, 1.3MP web camera
Dell Studio 13XPS - 0041 OMR469.900 Intel Core 2Duo, 3GB RAM, 320GB HDD, 512MB dedicated graphics, 13.3-inch WXGA wide screen
HP mini 210-1014ee OMR167.900
Intel Atom processor, 2048MB DDR2 SDRAM, 320GB HDD, 10.1-inch WSVGA anti-glare display, Bluetooth, web camera
Sony Vaio VPC-CM126AG/L OMR219.900 Intel Atom processor, 2GB RAM, 320GB HDD, 10.1-inch WXGA LCD, 3-in-1 card reader, 1.3MP web camera
LG X130 GA – 72BE1 OMR199.900 Intel Atom processor, 10.1-inch Glare WSVGA, 1GB DDR2 RAM, 160GB HDD, 1.3MP web camera, wireless, Bluetooth
Intel Core i7 720QM, 6144MB DDR3 SDRAM, 1024MB VRAM, 1TB DUAL HDD, 18.4-inch full high-definition LCD, Blu-Ray ROM, DVD super multi drive, Wireless, Bluetooth, 5-in-1 digital media reader, fingerprint.
Samsung NP-R580 – J505AE OMR463.900
Intel Core i7 620M, 2.13GHz CPU speed, 4GB DDR3 RAM, 320GB HDD, 15.6-inch HD WLED screen, DVD super multi DL drive, Wireless, Bluetooth, 512MB NVIDIA 310M (VRAM), 1.3MP web camera.
Asus 3D-G51J OMR849.900
Intel Core i7 720QM, 1.6GHz Turbo Boost, 4GB DDR3 RAM, 640GB HDD, 1GB VRAM, NVIDIA GEFORCE GT 230MC, 15.6-inch LED Screen, DVD Super Multi Drive,Wireless, Bluetooth, 5-in-1 digital media reader.
Dell Inspiron 5010-0089 OMR439.900
Intel Core i5 430M processor, 2.4GHz CPU speed, 6GB RAM, 640GB HDD, 15.6-inch HD WLED screen, DVD super multi drive, Blu-Ray disc ROM, Wireless, Bluetooth, 8-in-1 digital media reader, 1.3MP web camera.
HP Pavilion dV6-2170 OMR519.900
Intel Core i7 720QM processor, 1.6GHz, 4GB DDR3 SDRAM, 1024MB VRAM, 640GB HDD, 15.6-inch LED HD LCD, DVD super multi drive, Wireless, Bluetooth, 5-in-1 digital media reader, 1.3MP web camera.
Sony Vaio VPCEB26FA/W OMR389.900
Intel Core i3 350M processor, 2.26GHz CPU Speed, 4GB DDR3 SDRAM, 500GB HDD, 1GB DDR3 SDRAM dedicated graphics, 15.5-inch-wide HD LED, Wireless, Bluetooth, web camera, Windows 7 Home Premium.
Computer Accessories WD My Book External HD OMR67.900 Customisable e-label, automatic, visual backup, password protection, high-performance FireWire 800 interface
Bamboo Fun OMR121.900
Multi-touch controls with pen, attractive design, excellent choice for users who want to begin dabbling in art tools
LG Blu-Ray Disc Rewriter OMR135.900 Compatible with BD/DVD/CD formats, world’s fastest 8XBD-R writing speed, lightscribe, label discs with the writer
Transcend Portable HD OMR42.900
500GB, shockproof, extra durable construction, high speed with USB 2.0 connectivity
ADATA Flash Drive C801 OMR63.900
64GB, supports USB 2.0, backward compatible with USB 1.1, simple and stylish industrial design
Camcorders Samsung PL100 OMR89.900
Cameras
This is a user-friendly camera with Smart Auto feature that ensures that photos are not too dark or out of focus. It features a 35mm lens with 3x optical zoom and is paired with image stabilisation.
Sony TX7 OMR181.900
This camera comes with a 10.2megapixel resolution, 2x digital zoom and optical image stabiliser. It also packs a very good face detection, smile detection, blink detection and motion detection technology.
Olympus mju8000 OMR144.900
The MJU8000 is shockproof, waterproof and freeze proof. It comes with a 12MP sensor, a 3.6x wide angle lens and a 2.7-inch LCD screen. It is compact and more robust than the previous models in the Olympus range.
Canon LEGRIA HFM36 OMR339.000
8GB dual flash memory, relay recording, easy HD shooting, 2.7-inch touch-screen LCD, Dynamic OIS and Powered IS
Sony HDR-XR350E OMR399.900
160x digital zoom, built-in flash, face detection, night mode, built-in speaker, touch-screen control, backlight compensation
JVC GZ-HD500 OMR269.900
200x digital zoom, CMOS optical sensor, Built-in lens shield, face detection, Dolby digital AC-3 recording
Panasonic SDR-H95 OMR177.900 Leica DLUX-4 OMR296.900
The D-Lux 4 is a premium compact digital camera featuring a new 10-megapixel sensor with more light-sensitive area on each pixel, a 24 – 60mm wide-angle optical zoom lens, and RAW shooting capability.
Sony DSC-W360 OMR96.900
At 14.1 megapixel resolution with 4x optical zoom, this camera is slim and sports a 3-inch LCD display. It includes Sweep Panorama, iAuto and SteadyShot image stabilisation that makes taking pictures a cinch.
Canon IXUS210 OMR164.900
Successor of the 200IS, this has a touch screen to control operations with a 8.8cm screen, 5x zoom, optical stabilisation and an ultra-wide angle of 24mm. It sports a 14.1 megapixel lens with optical zoom.
Olympus EPL1 OMR399.900
With a 2.7-inch HyperCrystal LCD, this camera comes with a computerised focal-plane shutter, micro four-thirds interchangeable lens system and a SD memory card. It has a supersonic wave filter for dust reduction.
Samsung ST550 OMR119.900
The ST550 has an LCD screen on the front and the back. There is a face recognition feature that can recognise up to 20 faces and a touch and tilt mechanism for rotating a picture.
Panasonic TZ10 OMR180.000
Ideal for anyone looking for extra zoom power in a small camera, it comes with a 12x zoom lens and has manual exposure settings, aperture and shutter priority. GPS technology is built-in.
Samsung ST1000 OMR134.900
This has built-in GPS, GEO Tagging technology, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The camera has a recycling bin, preventing the accidental deletion of photos. It has a 5x optical zoom lens with a resolution of 12 megapixels.
CCD sensor, optical image stabiliser, 70x optical zoom, 120GB HDD, 2.7-inch LCD screen
Sanyo VPC-CG10 OMR69.900
10.66 megapixel resolution, optical zoom, auto focus, built-in flash, CMOS sensor, 3-inch LCD screen
DSLRS & Micro Four-Thirds Sony A550 OMR399.900
14.2 megapixel, quick auto focus live view, Smile Shutter technology, dual media slots, 3-inch LCD screen
Canon DSLR EOS 50D OMR529.900 15.1 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, DIGIC 4 processor, 3-inch Clear View VGA LCD, HDMI connection
Nikon D300S OMR639.900
12.3 megapixel, CMOS image sensor, 51-point auto focus, 3-inch super-density VGA LCD monitor
Olympus E620 OMR449.900
12.3 megapixel MOS sensor, built-in image stabilisation, rotating 2.7-inch LCD, 4fps continuous shooting
Canon DSLR Mark 4 OMR2329.900
16.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, 10fps shooting, 3-inch Clear View LCD, HD video recording
iPod Docks Blackberry Bold 9700 OMR249.900
Phones
This handset boasts of a sleeker design than its predecessors and includes an optical trackpad and a brilliant display. This smartphone is 3G capable and offers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a 3.2MP camera.
Samsung I9000 Galaxy S OMR249.900
Samsung’s latest smartphone is Android-powered and boasts an AMOLED touch-screen. It includes a 5MP camera with autofocus, HSDPA Internet connectivity, and 8GB storage. It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and GPS.
Motorola Milestone OMR251.900
JBL ON TIME OMR97.000
iPod dock, back light display, AM/FM radio, Aux input, bass Control
Logic3 iStation OMR24.900
Docking for iPod, FM radio, alarm clock, video output, Aux input, compatible with non-iPods
Logitech Pure – Fi dream OMR95.900 Bass and treble controls, alarm clock, AM/FM radio, integrated audio amplifiers, two speakers, built-in LCD display
Milestone has a full QWERTY keyboard with 5-way navigation keys, multitouch, high resolution screen. It is a smartphone that is Android-powered, with a 5MP camera with dual flash.
Bose Sound Dock-10 OMR249.900
Nokia N97 Mini OMR136.900
Boston Sound Dock OMR183.000
With a full QWERTY keyboard and handwriting recognition, this phone has a 5MP camera with autofocus, dual LED flash and an accelerometer sensor for auto-rotate.
iPod and iPhone dock, recharge and play, remote control, audio input
Made for iPod and iPhones, play and charge, wireless subwoofer
Nokia NK5800 Xpress OMR86.000
With a 2.9-inch touch-screen and A-GPS you can have access to the Nokia Music Store. It has a 3.2MP camera and micro SD card slot of up to 16GB.
MP3 Players Samsung S8500 Wave OMR179.900
The Wave is the first mobile handset to be released on the Samsung’s new, open mobile platform, Samsung Bada. It offers super AMOLED display, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, 1GB storage and a 5MP camera.
Samsung SGH S5620 OMR74.900
With A-GPS support, the handset is filled with additional features like the one-finger zoom, accelerometer sensor, image editor, a 3.2MP camera, geo-tagging and smile detection. Video recording is also possible.
Sony Ericsson U10i Classic OMR139.000
This latest smartphone sports an 8-megapixel camera, 3-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 240x432 pixels. In addition, it has Wi-Fi, A-GPS, 3G support and stereo Bluetooth.
Nokia X6 OMR122.900
This music-edition phone comes with a scratch-resistant glass surface and accelerometer sensor for auto-rotate. It also has a 5MP camera with Carl Zeiss optics, autofocus, dual LED flash and video light.
Sony Ericsson X2 OMR239.900
Xperia X2 comes with a full QWERTY keyboard and an optical trackpad. It has an accelerometer sensor, an 8MP camera with autofocus, 3G connectivity, Wi-Fi, GPS and a 528MHz processor.
For a copy of TECH on your desk , call 95413571
Apple iPod Nano 5G OMR65.900
8GB, Music MP3 player, video and photo view, video camera, FM radio, voice recording, support games
Apple iPod Touch OMR89.900
8GB, Wi-Fi, support games, MP3, video, photo, 3.5-inch widescreen multi-touch display, 480-by320 pixel resolution
Samsung MP4 Player CYP-R1C OMR52.900
8GB, 2.6-inch colour display, MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, AVI, DIVX playback, voice recording, Bluetooth, built-in games
Sony NWZ-B152F OMR20.900
2GB, monochrome display, supports MP3, WMA, interesting LED lighting, quick charge, FM radio, full bass sound
Sony Zappin NWZ-W252 OMR36.900
2GB, high speed connectivity, built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery, water-resistant
Refrigerators
Air Conditioners Samsung AS18UU OMR185.500
Samsung’s latest 1.5-ton capacity split air conditioner is best known for its antivirus plasma filter and silver nano health system.
General ASG18-HTR OMR253.900
This 1.5-ton split air conditioner comes with a Blue Fin coated condenser, silver nano health system, hyper tropical compressor, deo air filter and a plasma pure filter.
Samsung AWT18WHBM OMR118.500
Samsung’s 1.5-ton window air conditioner with a rotary compressor has a digital temperature control, anti-corrosion body, fuzzy logic feature and a silver nano health system.
Panasonic CS/CUC18KKF OMR197.900
With power cooling at 55 degree Celsius, this 1.5-ton capacity air conditioner has a Blue Fin coated condenser and an Eco sensor/plasma filter.
Electrolux ESSD-18 OMR128.900
This 1.5-ton window air conditioner has a reciprocating compressor with a digital temperature control and smooth air flow. It also has washable filters.
Hitachi RAN-209CP OMR132.900
This 1.5-ton window air conditioner has a high energy-efficient compressor with a super quite air flow. There is a symmetric twin flow air discharge, washable filters and a rotary compressor.
Toshiba RAS-18SKP OMR198.900
With a compact design and precise operation, Toshiba’s SKP series has a 7-layer air filter that cleans pollutants from the air. It operates at an extremely low 20 decibels in quiet mode.
Sanyo SA186M5 OMR114.000
Sanyo’s 1.5-ton window air conditioner is a low noise design with a rotary compressor and comes with an anti-bacteria filter. It is easy to clean and allows smooth air flow.
LG T186VC OMR282.900
LG Titan Premium, 1.5-ton capacity, is a low noise design with a British Allergy Foundation certified triple filter, cyclotron plasma and dynamic double vane air flow.
LG W186EC OMR109.900
LG’s 1.5-ton window air conditioner has a Gold Fin coated condenser, and is a low noise design. The filters are easy to clean and allows for smooth air flow.
Offers
Service
LG GRG 307STW OMR594.900
650l capacity, digital LED display, Bio shield, 15inch LCD with FM radio, water dispenser
Toshiba GRM-51GB/UT OMR184.900 480l capacity, double doors, frost-free freezer, platinum deodorizer, twist ice trays, wired shelves
Samsung RHS-3FTEP OMR399.500 650l capacity, tempered glass shelves, water dispenser with ice maker, home bar with LED display
Samsung RT77 OMR290.500
770l capacity, double doors, frost-free freezer, twist ice trays, tempered glass shelves, multi air-flow
Hitachi RW-660FUK OMR364.900
650l capacity, ice maker with water dispenser, nano titanium cooling system, four-door top mounted no-frost freezer
Washing machines Whirlpool AWG-5061M OMR138.500
5kg capacity washer, 10 programmes/600rpm, no-spin option, rinse hold option, temperature selection
Toshiba AW-SD150SB OMR185.900
13kg capacity, 6 wash programmes, memory option, digital display, water level selection, hydro twin power
Gorenje WA72145BK OMR209.900
7kg capacity, 17 programmes/1400rpm, quick wash, delay start, silent motor, low water and electricity consumption
LG WD-1255ERD OMR386.000
12kg washer, 6kg dryer, efficient use of water and detergent, automatic wash load detection, built-in heater
Samsung WD8704 OMR274.500
8kg washer, 5kg dryer, 11 programmes, 1400rpm, silver wash, air wash, delay start, child lock
Emax
Vacuum Cleaners Samsung CS1660 OMR69.500
Microwaves
This 45l biggest size combi oven with 900W microwave output power has touch control. It includes six power levels for cooking, five auto cook menus, five auto-defrost menus and a crusty plate.
Samsung CQV513 OMR184.500
A 36l oven with 800W microwave output power and 1540W grill power, Samsung’s latest family-size combi steam oven has six power levels for cooking. It also has auto steam cook and auto power defrost.
Sanyo EMG8586 OMR44.900
A 36l microwave/grill with 1,100W power, Sanyo’s Cook ‘n’ Grill has ten power levels for cooking and eight auto menus. It also includes a time and weight defrost feature.
GE GMOH30UCP OMR56.900
A 30l convection microwave/grill with electronic touch control, GE’s latest in this series has time and weight defrost feature and express cook. It has a 1000W grill power and 900W microwave power.
Panasonic NN-CD997S OMR149.900
With a 42l oven capacity, three stage memory, delay start, two level shelf cooking, Panasonic’s exclusive Inverter technology is the only microwave technology that offers real power level control.
Midea MM717CMQ OMR14.900
LG V KC902HT OMR77.500
2000W compressor, motorised dust compression technology, HEPA dust filters, bag full indicator digital sensor
Panasonic MC-CJ907 OMR79.900
Canister vacuum cleaner, 6.2l bag capacity, low noise levels, HEPA allergy filter, EZ Release feature
Samsung SD9420 OMR69.500
Aquatic canister vacuum cleaner, 2l dust capacity, HEPA 12 filter, two-step brush, steel telescopic pipe, bagless
Karcher SV1802 OMR230.000
Steam vacuum cleaner, four suction settings, five steam-flow settings, coarse dirt filter, foam filter, HEPA filter
Hoover V091B OMR73.400
2400W vacuum cleaner, variable power control, washable central HEPA exhaust filter, 3.25l dust capacity
Domestic Appliances
This is a 17l microwave oven with five power level settings. It has a mechanical timer setting for defrosting. And depending on the weight of the food placed inside, the defrosting setting can be adjusted.
Tefal Actifry OMR87.900
LG MP9489SCR OMR129.900
George Foreman GVR160S OMR39.900
LG’s 40l capacity convection microwave/grill is a light oven SolarDOM with speed auto cook menus, child lock and quick start feature. It also allows you to cook food with the heater and microwave at the same time.
LG MS2327 OMR28.900
1400W power, digital display, only one spoon of oil for 1kg of crispy chips, easy basket handling Grill machine, patented sloped design, preheat indicator light, dishwasher-safe tray and spatula, nonstick-coating
Philips HR1341, HR2094 OMR35.500
This is a 23l microwave that has a mechanical timer and five power levels. It also has a turntable that can detect the weight of the food and then adjust the cooking time accordingly.
750W power, 2l with serrated blades for superior blending and crushing, smoothie making, illuminated switch
Sharp R-667BKA OMR42.000
Braun Multisystem K3000 OMR162.900
Sharp R-85STMA OMR95.000
Kenwood KM760 OMR194.700
This latest microwave has a grill power of 1000W and microwave power of 800W. It has six power levels and 12 cooking or defrosting programmes. It also has healthy menus for low fat food.
A 26l convection microwave/grill with touch control operation, the oven has Instant Cook, Express Cook, Express Defrost automatic features. It also has an electronic timer with an easy-to-read LCD display for precise cooking and defrosting.
950W power Kitchen Machine, 8.45 cups bowl capacity, speed control, automatic and manual pulse function 1200W Kitchen Machine, 28.32 cups bowl capacity, speed control, automatic and manual pulse setting
PSP 3000 OMR71.000
Gaming Consoles
This current version of the PlayStation Portable has a built-in microphone and a better screen that is even able to resist glare and so works better outdoors.
Nintendo DSi XL OMR95.000
The DSi XL is the longest, widest and heaviest of the DS models and features two 4.2-inch screens.
XBOX 360 Elite OMR102.000
The Xbox 360 Elite’s combination of top-notch gaming and digital media features make it a brilliant choice for gamers. It features a user-friendly Dashboard interface, supports wireless controllers and almost all games are in native high-definition.
Logitech G15 OMR68.000
The GamePanel LCD in this gaming keyboard keeps you informed of the game stats and other vital information to help you claim victory. It includes six programmable G-keys that let you create macros on the fly.
Logitech G35 OMR64.000
Logitech’s G35 Surround Sound Headset for gamers offers an immersive 7.1 soundscape powered by Dolby Digital, over two physical channels. It has a full speed, all-digital USB connection and delivers clean and clear audio.
Logitech G9X OMR36.900
The G9X Laser mouse ramps up to 5,000 dpi and boasts a customisable grip and weighting system. It also has customisable LED lighting and uses Teflon feet to ensure smooth gliding over difficult or dusty surfaces.
Belkin n52te OMR31.900
The n52te features a backlit keypad and scroll wheel for total control in dark conditions, an enhanced tactile feedback and button responsiveness for rapid key presses and 15 fully programmable keys built for speed.
PS3 Slim 250GB OMR 155
The PlayStation 3 returns with more capacity than ever (250GB), is slim and has lower power consumption. It supports media streaming and its drive allows you to play Blu-Ray movies as well.
Ferrari Wireless GT Cockpit OMR139.000
The Ferrari Wireless GT Cockpit 430-Scuderia Edition PS3 is the new gaming accessory that features a built-in wheel measuring 11 inches in diameter and has a pedal set with magnetic resistance for clutter-free and more realistic pedal mashing.
Nintendo Wii with Sports Resort OMR93.900
The fastest selling console in history just got better. The Wii now sells its Wii Sports Resort and Wii MotionPlus accessory bundled into the console package at an extremely competitive price.
Our Current Top 5 Reccomended Games StarCraft 2 Wings of Liberty OMR25.700 Publisher: Blizzard Developer: Blizzard Platform(s): PC Genre: Strategy ESRB Rating: Teen
Super Mario Galaxy 2 OMR26.700 Publisher: Nintendo Developer: Nintendo Platform(s): Wii Genre: Adventure ESRB Rating: Everyone
Red Dead Redemption OMR28.900
Publisher: Rockstar Games Developer: Rockstar San Diego Platform(s): Xbox 360, PS3 Genre: Action ESRB Rating: Mature
Blur OMR28.900
Publisher: Activision Developer: Bizarre Creations Platform(s): Xbox 360, PS3, PC Genre: Driving ESRB Rating: Everyone 10 and older
Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker OMR18.100 Publisher: Konami Developer: Kojima Productions Platform(s): PSP Genre: Action ESRB Rating: Mature
*All lists are in no particular order and prices are subject to change at the retailer’s discretion
Company
Product
Showroom
Service Dept.
Al Khalili Group
Acer
Wadi Kabir 24816303
24816303
Bahwan Electornics
Asset, Carrier, Ignis, Napro, Toshiba, Seiko, Casio, Titan, Sony Ericsson, Tempstar, Cooline, Corning, Print electronics, Dolphin, Benq, Ausonia, Daewoo, VIP, Dometic, Corby
Ruwi 24796629/32
24501965 / 66
Jawahir Oman
Bang & Olufsen
Qurm 24563213
24563213
Belltel
Nokia
Ruwi 24798222
24798222
Genetco
Sanyo, Videocon , Fujitsu, Thomson, York, Yamaha, Canon , HAAS, AEG, Sure, Caravell, Gulf Star, Safari, Admiral, Francia, Mitsubishi, Marc Climatic, Vortice, Guntner, Zanussi , Ziegra Imesa, Bitzer , Manitowoc, Bremer, Dito- Electrolux, Metro , Taylor, Costan
Al Qurum 24568806 Al Qurum 24561948 Muttrah 24713138 Ruwi 24830919 Seeb 24422797 Shatti al Qurum 24693292
24503653
HiTec Centre
Boston Accoustics, Denon, Leica, Polk Audio
Azaiba 24497384
24497384
Jumbo Electronics
Sony, Blackberry, Supra
MBD 24818358, Al Araimi 24565845 QCC 24470529, Salalah 23291984
Wadi Kabir 24814815, 24814751, Fax 24815267
Khimji Luxury
Krups, Moulinex
Ruwi 24796161
99881627
K R Household
O General, Siemens
Wadi Kabir 24813333
24814793
MHD
Fagor, Pioneer
Ruwi 24732440
24732440
Meta Galaxy
Hitachi
Ruwi 24503653
24503653
Muscat Electronics
Daikin, Ricoh, Sony, Chigo,
Ruwi 24702982
24813408
Sansui, JBL Mustafa Sultan
Samsung, Haier, Philips, Nevica, Whirlpool
Al Khuwair 24636015
Wadi Kabir 24799450
Oman International Electronics & Trading Co.
Bose, Nec, JVC
Qurm 24565490
24830606
Oman Trading Est.
Bosch, LG, Palson, TCL, Prolux, Promate, Pearl, Souq Technia, GHanz, White Westinghouse, Hostess, Kenstar,
Ruwi 24834162 Al Araimi 2456148, 24810522
24810522, 24810156, 80075545
Omasco
Raymond Weil, Kolber, Westar, Alba, Maxima, HMT, Panasonic, Xper, Aftron, Black&Decker, GE
Qurm, 24564310 Ruwi 24833630
24560232
OMASCO - System Solutions
Panasonic
24565696
24565696
Sarco
Samsung, Frigidaire, Technoflame
Ruwi 24795503
Ghala 24593025
Sayed Bin Nasser Al Hashar
Ariston, Rinnai, Voltas, JBL, Kirloskar, Kardex, Lexmark
Ruwi 24700571 Ruwi 24706004, 24796007 Ruwi High Street 24834460 Salalah 23291405, Sohar 26840763 Sur 25544613
24704494
24702555
Oman Modern Electronics Co.
Sharp, JBL, Mastergas, Harman/Kardon, Onida, Nikai,
24702555
Shah Nagardas Manji Co.
Kodak, Olympus, Yashica, Cokin, Case Logic, Lexar, Noritsu, Durst, Bushnell, Eiki, Iriver, Steiner, Tasco, White Westinghouse, Igloo, Venus, Russel Hobbs, Addis, Noritake, Ocean, Wenger,
Ruwi 24703803, Qurm 24562656 Lulu Baushe 24593806, Nizwa 25410184
Emax
Multibrand
MCC 24558062, Fax 24558063
Technical Trading Co.
Westinghouse
Ruwi 24703515, Fax 24700010
Photocentre
Amano, Archivtechnik Kunze, Unomat Intl., Broncolor, Delkin Devices, Fuji Film, Epson, Green Clean, Hama, Hasselbald, Marumi, Mitsubishu Electric, Peli, Sigma, Sinar
Qurm 24565305 Al Khuwair 24479296
P&G
Brawn, Oral-B
24815474
Salman Store
Seb, Janome, Coolex
24799332
Abu Hani
La Germania, Starway, Westar, Starline, Tatung
24495141
Jashanmal
Mytag, Hoover
24702312
Loay
Macintosh, Benq, Epson, Sokkia, Acer
24708795
If you would like to be listed or make corrections, e-mail: tech@deenarmedia.com
24700883
24491327
24708845