"A Nightmare on Elm Street," the latest slasher film from a newly-resurrected hit movie franchise, topped the weekend North American box office with 32.9 million dollars in receipts, final figures showed Monday.
Last weekend's top earner, animated Dreamworks fantasy hit "How to Train Your Dragon," fell to second place with 10.6 million dollars in ticket sales, box office tracker Exhibitor Relations said.
In third place was slapstick comedy "Date Night," starring Tina Fey and Steve Carrell about the misadventures of a jaded married couple in search of a rare romantic evening without their kids, which earned 7.6 million dollars.
Fourth place went to "The Back-Up Plan," a romantic comedy starring Jennifer Lopez, which took 7.3 million dollars in receipts.
Kiddie flick "Furry Vengeance" about a group of woodland critters who join together to prevent the construction of a housing development on an animal reserve, debuted in fifth place, earning 6.6 million dollars.
In sixth place was "The Losers," an action film adaptation of the comic book of the same name, with 5.9 million dollars in its opening weekend.
"Clash of the Titans," a critically-panned blockbuster based on the exploits of Perseus and his battles with the serpent-haired Medusa and a fearsome sea monster, fell one spot to number seven, earning 5.85 million dollars.
Falling three places to the eighth spot was "Kick-Ass," the controversial action hero movie featuring Nicolas Cage and a host of foul-mouthed, pint-sized crime fighters, which took in 4.5 million dollars.
Ninth place went to the remake "Death at a Funeral," featuring Chris Rock, Martin Lawrence and Tracy Morgan, fell three spots to number seven, with 4.1 million dollars.
Rounding out the top ten was the nature documentary "Oceans," which took in 2.6 million dollars.
Monday, May 03, 2010
Iron Man 2 opens big at international box office
A week before the summer movie season officially launches in North America, superhero film "Iron Man 2" got off to a flying start overseas with an international debut of $100.2 million, according to box office estimates issued Sunday.
"Iron Man 2" will open Friday in the United States and Canada, a market that this past weekend saw horror film remake "A Nightmare on Elm Street" take No. 1 with $32.2 million.
Paul Dergarabedian, president of tracking firm Hollywood.com Box Office, said he expects "Iron Man 2" to make more than $120 million when it opens in the United States and Canada.
"There's just tremendous interest," he said. "It's the kickoff of the summer movie season. People loved the first film so they're going to line up for the second one -- it should be one of the biggest opening weekends of all time."
"Iron Man 2" opened in 53 international territories this past weekend and made $100.2 million at 6,764 theaters, according to studio estimates.
The film was particularly strong in the United Kingdom, where it made $12.2 million, and South Korea, where it debuted to $10.8 million.
The movie is based on a Marvel Entertainment comic book. It stars Robert Downey Jr. as a billionaire with a suit of armor that he dons to jet through the air and blast away enemies.
The Walt Disney Co last year paid $4 billion to buy Marvel, which in recent years has used its studio division to spearhead film versions of its comic books. "Iron Man 2" is the first Marvel film since that deal closed.
Under an agreement that predates Disney's acquisition of Marvel, Viacom Inc's Paramount Pictures is distributing "Iron Man 2."
"Iron Man" made $98.6 million in U.S. and Canadian theaters during its opening weekend in 2008. Paramount said Sunday that for the 53 territories where "Iron Man 2" debuted, it beat "Iron Man's" opening gross in local currency by 26 percent.
"Iron Man" made $585 million at worldwide box offices.
SCARING THE COMPETITION
The $32.2 million made by "A Nightmare on Elm Street" is a record for any horror film opening in April or May, said Dan Fellman, president of domestic distribution for Time Warner Inc's Warner Bros, the studio behind "Nightmare."
The animated "How To Train Your Dragon" came in at No. 2 with $10.8 million, a drop of about 30 percent from last weekend. Romantic comedy "Date Night" pulled in $7.6 million and fell only 27 percent to land at No. 3.
"Nightmare" stars Jackie Earle Haley as the murderous Freddy Krueger, who slashes to death teenage victims in their dreams. It is a remake of a 1984 release of the same name and the ninth installment in the franchise.
"There's always been great interest in this franchise," Fellman said.
The horror movie cost a little more than $30 million to produce and opened slightly above expectations.
Meanwhile, opening just below expectations was the family comedy "Furry Vengeance" starring Brendan Fraser, which made $6.5 million at U.S. and Canada box offices and came in at fifth place for independent studio Summit Entertainment.
"The Back-up Plan," starring Jennifer Lopez in her first film since 2006, pulled in $7.2 million in its second weekend to land at No. 4. The romantic comedy is from CBS Films, a unit of CBS Corp.
"How To Train Your Dragon" was produced by DreamWorks Animation SKG and distributed by Paramount. It has made $192.4 million in the U.S. and Canada since its March opening.
"Date Night" is from News Corp's 20th Century Fox. It has pulled in $73.6 million since its April 9 debut.
(Reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis: Editing by Bill Trott)
"Iron Man 2" will open Friday in the United States and Canada, a market that this past weekend saw horror film remake "A Nightmare on Elm Street" take No. 1 with $32.2 million.
Paul Dergarabedian, president of tracking firm Hollywood.com Box Office, said he expects "Iron Man 2" to make more than $120 million when it opens in the United States and Canada.
"There's just tremendous interest," he said. "It's the kickoff of the summer movie season. People loved the first film so they're going to line up for the second one -- it should be one of the biggest opening weekends of all time."
"Iron Man 2" opened in 53 international territories this past weekend and made $100.2 million at 6,764 theaters, according to studio estimates.
The film was particularly strong in the United Kingdom, where it made $12.2 million, and South Korea, where it debuted to $10.8 million.
The movie is based on a Marvel Entertainment comic book. It stars Robert Downey Jr. as a billionaire with a suit of armor that he dons to jet through the air and blast away enemies.
The Walt Disney Co last year paid $4 billion to buy Marvel, which in recent years has used its studio division to spearhead film versions of its comic books. "Iron Man 2" is the first Marvel film since that deal closed.
Under an agreement that predates Disney's acquisition of Marvel, Viacom Inc's Paramount Pictures is distributing "Iron Man 2."
"Iron Man" made $98.6 million in U.S. and Canadian theaters during its opening weekend in 2008. Paramount said Sunday that for the 53 territories where "Iron Man 2" debuted, it beat "Iron Man's" opening gross in local currency by 26 percent.
"Iron Man" made $585 million at worldwide box offices.
SCARING THE COMPETITION
The $32.2 million made by "A Nightmare on Elm Street" is a record for any horror film opening in April or May, said Dan Fellman, president of domestic distribution for Time Warner Inc's Warner Bros, the studio behind "Nightmare."
The animated "How To Train Your Dragon" came in at No. 2 with $10.8 million, a drop of about 30 percent from last weekend. Romantic comedy "Date Night" pulled in $7.6 million and fell only 27 percent to land at No. 3.
"Nightmare" stars Jackie Earle Haley as the murderous Freddy Krueger, who slashes to death teenage victims in their dreams. It is a remake of a 1984 release of the same name and the ninth installment in the franchise.
"There's always been great interest in this franchise," Fellman said.
The horror movie cost a little more than $30 million to produce and opened slightly above expectations.
Meanwhile, opening just below expectations was the family comedy "Furry Vengeance" starring Brendan Fraser, which made $6.5 million at U.S. and Canada box offices and came in at fifth place for independent studio Summit Entertainment.
"The Back-up Plan," starring Jennifer Lopez in her first film since 2006, pulled in $7.2 million in its second weekend to land at No. 4. The romantic comedy is from CBS Films, a unit of CBS Corp.
"How To Train Your Dragon" was produced by DreamWorks Animation SKG and distributed by Paramount. It has made $192.4 million in the U.S. and Canada since its March opening.
"Date Night" is from News Corp's 20th Century Fox. It has pulled in $73.6 million since its April 9 debut.
(Reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis: Editing by Bill Trott)
IBM buys cloud computing firm Cast Iron Systems
Technology giant IBM announced Monday it has bought cloud computing specialty firm Cast Iron Systems to ride the hot trend in offering programs as services hosted online.
IBM touted California-based Cast Iron Systems as having been enlisted by thousands of firms including Allianz, Dow Jones, and Time Warner to use software as Internet services.
"In today?s competitive global business environment, companies are recognizing the need to reduce complexity and cost in order to increase their business agility," IBM said in a release.
"To do so, many organizations are accessing key business applications through software as a service models and cloud deployments."
Cloud computing essentially lets users rent programs and access them as needed on the Internet instead of buying software that they need to install, maintain and update on their own computers.
IBM predicted that the global cloud computing market will grow 28 percent annually to 126 billion dollars by the year 2012.
US-based IBM planned to use the expertise of Cast Iron Systems to enable business customers to quickly blend on-premise computer systems with applications provided as services on the Internet.
"The combination of IBM and Cast Iron Systems will make it easy for clients to integrate business applications, no matter where those applications reside," said IBM WebSphere general manager Craig Hayman.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
IBM touted California-based Cast Iron Systems as having been enlisted by thousands of firms including Allianz, Dow Jones, and Time Warner to use software as Internet services.
"In today?s competitive global business environment, companies are recognizing the need to reduce complexity and cost in order to increase their business agility," IBM said in a release.
"To do so, many organizations are accessing key business applications through software as a service models and cloud deployments."
Cloud computing essentially lets users rent programs and access them as needed on the Internet instead of buying software that they need to install, maintain and update on their own computers.
IBM predicted that the global cloud computing market will grow 28 percent annually to 126 billion dollars by the year 2012.
US-based IBM planned to use the expertise of Cast Iron Systems to enable business customers to quickly blend on-premise computer systems with applications provided as services on the Internet.
"The combination of IBM and Cast Iron Systems will make it easy for clients to integrate business applications, no matter where those applications reside," said IBM WebSphere general manager Craig Hayman.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
How to Access Free Wi-Fi
1 Go to a business that offers free Wi-Fi. Go to food businesses like Bruegger's Bagels, Caribou Coffee, Panera Bread Company, and Krystal Restaurants that offer free Wi-Fi. Look on the wall for access info or ask an employee about the secret code you will need. Visit supply stores for free access like Office Depot, Staples, Apple Stores, and CompUSA stores. Check out other businesses that may offer free Wi-Fi depending on location such as Wegman's Supermarkets, EZ Lube Service Centers, and truck stops.
2 Visit a local airport with free Wi-Fi. Most airports have free Wi-Fi. Go to Northwest Airlines WorldClubs or Alaska Airlines Clubs. Park yourself just outside the club and you can sometimes get free Wi-Fi as well.
3 Stay at hotels, motels, and inns with free Wi-Fi. Most hotels have free Wi-Fi for the guests. Some even have free Wi-Fi access to anyone in the lobby area. Ask at the front desk about the access code.
4 Check out an RV and Campground with free Wi-Fi. Subscribe to KOAKonnect dial-up service and get free Wi-Fi to the Hotspotzz Network at participating KOA Campgrounds. Ask at the front desk for other free Wi-Fi access programs at your favorite campground.
5 Book a vacation rental property with free Wi-Fi. Book through a rental property management group in popular vacation areas. Most vacation rental owners have added free Wi-Fi in order to compete in a Wi-Fi happy world. Many also have computers for you to use to access the Internet.
6 Find free Wi-Fi Hotspots in your area. Many parks and other government facilities offer free Internet access. Check out your county's website for a list of locations.
2 Visit a local airport with free Wi-Fi. Most airports have free Wi-Fi. Go to Northwest Airlines WorldClubs or Alaska Airlines Clubs. Park yourself just outside the club and you can sometimes get free Wi-Fi as well.
3 Stay at hotels, motels, and inns with free Wi-Fi. Most hotels have free Wi-Fi for the guests. Some even have free Wi-Fi access to anyone in the lobby area. Ask at the front desk about the access code.
4 Check out an RV and Campground with free Wi-Fi. Subscribe to KOAKonnect dial-up service and get free Wi-Fi to the Hotspotzz Network at participating KOA Campgrounds. Ask at the front desk for other free Wi-Fi access programs at your favorite campground.
5 Book a vacation rental property with free Wi-Fi. Book through a rental property management group in popular vacation areas. Most vacation rental owners have added free Wi-Fi in order to compete in a Wi-Fi happy world. Many also have computers for you to use to access the Internet.
6 Find free Wi-Fi Hotspots in your area. Many parks and other government facilities offer free Internet access. Check out your county's website for a list of locations.
Nintendo launches dark Wii, expanded bundle in US
Nintendo Co. is trying to expand U.S. sales of the Wii by throwing in an extra game and its MotionPlus accessory for making the console's signature motion-sensing wand more precise. The company is also offering a black version of the system as an alternative to the game system's white casing.
The packages will sell for $200, which is what the Wii, bundled with "Wii Sports" and the wand, currently costs. Nintendo said on Monday that it will add "Wii Sports Resort" and the MotionPlus to the bundle. The new packages and the black Wiis will be available in the U.S. and other markets in the Americas starting Sunday.
Black Wiis have already been available in Japan and Europe, and their U.S. announcement has been expected. Nintendo, based in Japan, did not give specific pricing for the console packages outside the U.S. but said it would be comparable.
The Wii is the world's most popular video game console, its sales eclipsing both Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 3 and Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox 360. But both Sony and Microsoft are coming out with their versions of motion controllers later this year, potentially challenging the Wii's popularity.
Reggie Fils-Aime, the president of Nintendo of America, said the company is looking to bring in consumers who've been sitting on the fence about buying a Wii. He described the new deal as a "value enhancement" rather than a price cut. "Wii Sports Resort," which comes with MotionPlus, costs $50, though some retailers offer deals for $40.
The packages will sell for $200, which is what the Wii, bundled with "Wii Sports" and the wand, currently costs. Nintendo said on Monday that it will add "Wii Sports Resort" and the MotionPlus to the bundle. The new packages and the black Wiis will be available in the U.S. and other markets in the Americas starting Sunday.
Black Wiis have already been available in Japan and Europe, and their U.S. announcement has been expected. Nintendo, based in Japan, did not give specific pricing for the console packages outside the U.S. but said it would be comparable.
The Wii is the world's most popular video game console, its sales eclipsing both Sony Corp.'s PlayStation 3 and Microsoft Corp.'s Xbox 360. But both Sony and Microsoft are coming out with their versions of motion controllers later this year, potentially challenging the Wii's popularity.
Reggie Fils-Aime, the president of Nintendo of America, said the company is looking to bring in consumers who've been sitting on the fence about buying a Wii. He described the new deal as a "value enhancement" rather than a price cut. "Wii Sports Resort," which comes with MotionPlus, costs $50, though some retailers offer deals for $40.
Apple sells 1 million iPads, outdoing first iPhone
Apple Inc. said Monday that is has sold 1 million of its new iPad tablet computers in the month after its launch, meaning it's been selling more than twice as fast as the iPhone did when it was new.
Apple said it reached the milestone on Friday, when the new 3G model of the iPad was delivered to its first buyers. That model can access AT&T's cellular broadband network. The first models had only Wi-Fi access.
"One million iPads in 28 days — that's less than half of the 74 days it took to achieve this milestone with iPhone," said CEO Steve Jobs. Demand keeps exceeding supply for the tablet, he added.
The iPad went on sale in the U.S. on April 3. Apple has already the delayed the international launch of the device, saying sales in the U.S. were unexpectedly strong. It's planning to start taking orders for the iPad from international buyers on May 10.
Apple shares rose $5.26, or 2 percent, to close at $266.35 Monday.
The iPad is half an inch thick and has a 9.7-inch screen. The Wi-Fi-only models start at $499, and the 3G models at $629.
Apple said it reached the milestone on Friday, when the new 3G model of the iPad was delivered to its first buyers. That model can access AT&T's cellular broadband network. The first models had only Wi-Fi access.
"One million iPads in 28 days — that's less than half of the 74 days it took to achieve this milestone with iPhone," said CEO Steve Jobs. Demand keeps exceeding supply for the tablet, he added.
The iPad went on sale in the U.S. on April 3. Apple has already the delayed the international launch of the device, saying sales in the U.S. were unexpectedly strong. It's planning to start taking orders for the iPad from international buyers on May 10.
Apple shares rose $5.26, or 2 percent, to close at $266.35 Monday.
The iPad is half an inch thick and has a 9.7-inch screen. The Wi-Fi-only models start at $499, and the 3G models at $629.
Saturday, May 01, 2010
Install Windows 7 the Right Way
How to get Microsoft's new OS up and running on your rig
Got your hands on Windows 7? Excellent. It's time to install this bad boy. But you want to make sure you're installing it right. Our no-nonsense install guide shows you the right way to install Windows 7 and tells you exactly what you should do the moment your install completes.
1. Back Up Your PC
Before beginning a new OS installation, it’s crucial that you back up your documents and media—after all, we recommend a clean install to minimize cruft and maximize performance. The safest, easiest way to do this is to buy a new hard disk and replace your old one. With speedy 1TB drives around $100, it’s never a bad time to upgrade your storage, and using a clean drive to install your OS means all your files are already backed up; just connect your old hard drive when you’re done and transfer over what you need.
If you’ve updated recently, or don’t want to spend the cash, you’ll want to make sure to back up the files you need to a different partition or physical drive. The most important place to look for files is in your user profile directory, which contains your Documents, Desktop, Pictures, and Application Data folders. We generally recommend backing up the entire C:/Users/ path. Remember to grab any needed program data or game saves from your Program Files folder, and also make sure to grab any other important directories you’ve created on the disk that are outside these standard paths, such as C:/Download.
2. Start the Installer
Note: If you want to install Windows 7 from a USB key, read our instructions here.
Microsoft has made installing Windows 7 simpler than with any previous version of Windows. You just drop the DVD in the tray, and restart your system. At some point during the boot, you’ll be given the option to “Press any key to boot from CD/DVD,” or something along those lines—do so. (If you don’t get this option, go into the BIOS and move the DVD drive ahead of the hard drive in the boot order). Windows will load files from the disk for a moment, then the installer will launch. Select your language preferences, then click Install Now.
Accept the Windows license agreement and choose to do a Custom install. Now, select the system partition you want to install to. (If you’re installing onto a new drive, you may need to create a partition by pressing the New button). If you’re installing over an old partition, it’s a good idea to format it to remove the remnants of the old OS before you install Win7. WARNING: Formatting removes all data from a drive, so make sure you’ve backed up everything. This is the point of no return. That’s all Windows 7 needs to know, so go make yourself a sandwich while your new OS is installed.
3. Finish the Install
Once the install is complete, you’ll be asked for a user name and computer name. We generally recommend using a more creative name than “PC” or “Laptop” for your computer name, to make networking easier. You’ll be given the option to create a password for your account, but you can skip this if you want to. You’ll then be asked for your activation key, although you can skip this step as well—Windows 7 will run for 30 days without a key or activation. Next, you’ll be prompted to choose Windows update settings; we recommend “Use recommended settings.” Set the clock and choose your time zone, and you’re ready to start using your new system.
Post-Install Guide
It's time to get your new OS in order
1. Install Drivers
Windows Update does a pretty good job of automatically downloading and installing the drivers your system needs, but that doesn’t mean you’ll never need to manually download a driver again. We recommend that you start (as always) by installing your motherboard’s chipset/NIC drivers. It’s also worth it to manually install the latest drivers for your videocard. Even though Windows update will most likely find drivers for your GPU, it probably won’t be the most up-to-date version available. Use Windows 7 drivers whenever they’re available, but if they aren’t, we’ve had good luck using Vista drivers on Windows 7.
2. Configure User Account Control Settings
In Vista, one of the first things you had to do with any install was disable UAC to prevent those incessant “Do you really want to install this?” prompts. Fortunately, Microsoft has tweaked the default UAC setting in Windows 7. Now, it strikes an excellent balance of keeping you safe with minimal annoyance, popping up alerts only when programs attempt to install software or alter your settings. If you want a higher level of security, you can open the UAC manager (in the control panel under Security) and raise the UAC to the maximum level, which is similar to Vista mode and will trigger an alert for pretty much anything. Alternately, you can disable notifications entirely by setting UAC to its lowest setting.
3. Restore Your Data
If you took our advice and started with a fresh hard drive, all you’ll have to do to restore your old data is connect your old HDD to a secondary SATA port and transfer over all your old files. Copy over all the important data we mentioned earlier, but be sure not to simply copy your old user profile directory over to your new one. Instead, fish out all the documents and media you need, remembering to collect important files from the hidden AppData folder, which usually includes your browser profiles and Outlook data.
Got your hands on Windows 7? Excellent. It's time to install this bad boy. But you want to make sure you're installing it right. Our no-nonsense install guide shows you the right way to install Windows 7 and tells you exactly what you should do the moment your install completes.
1. Back Up Your PC
Before beginning a new OS installation, it’s crucial that you back up your documents and media—after all, we recommend a clean install to minimize cruft and maximize performance. The safest, easiest way to do this is to buy a new hard disk and replace your old one. With speedy 1TB drives around $100, it’s never a bad time to upgrade your storage, and using a clean drive to install your OS means all your files are already backed up; just connect your old hard drive when you’re done and transfer over what you need.
If you’ve updated recently, or don’t want to spend the cash, you’ll want to make sure to back up the files you need to a different partition or physical drive. The most important place to look for files is in your user profile directory, which contains your Documents, Desktop, Pictures, and Application Data folders. We generally recommend backing up the entire C:/Users/
2. Start the Installer
Note: If you want to install Windows 7 from a USB key, read our instructions here.
Microsoft has made installing Windows 7 simpler than with any previous version of Windows. You just drop the DVD in the tray, and restart your system. At some point during the boot, you’ll be given the option to “Press any key to boot from CD/DVD,” or something along those lines—do so. (If you don’t get this option, go into the BIOS and move the DVD drive ahead of the hard drive in the boot order). Windows will load files from the disk for a moment, then the installer will launch. Select your language preferences, then click Install Now.
Accept the Windows license agreement and choose to do a Custom install. Now, select the system partition you want to install to. (If you’re installing onto a new drive, you may need to create a partition by pressing the New button). If you’re installing over an old partition, it’s a good idea to format it to remove the remnants of the old OS before you install Win7. WARNING: Formatting removes all data from a drive, so make sure you’ve backed up everything. This is the point of no return. That’s all Windows 7 needs to know, so go make yourself a sandwich while your new OS is installed.
3. Finish the Install
Once the install is complete, you’ll be asked for a user name and computer name. We generally recommend using a more creative name than “PC” or “Laptop” for your computer name, to make networking easier. You’ll be given the option to create a password for your account, but you can skip this if you want to. You’ll then be asked for your activation key, although you can skip this step as well—Windows 7 will run for 30 days without a key or activation. Next, you’ll be prompted to choose Windows update settings; we recommend “Use recommended settings.” Set the clock and choose your time zone, and you’re ready to start using your new system.
Post-Install Guide
It's time to get your new OS in order
1. Install Drivers
Windows Update does a pretty good job of automatically downloading and installing the drivers your system needs, but that doesn’t mean you’ll never need to manually download a driver again. We recommend that you start (as always) by installing your motherboard’s chipset/NIC drivers. It’s also worth it to manually install the latest drivers for your videocard. Even though Windows update will most likely find drivers for your GPU, it probably won’t be the most up-to-date version available. Use Windows 7 drivers whenever they’re available, but if they aren’t, we’ve had good luck using Vista drivers on Windows 7.
2. Configure User Account Control Settings
In Vista, one of the first things you had to do with any install was disable UAC to prevent those incessant “Do you really want to install this?” prompts. Fortunately, Microsoft has tweaked the default UAC setting in Windows 7. Now, it strikes an excellent balance of keeping you safe with minimal annoyance, popping up alerts only when programs attempt to install software or alter your settings. If you want a higher level of security, you can open the UAC manager (in the control panel under Security) and raise the UAC to the maximum level, which is similar to Vista mode and will trigger an alert for pretty much anything. Alternately, you can disable notifications entirely by setting UAC to its lowest setting.
3. Restore Your Data
If you took our advice and started with a fresh hard drive, all you’ll have to do to restore your old data is connect your old HDD to a secondary SATA port and transfer over all your old files. Copy over all the important data we mentioned earlier, but be sure not to simply copy your old user profile directory over to your new one. Instead, fish out all the documents and media you need, remembering to collect important files from the hidden AppData folder, which usually includes your browser profiles and Outlook data.
This oil spill 'the bad one' recipe for disaster
What makes an oil spill really bad? Most of the ingredients for it are now blending in the Gulf of Mexico.
Experts tick off the essentials: A relentless flow of oil from under the sea; a type of crude that mixes easily with water; a resultant gooey mixture that is hard to burn and even harder to clean; water that's home to vulnerable spawning grounds for new life; and a coastline with difficult-to-scrub marshlands.
Gulf Coast experts have always talked about "the potential for a bad one," said Wes Tunnell, coastal ecology and oil spill expert at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.
"And this is the bad one. This is just a biggie that finally happened."
It hasn't quite become a total disaster yet. But it's hard to imagine it not being devastating, said Ed Overton, who heads a federal chemical hazard assessment team for oil spills. The Louisiana State University professor has been testing samples of the spilled crude.
He compared what's brewing to another all-too-familiar Gulf Coast threat: "This has got all the characteristics of a Category 5 hurricane."
If conditions don't change quickly, devastation of the highest magnitude is headed for somewhere along the coast, said Overton, who works with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
More than 200,000 gallons of oil a day are spewing from the blown-out well at the site of BP's Deepwater Horizon rig, which exploded April 20 and sank two days later. Crews are using at least six remotely operated vehicles to try to shut off an underwater valve, but so far they've been unsuccessful. Meanwhile, high winds and waves are pushing oily water over the booms meant to contain it. Besides BP, a slew of federal and state agencies are scrambling to minimize the onslaught of damage.
Experts in oil spills have drills every few years to practice their response for spills of "national significance." One of those practice runs took place just last month in Maine. The Gulf of Mexico leak is a "combination of all the bad things happening" and makes it far worse than any disaster imagined in the drills, said Nancy Kinner, director of the Coastal Response Research Center at the University of New Hampshire.
"This is relentless," Kinner said.
Most Americans think of Exxon Valdez when it comes to spills. But the potential and likelihood here "is well beyond that," said University of Rhode Island ocean engineering professor Malcolm Spaulding. Because the Deepwater Horizon well has not been capped and may flow for months more, it should be compared to a bigger more dangerous one from a well explosion in 1979, said Tunnell. That was Ixtoc 1, off the coast of Mexico. It was the worst peacetime oil spill on record.
The current spill "is kind of a worst case scenario," Tunnell said.
What makes this spill relentless and most similar to Ixtoc 1 is that it's an active well that keeps flowing. The Exxon Valdez was a tanker with a limited supply of oil. The rig 40 miles from the Gulf Coast may leak for months before a relief well can be drilled to stop the flow, Kinner said.
And LSU's Overton said: "I'm not very optimistic that they'll be drilling a relief well in three months."
The type of oil involved is also a major problem. While most of the oil drilled off Louisiana is a lighter crude, this isn't. It's a heavier blend because it comes from deep under the ocean surface, Overton said.
"If I had to pick a bad oil, I'd put this right up there. The only thing that's not bad about this is that it doesn't have a lot of sulfur in it and the high sulfur really smells bad."
The first analysis of oil spill samples showed it contains asphalt-like substances that make a major sticky mess, he said. This is because the oil is older than most oil in the region and is very dense.
This oil also emulsifies well, Overton said. Emulsification is when oil and water mix thoroughly together, like a shampoo, which is mostly water, said Penn State engineering professor Anil Kulkarni.
It "makes a thick gooey chocolate mousse type of mix," Kulkarni said.
And once it becomes that kind of mix, it no longer evaporates as quickly as regular oil, doesn't rinse off as easily, can't be eaten by oil-munching microbes as easily, and doesn't burn as well, experts said.
That type of mixture essentially removes all the best oil clean-up weapons, Overton and others said.
Under better circumstances, with calmer winds and water, the oil might have a chance of rising without immediately emulsifying, but that's not happening here, Kulkarni said. It's pretty much mixed by the time it gets to the surface.
The wind and waves are also pushing the oil directly toward some of the most sensitive coastal areas: the marshlands of Louisiana and surrounding states.
And there are three types of beaches: sandy, rocky and marshy. Sandy beaches, like those in Florida, are the easiest to clean, Overton said. By far the hardest are marshlands and that's where the oil is heading first.
Marshes are so delicate that just trying to clean them causes damage, Kinner said. Once the oily mess penetrates, grasses must be cut. But it also penetrates the soil and that is extremely difficult to get out, she said.
The normal bacteria that eats oil needs oxygen to work, and in the soils of the marsh, there's not enough oxygen for that process, she said.
It's also the time of year in the Gulf of Mexico when fish spawn, plankton bloom and the delicate ecosystem is at a vulnerable stage.
Hurricane season is fast approaching in June and experts are sure the oil will still be flowing by then. Though it might seem counterintuitive, a big storm could help by dispersing and diluting the worst of the oil, Overton said.
"A hurricane is Mother Nature's vacuum cleaner," Overton said. Normally it cleans things up. But that's not a solution with a continuing spill.
Experts tick off the essentials: A relentless flow of oil from under the sea; a type of crude that mixes easily with water; a resultant gooey mixture that is hard to burn and even harder to clean; water that's home to vulnerable spawning grounds for new life; and a coastline with difficult-to-scrub marshlands.
Gulf Coast experts have always talked about "the potential for a bad one," said Wes Tunnell, coastal ecology and oil spill expert at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi.
"And this is the bad one. This is just a biggie that finally happened."
It hasn't quite become a total disaster yet. But it's hard to imagine it not being devastating, said Ed Overton, who heads a federal chemical hazard assessment team for oil spills. The Louisiana State University professor has been testing samples of the spilled crude.
He compared what's brewing to another all-too-familiar Gulf Coast threat: "This has got all the characteristics of a Category 5 hurricane."
If conditions don't change quickly, devastation of the highest magnitude is headed for somewhere along the coast, said Overton, who works with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
More than 200,000 gallons of oil a day are spewing from the blown-out well at the site of BP's Deepwater Horizon rig, which exploded April 20 and sank two days later. Crews are using at least six remotely operated vehicles to try to shut off an underwater valve, but so far they've been unsuccessful. Meanwhile, high winds and waves are pushing oily water over the booms meant to contain it. Besides BP, a slew of federal and state agencies are scrambling to minimize the onslaught of damage.
Experts in oil spills have drills every few years to practice their response for spills of "national significance." One of those practice runs took place just last month in Maine. The Gulf of Mexico leak is a "combination of all the bad things happening" and makes it far worse than any disaster imagined in the drills, said Nancy Kinner, director of the Coastal Response Research Center at the University of New Hampshire.
"This is relentless," Kinner said.
Most Americans think of Exxon Valdez when it comes to spills. But the potential and likelihood here "is well beyond that," said University of Rhode Island ocean engineering professor Malcolm Spaulding. Because the Deepwater Horizon well has not been capped and may flow for months more, it should be compared to a bigger more dangerous one from a well explosion in 1979, said Tunnell. That was Ixtoc 1, off the coast of Mexico. It was the worst peacetime oil spill on record.
The current spill "is kind of a worst case scenario," Tunnell said.
What makes this spill relentless and most similar to Ixtoc 1 is that it's an active well that keeps flowing. The Exxon Valdez was a tanker with a limited supply of oil. The rig 40 miles from the Gulf Coast may leak for months before a relief well can be drilled to stop the flow, Kinner said.
And LSU's Overton said: "I'm not very optimistic that they'll be drilling a relief well in three months."
The type of oil involved is also a major problem. While most of the oil drilled off Louisiana is a lighter crude, this isn't. It's a heavier blend because it comes from deep under the ocean surface, Overton said.
"If I had to pick a bad oil, I'd put this right up there. The only thing that's not bad about this is that it doesn't have a lot of sulfur in it and the high sulfur really smells bad."
The first analysis of oil spill samples showed it contains asphalt-like substances that make a major sticky mess, he said. This is because the oil is older than most oil in the region and is very dense.
This oil also emulsifies well, Overton said. Emulsification is when oil and water mix thoroughly together, like a shampoo, which is mostly water, said Penn State engineering professor Anil Kulkarni.
It "makes a thick gooey chocolate mousse type of mix," Kulkarni said.
And once it becomes that kind of mix, it no longer evaporates as quickly as regular oil, doesn't rinse off as easily, can't be eaten by oil-munching microbes as easily, and doesn't burn as well, experts said.
That type of mixture essentially removes all the best oil clean-up weapons, Overton and others said.
Under better circumstances, with calmer winds and water, the oil might have a chance of rising without immediately emulsifying, but that's not happening here, Kulkarni said. It's pretty much mixed by the time it gets to the surface.
The wind and waves are also pushing the oil directly toward some of the most sensitive coastal areas: the marshlands of Louisiana and surrounding states.
And there are three types of beaches: sandy, rocky and marshy. Sandy beaches, like those in Florida, are the easiest to clean, Overton said. By far the hardest are marshlands and that's where the oil is heading first.
Marshes are so delicate that just trying to clean them causes damage, Kinner said. Once the oily mess penetrates, grasses must be cut. But it also penetrates the soil and that is extremely difficult to get out, she said.
The normal bacteria that eats oil needs oxygen to work, and in the soils of the marsh, there's not enough oxygen for that process, she said.
It's also the time of year in the Gulf of Mexico when fish spawn, plankton bloom and the delicate ecosystem is at a vulnerable stage.
Hurricane season is fast approaching in June and experts are sure the oil will still be flowing by then. Though it might seem counterintuitive, a big storm could help by dispersing and diluting the worst of the oil, Overton said.
"A hurricane is Mother Nature's vacuum cleaner," Overton said. Normally it cleans things up. But that's not a solution with a continuing spill.
3G iPad goes on sale: Everything you need to know
Been waiting patiently to snap up an iPad with built-in support for 3G? Then today's your lucky day. If you're a newcomer to all the iPad hoopla, however, make sure to check out these basic tips before heading out to the Apple Store.
When exactly does the 3G iPad go on sale?
Apple Stores across the U.S. are closing between 4 and 5 p.m. local time Friday to prep for the 3G iPad launch, AppleInsider reports, with the starting gun set to go off at 5 p.m. sharp, so expect to wait in line if you arrive any earlier than 5 o'clock. The first iPad launch on April 3 went off pretty much without a hitch, so I'm guessing there's no need to arrive super-early to guarantee getting a 3G iPad today.
What's the difference between the iPad that's already on sale and the new iPad 3G?
Simple: the Wi-Fi-only iPad (which debuted on April 3) connects to local Wi-Fi networks only, while the 3G iPad (on sale starting today, April 30) comes embedded with support for speedy 3G cellular networks (meaning AT&T here in the U.S.), perfect for getting Internet access even when you're not in range of a Wi-Fi network. (You'll need to be within AT&T's 3G coverage area, though.)
How much does it cost?
The 3G iPad sells for a $130 premium over the regular iPad, which comes out to $629 for the 16GB 3G iPad, $729 for the 32GB model, and $829 for the 64GB version.
OK, so which iPad should I get: the regular one or the 3G verison?
Naturally, that depends on how you see yourself using the iPad. If you think it's something you'll use mainly, say, at home on your living room couch, the cheaper Wi-Fi iPad might be all you need. But if you see yourself taking the iPad with you everywhere you go — and let's face it, using the iPad is a lot more fun when you can surf the Web, tweet, and check your email — you should seriously consider ponying up for the 3G version. (Another option is using the regular iPad with a portable Wi-Fi hotspot like the MiFi — that's what I do — but keep in mind that you'll have to pay hefty monthly data charges in the bargain, in my case $60 a month.)
Will I have to buy a data plan?
Yep, you will, and here in the U.S. you only have one carrier to choose from: AT&T. That said, AT&T's 3G iPad plans are month-to-month, so you won't need to sign a contract. The plans: $30 a month for unlimited data, or $15 a month for 250MB, and you'll be able to buy or change your plan directly on the iPad —no in-store activation needed. (Click here for more details on AT&T's 3G iPad plans.)
Any physical differences?
The measurements for the standard iPad and the 3G version are precisely the same; the 3G iPad, though, is 1.6 ounces heavier than its one-and-a-half-pound Wi-Fi-only counterpart. Another small difference: The 3G iPad has a black plastic stripe across the back, near the top, to boost 3G reception.
What about battery life?
Apple says the standard iPad will deliver a solid 10 hours of battery life between charges (a figure that's been backed up by real-life tests), but as we all know, receiving and transmitting data via 3G puts added strain on mobile batteries. For its part, Apple claims that the 3G iPad's battery will hold up well, to the tune of nine hours; that said, I'm curious to see battery-life reports from users in the real world.
Can I order the 3G iPad online?
You sure can, but according to the iPad product page on the Apple Store, your 3G iPad will arrive "by" May 7, so you might have to wait a few days. Already pre-ordered the 3G iPad? Then you should see the UPS truck rolling up any minute now.
I don't live in the U.S.; when can I get a 3G iPad in my country?
Apple previously announced that it would be delaying the international launch of the iPad a month due to "surprisingly strong" demand here in the U.S. Apple says it'll announce exact international launch dates on May 10, the day when it begins taking orders for iPads overseas.
When exactly does the 3G iPad go on sale?
Apple Stores across the U.S. are closing between 4 and 5 p.m. local time Friday to prep for the 3G iPad launch, AppleInsider reports, with the starting gun set to go off at 5 p.m. sharp, so expect to wait in line if you arrive any earlier than 5 o'clock. The first iPad launch on April 3 went off pretty much without a hitch, so I'm guessing there's no need to arrive super-early to guarantee getting a 3G iPad today.
What's the difference between the iPad that's already on sale and the new iPad 3G?
Simple: the Wi-Fi-only iPad (which debuted on April 3) connects to local Wi-Fi networks only, while the 3G iPad (on sale starting today, April 30) comes embedded with support for speedy 3G cellular networks (meaning AT&T here in the U.S.), perfect for getting Internet access even when you're not in range of a Wi-Fi network. (You'll need to be within AT&T's 3G coverage area, though.)
How much does it cost?
The 3G iPad sells for a $130 premium over the regular iPad, which comes out to $629 for the 16GB 3G iPad, $729 for the 32GB model, and $829 for the 64GB version.
OK, so which iPad should I get: the regular one or the 3G verison?
Naturally, that depends on how you see yourself using the iPad. If you think it's something you'll use mainly, say, at home on your living room couch, the cheaper Wi-Fi iPad might be all you need. But if you see yourself taking the iPad with you everywhere you go — and let's face it, using the iPad is a lot more fun when you can surf the Web, tweet, and check your email — you should seriously consider ponying up for the 3G version. (Another option is using the regular iPad with a portable Wi-Fi hotspot like the MiFi — that's what I do — but keep in mind that you'll have to pay hefty monthly data charges in the bargain, in my case $60 a month.)
Will I have to buy a data plan?
Yep, you will, and here in the U.S. you only have one carrier to choose from: AT&T. That said, AT&T's 3G iPad plans are month-to-month, so you won't need to sign a contract. The plans: $30 a month for unlimited data, or $15 a month for 250MB, and you'll be able to buy or change your plan directly on the iPad —no in-store activation needed. (Click here for more details on AT&T's 3G iPad plans.)
Any physical differences?
The measurements for the standard iPad and the 3G version are precisely the same; the 3G iPad, though, is 1.6 ounces heavier than its one-and-a-half-pound Wi-Fi-only counterpart. Another small difference: The 3G iPad has a black plastic stripe across the back, near the top, to boost 3G reception.
What about battery life?
Apple says the standard iPad will deliver a solid 10 hours of battery life between charges (a figure that's been backed up by real-life tests), but as we all know, receiving and transmitting data via 3G puts added strain on mobile batteries. For its part, Apple claims that the 3G iPad's battery will hold up well, to the tune of nine hours; that said, I'm curious to see battery-life reports from users in the real world.
Can I order the 3G iPad online?
You sure can, but according to the iPad product page on the Apple Store, your 3G iPad will arrive "by" May 7, so you might have to wait a few days. Already pre-ordered the 3G iPad? Then you should see the UPS truck rolling up any minute now.
I don't live in the U.S.; when can I get a 3G iPad in my country?
Apple previously announced that it would be delaying the international launch of the iPad a month due to "surprisingly strong" demand here in the U.S. Apple says it'll announce exact international launch dates on May 10, the day when it begins taking orders for iPads overseas.
Samsung Q1 net profit surges to record high
SEOUL, South Korea – Samsung Electronics said net profit surged more than six-fold in the first quarter to a record high on strong demand and higher prices for memory chips as well as increased sales of mobile phones and flat screen televisions.
Samsung earned 3.99 trillion won ($3.59 billion) in the three months ended March 31, the company said Friday. It recorded net profit of 582 billion won the year before.
The latest figure was an all-time high for the company, said spokesman Jason Kim, surpassing 3.81 trillion won in the third quarter of last year.
The company also said sales in the first quarter totaled 34.64 trillion won. That was 20.8 percent higher than the 28.67 trillion won reported a year earlier.
Samsung Electronics Co. is a major force in the global technology industry, ranking as the largest manufacturer of computer memory chips, flat screen televisions and liquid crystal displays. It also stands No. 2 globally in mobile phones behind Finland's Nokia Corp.
Samsung said in a release that sales in its semiconductor business jumped 57 percent to 8.2 trillion won in the first quarter. The company said tight supply and strong demand caused prices for DRAM, or dynamic random access memory, chips to rise. DRAM are used mostly in personal computers.
The company also cited steady demand for NAND flash memory chips in line with consumer purchases of smart phones and mobile application products. NAND are used in devices such as digital cameras, music players and smart phones.
"Strong demand for mobile products continued despite weak seasonality," Samsung said in presentation materials for investors.
In mobile phones, Samsung sold 64.3 million of the devices in the first quarter, up 40 percent from the year before. It predicted demand will increase in the current second quarter in line with the global economic recovery.
The company also sold 8.4 million flat screen TVs in the first quarter, an increase of 47 percent from the year before. Samsung said it expects demand to grow 34 percent in the second quarter.
"In the TV business, we launched aggressive marketing activities focusing on 3D TV as well as LED TV," Robert Yi, Samsung's head of investor relations, told analysts on a conference call. "As a result, our shipment and profit margin improved significantly year on year."
Investors cheered the results, sending Samsung shares 2.9 percent higher to close at 849,000 won. Samsung's stock price, which surged 77 percent in 2009, hit a record high of 870,000 won on April 5 this year.
Samsung earned 3.99 trillion won ($3.59 billion) in the three months ended March 31, the company said Friday. It recorded net profit of 582 billion won the year before.
The latest figure was an all-time high for the company, said spokesman Jason Kim, surpassing 3.81 trillion won in the third quarter of last year.
The company also said sales in the first quarter totaled 34.64 trillion won. That was 20.8 percent higher than the 28.67 trillion won reported a year earlier.
Samsung Electronics Co. is a major force in the global technology industry, ranking as the largest manufacturer of computer memory chips, flat screen televisions and liquid crystal displays. It also stands No. 2 globally in mobile phones behind Finland's Nokia Corp.
Samsung said in a release that sales in its semiconductor business jumped 57 percent to 8.2 trillion won in the first quarter. The company said tight supply and strong demand caused prices for DRAM, or dynamic random access memory, chips to rise. DRAM are used mostly in personal computers.
The company also cited steady demand for NAND flash memory chips in line with consumer purchases of smart phones and mobile application products. NAND are used in devices such as digital cameras, music players and smart phones.
"Strong demand for mobile products continued despite weak seasonality," Samsung said in presentation materials for investors.
In mobile phones, Samsung sold 64.3 million of the devices in the first quarter, up 40 percent from the year before. It predicted demand will increase in the current second quarter in line with the global economic recovery.
The company also sold 8.4 million flat screen TVs in the first quarter, an increase of 47 percent from the year before. Samsung said it expects demand to grow 34 percent in the second quarter.
"In the TV business, we launched aggressive marketing activities focusing on 3D TV as well as LED TV," Robert Yi, Samsung's head of investor relations, told analysts on a conference call. "As a result, our shipment and profit margin improved significantly year on year."
Investors cheered the results, sending Samsung shares 2.9 percent higher to close at 849,000 won. Samsung's stock price, which surged 77 percent in 2009, hit a record high of 870,000 won on April 5 this year.
The NEW iPhone 4G Coming JULY 2010
The iPhone 4G is COMING!!!
Are you ready? Release likely around June or July of 2010.
Lots of speculation is going around on the new iPhone 4g... in HD!! Official features will be revealed at the WWDC conference this June.
Verizon Wireless is currently testing a CDMA version of the iPhone 4G and Verizon confirms they are making network changes to bring the iphone to their network. The new iPhone 4g is going to be loaded with awesome new features like video chat, multi-tasking and extreme downloading. (List of possible features below). Just when you think there is nothing else to come up with, more and more and more technology comes out. And it is on the rise, and not just at Apple, Inc!
Woo hoo! This iPhone 4g could also have dual core processors and higher and powerful graphic chips that can deliver higher video resolutions and better "still" images when taking pictures.
There are a few networks working on building a 4G network. T-mobile would be a likely carrier since they are GSM already. Sprint has a 4G network already... AT&T and Verizon Wireless are in the beginning stages. There are talks of Verizon Wireless getting iPhone sometime in 2010 since the exclusive contract with AT&T expires, but it could be renewed until 2012.
Whether or not it will be 4G will be up to them!... can they build in time? Regardless, there is much anticipation on how many people will leave AT&T for Verizon Wireless because of AT&T's lagging on app restrictions like Slingplayer and Google Voice and Skype (on #g network, not Wi-Fi).
AT&T's restrictions have caused the percentage of people that are JailBreaking their iPhones to rise since Jail Breaking usually comes with Cydia which is the app store for jail broken phones. Most of the applications, ringtones, and even iphone themes!...are free with Cydia. Winterboard is part of the download, and it very easily add's the changes to your phone so you dont have to figure how to do it on your own...it is VERY automated.
The Palm Pre on Sprint (Sprint now offering a 4G network) has made an attempt at being competitive with iPhone and Blackberry...but it's not looking good. Maybe their recent Android phone will help.
iPhone 4G looks promising in terms of being sleek, packed with new hardware and multi-tasking software. Very exciting.
A few features of iPhone 4G:
Unified Mailbox (all email accounts in one area).
Application folders.
New wallpaper/background options.
A new, sleeker body design.
OLED screen.
Multi-Tasking. (use multiple functions at once without going in and out of apps).
iChat camera (on the front so you can have video chat!!!).
32G (basic) and 64G of memory. You're sure to never run out.
Removable Battery.
Hi Definition Camera.
Hi Definition Camcorder.
Hi Definition audio.
Messaging light.
True GPS built in.
Are you ready? Release likely around June or July of 2010.
Lots of speculation is going around on the new iPhone 4g... in HD!! Official features will be revealed at the WWDC conference this June.
Verizon Wireless is currently testing a CDMA version of the iPhone 4G and Verizon confirms they are making network changes to bring the iphone to their network. The new iPhone 4g is going to be loaded with awesome new features like video chat, multi-tasking and extreme downloading. (List of possible features below). Just when you think there is nothing else to come up with, more and more and more technology comes out. And it is on the rise, and not just at Apple, Inc!
Woo hoo! This iPhone 4g could also have dual core processors and higher and powerful graphic chips that can deliver higher video resolutions and better "still" images when taking pictures.
There are a few networks working on building a 4G network. T-mobile would be a likely carrier since they are GSM already. Sprint has a 4G network already... AT&T and Verizon Wireless are in the beginning stages. There are talks of Verizon Wireless getting iPhone sometime in 2010 since the exclusive contract with AT&T expires, but it could be renewed until 2012.
Whether or not it will be 4G will be up to them!... can they build in time? Regardless, there is much anticipation on how many people will leave AT&T for Verizon Wireless because of AT&T's lagging on app restrictions like Slingplayer and Google Voice and Skype (on #g network, not Wi-Fi).
AT&T's restrictions have caused the percentage of people that are JailBreaking their iPhones to rise since Jail Breaking usually comes with Cydia which is the app store for jail broken phones. Most of the applications, ringtones, and even iphone themes!...are free with Cydia. Winterboard is part of the download, and it very easily add's the changes to your phone so you dont have to figure how to do it on your own...it is VERY automated.
The Palm Pre on Sprint (Sprint now offering a 4G network) has made an attempt at being competitive with iPhone and Blackberry...but it's not looking good. Maybe their recent Android phone will help.
iPhone 4G looks promising in terms of being sleek, packed with new hardware and multi-tasking software. Very exciting.
A few features of iPhone 4G:
Unified Mailbox (all email accounts in one area).
Application folders.
New wallpaper/background options.
A new, sleeker body design.
OLED screen.
Multi-Tasking. (use multiple functions at once without going in and out of apps).
iChat camera (on the front so you can have video chat!!!).
32G (basic) and 64G of memory. You're sure to never run out.
Removable Battery.
Hi Definition Camera.
Hi Definition Camcorder.
Hi Definition audio.
Messaging light.
True GPS built in.
HP preps its would-be iPad killer the Slate
Remember the HP Slate, the upcoming Windows 7-powered tablet that we first saw during Microsoft's CES keynote back in January? Well, we just got more details on HP's would-be iPad killer, thanks to a new, official teaser video and Engadget's decidedly unofficial series of leaked specs.
The last time we saw the Slate was in the hands of Steve Ballmer during a rather tepid presentation in Las Vegas, with Ballmer showing off the Kindle reader and struggling a bit as he tried to tee up a video. But HP has clearly stepped up its game, starting with this snazzy 30-second teaser video that makes a point of showing off all the features on the Slate that are missing on the iPad, such as a built-in camera, a USB port (a real one, not an adapter), and an SD card slot.
Just a few hours after the video was posted, Engadget managed to snag what appears to be an HP marketing sheet — titled, none too subtly, "HP Slate vs. iPad" — that specifically stacks up the Slate to the iPad, point for point. Now, before we dive into the details here, let's just point out that HP has yet to officially cough up detailed specs for the Slate, much less a price tag or a release date (other than "this year," that is). Still, if what we're looking at here is real, it's a pretty clear indication that HP is positioning the Slate as an iPad killer.
Looking at the (purported) spec sheet, the Slate appears to have a series of enticing features that are missing on the iPad. There's the camera, of course, and we're not just talking one but two: a 3MP lens in back and a front-facing VGA camera for video conferencing. We've also got a single USB 2.0 port, an SD card reader, a "conventional" SIM tray for 3G networking, and HDMI-out video capabilities (not to mention 1080p playback) via the Slate's dock connector. (Each of these key points are highlighted on the leaked marketing sheet as an "HP advantage," by the way.)
Pretty interesting, and here's a few more details to boot (again, not official): an 8.9-inch, 1024-by-600-pixel display (slightly smaller and lower-res than the iPad), a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor under the hood, and 32 or 64GB of built-in flash storage (expandable via the SD card slot). The spec sheet doesn't mention Flash support specifically, but HP has already made it pretty clear that yes, you will be able to view Flash videos on the Slate.
The leaked spec sheet describes the Slate as measuring 9.2 by 5.7 by 0.57 inches, making the Slate (potentially) a tad taller, narrower, and thicker than the iPad (9.56 by 7.47 by 0.5 inches), as well as a tiny bit lighter (1.49 pounds, vs. 1.5 pounds for the iPad).
The leaked marketing sheet also ticks off a few specs labeled as "HP threat" — in other words, areas in which the iPad would have a leg up over the Slate, at least for now. Among them: no support for 802.11n, the latest official Wi-Fi standard; just five hours of battery life, versus 10 hours for the iPad; and a slightly more expensive price tag for the 16GB model ($549, versus $499 for the 16GB iPad) — although, to be fair (and if the leaked specs are true), the $549 16GB Slate might come with a SIM tray, whereas the equivalent 3G-enabled iPad will set you back $629.
Of course, one of the biggest selling points for the Slate (and yes, this we know for certain) is Windows 7, a full-on, multitasking, desktop-caliber operating system. The iPad runs on a modified version of the iPhone OS, and among other things lacks third-party-app multitasking (although that may be changing soon). Then again, the iPad OS is specifically designed for touch and runs lightning-fast; Windows 7 is designed for a keyboard and mouse (HP is promising a "touch-optimized UI" to help with fingertip navigation). And it remains to be seen whether Slate's 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor will be up to the task of making Windows 7 run smoothly on a 1.5-pound tablet.
Let's just say one more time that the leaked marketing sheet obtained by Engadget isn't official; and even if it is real, the listed specs are certainly subject to change; and again, we still don't have an official price tag.
Still, if the Slate proves anything, it's that the tablet wars won't end with the iPad; indeed, they're only beginning. If the iPad turns out to be a hit (and the jury's still out), it'll spur more competition in the tablet "space" ("Courier," anyone?), and that's a good thing.
The last time we saw the Slate was in the hands of Steve Ballmer during a rather tepid presentation in Las Vegas, with Ballmer showing off the Kindle reader and struggling a bit as he tried to tee up a video. But HP has clearly stepped up its game, starting with this snazzy 30-second teaser video that makes a point of showing off all the features on the Slate that are missing on the iPad, such as a built-in camera, a USB port (a real one, not an adapter), and an SD card slot.
Just a few hours after the video was posted, Engadget managed to snag what appears to be an HP marketing sheet — titled, none too subtly, "HP Slate vs. iPad" — that specifically stacks up the Slate to the iPad, point for point. Now, before we dive into the details here, let's just point out that HP has yet to officially cough up detailed specs for the Slate, much less a price tag or a release date (other than "this year," that is). Still, if what we're looking at here is real, it's a pretty clear indication that HP is positioning the Slate as an iPad killer.
Looking at the (purported) spec sheet, the Slate appears to have a series of enticing features that are missing on the iPad. There's the camera, of course, and we're not just talking one but two: a 3MP lens in back and a front-facing VGA camera for video conferencing. We've also got a single USB 2.0 port, an SD card reader, a "conventional" SIM tray for 3G networking, and HDMI-out video capabilities (not to mention 1080p playback) via the Slate's dock connector. (Each of these key points are highlighted on the leaked marketing sheet as an "HP advantage," by the way.)
Pretty interesting, and here's a few more details to boot (again, not official): an 8.9-inch, 1024-by-600-pixel display (slightly smaller and lower-res than the iPad), a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor under the hood, and 32 or 64GB of built-in flash storage (expandable via the SD card slot). The spec sheet doesn't mention Flash support specifically, but HP has already made it pretty clear that yes, you will be able to view Flash videos on the Slate.
The leaked spec sheet describes the Slate as measuring 9.2 by 5.7 by 0.57 inches, making the Slate (potentially) a tad taller, narrower, and thicker than the iPad (9.56 by 7.47 by 0.5 inches), as well as a tiny bit lighter (1.49 pounds, vs. 1.5 pounds for the iPad).
The leaked marketing sheet also ticks off a few specs labeled as "HP threat" — in other words, areas in which the iPad would have a leg up over the Slate, at least for now. Among them: no support for 802.11n, the latest official Wi-Fi standard; just five hours of battery life, versus 10 hours for the iPad; and a slightly more expensive price tag for the 16GB model ($549, versus $499 for the 16GB iPad) — although, to be fair (and if the leaked specs are true), the $549 16GB Slate might come with a SIM tray, whereas the equivalent 3G-enabled iPad will set you back $629.
Of course, one of the biggest selling points for the Slate (and yes, this we know for certain) is Windows 7, a full-on, multitasking, desktop-caliber operating system. The iPad runs on a modified version of the iPhone OS, and among other things lacks third-party-app multitasking (although that may be changing soon). Then again, the iPad OS is specifically designed for touch and runs lightning-fast; Windows 7 is designed for a keyboard and mouse (HP is promising a "touch-optimized UI" to help with fingertip navigation). And it remains to be seen whether Slate's 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor will be up to the task of making Windows 7 run smoothly on a 1.5-pound tablet.
Let's just say one more time that the leaked marketing sheet obtained by Engadget isn't official; and even if it is real, the listed specs are certainly subject to change; and again, we still don't have an official price tag.
Still, if the Slate proves anything, it's that the tablet wars won't end with the iPad; indeed, they're only beginning. If the iPad turns out to be a hit (and the jury's still out), it'll spur more competition in the tablet "space" ("Courier," anyone?), and that's a good thing.
Top 10 Reasons To Hate Apple iPad
1. Based on the OS of iPhone
At the first glimpse it appears that iPad is a stretched version of iPhone. However, the OS and interface is the same. What's the big deal in using the same phone features in a bigger device. What irks most is that you have drag-and-drop feature.
2. No multi-tasking
Steve Jobs was proud to announce his cheap laptop that he called iPad. But even a netbook allows you to run your browser, a Word Document and media player simultaneously. So it high time for Mr. Steve's to define a new breed of laptops that satisfies most of the smartphone characteristics and some of the netbooks features.
3. Reading books on the iPad
The web's abuzz with rumors that iPad is a Kindle killer. With hands on experience, your eyes would not tolerate iPad for more than 2 hours. You are most likely to suffer a headache. To know more you can go through a lively conversation between Apple iPad and Amazon Kindle.
4. No physical keyboard
This is a big crime. Typing on a touchscreen might sound nice, but the hassles are only known to the people who have used it. Just a misplaced tap on the key and an unwanted typo. Without a keyboard its difficult to manage. How many people require big screen portable computing without real keyboard. The keyboards on netbooks protect the screen.
5. No Flash support
The most annoying feature that no gamer would ever tolerate. It's somewhat Apple's concept netbook that won't show up most of the cool flash stuff in a websites. Adobe Flash team and Apple team need to work with Adobe flash team to offer flash support for flash-based-apps in the iPhone.
6. No camera
Who on earth needs a stretched iPhone without a camera. Gosh! you can't use Skype. We could suggest a front-facing camera might have done.
7. No USB port
By now you must have know that you can't just plug in your digital camera with iPad to download pictures. Now what you need to know is that you’ll actually have buy a $30 adapter that Apple will be selling. That's a tough bargain to handle.
8. No widgets
iPad flaunts a huge screen with more than decent void space. What about widgets to fill the space, say calculator, sticky notes or anything else.
9. One and Only Network
Apple decision to stick to AT&T is no way a right move. Customers could have found better options in T-Mobile and everybody would have been happy. Apple doesn't seem to care about people.
10. Battery Life
The claim for upto 10 hours battery life doesn't sound real. With the Wi Fi or 3G turned on we might need to change it twice a day. For more, play a game on your iPad for an hour, do a little bit of web browsing for 2 hours, and your battery is dead.
At the first glimpse it appears that iPad is a stretched version of iPhone. However, the OS and interface is the same. What's the big deal in using the same phone features in a bigger device. What irks most is that you have drag-and-drop feature.
2. No multi-tasking
Steve Jobs was proud to announce his cheap laptop that he called iPad. But even a netbook allows you to run your browser, a Word Document and media player simultaneously. So it high time for Mr. Steve's to define a new breed of laptops that satisfies most of the smartphone characteristics and some of the netbooks features.
3. Reading books on the iPad
The web's abuzz with rumors that iPad is a Kindle killer. With hands on experience, your eyes would not tolerate iPad for more than 2 hours. You are most likely to suffer a headache. To know more you can go through a lively conversation between Apple iPad and Amazon Kindle.
4. No physical keyboard
This is a big crime. Typing on a touchscreen might sound nice, but the hassles are only known to the people who have used it. Just a misplaced tap on the key and an unwanted typo. Without a keyboard its difficult to manage. How many people require big screen portable computing without real keyboard. The keyboards on netbooks protect the screen.
5. No Flash support
The most annoying feature that no gamer would ever tolerate. It's somewhat Apple's concept netbook that won't show up most of the cool flash stuff in a websites. Adobe Flash team and Apple team need to work with Adobe flash team to offer flash support for flash-based-apps in the iPhone.
6. No camera
Who on earth needs a stretched iPhone without a camera. Gosh! you can't use Skype. We could suggest a front-facing camera might have done.
7. No USB port
By now you must have know that you can't just plug in your digital camera with iPad to download pictures. Now what you need to know is that you’ll actually have buy a $30 adapter that Apple will be selling. That's a tough bargain to handle.
8. No widgets
iPad flaunts a huge screen with more than decent void space. What about widgets to fill the space, say calculator, sticky notes or anything else.
9. One and Only Network
Apple decision to stick to AT&T is no way a right move. Customers could have found better options in T-Mobile and everybody would have been happy. Apple doesn't seem to care about people.
10. Battery Life
The claim for upto 10 hours battery life doesn't sound real. With the Wi Fi or 3G turned on we might need to change it twice a day. For more, play a game on your iPad for an hour, do a little bit of web browsing for 2 hours, and your battery is dead.
Way to Get a Mortgage
Once a simple task that meant comparing fixed rates from among perhaps a dozen or fewer savings and loan companies, the mortgage hunt today is like finding your way through a maze.
There are dozens of loan types and hundreds of loan programs available through thousands of mortgage brokers, bankers, lenders, finance companies, credit unions, even stock brokerage firms.
Contrary to popular belief, finding a mortgage doesn't begin with an application.
Education is a better first choice. Mortgage information sources are as vast as the number of mortgages available. Web sites, topical newspaper articles, mortgage books, consumer seminars and workshops, financial planners, real estate agents, mortgage brokers and lenders are all available to assist you along the way.
First and foremost, you must determine how your mortgage payment will fit your current budget and, to some extent, your future obligations 15 to 30 years down the road.
If you discover too late that you can't afford your mortgage, you'll not only face the possibility of losing the roof over your head, but you could also damage your ability to purchase a home later.
Examine your finances
If you can afford to buy a home, you must then determine how much mortgage you can afford. Lenders are apt to put your loan application in the best light and qualify you for as much as they are willing to lend, which can be more than you can afford.
It's up to you to take stock of your income and expenses, both current and projected, to determine what you can comfortably manage each month. Along with your mortgage payment, don't forget related insurance, taxes, homeowner association dues and any other costs rolled into the mortgage payment.
Shopping for a loan
When you are ready to shop for a loan you have two basic types of mortgage stores to shop -- direct lenders and mortgage brokers.
Direct lenders have money to lend. They make the final decision on your application. Brokers are intermediaries who, like you, have many lenders from which to choose. Lenders have a limited number of in-house loans available. Brokers can shop many lenders for each lender's store of loans. If you have special financing needs and can't find a lender to suit them, an experienced broker may be able to ferret out the loan you need. Mortgage brokers, however, are paid with a slice of the amount you borrow, some more than others, some less. Internet brokers today perhaps receive the smallest cut, sometimes none at all, and can prove to be a real bargain.
Along with shopping the source, you'll also have to shop loan costs, including the interest rate, broker fees, points (each point is one percent of the amount you borrow), prepayment penalties, the loan term, application fees, credit report fee, appraisal and a host of others.
Apply for a loan
The application process is the easy part -- provided you've gathered documents necessary to prove claims you make on the application.
he application will ask for information about your job tenure, employment stability, income, your assets (property, cars, bank accounts and investments) and your liabilities (auto loans, installment loans, mortgages, credit-card debt, household expenses and others).
The lender will run a credit check on you to take a look at your credit status, but you'll have to supply additional documentation including paycheck stubs, bank account statements, tax returns, investment earnings reports, rental agreements, divorce decrees, proof of insurance, and other documentation. If the lender deems you creditworthy, it will likely hire a professional appraisal to make sure the value of the home you are about to buy is truly worth your loan amount.
There are dozens of loan types and hundreds of loan programs available through thousands of mortgage brokers, bankers, lenders, finance companies, credit unions, even stock brokerage firms.
Contrary to popular belief, finding a mortgage doesn't begin with an application.
Education is a better first choice. Mortgage information sources are as vast as the number of mortgages available. Web sites, topical newspaper articles, mortgage books, consumer seminars and workshops, financial planners, real estate agents, mortgage brokers and lenders are all available to assist you along the way.
First and foremost, you must determine how your mortgage payment will fit your current budget and, to some extent, your future obligations 15 to 30 years down the road.
If you discover too late that you can't afford your mortgage, you'll not only face the possibility of losing the roof over your head, but you could also damage your ability to purchase a home later.
Examine your finances
If you can afford to buy a home, you must then determine how much mortgage you can afford. Lenders are apt to put your loan application in the best light and qualify you for as much as they are willing to lend, which can be more than you can afford.
It's up to you to take stock of your income and expenses, both current and projected, to determine what you can comfortably manage each month. Along with your mortgage payment, don't forget related insurance, taxes, homeowner association dues and any other costs rolled into the mortgage payment.
Shopping for a loan
When you are ready to shop for a loan you have two basic types of mortgage stores to shop -- direct lenders and mortgage brokers.
Direct lenders have money to lend. They make the final decision on your application. Brokers are intermediaries who, like you, have many lenders from which to choose. Lenders have a limited number of in-house loans available. Brokers can shop many lenders for each lender's store of loans. If you have special financing needs and can't find a lender to suit them, an experienced broker may be able to ferret out the loan you need. Mortgage brokers, however, are paid with a slice of the amount you borrow, some more than others, some less. Internet brokers today perhaps receive the smallest cut, sometimes none at all, and can prove to be a real bargain.
Along with shopping the source, you'll also have to shop loan costs, including the interest rate, broker fees, points (each point is one percent of the amount you borrow), prepayment penalties, the loan term, application fees, credit report fee, appraisal and a host of others.
Apply for a loan
The application process is the easy part -- provided you've gathered documents necessary to prove claims you make on the application.
he application will ask for information about your job tenure, employment stability, income, your assets (property, cars, bank accounts and investments) and your liabilities (auto loans, installment loans, mortgages, credit-card debt, household expenses and others).
The lender will run a credit check on you to take a look at your credit status, but you'll have to supply additional documentation including paycheck stubs, bank account statements, tax returns, investment earnings reports, rental agreements, divorce decrees, proof of insurance, and other documentation. If the lender deems you creditworthy, it will likely hire a professional appraisal to make sure the value of the home you are about to buy is truly worth your loan amount.
Top Ways to Change Your Current Car Insurance into Cheap Insurance
Top Ways to Change Your Current Car Insurance into Cheap Insurance:
•Get Theft Devices: Most new cars have theft devices. Some are automatic and some have to be started at the touch of a button, but all usually get discounts on car insurance. Also, some states provide extra discounts for such things as window sketching.
•Ask for a Multiple Car Discount: Did you know sometimes insuring two cars can be the same price as insuring one? If not the same price, insuring another car usually does not cost as much as you may think. If you have two cars, it is very wise to check with your insurance agent, or while obtaining your online insurance quote, to make sure you can get this discount on your car insurance. Also, if you are planning to sell a second car, the cheap car insurance trick would be to keep that car on just liability to get your multiple car discount. Sometimes people are surprised when they call their car insurance company to take a car off of their insurance, only to find that their price did not go down but possibly increased!
•Stick With Yearly Policies: Choosing a yearly policy can extend your savings on your car insurance. Purchasing a yearly policy instead of a six month policy gives you a rate that cannot be changed for one year vs. changing every six months.
•Look Into Comprehensive Storage Coverage: If you are planning to store your car for any period of time, you can save on your car insurance by only keeping comprehensive coverage during the storage time. Since the car would be stored, it is very unlikely it will get in a collision or need the liability coverage.
•Re-Check Your Mileage: This is a great way to get cheap car insurance: If you are really close to the "miles to work" break-off, you may want to check your mileage closely. When your car insurance company or insurance agent asks you "How many miles do you drive to work one way?" this is a crucial question that will designate you into a particular class. Each class can have significant differences in prices.
•Look for a Group Discount: Many companies offer a discount on car insurance for being affiliated with certain organizations. These can range from credit unions, college sororities, or just having a certain credit card. Call your service center and ask them for a list of organization affiliations.
•Lower Liability, Comprehensive, Collision, or Medical Payments Coverages: Of course, you can lower your basic coverages but it may just give you the cheap insurance you need right no!. Comprehensive and collision are probably the first to look at lowering by increasing your deductibles on your car insurance. Most vehicles that are on bank loans can have up to a $1000 deductible. Next, lowering your liability and medical payments could help, but only if you are having a hard time paying for your premium and is not recommended for general savings.
•Make EFT Payments: Many car insurance companies are now charging up to $5.00 or more for mail payments, but sometimes nothing if you choose to have payments automatically deducted. And, sometimes the deductions can come from your credit card, so you don't have to worry if the money will be in your bank account when payment time comes.
•Get Theft Devices: Most new cars have theft devices. Some are automatic and some have to be started at the touch of a button, but all usually get discounts on car insurance. Also, some states provide extra discounts for such things as window sketching.
•Ask for a Multiple Car Discount: Did you know sometimes insuring two cars can be the same price as insuring one? If not the same price, insuring another car usually does not cost as much as you may think. If you have two cars, it is very wise to check with your insurance agent, or while obtaining your online insurance quote, to make sure you can get this discount on your car insurance. Also, if you are planning to sell a second car, the cheap car insurance trick would be to keep that car on just liability to get your multiple car discount. Sometimes people are surprised when they call their car insurance company to take a car off of their insurance, only to find that their price did not go down but possibly increased!
•Stick With Yearly Policies: Choosing a yearly policy can extend your savings on your car insurance. Purchasing a yearly policy instead of a six month policy gives you a rate that cannot be changed for one year vs. changing every six months.
•Look Into Comprehensive Storage Coverage: If you are planning to store your car for any period of time, you can save on your car insurance by only keeping comprehensive coverage during the storage time. Since the car would be stored, it is very unlikely it will get in a collision or need the liability coverage.
•Re-Check Your Mileage: This is a great way to get cheap car insurance: If you are really close to the "miles to work" break-off, you may want to check your mileage closely. When your car insurance company or insurance agent asks you "How many miles do you drive to work one way?" this is a crucial question that will designate you into a particular class. Each class can have significant differences in prices.
•Look for a Group Discount: Many companies offer a discount on car insurance for being affiliated with certain organizations. These can range from credit unions, college sororities, or just having a certain credit card. Call your service center and ask them for a list of organization affiliations.
•Lower Liability, Comprehensive, Collision, or Medical Payments Coverages: Of course, you can lower your basic coverages but it may just give you the cheap insurance you need right no!. Comprehensive and collision are probably the first to look at lowering by increasing your deductibles on your car insurance. Most vehicles that are on bank loans can have up to a $1000 deductible. Next, lowering your liability and medical payments could help, but only if you are having a hard time paying for your premium and is not recommended for general savings.
•Make EFT Payments: Many car insurance companies are now charging up to $5.00 or more for mail payments, but sometimes nothing if you choose to have payments automatically deducted. And, sometimes the deductions can come from your credit card, so you don't have to worry if the money will be in your bank account when payment time comes.
how to get free wi-fi
1. Hit the books
Public libraries may be best known for providing access to information in dead tree format, but books aren't the only things they offer. Many libraries, such as those in New York City, Miami-Dade, FL, and Contra Costa County, CA--or even small towns, such as Northampton, MA--offer free Wi-Fi for visitors. Another place with lots of books and the potential for free Wi-Fi is the local college campus--check the student union and other spots for a signal when you visit.
2. Pull up stakes
Municipal Wi-Fi networks are an endangered species these days, and ones that don’t charge for access are even more so. But free city-wide (or close to it) Wi-Fi does still exist. Some towns like Ponca City, OK and St. Cloud, FL, have Wi-Fi networks for things like automatic meter reading and emergency service use, and they offer free access to residents (coverage is sometimes limited to public areas, though).
If you’re looking for a hipper more urbane milieu, head to San Francisco, where free Wi-Fi is available in much of the city thanks to Maraki's Free the Net project. [For more on Free the Net, click here.] Meraki products also make it relatively easy and inexpensive to add Wi-Fi to multi-unit dwellings like apartment buildings, so plant a bug in the ear of your property manager or condo board.
3. Trains, planes, and automobiles
Whether you're traveling cross-country or cross-town, free Wi-Fi is often close by. Comcast high-speed Internet customers can take advantage of free Wi-Fi available at about 100 New Jersey Transit train stations and in surrounding parking lots. Cablevision provides the same service to its customers waiting at Long Island Rail Road platforms, and all LIRR passengers can get Internet access in the LIRR's New York Penn Station waiting room.
When traveling by air, consider heading to the airport early--or lingering there for a while after arrival--since many offer free Wi-Fi in the passenger terminals. Travelpost.com has a nice rundown of such airports, (along with pricing for those airports that charge for access).
If you’re on a road trip and need to pull over for a bathroom break, check and see if the roadside facilities offer free Wi-Fi. Many highway rest stops, including all 27 Travel Plazas on the New York State Thruway, do. And BP is in the midst of rolling out free Wi-Fi access at its gas stations across North America.
Whatever your mode of travel, if you’re staying in a hotel—or just happen to be close to one—park yourself in the lobby, where Wi-Fi is often free (even when it costs beaucoup bucks in the guest rooms).
4. Take a coffee break or grab a bite
Economic downturn notwithstanding, there are still about a billion Starbucks out there, most of which have hotspots. If you frequently visit Starbucks for your java jolt, pick up one of the company's stored-value cards, register it online and use it at least once every 30 days to make a purchase or add funds—you’ll get two hours of free Starbucks Wi-Fi access per day (albeit in one contiguous block) for your trouble. Craving more than just coffee? All FirstWatch and Panera locations offer free Wi-Fi, as well.
5. Ask and ye shall receive
Sharemywifi.com hosts a database of about 800 Wi-Fi networks worldwide (mostly in the US and Europe) whose owners are willing to provide access to strangers. Although some owners request a “donation” for network access and others are willing to exchange it for other goods or services, a considerable number of the networks listed on the site will provide access to anyone who asks.
A tool on the site lets you consult a map to locate a network near you and view the owner's terms for access. Once you find one you want to use, use an e-mail form to contact the owner and request permission to access the network, (and in the case of secure networks, obtain the encryption key).
6. Join the crowd
We-Fi has a million or so users who’ve found more than sixteen million hotspots around the world. Lots of them are free, and you can use the site’s maps to look up open networks near a particular address.
When you install We-Fi's software (it’s available for Windows and Mac systems as well as Windows Mobile and Nokia S60 mobile phones) it will find and automatically connect you to the best open access point available nearby, and if the wireless networks near you aren't already in We-Fi's database, the software will add them for the benefit of other users. We-Fi also lets you know where friends that also use the software are connected, and can update your location when you post to Facebook or Twitter. [Click here for a review.]
7. Share and share alike
With FON's $30 LaFonera access point, you can create a public hotspot on your wireless network without disturbing the protected and private network you already have. Granted $30 isn't exactly free, but if you agree to be a “Linus” and provide other FON users with free access to your hotspot (as opposed to “Bills,” who charge for it) you'll get complimentary access at all other FON hotspots in return. [Click here for a review.]
Whisher works along similar lines, but with software rather than hardware. Make your wireless network available to Whisher users, and you’ll get access to theirs. Whisher’s software is available for Mac and Windows (though the latter version’s not compatible with Vista). [Click here for a review.]
8. Get a gadget
Sometimes right gadget + right place = free Wi-Fi. When you buy an iPhone, your data plan comes with free Wi-Fi access at AT&T hotspots, including those at Starbucks, Barnes & Noble, and McDonalds. The same is true of Sony’s Cyber-shot DSC-G3 camera with built-in Wi-Fi (though you can only use it to upload photos from the camera, not with a PC). The Eye-Fi Explore--a Wi-Fi-enabled 2GB SD card that works with most digital cameras-- comes with one year of access at Wayport hotspots.
9. Sniff around
You don’t always have time to fire up the laptop just to see if there’s free Wi-Fi around, but pocket-sized gizmos like the Canary Wireless Digital Hotspotter HS20 will give you a quick read on available networks nearby, their signal strength, and whether or not they’re encrypted. The Wi-Fi capable iPod touch can also be used as a signal finder. [Click here for a review of the HS20. And click here for a review of the iPod touch.]
10. More gain, less pain
When you’re looking for Wi-Fi, but can't find any open networks around, there may still be a few nearby with signals that are just out of reach. The Wi-Fi adapters built into most notebooks aren’t particularly adept at pulling in weak or distant signals, but a USB-based Wi-Fi adapter with a high-gain directional antenna, like hField's Wi-Fire or one from Hawking Technologies (it has units that support 11g and 11n, on both Mac and Windows) will give you the ability to cast a wider net in search of access. [Click here for a full Wi-Fire review.]
Whenever you’re trolling for free Wi-Fi, be sure to pay attention to what you’re connecting to. In many public places (especially in airport terminals), scammers with laptops are known to hang around broadcasting peer-to-peer (a.k.a. ad-hoc) networks and hoping to snare inattentive passers-by with come-hither SSIDs like “Free Wi-Fi” or something along those lines. To avoid falling prey to one, take note of the icon next to the network. The icon should depict an antenna (in XP) or a single computer (in Vista) if it shows a pair of computers, it’s an ad-hoc network and you should stay away. [For more detailed help, read “When ‘Free Public Wi-Fi’ is Bad.”]
Finally, remember that whether you pay for access not, Wi-Fi networks are shared; so whenever you use one, you are potentially exposing your computer’s data and your online activities to other users. To protect yourself, be sure to run a software firewall and use VPN software, such as AnchorFree’s Hotspot Shield to encrypt the data you send and receive while connected. A caveat: HotSpot Shield will want to route your searches through its own search engine partner since that’s how they make money (though you can still opt to stick with your own preferred search provider).
Public libraries may be best known for providing access to information in dead tree format, but books aren't the only things they offer. Many libraries, such as those in New York City, Miami-Dade, FL, and Contra Costa County, CA--or even small towns, such as Northampton, MA--offer free Wi-Fi for visitors. Another place with lots of books and the potential for free Wi-Fi is the local college campus--check the student union and other spots for a signal when you visit.
2. Pull up stakes
Municipal Wi-Fi networks are an endangered species these days, and ones that don’t charge for access are even more so. But free city-wide (or close to it) Wi-Fi does still exist. Some towns like Ponca City, OK and St. Cloud, FL, have Wi-Fi networks for things like automatic meter reading and emergency service use, and they offer free access to residents (coverage is sometimes limited to public areas, though).
If you’re looking for a hipper more urbane milieu, head to San Francisco, where free Wi-Fi is available in much of the city thanks to Maraki's Free the Net project. [For more on Free the Net, click here.] Meraki products also make it relatively easy and inexpensive to add Wi-Fi to multi-unit dwellings like apartment buildings, so plant a bug in the ear of your property manager or condo board.
3. Trains, planes, and automobiles
Whether you're traveling cross-country or cross-town, free Wi-Fi is often close by. Comcast high-speed Internet customers can take advantage of free Wi-Fi available at about 100 New Jersey Transit train stations and in surrounding parking lots. Cablevision provides the same service to its customers waiting at Long Island Rail Road platforms, and all LIRR passengers can get Internet access in the LIRR's New York Penn Station waiting room.
When traveling by air, consider heading to the airport early--or lingering there for a while after arrival--since many offer free Wi-Fi in the passenger terminals. Travelpost.com has a nice rundown of such airports, (along with pricing for those airports that charge for access).
If you’re on a road trip and need to pull over for a bathroom break, check and see if the roadside facilities offer free Wi-Fi. Many highway rest stops, including all 27 Travel Plazas on the New York State Thruway, do. And BP is in the midst of rolling out free Wi-Fi access at its gas stations across North America.
Whatever your mode of travel, if you’re staying in a hotel—or just happen to be close to one—park yourself in the lobby, where Wi-Fi is often free (even when it costs beaucoup bucks in the guest rooms).
4. Take a coffee break or grab a bite
Economic downturn notwithstanding, there are still about a billion Starbucks out there, most of which have hotspots. If you frequently visit Starbucks for your java jolt, pick up one of the company's stored-value cards, register it online and use it at least once every 30 days to make a purchase or add funds—you’ll get two hours of free Starbucks Wi-Fi access per day (albeit in one contiguous block) for your trouble. Craving more than just coffee? All FirstWatch and Panera locations offer free Wi-Fi, as well.
5. Ask and ye shall receive
Sharemywifi.com hosts a database of about 800 Wi-Fi networks worldwide (mostly in the US and Europe) whose owners are willing to provide access to strangers. Although some owners request a “donation” for network access and others are willing to exchange it for other goods or services, a considerable number of the networks listed on the site will provide access to anyone who asks.
A tool on the site lets you consult a map to locate a network near you and view the owner's terms for access. Once you find one you want to use, use an e-mail form to contact the owner and request permission to access the network, (and in the case of secure networks, obtain the encryption key).
6. Join the crowd
We-Fi has a million or so users who’ve found more than sixteen million hotspots around the world. Lots of them are free, and you can use the site’s maps to look up open networks near a particular address.
When you install We-Fi's software (it’s available for Windows and Mac systems as well as Windows Mobile and Nokia S60 mobile phones) it will find and automatically connect you to the best open access point available nearby, and if the wireless networks near you aren't already in We-Fi's database, the software will add them for the benefit of other users. We-Fi also lets you know where friends that also use the software are connected, and can update your location when you post to Facebook or Twitter. [Click here for a review.]
7. Share and share alike
With FON's $30 LaFonera access point, you can create a public hotspot on your wireless network without disturbing the protected and private network you already have. Granted $30 isn't exactly free, but if you agree to be a “Linus” and provide other FON users with free access to your hotspot (as opposed to “Bills,” who charge for it) you'll get complimentary access at all other FON hotspots in return. [Click here for a review.]
Whisher works along similar lines, but with software rather than hardware. Make your wireless network available to Whisher users, and you’ll get access to theirs. Whisher’s software is available for Mac and Windows (though the latter version’s not compatible with Vista). [Click here for a review.]
8. Get a gadget
Sometimes right gadget + right place = free Wi-Fi. When you buy an iPhone, your data plan comes with free Wi-Fi access at AT&T hotspots, including those at Starbucks, Barnes & Noble, and McDonalds. The same is true of Sony’s Cyber-shot DSC-G3 camera with built-in Wi-Fi (though you can only use it to upload photos from the camera, not with a PC). The Eye-Fi Explore--a Wi-Fi-enabled 2GB SD card that works with most digital cameras-- comes with one year of access at Wayport hotspots.
9. Sniff around
You don’t always have time to fire up the laptop just to see if there’s free Wi-Fi around, but pocket-sized gizmos like the Canary Wireless Digital Hotspotter HS20 will give you a quick read on available networks nearby, their signal strength, and whether or not they’re encrypted. The Wi-Fi capable iPod touch can also be used as a signal finder. [Click here for a review of the HS20. And click here for a review of the iPod touch.]
10. More gain, less pain
When you’re looking for Wi-Fi, but can't find any open networks around, there may still be a few nearby with signals that are just out of reach. The Wi-Fi adapters built into most notebooks aren’t particularly adept at pulling in weak or distant signals, but a USB-based Wi-Fi adapter with a high-gain directional antenna, like hField's Wi-Fire or one from Hawking Technologies (it has units that support 11g and 11n, on both Mac and Windows) will give you the ability to cast a wider net in search of access. [Click here for a full Wi-Fire review.]
Whenever you’re trolling for free Wi-Fi, be sure to pay attention to what you’re connecting to. In many public places (especially in airport terminals), scammers with laptops are known to hang around broadcasting peer-to-peer (a.k.a. ad-hoc) networks and hoping to snare inattentive passers-by with come-hither SSIDs like “Free Wi-Fi” or something along those lines. To avoid falling prey to one, take note of the icon next to the network. The icon should depict an antenna (in XP) or a single computer (in Vista) if it shows a pair of computers, it’s an ad-hoc network and you should stay away. [For more detailed help, read “When ‘Free Public Wi-Fi’ is Bad.”]
Finally, remember that whether you pay for access not, Wi-Fi networks are shared; so whenever you use one, you are potentially exposing your computer’s data and your online activities to other users. To protect yourself, be sure to run a software firewall and use VPN software, such as AnchorFree’s Hotspot Shield to encrypt the data you send and receive while connected. A caveat: HotSpot Shield will want to route your searches through its own search engine partner since that’s how they make money (though you can still opt to stick with your own preferred search provider).
Steve Jobs Flash Stance Slammed by Adobe
Steve Jobs, the most successful CEO of Apple, has been fired back by none other than Adobe in the ever-rising Flash battle between the two tech giants.
This great battle began last Friday when Jobs slammed the Flash technology of Adobe and went public to say that Apple is not at all ready to offer Flash on iPods, iPhones and iPads. The letter which comprised of 1675 words also contained words to savage Adobe, the popular multimedia software maker from USA of touting 100% proprietary technology. Not only this, he also focused on the giant’s lack of security, performance and reliability.
The cannons were fired by Adobe also when just a day later Adobe shot back at Jobs by accusing of the fact that Apple has taken deliberate steps to confuse people in attempting to protect its very own business.
In the email, Holy Campbell, the Director of Adobe for corporate communications added that any attempt by Apple in positioning this matter as a complete technological issue is a complete smoke screen. Apple’s moves like this to bock technologies like Flash are part of a business model, which locks consumers and developers into a single stack.
This great battle began last Friday when Jobs slammed the Flash technology of Adobe and went public to say that Apple is not at all ready to offer Flash on iPods, iPhones and iPads. The letter which comprised of 1675 words also contained words to savage Adobe, the popular multimedia software maker from USA of touting 100% proprietary technology. Not only this, he also focused on the giant’s lack of security, performance and reliability.
The cannons were fired by Adobe also when just a day later Adobe shot back at Jobs by accusing of the fact that Apple has taken deliberate steps to confuse people in attempting to protect its very own business.
In the email, Holy Campbell, the Director of Adobe for corporate communications added that any attempt by Apple in positioning this matter as a complete technological issue is a complete smoke screen. Apple’s moves like this to bock technologies like Flash are part of a business model, which locks consumers and developers into a single stack.
ready for a GPS app store
It’s the hottest thing to come along in the tech world since blogging: The app store. And soon you might just have an app store for every gadget in your arsenal.
TomTom is the latest gizmo maker to get in on the app-tion, saying this week that it is now planning to launch an app store specifically designed for its Go Live GPS navigation hardware. The idea: Allow drivers to upgrade the old "drop in an address and tell me where to go" functionality of their GPS units.
The catch with GPS devices, of course, is that you don’t really want people playing games or otherwise mucking about with these units while they’re behind the wheel. TomTom acknowledges that broad GPS apps may be “impractical”; others might say these kinds of applications could be downright dangerous.
So what might the contents of a GPS app store look like, really? Enhanced point-of-interest apps immediately come to mind — think restaurant reviews (“take me to the nearest four-star restaurant”) and real-time gas-price applications. Traffic-planning apps would be a must, and geocachers would certainly love an app that integrates cache locations and contents directly with a GPS unit. I can even imagine a few augmented reality-style games designed for the devices. The possibilities aren’t exactly endless, but there’s more to this idea than there seems to be at first blush.
TomTom hasn’t announced a time frame for the app store’s launch, but it’s speculated it will arrive before the end of the year. Information on typical application pricing is obviously still a ways out as well.
Will apps reinvigorate interest in the stumbling stand-alone GPS market? Apps alone won’t make people put down their iPhones and Nexus Ones, but this is certainly a step in the right direction. North-north-westerly, perhaps.
TomTom is the latest gizmo maker to get in on the app-tion, saying this week that it is now planning to launch an app store specifically designed for its Go Live GPS navigation hardware. The idea: Allow drivers to upgrade the old "drop in an address and tell me where to go" functionality of their GPS units.
The catch with GPS devices, of course, is that you don’t really want people playing games or otherwise mucking about with these units while they’re behind the wheel. TomTom acknowledges that broad GPS apps may be “impractical”; others might say these kinds of applications could be downright dangerous.
So what might the contents of a GPS app store look like, really? Enhanced point-of-interest apps immediately come to mind — think restaurant reviews (“take me to the nearest four-star restaurant”) and real-time gas-price applications. Traffic-planning apps would be a must, and geocachers would certainly love an app that integrates cache locations and contents directly with a GPS unit. I can even imagine a few augmented reality-style games designed for the devices. The possibilities aren’t exactly endless, but there’s more to this idea than there seems to be at first blush.
TomTom hasn’t announced a time frame for the app store’s launch, but it’s speculated it will arrive before the end of the year. Information on typical application pricing is obviously still a ways out as well.
Will apps reinvigorate interest in the stumbling stand-alone GPS market? Apps alone won’t make people put down their iPhones and Nexus Ones, but this is certainly a step in the right direction. North-north-westerly, perhaps.
Amazon adding Twitter, Facebook to Kindle e-reader
Amazon.com Inc.'s Kindle e-reader is getting access to Facebook and Twitter, along with several other enhancements, as part of a software update being sent wirelessly to the devices.
In a posting on Amazon's site, the company says the new software will let users share book passages on their Twitter and Facebook accounts. The update will also let people sort books and documents into collections and lock their Kindle with a password. There also will be larger font options and the ability to zoom in on PDF documents.
The update comes shortly after Apple released its iPad tablet, which could be the Kindle's biggest competition. Both can wirelessly download books.
Amazon said it has released the software to some Kindle owners and expects to send it to all users in late May.
In a posting on Amazon's site, the company says the new software will let users share book passages on their Twitter and Facebook accounts. The update will also let people sort books and documents into collections and lock their Kindle with a password. There also will be larger font options and the ability to zoom in on PDF documents.
The update comes shortly after Apple released its iPad tablet, which could be the Kindle's biggest competition. Both can wirelessly download books.
Amazon said it has released the software to some Kindle owners and expects to send it to all users in late May.
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