Connectivity Review

Syba USB Bluetooth Edr Dongle Bt 2.0/2.1 Edr A2DP CLASS2 Skype

2009-08-06T18:08:00.001-07:00

Thumb Size, USB to Bluetooth Dongle 2.0, Class 2+EDR, Broadcom Chipset

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iHome 2.4 GHz Wireless Presenter (Black)

2009-08-05T17:18:00.001-07:00

iHome IH-A650PB 2.4 GHz Wireless Presenter - Black

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iHome Wireless Laser Notebook Mouse (Red)

2009-08-04T17:21:00.001-07:00

iHome IH-M170ZR Wireless Laser Notebook Mouse - Red

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iHome 4-Port USB 2.0 Hub (Pink)

2009-08-03T17:06:00.001-07:00

iHome IH-U502FP 4-Port USB 2.0 Hub - Pink

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iHome 5 Button Wireless Optical Notebook Mouse (Black)

2009-08-02T17:27:00.001-07:00

iHome IH-M155WB 5-Button Wireless Optical Notebook Mouse - Black

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Syba SD-EXPC34-1S 34mm 1x DB9 RS-232 Port Serial ExpressCard

2009-08-01T18:02:00.001-07:00

ExpressCard 1x DB9 RS-232 Port Serial Card, 34mm

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iHome 4-Port USB 2.0 Hub (White)

2009-07-31T17:50:00.001-07:00

iHome IH-U501FW 4-Port USB 2.0 Hub - White

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iHome 7-Port USB 2.0 Hub (Pink)

2009-07-30T18:22:00.001-07:00

iHome IH-U512SP 7-Port USB 2.0 Hub - Pink

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Reachdsl Modem 10BT 230V Uk Desktop

2009-07-29T17:19:00.001-07:00

The Hotwire ReachDSL product family provides solutions that enable service providers to gain a competitive advantage with the ability to connect more customers with consistent delivery of services, no matter what the copper conditions - poor quality loops, long loops, or bad premises wiring. Providing the industry's first and only line-sharing-compatible and customer-installable solution that guarantees service delivery to 5,400 meters, the ReachDSL family of products becomes an integral part of a service provider's ability to successfully deliver services to expanded new markets and with increasing customer satisfaction.The Hotwire 6350 ReachDSL Modem is a component in the Hotwire ReachDSL System and interoperates with the Hotwire 8312 or 8314 ReachDSL/MVL Card in the Hotwire DSLAM (Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer) system. This system provides high-speed Internet or corporate LAN access over traditional twisted-pair copper telephone wiring.

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iHome Slimline Wireless Optical Mouse (Black)

2009-07-28T18:40:00.001-07:00

iHome IH-M114WB Slimline Wireless Optical Mouse - Black

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Belkin USB 2.0 Plus Hub (4 Port) F5U304-BRN

2009-07-27T17:02:00.001-07:00

Works great. I simply plugged it into my Mac Mini (which is 3 years old now) and it worked flawlessly with Flash/stick things, a stereo, cameras, printer. I would not hesitate to buy it again.

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Netopia Adsl 2+ Modem 10/100 En & USB Firewall Security

2009-07-26T18:22:00.001-07:00

Netopia's 2200 Series ADSL2+ residential gateways are ideal for cost-sensitive mass deployments to residential and SOHO subscribers, while retaining robust features with diverse LAN connectivity options, ease of use, and security.A broad selection of LAN connectivity options, from one- and two-port Ethernet and USB connections to a four-port Ethernet switch and optional 802.11g Wi-Fi, give carriers and service providers the ability to offer different levels of broadband services to different market segments.ADSL2+ WAN connectivity enables the delivery of higher bandwidth services, including triple play, and Netopia's robust routing, security, and management features protect customers and minimize support costs. In addition, the attractive price points make the 2200 Series a smart choice for upgrading subscribers on existing ADSL and ADSL2/2+ networks.Netopia's 2200 Series protects even single user households from hackers and denial-of-service attacks, while models with multiple LAN ports allow broadband customers to network multiple computers or other IP-enabled devices. Netopia's VGx Virtual Gateway technology provides superior Quality of Service for voice and video delivery.Pairing 2200 Series gateways with Netopia's NBBS TR-069 Device Management Platform allows automated installation, while the integrated PPPoE client eliminates extra software licensing costs and dramatically reduces support calls. The 2200's intelligent software features and diagnostics reduce the cost of ongoing customer support, while increasing customer satisfaction.The 2200 Series sets the standard for value and affordability, giving providers new opportunities for churn reduction, competitive differentiation, and revenue generation.

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Syba SD-EXPC34-1S2 JMB Chipset 1x e-SATA Ports, 34mm, Up to 3.0Gb/s ExpressCard

2009-07-25T17:17:00.001-07:00

The card works fine with my Macbook Pro. Just plug and go. The transfer speed is incredible and everything I was hoping for. It is a shame Apple is dropping ExpressCard slots from the 15-inch notebooks.

The two downsides to this particular card are that it is too easy to dislodge the ESATA cable from the card, and the card itself doesn't 'latch' into the notebook very well. But it's easy to work around this: just don't move things around while the card is in use.

Worth a note: I was never able to get this card to work with Windows XP running on Parallels on the same Macbook Pro. Windows never sees the card even with the driver installed. This is most likely an issue with the emulation and not the fault of the card. I have not had a chance to try it with XP via VMware Fusion.

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4PORT USB 2.0 Slim Hub

2009-07-24T17:30:00.001-07:00

Pros: Compact, lightweight, built-in cable, option to power the hub
Cons: Feels a little cheap, does not come with power supply.

A note about USB 2.0: The maximum current that can be supplied over any port is 500 mA. The minimum is 100 mA, and it is allocated in 100 mA increments. This means that the hub can draw a maximum of 500 mA from the computer it is plugged into. Keep in mind that the hub is a USB device, and must allocate 100 mA for itself.

If only one device is plugged into the hub, then no big deal. That device can draw 100 mA, 200 mA, 300 mA, or 400 mA, which is plenty for most devices.

If two devices are plugged into the hub, the current can be split 100/300 mA, 200/200 mA, 100/200 mA, or 100/100 mA. Most devices are happy here. You only run into problems if one device needs more than 300 mA, or if both devices need more than 200 mA.

If three devices are plugged into the hub, the options are 100/100/200 mA or 100/100/100 mA. Problems can arise if any device wants more than 200 mA, or if two devices want more than 100 mA.

If four devices are connected to the hub, the hub can only allocate 100 mA to each device, leaving 100 mA to power the hub itself. This is fine for devices that are self powered and only use USB for communication (like printers, or syncing a PDA that has a powered cradle). USB flash drives are probably OK too. Charging an iPod or powering a radio (like WiFi or mobile broadband) takes too much current, and won't work.

Why 4 ports then? That is the maximum they can put and still be compliant with the standards. Plus, nobody wants a 2 port hub. Once you have the USB interface, it's really cheap to add more ports. This hub *does* have a jack for a power adapter, but doesn't include the adapter to save cost.

If you need a power adapter, Zonet packages this hub with a power adapter and calls it the Zonet 4 Port Usb 2.0 Hub W Power Adapter. Alternatively, look for a power adapter that outputs 5V (DC) and can supply at least 2.6A. You can get these online, or might have one laying around the house. With a power adapter, this should be able to provide the full 500 mA to every port, and everything should work fine.

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Aten Technologies VS138 300Mhz 8-Port Video Splitter

2009-07-23T18:13:00.001-07:00

The Video Separator is a signal booster and splitter that is used to take video input from a single source and direct it to eight video outputs for monitors using analog signals. The signal boost obtained by using the VS-138 allows you to not only split the signal but to extend the distance so that you can send the signal to about 210 feet. This is no mean feat, your average VGA card, over a standard VGA cable, send a clear VGA signal approximately 25 feet. This makes public broadcasts from a single computer very feasible. If you want to display the same information on many monitors at once, such as in a classroom environment, or at a demonstration, this product performs incredibly well. Bandwidth is the term that is used to describe the signal capacity of these units. In general, bandwidth is directly proportional to the amount of data transmitted per unit of time. Specifically, in analog signals, bandwidth is the difference between the highest-frequency and the lowest frequency components of a givin signal. For example a voice telephone signal has a bandwidth of 3000 Hz (or 3000 cycles per second), where an analog TV signal has a bandwidth of approximately 6MHz (or 6 million cycles per second) which is approximately 2000 times greater than a simple voice phone call. These units have a bandwidth of 300MHz (which is 300 million cycles per second) and that is 50 times greater than a simple TV signal. This huge bandwidth allows for the transmission of large amounts of information at a very high rate of speed, and thus you can use the very high resolution setting of 1800 x 1400 in 24 or 32 bit true color mode at a refresh rate of 80Hz.

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Tripp Lite IBAR12 IsPRar Surge Protector/Suppressor 15-Amp 12 outlets 15ft Cord 1280 Joules

2009-07-22T18:58:00.001-07:00

Tripp Lite's Isobar 12 Rackmount Surge Suppressor has 12 outlets, a 3,6-m cord, and 750 joules of energy absorption. Exclusive isolated filter banks eliminate interference between connected equipment. Isobars are virtually indestructible with their heavy-duty all-metal housing which won't burn, crack, or melt.

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Tango 3PORT USB/FIREWIRE800 Pcie Card

2009-07-21T18:16:00.001-07:00

Can your computer harness the performance offered by today's fastest multimedia peripherals? Sonnet's Tango Express 800 provides a quick way to add (or add more) high-speed connections to your setup and delivers maximum data transfer speeds for the fastest FireWire and USB devices. Featuring three FireWire 800 (1394b) and three USB 2.0 ports (two external plus one internal, each), Tango Express 800 satisfies the demands of video and pro-audio applications, where high-speed and high-bandwidth data throughput are essential, and enables you to extract every ounce of performance from fast external drives, DV camcorders, and more.Each of the Tango Express 800's ports is independently powered and capable of supporting bus-powered peripherals (devices that can work without a separate power supply, including some external drives and scanners). And unlike hubs, each port provides full-bandwidth data throughput, so there is no performance penalty due to two or more devices sharing a single connection. Best of all, Tango Express 800 offers simple plug and play installation - you'll have more high-speed connections in minutes.

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Sonnet Allegro USB2 Serial Network Adapter

2009-07-20T19:03:00.001-07:00

I read all the reviews and was glad to hear this product supported Macintosh deep sleep, as long as OS X 10.5.2+ was used. My daughter's Mac is a G4 QuickSilver G4 2 x 2.0 model (last Quicksilver before the Mirrored Drive Doors) and she needed a USB 2.0 port for her iPod Touch.

I had originally given her a Belkin FireWire + USB 2.0 card, which she quickly found wouldn't support sleep. The Bellkin web site confirmed this. So I found this Sonnet Tech card, which had great reviews touting the Deep Sleep ability.

My first experience was that the system didn't even recognize the card, except to say in System Profiler that it didn't have a driver loaded. The usual Open Firmware commands and Parameter RAM resets didn't seen to help, and the card itself didn't fit well in the G4. Tightening the capture screw pushed one side of the card down an extra mm or two, and consistently made the card non-functional. Only by tightening the screw far enough to give light pressure to the top of the card's backplane bracket made the card work. The iPod touch was able to charge at USB 2.0 levels, and sync at 2.0 speeds. Nice.

Having solved that problem, I found that sleep failed whether the iPod touch was connected or nothing was connected. The symptoms were the same as the Belkin card... The Mac would wake, and usually respond to one click (menu, Dock, whatever) but then go into the spinning beach ball ad infinitum. Before clicking, plugging the iPod in did not launch iTunes, which was one clue.

I was ready to love the card, and have it solve my problems, but alas, it didn't. Sonnett does generally make super products, but this one doesn't work for me. The outside of the box said Deep Sleep wasn't supported, but the instructions inside said 10.5.2+ would be OK. I've had to tell my daughter, "don't use Sleep mode!"

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NETGEAR FS116 16 Port Fast Ethernet Switch with Auto Uplink (10/100)

2009-07-19T18:12:00.001-07:00

I purchased one NETGEAR FS116 as a central switch in parallel with a 12-port network punch-down panel in our newly constructed home. Excellent price, no-brainer set-up, and so far, excellent performance.

I set up the new switch with a dozen 2-foot Cat5e patch cables, attaching the switch to my utility panel with the provided mounting screws, plugged the unit in, and I was up and running in about 10 minutes total time. As a survivor of the early days of PC networking, it's hard to imagine that things have become this easy and this affordable.

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iHome 5 Button Programmable Wireless Laser Mouse (Red)

2009-07-18T17:43:00.001-07:00

iHome IH-M130ZR Wireless Laser Mouse - 5 button programmable - Red

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Tripp Lite RS-1215 Multiple Outlet Strip 15-Amp 12 outlet 15ft Cord

2009-07-17T18:46:00.001-07:00

Tripp Lite is proud to introduce the new member of its product line: Tripp Lite Power Strips. Tripp Lite Power Strips are a convenient solution for applications in which multiple AC outlets are needed without surge or line noise protection. Power Strips are ideal for mounting inside rack enclosures or on walls, workbenches and more. Sturdy metal housing stands up to demanding network, lab or factory environments.

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Linksys WAP54G Wireless-G Access Point

2009-07-16T17:01:00.001-07:00

The setup documentation is valid only if your DHCP serves addresses beginning with 192.168.1.xxx! This was not stated in the documentation, so it took me some time to guess that the Documentation effort was outsourced, and I'd need to resolve the issue myself.
Advice: Most casual users will have their internal IP addresses set to 192.168.1.xxx, but if this is NOT your case, you must change the "default ip address of 198.168.1.245" that is pre-configured in the WAP54G to something compatible with our network. -- In order to accomplish this step, you will need to temporarily reconfigure some PC/laptop to a compatible IP address for communicating with the Linksys (such as 192.168.1.004), then with the linksys cabled to that PC, you can run the LinkSys setup and reconfigure the IP address range.

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World Modem V92 Data/fax USB Desktop Business Modem

2009-07-15T19:01:00.001-07:00

This product worked very well right out of the box for my fax server. Do take your time to install all the software that came with it so the usb port gets configured correctly. The only down side is that McAfee 8.0 does not like this modem and will block the usb port. Go figure so don't use McAfee with this.

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OWLink FO2850 High Definition DLI Fiber Optic Intermediate Connectivity System

2009-07-14T18:27:00.001-07:00

The OWLink FO2850 High Definition DLI Fiber Optic Intermediate Connectivity System includes one FO2850 TX transmitter, one FO2850 RX receiver, one fiber optic cable, two HDMI cables, one IR emitter, and one IR sensor. It transmits high-definition video, stereo audio, and IR control from an HDMI-equipped component over a fiber optic connection. The OWLink FO2850 supports USB control, so you can connect a computer to it. This system is also compatible with DVI-equipped components using an HDMI-to-DVI adapter, and is also compatible with HDMI switchers for adding multiple source components.

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Denon AVR1910 7.1-Channel Multi-Zone Home Theater Receiver with 1080p HDMI Connectivity

2009-07-13T17:51:00.001-07:00

Last year I spent several months trying various A/V receivers when I upgraded to bluray and a new plasma TV. I tried an Onkyo 606, Denon 988, and a Yamaha 663 and ultimately ended up with the Yamaha RX-V663 as I felt it gave the best performance for the money. I decided to switch to a different receiver after I changed my home theater setup and began to route everything to the tv via 1 HDMI cable. The Yamaha's video processing on HDMI sources was fine, but other analog sources were seriously degraded when converted to digital. So my search began again.

After many months of research at various forums and websites, here were my conclusions about the new 2009 models:

1. Yamaha 665 added extra HDMI inputs and video upscaling which is good but also cut weight by about 8 lbs mainly from the amplifier which means less output and clean sound.

2. Onkyo 607 is mainly the same as last year's, with an extra HDMI for a total of 5 inputs. Added Dolby Prologic II Z which is more of a gimmick than useful from what I have read. Still runs very hot and has same poor video processing chip. Questionable reliability.

3. Harman Kardon was the brand I owned before my Yamaha and I really love them, but last year had excessive amounts of glitches with video and audio compatibility. Most have been corrected buy I'm not willing to take that chance as of yet.

4. Pioneer makes a nice unit in the 1018 last year, but this year the 1019 has been cut drastically in weight too. Power amp has been cut down to lower levels. Nice GUI and ipod compatibility built in, but a little weak in the power section.

5. Sony. Never really been fond of Sony receivers in the past. ES series is nice, but pricey. I personally never even considered anything below the ES line.

And that brings us to the 1910:

I am flat out blown away by this receiver. The main reason I wanted it was for the Audyssey processing. The only thing I was in love with on the Onkyo 606 I tried out was the Audyssey dynamic EQ. The 988 I demoed did not have it but the 1910 does and it is worth every penny. I have 2 small kids and even though my theater room is 2 floors below, I obviously can't listen at reference volumes. Audyssey dynamic EQ along with Dynamic Volume is a knockout combo. The bass response and sound from the rears is jaw dropping at lower levels. I would pay much, much more just for this feature. Last night I listened to Goo Goo Dolls live from Buffalo DVD and I heard things I never heard in the mix before. Every strum on the guitar and bass line was alive and distinct. Drums thumped and vocals were crystal clear. I also watched Live Free or Die Hard on bluray (thanks Amazon for the lightning deal!!) and the surround effect at -35db on the volume was nothing short of spectacular. Speaking of spectacular, the Audyssey auto setup nailed everything perfectly. I have a 6.1 Jamo surround setup consisting of 4 matched satellites, a larger center, and a smaller rear center. The 1910 has independent crossover levels for each speaker, unlike my Yammy which was one global setting. The crossovers were dead on for each of the 3 different speakers. Levels and EQ settings were perfect. My room is 18 x 22 and my wife even commented how on the other side of the room not in the sweet spot for listening, the sound was much better than before. I am running all 6 ohm speakers and this thing seems to have plenty of power for my room size.

The 1910 has the Anchor Bay scaling chip this year instead of the Faroujda chip last years 1909 had and from what I have seen so far, it handles component to HDMI signals with no problems.

I always thought Denon was overpriced and over hyped after trying the 988. With the added Audyssey features and half the price, this 1910 is the deal of the century. The only drawbacks are:

1. Poor remote. I have a Harmony One so it' not much of an issue for me.
2. Confusing at times. I have quite a bit of experience setting up home theater equipment so I made it through OK, but I did have to hit the manual several times which is poorly written. A trip to the AVS forums has a section specifically for Denon setup and can really help newbies.
3. No GUI. This receiver has the blocky white on black on screen display. It really was not much of an issue for me. Others may care.
4. No pre-outs. I have no need for an external amp. Others might.

Bottom line is that for the money, this receiver has all the pros and very few cons. I thought my Yamaha sounded natural, clean, and extremely lifelike. This Denon has me floored in comparison. Makes everything else seem dull and lifeless. If you have some electronic knowledge, don't hesitate. 4 HDMIs, HD audio, full Audyssey suite, Anchor Bay chip, and a great power section makes this thing a knockout!!

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Bladecenter Sas Connectivity Module

2009-07-12T17:51:00.001-07:00

The IBM BladeCenter SAS Connectivity Module enables connectivity to the IBM BladeCenter Disk Boot System SAS fabric and to 3 Gb SAS fabric connectivity.

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Upgrade To High-speed Serial Ata Without Losing Your Ultra Ata Connectivity.two

2009-07-11T17:42:00.001-07:00

Not quite ready for complete Serial ATA dedication? No problem, StarTech.coms PCISAT2IDE1 slot-saver PCI is the perfect way to upgrade to high-speed Serial ATA without losing your Ultra ATA connectivity. Two Serial ATA ports and one Ultra ATA133 port let you run both drive types on the same system, using only one PCI slot.Guaranteed performance backed by our lifetime warranty and FREE lifetime tech support makes this the perfect upgrade for power-users.

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Denon AVR4310CI 7.1-Channel Multi-Zone Home Theater Receiver with Networking Capability and 1080p HDMI Connectivity

2009-07-10T17:38:00.001-07:00

The new AVR-4310CI is a technological tour de force, designed for consumers wanting to network their AV system. Ethernet connectivity opens up your AV system to host of exciting capabilities like audio and jpeg photo streaming and Internet radio. Additionally, subscription music services like Rhapsody and Napster are supported. The AVR4310CI packs a punch with 7-channels of onboard amplification producing 910-watts of total power (130 per channel). The amplifiers can be assigned for 7.1 channel surround sound, or a 5.1 channel system in the ¿main¿ room and power a pair of speakers in a second ¿zone¿. This only scratches the surface of the AVR4310CI Multi-zone (3) / multi-source (3) capability. Enhanced power amp assign features, second and third zone programming feature allow the AVR4310 to be the hub of a sophisticated whole house system. For video connectivity, the AVR4310CI is equipped with 1080p compatible HDMI 1.3a Repeating technology, delivering both audio and video to your HDTV with single HDMI cable. This HDMI connectivity supports the latest generation surround sound formats available on Blu-ray disc, including Dolby TrueHD and DD+, dts-HD and dts-HR. Also included is Dolby Laboratories new Pro Logic IIz Matrix decoding featuring front height effects channels that expands front soundstage. The AVR4310CI boasts a number of Audyssey technologies, and is the first to offer Audyssey DXS processing. DSX (Dynamic Surround Expansion adds front height and/or width channels to expand the soundstage. Advanced Audyssey MultEQ XT analyzes a speaker systems interaction with room acoustics at 8 positions, and then delivers custom tailored correction processing to optimize clarity and tonal balance throughout the listening space. Audyssey Dynamic Volume is an automatic volume-leveling system that tracks audio dynamics to eliminate the irritating volume swings between TV shows and commercials.

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Denon AVR1610 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver with 1080p HDMI Connectivity

2009-07-09T18:29:00.001-07:00

The Denon AVR-1610 5.1-Channel Home Theater Receiver - Performance, technology and affordability are the hallmarks of the AVR-1610. A powerful 5 channel x 75W amplifier section delivers detail and dynamics to music and movie soundtracks. It¿s equipped with 1080p compatible HDMI 1.3a Repeating technology, delivering both audio and video to your HDTV with single HDMI cable. This HDMI connectivity supports the latest generation surround sound formats available on Blu-ray disc, including Dolby TrueHD and DD+, dts-HD and dts-HR. Also included is Dolby Laboratories new Pro Logic IIz Matrix decoding featuring front height effects channels that expands front soundstage. The AVR1610 boast a number of Audyssey technologies. Advanced Audyssey MultEQ analyzes a speaker systems interaction with room acoustics, and then delivers custom tailored correction processing to optimize clarity and tonal balance throughout the listening space. Audyssey Dynamic Volume is an automatic volume-leveling system that tracks audio dynamics to eliminate the irritating volume swings between TV shows and commercials. Audyssey Dynamic EQ is also on board to ensure rich bass and smooth tonal balance at low volume listening levels. In addition to enhanced HDMI 1.3 repeating (3 in, 1 out), the AVR1610 features component video switching (2 in, 1 out), analog to HDMI conversion (480i to 480p) and seven analog inputs. A front-panel audio/video input allows quick and easy connection of camcorders and game systems. System setup is simplified by a new, enhanced icon-based on-screen display that is delivered over HDMI. System expansion is available with optional accessories. For media networking, use the optional ASD-3N and ASD-3W. For iPod connectivity, use the ASD-3N/3W, as well as the ASD-11. When connecting iPod and other MP3 players, the AVR-1610 features Denon¿s exclusive Compressed Audio Restorer to improve sound quality and dynamics.

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Denon AVR890 7.1-Channel Multi-Zone Home Theater Receiver with 1080p HDMI Connectivity

2009-07-08T19:35:00.001-07:00

The new AVR-890 was designed for consumers wanting exceptional audio and video performance. Its 7-channel amplifier produces 735-watts of total power (105 per channel), delivering detail and dynamics to music and movie soundtracks. The amplifiers can be configured for 7.1 channel surround sound, or a 5.1 channel system in the ¿main¿ room and power a pair of speakers in a second ¿zone¿. It¿s equipped with 1080p compatible HDMI 1.3a Repeating technology, delivering both audio and video to your HDTV with single HDMI cable. This HDMI connectivity supports the latest generation surround sound formats available on Blu-ray disc, including Dolby TrueHD and DD+, dts-HD and dts-HR. Also included is Dolby Laboratories new Pro Logic IIz Matrix decoding featuring front height effects channels that expands front soundstage. The AVR890 boasts a number of Audyssey technologies. Advanced Audyssey MultEQ analyzes a speaker systems interaction with room acoustics, and then delivers custom tailored correction processing to optimize clarity and tonal balance throughout the listening space. Audyssey Dynamic Volume is an automatic volume-leveling system that tracks audio dynamics to eliminate the irritating volume swings between TV shows and commercials. Audyssey Dynamic EQ is also on board to ensure rich bass and smooth tonal balance at low volume listening levels. In addition to enhanced HDMI 1.3a repeating (5 in, 1 out), the AVR890 features 1080p i/p conversion, analog to HDMI upscaling and HDMI to HDMI scaling. Video conversion is accomplished using a premium Anchor Bay Technologies 2010 chip set featuring 10-bit multi-cadence processing. This chip set also provides video noise reduction, picture enhancement, and adjustment capabilities not available on lower priced models. The AVR890 also features component video switching (2 in, 1 out), seven analog inputs, and multi-zone (2) / multi-source (2) capability.

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Denon ASD-3N iPod/Network Connectivity Client Dock (Black)

2009-07-07T19:26:00.001-07:00

I almost returned this until I discovered all the issues I was having with the device were created by the remote.

I recently purchased a LogicTech 'HarmonyOne' (highest recommendation on this remote - it does what others have claimed to do for years and actually works) when I added the ASD-3N to the HarmonyOne it works flawlessly, I pick back up the Denon Remote and get the same crappy results.

So, very happy with the Dock especially the Internet Radio, as other have said this feature alone makes it worth adding to a Home Theater set-up, but get the HarmonyOne and toss the Denon Remote back in the box.

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Connectivity Adaptor Cable Replacment for DKU-5

2009-07-06T17:44:00.001-07:00

This product says its for nokias, yet when it is installed or the installation shows up it says motorola....
So in the end it doesnt work, it didnt work, and I wont ever buy anything from this company again!

Also when you post a bad review they send you an email asking you to remove it from the website...which I personally thought was very rude.
The whole point of a reviewing process is to tell your likes and dislikes of the products.

Over all bad company policies...bad product.

If you want to waste your money...then buy this product.

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Texas Instruments Graph-Link Serial Cable for Windows

2009-07-05T17:46:00.001-07:00

This is a must have for all Texas Instruments Graphing Calculators. I like adding games to my calculator to use when I am bored. This is a must-have so that you can add cool stuff to your calculator. You can download great games from http://www.ticalc.org

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OWLink FO2800 High Definition DLI Fiber Optic Basic Connectivity System

2009-07-04T19:14:00.001-07:00

This is one amazing little piece of hardware. Why Fiber Optic isn't taken advantage of more often is beyond me.

First of all, I love it. I love it I love it. I have all of my AV equipment including a Blu Ray player, PS3, Xbox 360, Netgear HD Media Player, and every now and then I hook up some random dohickey all plugged into an HDMI switch which then runs to my Main TV in my Living Room and then all of it ran through my OwLink to my bedroom. And with the range of my Xbox and PS3's remotes, they play fantastic in there over the OwLink. There is NO loss of quality. NO dropped frames. This thing is perfect. All through a virtually invisible little wire. If you just run it along a baseboard, you would never know it's there.

The transmitter and receiver feel rather cheap however. Just little plastic things that are very light. You would expect more for the price, but don't let that stop you... if you can afford it.

I would never have even thought twice about this, except I got a kit and another 25ft wire for [...] from a going out of business sale. Best [...] i've spent on tech in awhile.

The ONLY reason I gave it a 4 instead of 5 is because of the price.

I wanted to score another set or at least another transmitter but I had NO idea they were this pricey. There is no way I will ever be able to extend my set since it costs so much, but what I do have, it's more than worth what I spent on it.

If I was setting up an AV room and wanted my equipment far away from my TV, this is the way I would do it, hands down.

If you can afford it, get it!

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Denon AVR990 7.1-Channel Multi-Zone Home Theater Receiver with Networking Capability and 1080p HDMI Connectivity

2009-07-03T17:45:00.001-07:00

The new AVR-990 is a technological tour de force, designed for consumers wanting to network their AV system. Ethernet connectivity opens up your AV system to host of exciting capabilities like audio and jpeg photo streaming and Internet radio. Additionally, subscription music services like Rhapsody and Napster are supported. The AVR990 packs a punch with 7-channels of onboard amplification producing 840-watts of total power (120 per channel). The amplifiers can be assigned for 7.1 channel surround sound, or a 5.1 channel system in the ¿main¿ room and power a pair of speakers in a second ¿zone¿. This only scratches the surface of the AVR990 Multi-zone (2) / multi-source (2) capability. Enhanced power amp assign features, second and third zone programming feature allow the AVR990 to be the hub of a sophisticated whole house system. For video connectivity, the AVR990 is equipped with 1080p compatible HDMI 1.3a Repeating technology, delivering both audio and video to your HDTV with single HDMI cable. This HDMI connectivity supports the latest generation surround sound formats available on Blu-ray disc, including Dolby TrueHD and DD+, dts-HD and dts-HR. Also included is Dolby Laboratories new Pro Logic IIz Matrix decoding featuring front height effects channels that expands front soundstage. The AVR990 boasts a number of Audyssey technologies. Advanced Audyssey MultEQ analyzes a speaker systems interaction with room acoustics, and then delivers custom tailored correction processing to optimize clarity and tonal balance throughout the listening space. Audyssey Dynamic Volume is an automatic volume-leveling system that tracks audio dynamics to eliminate the irritating volume swings between TV shows and commercials.

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Texas Instruments 94327 Ti Graphlink USB

2009-07-02T17:14:00.001-07:00

I have used this USB cable very reliably (the TI 94327 Graphlink USB) with the TI-89 Titanium graphing and scientific calculator and have had no problems with it at all. Contrary to what it says on Amazon, this unit is included with a brand new TI-89 Titanium calculator. The Graphlink has performed completely as advertised by TI and is of very high quality (it looks to me like it is quite durable and will last a long time if treated with care). I highly recommend it for general data transfer sessions and when downloading APPS to a PC from the TI educational website.

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Brother MFC-990CW Color Inkjet All-in-One with 5.8GHz Cordless Handset and Wireless Connectivity

2009-07-02T01:47:00.001-07:00

Despite all the models on the market, and the rather cheap prices for All in ones, it seems to be impossible to find one unit that does everything well. It's sort of like finding a mate, you just might have to settle on some things.
I previously had the HP 7310 all in one, which I previously reviewed on here, but a lightning storm fried the fax board in it. The rest of the unit still worked, but I didn't want to get a separate fax machine. I called HP's customers service, and all they wanted to do was sell me a new expensive unit, at what they told me was a discount price. It was actually much cheaper elsewhere online.
This would be a five star unit if not for some major flaws. I chose this unit mainly because it has an answering machine and cordless phone built in. I also liked the glossy black look of the unit.
The unit has a very nice 4.3 lcd touchscreen which works quite well. Its responsive, has good color and easy to use. It tilts up and down, but this is largely unnecessary. The menus however, are a bit tricky to use, and it takes some playing with it to find out where all your settings and adjustments are located. Also when using the screen to scroll answering machine messages, I found it somewhat difficult to scroll back to listen to a previous message. It keeps taking you back to the beginning of the message you are listening too. It's actually easier to scroll forward and go back around, if you don't have many message saved.
The buttons on the front are raised and are the perfect size. They have good tactile feel and they allow you to easily change your functions, fax, copy, scan or photo capture.
There are some slots on the front of the unit for things like a USB flash drive which you can print your pictures directly from. It shows them on the lCD screen, and you scroll through them. It also is Bluetooth and WIFI capable, though mine is hooked with a wire, so I haven't tried these.
As far as the design of the unit, its mostly good. Its smaller and more compact then many units. It only features a 15pg Adf, versus the 30-50pg ones you see on some machines, but I rarely need to fax or copy more then 5pgs at a time anyway. What matters more is that this unit actually scans all the pages one at time, where my HP, frequently would grab too many pages and you ended up having to send them through one at time.
Faxing or printing in black in white was relatively quick, though trying to fax in color took about a minute per page. You do not want this unit for printing pictures. The people came out looking so red, it looked like they had been severely burned. Granted it was on regular paper, but I've printed decent pictured on regular paper before. You also will probably don't want this unit if you are going to do a lot of scanning photos. It has a 36bit scanner versus the 48bit seen on some other units.
The software in general I felt was good, but the OCR software sucked. It scanned all the words right, unlike my previous hp's software, but it completely ignored all spacing and format. Not ideal, if you want to scan and edit a form.
The power cord is not detachable from the unit, not a big deal to me, but it was datachable on my old HP. What I really didn't like was that the USB cord instead of attaching at the back, is threaded up inside the machine. Because of the bulb near the end of the wire, it requires bending and folding the wire some to get it attached and down in the triangle space provided. This is not good for the wire.
The paper tray which pulls all the way out, is rather flimsy, is made of cheap plastic and only holds about 100pgs. However, it's not as flimsy as some units such as Epson's Artisan 800, and a number of other units. More importantly though, I've had no paper jams and the pages don't drop on the floor after printing.
This unit like a number of Brother units, also supposedly uses it own ink to periodically clean itself. You cant shut this off, so even if not using the printer, you will find your ink is being lowered. You only have to replace one cartridge at a time though.
The real flaw with the unit is actually its biggest marketing feature, the fact that it has a built in 30 min answering machine and an attached cordless phone. I use my phone and fax on the same line and was tired of having my answering machine conflict with the fax. By having them in the same unit I hoped to avoid this conflict and guess what? It did. The machine knew when to pick up for messages or fax. No more conflict. Coodles to Brother for being the only manufacturer to offer a built in answering machine and cordless phone in some of their all in one units. Unfortunately, Brother apparently chose to use cheap mics or speakers for its built in phone system. So much to my disappointment, the answering machine messages come out garbled. Not all the time, but about half the time. Why bother to include an answering machine if you are going to do such an unacceptable job? I use my answering machine a lot and I don't want to have to guess what the message is saying. I tried just turning on my old answering machine, and turning off Brothers, but its fax then continues to try and pick up during calls. So I have to unplug the phone cord from the Brother, which means you cant use the cordless phone.
The cordless phone looks and feels nice, has raised buttons (though not backlit) and a decent orange backlit lcd screen and caller ID. Unfortunately the cordless phone also has speaker and or mic problems. Sometimes I can hear my echo while talking, and sometimes other people complained of static noise on the other end.
I sent my first one back, and ordered another one from a different place thinking maybe I got a lemon, but its has the same problems. Brother's customer service line was of no help at all. So now I'm torn, the unit looks nice, prints text fast and well, and faxes text quickly. Those are the main things I use it for, so I've thought about keeping it despite its major flaws. However I don't like the idea of keeping a brand new unit that comes with one of its major features being defective. Every unit on the market seems to have some types of flaws or problems, so I'm not sure where to settle.

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