The Olympus Zuiko Digital 25mm is the smallest and lightest lens available for DSLRs based on the Four Thirds standard. Weighing 95g and measuring just 23.5mm thick, it justifies the pancake nickname, and transforms smaller Four Thirds bodies into working kits which could squeeze into larger coat pockets. With 50mm equivalent coverage and an f2.8 aperture, the lens is ideal for general-purpose use, but do its compact dimensions compromise quality or performance? Find out in our Olympus Zuiko Digital 25mm pancake lens review where we'll compare it against other Olympus zooms and the specialist 50mm macro lens. And to see a demonstration of its highlights, check out our Olympus 25mm video tour. Read More
Monday, August 25, 2008
Price Decrease on Nikon D200, D80, D40 and Select Nikkor Lenses
Nikon Canada Inc. has today announced new lower manufacturer's recommended retail pricing (MSRP) on a number of their digital SLR cameras, including the family photography oriented 6.1 MP Nikon D40 and the Nikon D80 digital SLR for the advanced amateur. The Nikon D200 (for the serious hobbyist and professional geared photographer) has been reduced in price by $100 to a new MSRP of $1399 CAN, while the Nikkor AF 80-400mm F/4-5.6 VR zoom lens has been reduced in price by $120 to a new retail of $1579 Canadian. Nikon Canada has also confirmed pricing for their latest new lenses, including the Nikon AF-S DX 16-85mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II zoom, the AF-S 60mm f/2.8G ED Macro, and the PC-E Nikkor 24mm f/3.5D ED tilt/shift lens. See full story... Read More
Vodafone NZ releases new iPhone plans
Vodafone NZ releases new iPhone plans
Well, here we are again. Staring once more into the abyss that is the iPhone section of Vodafone's website. Only this time, rather than bang our heads against something sturdy, we give a low grunt and move on to something far more important.
Why the sudden change? Why am I writing it this way? The answer to the latter may never be known but the answer to the former is quite simple: The new iPhone plans are out!
Yes, Vodafone has released the new iPhone plans for New Zealand customers. However, is there any improvement?
From what I’ve seen so far, the answer is yes. But have they fixed it enough?
Well, the $250 1GB plan has been scrapped as an iPhone exclusive plan for one thing (now avaliable for any handset), replaced with the lowly 500mb $130 plan. Obviously there are now four plans, as opposed to three (two after a few weeks).
However, the greatest improvement overall is the addition of a $40 plan. However, at that price you'll have to settle for only 20 included minutes, 100 included texts and a super small 250mb data cap. But for someone who isn't likely to be wanting to catch the latest 'will it blend' video on the move, this plan will be a godsend.
Of course, a few additional minutes would've been nice.
Well, at least the $40 plan phone is subsidized a fair bit.
Anyway, enough from me. Here are the plans:
Nikon D60 - video tour now ready!
Our brand new Nikon D60 video tour is now uploaded and ready to go! Apologies for the delay. Read More
Canon Announces 10MP PowerShot SD890 IS, SD790 IS and SD770 IS
Canon has announced three new 10 megapixel compact PowerShot digital cameras, the SD890 IS, the PowerShot SD790 IS and the SD770 IS. The Canon PowerShot SD890 IS features a rounded curve design incorporating a 5x image stabilized lens, optical viewfinder, and a 2.5 inch LCD. The more square PowerShot SD790 IS trades the optical viewfinder away to make room for a larger 3.0 inch LCD monitor, and features a 3x optical zoom with IS. The PowerShot SD770 IS offers a 3x optical zoom with stabilizer, an optical viewfinder and a 2.5 inch PureColor LCD II screen.. See full story... Read More
Mint 220 Wireless Digital Music Station
Mint 220 Wireless Digital Music Station
Manufacturers will do anything to put a different spin on their iPod docks – from using halo-shaped speakers to building party games into an orb. Mint’s 220 iPod speaker dock falls onto the far less gimmicky side of this spectrum by introducing a much more useful feature: wireless music streaming from a PC or Mac. Using a thumb-drive-style USB adapter, the 220 pulls music from any computer, allowing it to serve double duty as both a pair of wireless computer speakers and an iPod stereo.
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Saturday, August 16, 2008
Update Windows Live Mobile or not?
This week we got the news Microsoft has released an update for Windows Live Mobile. No, don't go updating your Windows Mobile Pocket PC yet. Read on.
First the good news: this update enhances Windows Live on your Windows Mobile. Great. But if you have Windows Live Messenger on your device (installed by an OEM), don't install this update yet. Read more.
Windows Live Mobile is really cool - it enables push e-mail for your Windows Live accounts (this includes Hotmail and even the Geekzonemail accounts).
Here is the bad news: Microsoft stopped providing Windows Live Messenger with Windows Live Mobile - a departure from earlier versions. And if you have an old Windows Live Mobile version with Windows Live Messenger, installing this new version will disable the Messenger component.
The Windows Live Messenger files are still in the system, but the program won't start at all. Uninstalling the "update" will automatically revert to the previous version and enable Windows Live Messenger again.
What is really annoying is that Microsoft makes Windows Live Messenger available for RIM BlackBerry users, but leave Windows Mobile users in the cold, waiting for operators to release their software (which we all know ain't gonna happen any time soon).
If you don't have Windows Live Mobile on your device (some OEMs don't include it), then you can download it now - and use a third party software for communicating with friends on Windows Live Messenger. Try one of the following:
- Fring (free, multiple IM systems, Skype, SIP, Twitter)
- Pocket MSN
- MSN Messenger Force 
Read More
First the good news: this update enhances Windows Live on your Windows Mobile. Great. But if you have Windows Live Messenger on your device (installed by an OEM), don't install this update yet. Read more.
Windows Live Mobile is really cool - it enables push e-mail for your Windows Live accounts (this includes Hotmail and even the Geekzonemail accounts).
Here is the bad news: Microsoft stopped providing Windows Live Messenger with Windows Live Mobile - a departure from earlier versions. And if you have an old Windows Live Mobile version with Windows Live Messenger, installing this new version will disable the Messenger component.
The Windows Live Messenger files are still in the system, but the program won't start at all. Uninstalling the "update" will automatically revert to the previous version and enable Windows Live Messenger again.
What is really annoying is that Microsoft makes Windows Live Messenger available for RIM BlackBerry users, but leave Windows Mobile users in the cold, waiting for operators to release their software (which we all know ain't gonna happen any time soon).
If you don't have Windows Live Mobile on your device (some OEMs don't include it), then you can download it now - and use a third party software for communicating with friends on Windows Live Messenger. Try one of the following:
- Fring (free, multiple IM systems, Skype, SIP, Twitter)
- Pocket MSN
- MSN Messenger Force
Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 - Toggle Resetting the Zoom Level to 100%
Configure whether or not Internet Explorer 7 should reset the zoom level on new windows and tabs. ... Read More
Student benifits!
I'm currently doing a Bachelor of Communications and Information Technology at UCOL, Palmerston North.
A few days ago I received an email stating I am registered with the MSDN Academic Alliance: Online Software System. I visited the link included in the email and was very pleased to find out I have access to free downloads which include; Windows Vista Business, Windows 2008 Server, Visual Studio 2008 and many more! This is great, I can download hundreds of dollars worth of software for free.
I think I'll be reaching my monthly download quota very early this month!
http://www.e-academy.com/ 
Read More
A few days ago I received an email stating I am registered with the MSDN Academic Alliance: Online Software System. I visited the link included in the email and was very pleased to find out I have access to free downloads which include; Windows Vista Business, Windows 2008 Server, Visual Studio 2008 and many more! This is great, I can download hundreds of dollars worth of software for free.
I think I'll be reaching my monthly download quota very early this month!
http://www.e-academy.com/
State insurance being dodgy? Or just clever?
Should State insurance offer 'market value' payouts on a set amount policy?
My parents car was recently involved in an accident where their car received significant damage after a truck hit the car. No one was hurt but we got the details, went to the police and got the stuff rolling.
The car is sitting in my driveway, not safe for road use.
Anyway, the insurance policy was insured for a set value rather than market value. The assessor for state insurance (IAG?) has basically offered approximately $5600 for repairs or replacement. This is below the set amount that was insuranced and the assessor only viewing the exterior of the car and not assessing potential damage to the car. The understanding is that anything above ~$5600 would be out of pocket.
When we contacted the assessor for further comment, he advised that this was because the car was only worth a certain amount, a market value and that we are lucky that we got offered that amount. That would be ok if it wasn't insured for a set value.
Clearly state insurance can't have their cake and eat it too? To me it sounds like a scam.
Whats your thoughts? 
Read More
My parents car was recently involved in an accident where their car received significant damage after a truck hit the car. No one was hurt but we got the details, went to the police and got the stuff rolling.
The car is sitting in my driveway, not safe for road use.
Anyway, the insurance policy was insured for a set value rather than market value. The assessor for state insurance (IAG?) has basically offered approximately $5600 for repairs or replacement. This is below the set amount that was insuranced and the assessor only viewing the exterior of the car and not assessing potential damage to the car. The understanding is that anything above ~$5600 would be out of pocket.
When we contacted the assessor for further comment, he advised that this was because the car was only worth a certain amount, a market value and that we are lucky that we got offered that amount. That would be ok if it wasn't insured for a set value.
Clearly state insurance can't have their cake and eat it too? To me it sounds like a scam.
Whats your thoughts?
Canon Rebel XS, EOS 1000D Entry Level Digital SLR
Canon has today introduced the Canon Digital Rebel XS digital SLR. In some countries (Europe) the camera will be known as the Canon EOS 1000D. The Canon EOS Digital Rebel XS / 1000D features an APS-C size 10.1 megapixel CMOS sensor and Canon's DIGIC III image processor, and joins the ranks in the Canon lineup as the entry level digital SLR model under the recently announced 12.2 MP Canon Rebel XSi / 450D. See full story... Read More
Sony 75-300mm telephoto zoom review - new video tour
Sony's 75-300mm telephoto zoom lens remains a popular option for owners of Alpha DSLRs. It's a common bundle with the earlier A100 and likely to find itself fitted to many of the new A200 bodies. As such it's an ideal time to revisit our Sony 75-300mm lens review with a brand new video tour, using the Alpha A100 body. Remember the new A200 has the same sensor, so our quality results are equally applicable for this new body. So to see - and hear - how this budget telephoto zoom compares, check out our Sony 75-300mm video tour. Read More
Panasonic TX-37LZD70 Television
Panasonic brings us the TX-37LZD70, a Full High Definition 1080p LCD TV with V-real technology for the Read More
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 with 4x Wide-Angle 25mm Zoom
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 with 4x Wide-Angle 25mm Zoom
Panasonic has today introduced the 10.1-megapixel Lumix DMC-FX35 with an impressive 25mm ultra-wide-angle LEICA DC lens and 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 25mm to 100 mm on a 35mm film camera). Panasonic's Intelligent Auto mode, which includes various shooting-assist functions, has been enhanced in the DMC-FX35 by adding an Intelligent Exposure feature and Digital Red-eye Correction. See full story...
Panasonic has today introduced the 10.1-megapixel Lumix DMC-FX35 with an impressive 25mm ultra-wide-angle LEICA DC lens and 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 25mm to 100 mm on a 35mm film camera). Panasonic's Intelligent Auto mode, which includes various shooting-assist functions, has been enhanced in the DMC-FX35 by adding an Intelligent Exposure feature and Digital Red-eye Correction. See full story...
Canon Digital Rebel XSi 450D SLR
Canon has now officially announced the 12.2 Megapixel Canon Digital Rebel XSi 450D SLR camera. Incorporating a number of advanced functions and technology found in Canon professional SLR models, the EOS Rebel XSi boasts an improved autofocus sensor, enhanced 14 bit AD conversion, a large 3.0 inch LCD monitor with an advanced Live View function. The Canon Digital Rebel XSi will be available in both black and silver finishes, and sold as body only or in kit form. Read more... Read More
Samsung NV20
Samsung NV20
Samsung have released the NV20 along with two other digital cameras, but this one takes pride of place
Samsung have released the NV20 along with two other digital cameras, but this one takes pride of place
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Sony Alpha DSLR-A350 - full review and video tour
The Alpha A350 is the top model in Sony's latest triplet of DSLRs. It takes A200's body with built-in stabilisation, swaps the 10.2 Megapixel sensor for one with 14.2 Megapixels, equips it with Live View and hinges the 2.7in screen so it can tilt up or down for easier framing at high or low angles. The Live View also employs a secondary sensor in the viewfinder, which means the normal AF system can work as quickly as normal and there's none of the usual noises or delay. On paper, the A350 looks like being one of the most important DSLRs of 2008, but does it live up to its expectations in practice? Find out in our Sony Alpha DSLR A350 review and as always, check out the highlights in our A350 video tour. Read More
Sony announces Cyber-shot DSC-T77 touch-screen ultracompact
Sony has expanded its T series, as well as its range of automated shooting functions, with the addition of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T77. Read More
QuickTime for Windows - Movies Play too Jerky
QuickTime for Windows - Movies Play too Jerky
Perform this tweak if QuickTime movies play haphazardly, stopping and starting too often. ...
Perform this tweak if QuickTime movies play haphazardly, stopping and starting too often. ...
Sony KDL32P3020 Tv
Sony rolls out some high standard high definition LCD TVs that quite frankly, knock our socks off. Read More
Windows Vista - Start Menu - Taskbar - Toolbars - Stop Hiding Inactive Icons
Windows Vista - Start Menu - Taskbar - Toolbars - Stop Hiding Inactive Icons
Keep Windows Vista from hiding icons in the Taskbar notification area.
Keep Windows Vista from hiding icons in the Taskbar notification area.
Wellington City Council: where the process dies...
Wellington City Council: where the process dies...
On a rainy day I parked on Tory St, Wellington and used the convenience of paying my parking via SMS. That would be $4 for two hours, plus $.50 for the privilege of not having to carry coins. But instead of getting the little piece of paper with the ticket to put in my windshield, I got an error message:
Interesting. But I immediately got a SMS back from Telecom saying "thanks, we debited your account for $4.50".
Bummer. So instead I decided to use a credit card. Again I got an error message:
Hmmm. It looks like the machine may be out of paper, but the developer for this company decided to stupidly save some bytes instead of providing a meaningful message - and a transaction rollback.
So I walk to the next machine, pay and display the ticket in the windshield.
But I wouldn't be short of $9 today, right? I called the Wellington City Council, explained what happened, and was assured someone would call me back to arrange the refund.
You guessed right. No one ever called me back.
Like so many other New Zealand businesses, getting you off the phone is what they want to do. The Wellington City Council is quick to slap a fine on your car if you are over five minutes in the parking lot, but they don't want to move a finger to refund you money that they took without providing the service.
By the way I am looking at my credit card statement. This was on 17 June. More than enough time for the Wellington City Council to come back to me.
End of rant of the day. 
On a rainy day I parked on Tory St, Wellington and used the convenience of paying my parking via SMS. That would be $4 for two hours, plus $.50 for the privilege of not having to carry coins. But instead of getting the little piece of paper with the ticket to put in my windshield, I got an error message:
"Transaction rejected"
Interesting. But I immediately got a SMS back from Telecom saying "thanks, we debited your account for $4.50".
Bummer. So instead I decided to use a credit card. Again I got an error message:
"Transaction rejected"
Hmmm. It looks like the machine may be out of paper, but the developer for this company decided to stupidly save some bytes instead of providing a meaningful message - and a transaction rollback.
So I walk to the next machine, pay and display the ticket in the windshield.
But I wouldn't be short of $9 today, right? I called the Wellington City Council, explained what happened, and was assured someone would call me back to arrange the refund.
You guessed right. No one ever called me back.
Like so many other New Zealand businesses, getting you off the phone is what they want to do. The Wellington City Council is quick to slap a fine on your car if you are over five minutes in the parking lot, but they don't want to move a finger to refund you money that they took without providing the service.
By the way I am looking at my credit card statement. This was on 17 June. More than enough time for the Wellington City Council to come back to me.
End of rant of the day.
Round Up: RAW Deal
The number of proprietary image formats keeps growing, in spite of viable open-source alternatives. Does a unified RAW format have a chance? Read More
Sony Cyber-shot T700
Sony have announced the stylish new Cyber-shot T700 which can store an incredible 40,000 photos on its 4GB internal memory. Read More
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 with 4x Wide-Angle 25mm Zoom
Panasonic has today introduced the 10.1-megapixel Lumix DMC-FX35 with an impressive 25mm ultra-wide-angle LEICA DC lens and 4x optical zoom (equivalent to 25mm to 100 mm on a 35mm film camera). Panasonic's Intelligent Auto mode, which includes various shooting-assist functions, has been enhanced in the DMC-FX35 by adding an Intelligent Exposure feature and Digital Red-eye Correction. See full story... Read More
Friday, August 8, 2008
High-tech low-cost Mexican Sportscar
One of the most interesting debuts at the British Motor Show was the Mastretta MXT, the first car to be designed and built in Mexico, and it promises to make it’s home country very proud indeed. The mid-engined, two-seater coupe uses aircraft construction techniques to create an ultra-lightweight 900kg car with bonded aluminum semi-monocoque chassis, a balanced 56-44 weight distribution with a turbocharged 240 bhp Cosworth engine supplying the herbs. The end result is a 150mph car with a power-to-weight ratio of 267bhp/tonne. The best bit though, is the price - UKP33,000 (US$64,500)...
Tags: Mastretta
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Tags: Mastretta
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