Mass Effect 3 Out Now – Time to take Earth back

3

Take Earth Back. Mass Effect 3 plunges you into an all-out galactic war to take Earth back from a nearly unstoppable foe – and how you fight that war is entirely up to you. And it’s available now!

MASS3ps32DPFTBBFC

Groundbreaking interactive storytelling drives the heart-pounding action in which each decision you make could have devastating and deadly consequences. You are Commander Shepard, the only one who can save Earth from annihilation. But you are not alone. At your side is a team of elite, battle-hardened soldiers ready for your command. Flank enemies with your squad or take them down lone wolf. Use cover or go in guns blazing. Unleash tactical assaults from a distance or go toe-to-toe with enemies using devastating melee assaults and the deadly omniblade.

Play Your Way – Mass Effect has always been about creating the most immersive and engaging experience possible. In Mass Effect 3 players will be given the option to select the way they experience the game: Action, Role-Playing, and Story. Choose a fast-paced cinematic experience or delve into a deeper, more choice-driven narrative. Either way, intense combat propels the action as you fight to unite a war-torn galaxy against a common enemy.

A Rich, Branching Story — Interactive storytelling delivers an experience unlike any other, with multiple outcomes determined by your choices. Mass Effect 3 will redefine what you know about emotionally engaging story.

Unleash a Customizable Arsenal — Build your character and squad with dozens of unique weapons and abilities, each with powerful upgrades and modifications. In Mass Effect 3, every weapon is available to each of the 6 character classes. However, each weapon has a ‘weight’ associated with it that will affect your ability recharge rate and mobility in the battlefield, so choose your load out carefully.

Deeper RPG elements. In Mass Effect 3 as you progress, so does Shepard and the squad. Players can now evolve abilities and powers as they level up incrementally. Outside of character progression, players can also customize their armor with a wide variety of different pieces and improvements. Your weapons can also be modified with powerful upgrades.

Galaxy at War – The Reapers have invaded and the entire galaxy is at war for its very survival. Everything from galaxy exploration, charting new worlds, and scanning has been optimized to reflect the Reaper invasion. A full breakdown of the Galaxy at War system is covered in the appendix.

Class-Based Co-operative Multiplayer Missions — Fight the war with your friends in four-player co-op missions. Choose from a variety of races and classes and combine your skills to overcome the odds. Your success can have an impact on the outcome of your single player campaign.

Adrenaline-Pumping Gameplay — Feel every bullet impact, roll into cover, and unleash devastating heavy weapons in an intense and pulse-pounding action-shooter game.

Ruthless and Intelligent Enemies — Battle merciless enemies that will consistently challenge your best combat tactics and put you on the edge of your seat.

Up close and personal – Mass Effect 3 brings a new weapon to the battlefield, the omniblade. Each of the 6 character classes has a unique heavy melee attack. For example, the Soldier class unleashes a devastating blow with the omniblade. If you need unleash a quick flurry of attacks, rapidly press the melee button to lay down a quick combo. Different weapons will yield different combos.

Xbox 360 Kinect. If you are playing on Xbox 360, you can issue commands and dialogue responses in real time with the Kinect. Currently Mass Effect 3 features English, French, Italian and German Kinect support, including a variety of dialects within those languages.

EarthRenderscreentemplatescreentemplate5screentemplate12

The war for Earth begins on Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and PC right now.

Stay tuned for our review shortly.

WaterField Designs announces the Muzetto Outback Bag

0

WaterField Designs announces the Muzetto Outback, a waxed canvas version of their popular Muzetto line. The Outback is available in dark brown canvas that gains character over time, a choice of six accent colours and five sizes–two designed specifically for the new Apple iPad.

Muzetto Outback - Colors

Trek the Urban Outback. Life can be complicated for the urban traveler—phone, wallet, cards, keys, sunglasses, laptop…. Stay on top of your day-to-day life with a rugged bag that gains character while it revolutionizes yours. Tan, waxed, cotton canvas for durability; a choice of six accent colors to accentuate your personal style; pockets inside and out for stashing gear—the Muzetto Outback™ is made to order, built to endure and right for you.

We recommend carrying the smallest bag that fits your needs; that’s why we offer the Muzetto Outback in five sizes. The Personal for your digital and non-digital basics—wallet, phone, camera, and iPad in a minimalist case like the Suede Jacket or Slip Case. The 10″ Portable size handles larger mobile devices—tablets, e-readers and netbooks, including the iPad inside a WaterField iPad Smart Case or Ultimate SleeveCase. The 11″ Laptop Muzetto is your 11″ MacBook Air’s best friend. The 13″ and 15″ Laptop sizes fit your Mac laptop inside a Vertical WaterField Designs SleeveCase (not included) and your other necessities. No iPad or Mac? No problem. Let us know and we’ll tell you what size will work for your unique needs.

Invest in your image; upgrade to the Outback.

Available in five sizes:

  • Personal Muzetto Outback $149 /
    10.5″ x 8.5″ x 1.5″
  • 10″ Portable Muzetto Outback $159 /
    11.5″ x 9.3″ x 2.0″
  • 11″ Laptop Muzetto Outback (for Air) $169 /
    12.25″ x 9.75″ x 2.25″
  • 13″ Laptop Muzetto Outback $179 /
    14″ x 11″ x 2.5″
  • 15″ Laptop Muzetto Outback $189 /
    15.5″ x 11.75″ x 2.7″

Pre-order the Muzetto Outback for the production run shipping March 28.

Toshiba Announce new Mini NB500 Netbook Range

0

Toshiba UK also announced this week the launch of the Mini NB510, the latest model in the award winning Mini NB500 netbook range. I didn’t think anyone purchased netbooks anymore, but they are still useful and I still have my NB200!

UWHS - Toshiba Product Preview 2012 086

Mini NB510

Toshiba NB510 Red (4)

Available in a choice of stylish colours, the Mini NB510 features an all-day battery, high definition connectivity and a compact design – matching convenience with portability.

The latest Intel Atom processor and 1GB of DDR3 RAM ensure the Mini NB510 is capable of running multiple programs simultaneously. Powerful dual-core performance allows users to enjoy high definition movies, stream TV shows on-demand and use social networks on the move. Up to 10 hours of battery life makes the Mini NB510 an ideal companion for travellers on long-haul journeys, or using away from power sockets for extended periods of time.

The 25.7cm (10.1”) TruBrite LED backlit screen displays bright, vivid high definition images with clarity and detail, ideal for web browsing, viewing photographs or for enjoying movies. For users that require a larger screen, the Mini NB510 also features an RGB port, while an HDMI port makes it easy to output high definition content to an external monitor, HDTV or projector, enabling big screen playback. The Mini NB510 is available in a choice of red, blue or black finishes, providing options to suit any style.

Mini NB510 details

  • Windows 7 Starter Edition
  • Intel Atom N2600 dual core processor
  • 25.7cm (10.1”) TruBrite display with LED backlighting, 16:9, 1,024 x 600 pixels
  • 1GB DDR3 RAM (800 MHz)
  • HDMI port, VGA port
  • 3x USB 2.0
  • Fast Ethernet, optional Bluetooth® 3.0
  • Microphone and headphone port
  • Stereo speakers, Toshiba Audio Enhancement
  • Large Touch Pad with Multi-Touch
  • Up to 320GB HDD
  • Colour options: red, blue or black
  • Up to 9 hours battery life
  • 261.6mm x 187.0mm x 13.6mm (front) / 34.7mm (back)
  • Weight: approx 1.32kg

Mini NB520

NB_520refresh_bro_Prod_Full_Sep10_06

Toshiba UK today also announces the existing Mini NB520 netbook series has been updated to feature the latest Intel processors, for improved performance and more efficient power consumption – improving loading times and extending battery life. Like the Mini NB510, the Mini NB520 also features HDMI connectivity, making it easy to output content to a bigger screen, such as a high definition television, monitor or projector. Available in a stylish brown finish, the Mini NB520 also features speakers designed by audio specialist Harman Kardon and Dolby Advanced Audio for exceptional portable sound. Additionally, a dedicated Sleep-and-Music USB port lets users play music from an MP3 player through the netbook’s speakers, even when in sleep mode.

Mini NB520 details

  • Intel Atom N2600 dual core processor
  • 25.7cm (10.1”) TruBrite display with LED backlighting, 16:9, 1,024 x 600 pixels
  • 1GB DDR3 RAM (800 MHz)
  • Harman Kardon stereo speakers, Dolby® Advanced Audio
  • HDMI port, RGB port, USB Sleep-and-Charge, Multi-Card Reader
  • Wireless LAN (802.11 b/g/n), Ethernet LAN, Bluetooth 3.0
  • Large Touch Pad with Multi-Touch
  • Up to 320GB HDD
  • Touchpad with multi-touch capabilities
  • Microphone and headphone port with Sleep-and-Music
  • VGA web camera
  • Colour options: brown
  • Up to 10 hours battery life
  • 261.9mm x 189.6mm x 16.6mm (front)/35.5mm (back)
  • Weight: approx 1.32kg

Toshiba NB510 Family (1)

The Mini NB510 and Mini NB520 will be available from Q2 2012.

Toshiba Unveil New Satellite Series and Satellite Pro Laptops

0

There were a lot of new kit shown off by Toshiba at this week Toshiba 2012 Product Preview, and the last major unveiling was a new group of Satellite and Satellite Pro series laptops.

UWHS - Toshiba Product Preview 2012 084

Satellite Pro L series – advanced features in a range of sizes

The new Satellite Pro L series includes three screen sizes to suit a variety of business uses. The 33.8cm (13.3”) Satellite Pro L830 offers a portable solution for mobile workers, the 39.6cm (15.6”) Satellite Pro L850 is an ideal choice for office workers or professionals based at home, while the 43.9cm (17.3”) Satellite Pro L870 is perfect for those requiring a larger screen, providing an ideal alternative to a desktop PC. Each model is available with an elegant silver gloss design that resists fingerprint marks, while a spacious tiled keyboard offers convenience and comfort during all-day typing.

Satellite Pro L850  (4)

Dedicated graphics processors are available on selected L-series models, providing an ideal option for users who tend to work with image-heavy presentations and reports. An optional Blu-ray™ Rewritable drive enables pin-sharp HD video playback alongside the option of backing up data to high-capacity Blu-ray™ discs, and up to 750GB of internal hard disk drive (HDD) storage provides huge amounts of space for saving multiple documents and folders.
Comprehensive connectivity includes two USB 3.0 ports offering transfer speeds up to ten times faster than USB 2.0 – ideal for sharing documents, presentations or spreadsheets between compatible devices. An additional USB 2.0 port features Toshiba’s Sleep-and-Charge technology, enabling mobile professionals to charge smartphones using the laptop battery when caught without a power supply – even when the laptop is switched off.

Additionally, HDMI® and RGB provide greater flexibility when displaying presentations on external HD monitors, projectors or televisions – ideal for meetings or presentations with larger groups.

Satellite Pro C series – reliable, affordable and feature packed

The new 39.6cm (15.6”) Satellite Pro C850 is the perfect option for home workers looking for a combination of performance, reliability and leading value. The new model features a textured matte black design that prevents unwanted fingerprints on the lid, keyboard and palmrest. A large touch pad with multi-touch control provides support for multi-touch gestures including pinching, zooming and swiping, enabling faster navigation through documents and websites. A large, ergonomically-designed keyboard also makes inputting data easy and comfortable, while a dedicated numerical keypad is especially convenient for those working with numbers.

Satellite Pro C850  (3)

The Satellite Pro range will be available from Q2 2012.

Satellite C series

Satellite C870 black (2)

The Satellite C series offers a choice of screen size, specification and colour, and gives every user more for less. The 39.6cm (15.6”) Satellite C855 is available in a choice of gloss finishes, including a stylish crossline pattern and textured palmrest, while the Satellite C850 comes in a black matt textured finish. The Satellite C870 features the same design options as the Satellite C850, but adds a larger 43.9cm (17.3”) display – perfect for those looking for an affordable, large screen desktop replacement.

Satellite L series

Satellite L850 Red (1)

The 39.6cm (15.6”) Satellite L855 and 43.9cm (17.3”) Satellite L875 both feature a sleek, Ice Blue brushed metal chassis and a new slim design that combines style with functionality. The 33.8cm (13.3”) Satellite L830, 39.6cm (15.6”) Satellite L850 and 43.9cm (17.3”) Satellite L870 come in a range of colours with an innovative finish that resists fingerprint marks, maintaining each machine’s stylish design, no matter how much it is used. All models feature large trackpads and tiled keyboards, ensuring navigating and typing are comfortable, even for long periods of time. Excellent connectivity options are featured across all models, including two USB 3.0 ports, ensuring ultra-fast transfer speeds when connecting to peripheral devices. Sleep and Charge function also allows you to charge USB devices such as smart phones, even while the PC is turned off.

Satellite P series

Satellite P875 (4)

The ideal choice for home entertainment enthusiasts looking for enough power to handle demanding multimedia applications, the Satellite P series features two 36.9cm (15.6”) models, the Satellite P850 and the Satellite P855, available with an incredible glasses-free 3D screen. Two 43.9cm (17.3”) options, the Satellite P875 and Satellite P870 offer ideal options for those requiring a powerful laptop with a large screen, such as designers, photographers and entertainment enthusiasts.

The Satellite C, L and P series will be available from Q2 2012.

Tranquil PC MMC-12 Media Centre Coming with HDHomeRun

We have told you about the Tranquil PC MMC-12 Media Center, if you order one in the next few days you will get an HDHomeRun tuner for free!

media_centre_front_thumb1_thumb_thum

This is what Tranquil said today:

HDHomeRun network tuners, allow you to enjoy TV services for any PC in the home, including your Media Centre, or laptops running Windows Media centre etc.

To learn more, just check out http://www.hdhomerun.com/products/models/hdhr3-dt/

The perfect compliment to the MMC-12

But don’t buy just yet! In the next few days, you’ll be able to get a Dual DVB-T network tuner, with any configured MMC-12 Media Centre from Tranquil, for FREE. These tuners are typically around £100, so the offer is very attractive, and you can even use more network tuners as you need them.

All MMC-12 Media centres are available with the FREE network dual tuner (except the no OS version).

Created for the discerning media centre user, the MMC-12 is the ultimate in HiFi style media centres.

Cut from a single piece of aerospace grade aluminium, and then carefully hand finished to a superb soft textured satin finish – the MMC-12 exudes quality in every way.

  • Watch Live TV, pause or skip back (choose your own type and number of tuners)
  • Record / playback and schedule record TV shows
  • Playback all media files – pictures, music, videos
  • Playback CDs, DVDs, and BluRay discs (subject to disc player selected)
  • IPTV (ie BBC iPlayer included)
  • … and much more.

There are no fans or other active cooling devices to disturb you, the MMC-12 chassis cools the CPU and other chips – resulting in zero noise (even with a 2.5″ spinning HDD fitted, the MMC-12 is silent).

What do you get

  • MMC-12 Media Centre
  • CPU – i3-2100T
  • RAM -4GB DDR3
  • HDD 80GB mSATA
  • CD drive – CD/DVD slot
  • Windows 7 Home Premium
  • HDMI lead
  • External PSU (19v DC) Universal 120-240VAC (50/60Hz)
  • Internal MCE IR RX and MCE remote controller
  • 36 month RTB (return to base) warranty

Specifications

Specs_thumb1

Learn more from here

My Movies How to Videos – What Else Should They Cover?

With the release of the latest version of My Movies, Brian and Rasmus have created some how to videos. Now they want to hear from you as to what other videos they should produce.

MyMovies Video Request

So if you have any idea, visit the My Movies website and let them know.

Toshiba Unveils the new Qosmio X870 Gaming Laptop

0

Toshiba UK also unveiled its most advanced gaming laptop to date – the new Qosmio X870. Designed for gaming and multimedia enthusiasts, the X870 offers a first-class specification, with advanced graphics performance, incredible imaging technologies and a striking design creating an impressive and powerful package to satisfy even the most demanding user.

UWHS - Toshiba Product Preview 2012 080

Qosmio X870 Specification

  • Latest Intel® processors
  • Next generation NVIDIA® GPUs
  • 43.9cm (17.3”) TruBrite® Full HD screen with LED backlighting (1920x1080p, 16:9, 5ms response time)
  • Up to 2TB hard drive or hybrid drive SSD option
  • Optional Blu-ray™ ROM or DVD SuperMulti drives
  • Resolution+ upscaling technology
  • 4x USB 3.0 including 2x Sleep-and-Charge USB
  • HDMI®, RGB connectivity
  • Gigabit Ethernet LAN
  • Bluetooth 4.0
  • Dedicated headphone port & microphone port with Sleep-and-Music
  • Full HD web camera with Face Recognition
  • Red backlit tiled keyboard
  • Large clickpad with multi-touch control
  • Harman Kardon® stereo speakers with Slip Stream technology, SRS Premium Sound 3D

The Qosmio X870 is powered by the latest Intel® processors, ensuring fast loading times and solid performance from a range of demanding applications. Generous RAM capacity guarantees that the most power-hungry games run smoothly, and also enables multiple task-intensive programs to run smoothly without a dip in performance. The inclusion of next-generation NVIDIA® graphic processors also contributes to incredible hi-resolution images and stunning 3D renders in both gaming and movie playback.

UWHS - Toshiba Product Preview 2012 083

A stunning 43.9cm (17.3”) TruBrite® 3D screen displays games and movies in glorious Full HD quality (1920x1080p), providing incredible on-screen detail. The display’s LED backlighting provides crisp visuals, vibrant colours and sharp contrast, while Toshiba’s Resolution+ technology delivers optimum picture quality – enhancing sharpness, colour and contrast from Blu-ray, DVD and even web content to ensure all content is displayed with brilliant definition. A speedy response time of just 5ms all but eradicates screen lag, making the screen perfect for gaming, while a 120Hz refresh rate eliminates motion blur – ideal for the faster-paced visuals found in racing games, shooters or sports titles.

The Qosmio X870 enables enthusiasts to enjoy the latest HD and 3D content straight out of the box, thanks to a combination of an integrated 3D Blu-ray™ playeri and a pair of bundled NVIDIA® 3D Vision glasses. For users wanting to enjoy 3D films or play 3D games in larger groups, HDMI® connectivity outputs 3D content to any 3D TV for big-screen playback. Ordinary DVD content can also be instantly converted from 2D to 3D, breathing new life into existing DVD collections.

Exceptional sound quality is provided by four advanced stereo speakers designed by sonic specialists Harman Kardon™, which combine SRS Premium Sound 3D software and Slip Stream technology to ensure the laptop’s audio performance goes hand-in-hand with the striking visuals. As a result, all audio is crisp, dynamic and bass is distortion-free, even at full volume – providing a leading audio visual experience during games, movies and music playback.

Storage and connectivity, without compromiseThe Qosmio X870 offers next-generation storage for the most demanding multimedia enthusiasts. Up to 2TB of hard disk drive (HDD) provides a vast capacity for storing movies, tracks or digital images, while an optional hybrid drive combines a HDD with an additional solid state drive (SSD), providing advanced performance for gamers who want speedy loading times and faster booting.

Qosmio X870 (4)

An optional Blu-ray™ rewritable disc offers added flexibility – making it easy to back-up digital image collections, music libraries or multiple high definition video files in one place. Four USB 3.0 ports provide instant data transfer between compatible devices at speeds up to ten times faster than with USB 2.0, while the latest Wi-Fi standard support (802.11b/g/n) also ensures fast, reliable and secure wireless access – ensuring internet connections remain stable during online gaming, when streaming videos or downloading files.

The Qosmio X870 features an ‘Anodized’ dark aluminium design on the lid and along the palm rest, which is complemented by a stylish red trim. Additional red accents on the speaker grille and around the large clickpad contribute to a distinctive style, and an illuminated Qosmio logo on the lid offers the reassurance of a rich gaming heritage. Red-tinted, backlit tiled keys enable users to navigate the keyboard quickly and easily in low light.

The Qosmio X870 will be available from Q2 2012.

Toshiba Launches the ZL2 Quad HD Glasses-free 3D TV

One of the other big announcements at the 2012 Toshiba Product Preview this week was the launch of their new ZL2 Quad HD glasses-free 3D TV.

UWHS - Toshiba Product Preview 2012 023

Specs wise, the ZL2 is a 55-inch beast, and will be the first commercially available 4K television at that size. The Quad HD means you get an amazing 3,840 x 2,160 resolution.

UWHS - Toshiba Product Preview 2012 093

There is also in-built face tracking software that ensures you get the best possible viewing experience whichever angle you are viewing the TV from.

UWHS - Toshiba Product Preview 2012 092

Having seen the ZL2 in action I can honestly say that the picture quality is stunning and I really want one!

The ZL2 will be available from Monday 12th March at a whopping retail price of £6,999. The exclusive launch location with be John Lewis in London’s Oxford Street, with Harrods selling it from later next week as well.

Are you going to buy one?

Toshiba Unveils New Blu-ray Player Range at 2012 Product Preview

This week UWHS was invited by Toshiba to see it’s 2012 Product Preview. Some of the new things on display were Toshiba’s new Blu-ray player range.

UWHS - Toshiba Product Preview 2012 098

Toshiba UK this week launched its new Blu-ray player range, with a collection of models that support a wide range of leading entertainment features including online content access and connectivity, Full HD 1080p movie playback and captivating 3D performance. Representing Toshiba UK’s most comprehensive Blu-ray line-up to date, the range features four new models, including 2D and 3D options, as well as two models providing easy access to a range of online entertainment services.

Each new model delivers stunning Full HD (1920 x 1080p) resolution images, with crisp and clear detail and vibrant colours, with additional support for standard definition resolution upscaling, meaning existing DVD libraries can be enjoyed in near high definition quality. Selected models also offer 3D playback, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in a new world of in home entertainment, while a range of high quality audio formats, including Dolby Digital Plus and Dolby TrueHD, are also supported, delivering cinematic sound, to complement stunning image quality.

Enhanced connectivity gives users the freedom to playback a greater range of content. USB connectivity allows users to playback videos, images and music straight from a memory stick, while BD Live (Profile 2.0) support allows access to interactive movie features. For complete convenience Toshiba’s free remote control application for smartphones and tablet devices gives users the freedom to control their Toshiba home entertainment devices without a dedicated remote control.

Next generation entertainment, on-demand – BDX3300 and the BDX5300

BDX5300

Toshiba’s new BDX3300 and the BDX5300 Smart Blu-ray players feature a collection of the most popular online entertainment services ideal for users who want to access on-demand movies, videos, TV programmes and more. The BDX5300 also offers outstanding Full HD 3D movie playback, while built-in Wi-Fi® connectivity across both models provides easy, wireless access to home networks.

The newly added Acetrax Movies service gives viewers instant access to the latest blockbuster movie releases, allowing them to buy or rent movies directly from their living room, and built-in access to YouTube and BBC iPlayer allow viewers to explore a world of the most popular online video content. With Picasa access, photography enthusiasts can even enjoy their photos on the big screen, while DLNA Certified Digital Media Player support allows users to enjoy even more content from other devices in their home.

Next-generation performance, exceptional value – BDX1300 and BDX4300

BDX1300 (1)

The BDX1300 and BDX4300 blend outstanding Full HD 1080p viewing quality with exceptional value for money and are ideal for viewers looking to upgrade their home entertainment experience to Full HD (1800p) resolution. For those who want to experience a completely new dimension, the BDX4300 also plays the latest 3D movies.

The new Blu-ray models will be available from Q2 2012.

Toshiba Unveils New Large Screen TV Range at 2012 Product Preview

This week UWHS was invited by Toshiba to see it’s 2012 Product Preview. Some of the new things on display were Toshiba’s new large screen TV range, and we got to see and play with them!

UWHS - Toshiba Product Preview 2012 101

This week Toshiba UK unveiled a new entry-level range of large screen TVs, comprising three series that combine impressive image quality and performance with smart design and exceptional value. The new range includes a choice of 81cm (32’’) and 102cm (40’’) LCD and LED models, all of which are designed to provide a high-quality home entertainment experience at an affordable price.

The new line-up provides the perfect solution for those looking for impressive images and a flexible range of added features. Support for high definition (HD) content comes as standard across the range, while selected models offer a step up to the world of Full HD (1080p) resolution, allowing movies, TV shows, video games and photos to be enjoyed in glorious detail. All new models feature support for Freeview1 out-of-the-box, providing access to over 50 free-to-air TV channels via an easy-to-use, seven day Electronic Programme Guide (EPG).

Extensive connectivity options available on each model also expands the range of content that users can enjoy. Multiple HDMI ports provide instant connectivity to Blu-ray and DVD players or games consoles, and a PC input provides an instant link to PCs or laptops. The inclusion of a USB port also allows users to playback music, video and images stored on a USB stick.

The new BL series – LED images and affordability combined

BL502 (6)BL505 (7)

The new BL series is the perfect choice for anyone looking to step up to LED technology at an affordable price, displaying content with rich colour, deep blacks and bright whites with stunning accuracy. HD (BL5 series) and Full HD (BL7 series) screens provide sharp detail on a choice of 81.3cm (32’’) and 101cm (40’’) screen sizes, and a slim, space-saving design makes it ideal for virtually any room in the home – whether wall-mounted or sitting atop a TV stand. A range of value-added features includes an integrated digital tuner for access to Freeview, while up to four HDMI inputs enables instant connectivity to Blu-ray players, DVD players and games consoles.

BL series – key features:
BL5:
81cm (32’’)
HD ready (1366×768)
BL7:
83cm (32’’) and 102cm (40’’)
Full HD (1920×1080)
Edge-LED backlight
Freeview tuner
2x HDMI ( 81cm), 4x HDMI (102cm), PC, SCART and USB port

Black finish as standard, with the 32BL505B additionally available in silver.

The new BV Series – Affordable Toshiba quality

The BV series is an ideal first model for consumers to enter the world of high definition.

Available in a choice of 81cm (32’’) and 102cm (40’’) screen sizes, both sizes offer a compelling viewing experience the whole family can enjoy. Images are displayed in HD resolution as standard, with selected models offering Full HD displays so users can enjoy sports, TV shows and movies in sharper detail. A built-in Freeview tuner offers subscription-free TV broadcasts, while rich connectivity options allow users to expand their entertainment experience to include Blu-ray players, games consoles and multimedia computers. Music tracks, videos and photos can also be displayed on the big screen in exceptional quality thanks to USB compatibility.

BV series – key features:
BV5:
81cm (32”)
HD ready display (1366×768)
BV7:
Full HD display (1920×1080)
81cm (32”) and 102cm (40”)
Freeview tuner
2x HDMI (81.3cm), 4x HDMI (101cm), PC, SCART and USB port
Customised viewing mode for gaming

All screen sizes are available in a black finish, with the 32BV504B also available in white and the 40BV705B available in silver.

The new DV series – quality images, complete convenience

The new DV series provides ultimate convenience for those on the hunt for a space-saving

TV offering premium image quality and flexibility. An integrated DVD player provides hassle-free movie playback on-demand, packed into an all-in-one slim and stylish design. Users can enjoy movies and videos, or listen to music and browse images directly from USB. Access to Freeview is provided by an integrated tuner, and a 720p HD resolution LCD display delivers images that are rich in detail and full of colour. A customised gaming mode also enhances the picture quality during gameplay, responding rapidly to movement to provide an excellent all-round experience.

DV series – key features:
81cm (32’’)
HD ready (1366×768)
Integrated DVD player
Freeview tuner
2x HDMI, 1x USB, SCART and PC inputs
Customised gaming mode
Seven day electronic programme guide
Choice of black or white finishes

The BV, DV and BL series are all available now.

WHS 2011 Add-in: Drive Bender Beta Updated to version 1.2.5.0

Drive Bender, the add-in for Windows Home Sever 2011 that replaces Drive Extender, has now been updated to Beta v1.2.5.0 (beta 4 of the Tomcat release).

DriveBender_thumb1_thumb_thumb_thumb[2]

What is it?

Drive Bender is state of the art, single point storage pool technology for Microsoft Windows. Drive Bender presents multiple hard drives as a single pool of data storage, either as one or more drive letters, or a network shared drive. Drive Bender is able to do this with any drive recognized by Windows, including external drive such as USB, Firewire etc.

Expandability

Drive Bender also provides the user with the ability to seamless expand their storage pool by simply adding a new drive. Adding a new drive expands the pool by the size of the new drive. Existing data within the pool is redistributed to the new drive to ensure the pool remain balanced.

Drive merging and converting

Drive Bender also offers a merge capability, allowing users to take a drive that contains data, and merge that drive (and data) into the pool. In addition there is also a drive conversion feature. This can take and existing drive letter (mounted against a physical drive) and convert this into a pooled drive. Once completed, new hard drives can be added to expand the once fixed drive.

Data redundancy

To further ensure data safety, Drive Bender can automatically duplicate any file added to a Drive Bender pool. File duplication is determined at the folder level and occurs on the fly as data is being written to the pool. More importantly, files are only duplicated across physical drives ensuring maximum safety and data redundancy.

Non-destructive

One of the key Drive Bender features is its non-destructive file system technology. In short, this means that all drives within a Drive Bender pool are utilizing standard NTFS format and file structures. This is to such an extent that a drive can be pulled from the pool and read on any machine capable of reading an NTFS formatted drive. More over, drives attached to the pool can be done so without modification, if a drive is added (not merged) that contains existing data, that data will remain untouched.

Ease to try

Because of our non-destructive file system, taking Drive Bender for a test drive is easy. Simply specify the drives to be included in the pool, and you are ready go. The drives are not formatted (unless specified), the only change made to the drive is the addition of a folder that holds the contents of the pool and a small number of configuration files.

The technology

Drive Bender employs existing, proven kernel mode file system technology. Having spent many years developing kernel mode drivers, we are able to use this experience to great extent. The end result is a product whose performance will closely match that of the underlying drive.

The story

Early in 2010 we prototyped a Drive Extender style application with the view of releasing a product that would work with all versions of Microsoft Windows. However soon thereafter, Microsoft announced Vail (a new version of Windows Home Server) and a small business server product, codename Aurora, both of which contain their Drive Extender technology. Given this, and the possibility that Drive Extend may well make its way to other Microsoft platforms, we shelved the project.

However later that same year, Microsoft announced that they would be dropping Drive Extender from all their products (including Windows Home Server 2011), leaving the door open for Division-M to resurrect the Drive Bender project!

What’s new in this release?

This is the forth and final beta of the Tomcat release. We are looking at Tomcat going gold in late March… with a couple of added surprises

Release v1.2.5.0 beta (2012-03-09)
– Bug fix: During an upgrade from v1.2.x, it is possible that a drive could be added to the pool more than once.
– Update: Check disk feature is now available to volumes.
– Bug fix: An exception can occur during drive removal causing the final process (pool validation check) to be aborted.
– Bug fix: A number of minor file balancing issues including file count tracking.
– Update: Improved handling of queued tasks.
– Bug fix: Under certain conditions the driver can deadlock.
– Update: File read / write performance improvements.
– Update: Drive Bender licenses can now be deactivated.
– Update: License manually activation is now supported.

Download the Windows version
Download the WHS version
Download the client version

UWHS Giveaway: Win tickets to see John Carter in 3D at the BFI IMAX in London – The Winners

In another of our giveaways we offered three sets of family tickets for a screening of the new film John Carter in 3D at the BFI IMAX in London. Now it’s time to announce the winners.

imax_thumb3

What is John Carter?

A war-weary former military captain, John Carter, is inexplicably transported to Barsoom (Mars) where he becomes reluctantly embroiled in a conflict of epic proportions. In a world on the brink of collapse, Carter rediscovers his humanity when he realises that the survival of Barsoom and its people rests in his hands.

john_smith_01_thumb2

Oscar-winning director Andrew Stanton (Wall-E, Finding Nemo) has created a sweeping action adventure, re-mastered into stunning IMAX 3D.

More on the BFI IMAX

The BFI IMAX is a luxury 500-seat (including wheelchair spaces), state-of-the-art, large-format cinema on the South Bank.

  • The screen is more than 20 metres high (nearly the height of five double-decker buses) and 26 metres wide.
  • A 11,600-watt digital surround-sound system
  • An IMAX projection system (the most sophisticated motion-picture projection system in the world).

Working together, these elements immerse viewers in larger-than-life images and ultra-realistic digital sound, making them feel as if they are literally “in the picture”.

The IMAX building
It was opened in 1999 and was made possible thanks to £15 million from the Arts Council of England’s Lottery Fund.

It was designed by award-winning architect Bryan Avery of Avery Associates Architects

The multi-storey, glass-enclosed cylinder, illuminated by coloured lighting effects at night, serves as a beacon to the revitalised South Bank.

So what is the prize?

We have three sets of Family tickets for John Carter in 3D at the BFI IMAX in London at a screening of your choice from the 17th March onwards for as long as the film is running.

A set of Family tickets consists of 2 adults and up to 4 children.

You are responsible for your own transport costs, and popcorn though – sorry!

And the Winners are……

We chose the winners completely at random from all of the entries, and here there are:

Anna Fernandes

w0lfiesmith

StellarRocker

Well done guys, I will be in contact with each of you about your prize.

And thank you again to BFI for the tickets.

And keep an eye out for the next giveaway which will be starting very soon.

Windows Home Server 2011 Answer File Tool

This tool allows you to create and edit installation Answer Files for Windows Home Server 2011. You can easily create files for a custom installation, easily bypass system requirements checks and configure customised disk partition schemes.

windows-home-server-20114

This tool is written by my friend and fellow MVP Robert Pearman, and if you want to do a custom installation of WHS 2011, Rob has taken all the hard work out of it for you.

Download the Answer File Tool from here

My Movies for WHS Download Video

Brian has posted a video on using My Movies for WHS Downloads, and it’s worth taking a look.

Take a look at the video below:

Have you tried it yet?