January 11, 2013 in Computers, iPad, Mac, Product, Tablets, YouTube
Here at Plomonet, Kenta discusses a lot about Tabler vs. Laptops. He has made many videos in the past about his thoughts regarding the two, at that point in time. This year, with the inclusion of the new iPad mini, he has some new thoughts he would like to discuss. The video is available below.
January 11, 2013 in Accessories, Computers, iPad, iPhone, Mac, Music Players, Phones, Product, Tablets, YouTube
We have made a series of videos discussing what we think at Plomonet about the possible upcoming products from Apple. Categories are divided into Macs, iPods & Apple TV & iPhone, and iPad. Videos are available below.
Mac Predictions
iPod, Apple TV & iPhone Predictions
iPad Predictions
June 23, 2012 in Computers, PC, Product, Productivity, Slideshow, Tablets
On Monday, June 18, Microsoft had a very hushed, short noticed press event in Los Angeles, where they announced the Microsoft Surface – a 10.6 inch tablet running Windows 8. There will be two versions of the tablet – Microsoft Surface, and the Microsoft Surface Pro. The Microsoft Surface will run Windows 8 RT, and will run on Nvidea ARM chip. This means it will not be able to run traditional window applications. It is intended for more leisurely use whilst still being able to run productivity applications such as Office. On the other hand, The Microsoft Surface Pro will run Windows 8, and will run on an Intel chip. Because of the Intel chip, it would be able to run legacy Windows applications as well. The Surface Pro is intended to have capabilities parallel to ultrabooks in the market currently.
The Surface is made from liquid magnesium; a technology Microsoft has named VaporMg – pronounced Vapor Mag, for magnesium. Microsoft claims this allows the Surface to be lightweight, permanently scratch and dent resistant, as well as be very durable. Microsoft also says that it has integrated two Wifi receivers to the top of the Surface to make it a device with the best Wifi reception. The Surface RT is 9.6mm thick, and 13mm thick with the touch cover. The Surface Pro is approximately 13 mm thick, and with the Type cover, makes it less than 2cm in total. More details of the specs can be found on the new Surface website, and the keynote announcement is below:
Most tablets announce nowadays are frequently compared to the Apple iPad, and no doubt the Surface will also be compared. However Microsoft really worked hard to innovate and polish the design to stand out from existing tablets.
One of the most innovative features is the Cover– a tablet cover that also doubles as a keyboard, a seemingly obvious design idea but very innovative. There are two versions of the cover. One of the covers is the Touch Cover, which puts a full QWERTY keyboard and track pad onto a solid 3mm pressure sensitive cover. The other cover is the Type Cover – which also puts a full Qwerty keyboard and track pad, but each key can be physically touched and pressed down. There is a wide range of colours available. Although no one outside Microsoft have tested the keyboards, Microsoft officials claim to be able to get over 60 words per minute on the keyboard. I personally think it is an ingenious idea of Microsoft to do more on the cover, making it more valuable and simpler for users to be productive on a device type that traditionally only consumes.
The other innovative feature is the integrated kickstand. Whilst many smartphones now have integrated kickstands to allow video watching on the small screen, tablets tend to rely on cases to standup, despite being even more suitable to watch videos on. With the integrated kickstand, Microsoft makes entertainment consumption even easier on the Windows 8. The surface is also designed around the angle 22º, with edges kickstands and even cameras angled to make it simpler for users.
Although Microsoft has yet to announce a precise price, it has mentioned that the Surface will be price-competitive with other tablets running on ARM (such as the Apple iPad) and the Surface Pro will be price-competitive with ultrabooks at the time it is released. The Surface RT would be available on the same day as the general availability of Windows 8, with the Surface Pro arriving another 3 months afterwards.
Are you as inspired by the Microsoft Surface as I am? Comment below or email at Janice@plomonet.com
June 19, 2012 in Android, Business, Business, Computers, iPad, iPhone, Lifestyle, Lifestyle, Lifestyle, Lifestyle, Lifestyle, Mac, Main Blog, PC, Phones, Product, Slideshow, Tablets, Travel, Travel, Travel, Travel, Travel
So summer is here and the sun is shining, but now you have a terrible dilemma. You want to be outside but the electricity is inside, so what do you do? What if I told you, that all you had to do was strap on a backpack and you would be good to go? I know you may be thinking “Awww, it’s summer; schools out, I don’t wanna wear a backpack.” Just hear me out. Samsonite developed a very light weight that makes a great travel bag, laptop tote, or overnight rucksack. Introducing the Samsonite Solar Powered Backpack.
While the Solar Backpack clearly lacks creativity in name, Samsonite obviously chose to spend that time on the actual product. Time well spent, in my opinion.
The Use
The Solar Backpack goes on like a normal backpack, no surprise there. I found the straps and back to be extremely comfortable, even when carrying a laptop and a few books. Here is where it gets interesting though. The Solar Backpack has a 12v adapter (a car charging port) attached to the front pocket and connected to a solar panel. 
With this port you can plug in any adapter that you would normally plug into a car and supply power to that device. The backpack works great on iPhone, iPads, iPods, and numerous other portable devices. The smaller devices can be charged in about 4 hours of sunlight, while larger electronics will take longer. One trick that I do is use my USB Power Bank, a portable power pack, and have that connected to the backpack and always charging when in the sun, then I just plug in my devices into that and I can have power regardless of whether I have sun or not.
The only problem I had with Samsonite was that they do no provide a USB car adapter, therefore I had to purchase my own to use with my iDevices.
The Compartments
The Solar Backpack is a treasure trove of pockets. The Backpack consists of three main compartments ranging to the largest, which can accommodate a laptop up to 15.9 inches along with some books, to the smallest front panel which is great for storing all of those gadgets. On the outside you will find a side zippered pocket as well as a mesh water bottle holder, both of which are good sized. The only problem I have noticed with the compartments is that there is no hole in the front one to feed a charging cable out to a device or headphones from a charging device to my ears.
The Solar Panel
I thought I would breifely mention the quality of the solar panel. It is flexible and durable, and it appears that it will be able to withstand a beating, which is good especially if you are a frequent traveler and choose to use this bag as your carry on. The only problem I have noticed is that the both the solar panel and the backpack get quite hot, expectantly so, considering they are black and sitting out in the sun. I just worry that a laptop might get overheated in these conditions, so be careful.
The Overall
Overall the Samsonite Solar Powered Backpack is a great product. It is very spacious and comfortable as well as durable. The solar technology works great at topping up my devices and I take comfort in the fact that I can now venture outside without having to worry about dead batteries. The only problems I had were the lack of an adapter as well as a headphone hole and, the excessive absorption of heat. The Solar Powered Backpack can be purchased HERE originally for $300, but right now it is ON SALE FOR $134.99!! So get it while its hot! I give it 4.5 Stars because of the minor problems.
Did you get it? Have an app or product you want me to review? Let me know in the comments below.
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May 29, 2012 in Accessories, Computers, Gaming, Main Blog, PC, Product, Slideshow, Travel
PRESS START. When you read that on your video game, whats then next thing you reach for? Your gaming headphones? Me too. Some great people at Steel Series recently sent me a pair of 7H Fnatic PC Gaming Headphones, and I took them for a spin.
The Design
Steel Series did a great job on the design for the 7H Fnatics. The partnered with Fnatic, one of the most accomplished gaming teams, for the entire design. First of all I love the color, the tri-color black, orange, and white combo really work well together. The orange says I’m fun, while the black still says I’m a serious gamer.
Structurally the headphones are great too. The ear cups and head band are super padded and comfortable, which is good for you all night and day gamers. Each side is adjustable so they can accommodate most head sizes.Another great thing Steel Series added to these headphones is the ability to be disassembled into four pieces, if you count the cable. Which is nice if you want to put them in a backpack or suitcase for travel. I also enjoy the hidden microphone. When you need it, simply pull it out; and since it is uni-directional it can be bent in any direction. The cable is braided, so it should last a good while. It also is split-channel, meaning you have to plug in audio output and microphone input separately, which can be taken either way. Personally I was a little disappointed because that means I can’t use them with my iPod for FaceTime or the like; but hey, they are gaming headphones after all.
The Sound
The Fnatic features a 50mm driver, providing clear crisp sound that is full of detail. I especially enjoyed that when playing a game I really got the true 360 3D experience. Again I did notice that these headphones did not hold up against others in listening to music, but yes I know, they are for gaming. The microphone quality is suburb as expected. So make sure you use the mute switch on the cord if you decide to ask you mother for a sandwich.
The sound cancellation is passive, so don’t expect perfect isolation, but still unless you live in a construction zone all you will hear is you video game.
What You Get
When you buy the 7H Fnatics you get the headphones of course, as well as the the braided cable with volume and mic control; but they also throw in a 2 meter extender cable, which is very convenient. Overall, these are a great pair of headphones for gaming. The superb sound and comfort definitely move these headphones into the next tier. Just PRESS START to head over to Steel Series to buy a pair for $139.99, which isn’t bad for such a great pair of headphones. I give them 4.8 stars, just because personally I would like to have a single channel cable option/adapter for an iPod.
Did you get it? Have an app or product you want me to review? Let me know in the comments below.
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May 22, 2012 in Accessories, Business, Computers, Education, Entertainment, Gaming, Gaming, Lifestyle, Lifestyle, Mac, Main Blog, PC, Product, Productivity, Productivity, Slideshow, Travel, Travel
The mouse. The Achilles’ Heel of the computer. The mouse is one of the greatest nuisances that computer users have to deal with, we just want to open what we want without hassle. Yet touchscreen computers are just to expensive, and that iPad next to you just doesn’t cut it yet. The Ion Wireless Air Mouse by Bellco Ventures Inc brings us one step closer.
The Design:
The Ion Air Mouse’s design is relatively simple. It consists of a partial glove with an attached sensor that runs a cable to
the finger where the mouse buttons for clicking are strapped on. Positioned on the sensor there is an on/off switch, the
micro-usb charging port and three LED lights, for charging status, power, and active or not. The finger p
ortion has three buttons; left click, right click, and pause. In order to connect the Air Mouse to your computer you simply plug in tiny USBdongle into you computer and your good to go. I like that Bellco chose this method of connection over something like bluetooth because it provided a stronger connection that is unaffected by interference. The Air Mmouse is compatible with Mac, PC, and Linux, with the only requirement being a USB port.
The Operation:
Using the Air Mouse could not be simpler, just slip the glove on and adjust it to your had, do the same with the finger tip, then plug in the adapter into your computer and wait for the drivers to install. Once that finishes, turn on the mouse and your ready to start clicking. The mouse does take some getting used to, but you can always adjust your computer’s mouse settings to make it easier. With the air mouse, just move your hand in the direction you want the cursor to move and then left or right click your heart away. If you want to readjust the position of your hand, or you need to type, just click the pause button and the Air Mouse’s motion sensing becomes inactive, but leaving clicking functionality available.
The Uses:
I must say, the Ion Air Mouse is very versatile. It works great for everyday use, but it really shines when you get a little creative. When I hook up my laptop to my TV, I can now just sit back and do all my controlling needs from the comfort of my couch. No longer will I have to get up over and over again to change the volume between fight seen and whispering dialogue. The Air Mouse also works well for presentations; the other day in fact, I used the Air Mouse for a presentation in English class, the mouse gave me the versatility to move around the room, while still being able to advance the slides.
The Overall
Overall, the Ion Wireless Mouse, is pretty awesome. It is the ultimate ergonomic device and looking like you’re part robot is an added bonus. The simple set up and use is great and the mouse is fun to use. The only draw back is that it does take some getting used to. I would give it 4.5 stars for sure. You can buy it for 79.95 Here.
Did you get it? Have an app or product you want me to review? Let me know in the comments below.
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December 31, 2011 in Accessories, Business, Computers, Mac, PC, Product, Productivity, Slideshow
Imation’s i-Por Metal 2.5″ Portable hard drive is one that’s pretty old which comes in three sizes: 320GB, 500GB and 640GB. Therefore I believe it’s great for those of you who are looking for a relatively small one just to store some backup as well as music and videos. I’ve had a 500GB one for over a year and I’ve never had a single problem with it.
I always personally thought that external hard drives that you get don’t really matter as long as it performs its function, however it seems like many people around me have ones that perform very badly. This one has never overheated in my experience, and is pretty compact. I use this one as a simple backing up device, and for saving large set up files and various videos that I’ve downloaded previously.
It comes with a mini USB cable, which has two male USB ends, one for actually connecting the hard disk to your computer and the other simply to supply enough energy to the hard drive to actually get it working – meaning it doesn’t require external power. It’s very compact, so I have no problem carrying it around even to long holidays, during which I often view a very large number of videos.
It’s supported by all Macintosh and Windows operating systems, and runs at 5400rpm. The only downside to this is probably the FAT32 file system, meaning that the maximum individual file size that you can put onto the disk is 4GB. While this may affect some potential buyers, it should be of no problem to the general user – I personally have never had any problems with this.
November 25, 2011 in Accessories, Computers, iPad, iPhone, Mac, Main Blog, Music Players, Phones, Product, Slideshow, Tablets
Apple has started to air their new iPod touch ad, following the new iPad 2 ad which started airing around 2 weeks ago. This ad is called “Share The Fun” which includes some of the major features of iOS 5, as well as the white iPod touch model.
The video cannot be shown at the moment. Please try again later.
Apple has also touted its Black Friday discount offerings. Below are the price cuts found on the Australian Apple Online Store.
October 1, 2011 in Computers, Main Blog, PC, Product, Slideshow
On the 13th of September 2011, Microsoft released the developmental preview of Windows 8. Everyone at the Microsoft BUILD event was given a tester Samsung device running the Windows 8 DTM to get a feel for Windows 8. They also released the DTM .ISO for the general public to download and install on their own machines.
Microsoft has not mentioned any fixed released date, however, considering this is a DTM, the earliest that Windows 8 can be released will be Summer 2012 or potentially up to early 2013. Since this is only a developmental build of Windows 8, it is much too early to determine its success and whether or not it is an “iPad Killer”. However, below are five things that will be Microsoft’s assets:
Number 1: App Store
Microsoft has announced that there will be a centralized app store to download Metro style apps, similar to the Windows Phone 7 app store. Although the Windows 8 app store will be late to the game compared to the Mac App store, Microsoft’s Visual Studio is must simpler to use compared to Apple’s Xcode in terms of the software interface and developmental tools. In terms of the languages it supports, Microsoft is still maintaining support for all previous programming languages such as C#. Furthermore, it is adding more support through HTML, CSS, JavaScript and more. By maintaining previous programming languages, Microsoft already has a very big developers base. The adding of HTML and web languages will only increase the developer base due to web languages increasing demand and popularity. The Windows 8 app store only supports Metro style apps. Standard apps can still be downloaded off outside the app store.
Number 2: Supporting both Metro UI and Windows 7
Windows 8 supports a new user interface named “Metro” inherited from the Windows Phone 7 and also Windows 7 as an application on top of the Metro system. One of the main advantages of this is that any computer running Windows 7 will be able to run Windows 8. One of the reasons for Windows Vistas failure was because of the lack of hardware support for Windows XP systems. By supporting Windows 7 as an application, all current Windows 7 application will also still function in Windows 8. All this backward support bolsters the number of applications available to Windows 8 beyond only the Windows new app store for metro style application. Currently, Microsoft’s own applications such as Microsoft Word are still only a Windows 7 application. However, Microsoft themselves are planning to rewrite Microsoft Word and the suite of applications into a Metro application, more suitable for the new touch screen form factor.
Number 3: Tablet concept
The general concept of the tablet in the market currently, such as the iPad and Android, is a scaled up version of a smartphone, which does not have the capabilities of a fully-fledged computer. However, Microsoft is focusing on the tablet from another perspective. Instead of being mainly an entertainment device, Microsoft is pushing Windows 8 as a fully-fledged computer on a tablet. This gives Microsoft a unique selling point against other tablets. Rather than carrying two devices, an Android or iPad and a laptop, if Microsoft is successfully with Windows 8, it would be possible to carry one fully fledged tablet computer, therefore being much more portable. Microsoft would like to provide portability without sacrificing productivity. From user reviews and video previews, it is clear that Microsoft did some things correctly to make it easier to use such as tweaking the keyboard to fit different situations. However, Microsoft still needs to improve the Windows 8 preview to make the experience even more fluent and productive.
Number 4: Supporting ARM
During the BUILD Conference, Microsoft announced that everything about Windows 8 demonstrated during the conference will also run on the ARM architecture. Previous generations of Windows only supported the x86 (both 32-bits and 64-bits) architecture. The x86 architecture is strongest in the computer segment with Intel being the biggest supplier of chips. However, on the mobile segment, ARM architectures are the majority. ARM is more energy efficient, making it a viable choice for mobile to increase battery life. By supporting ARM, Microsoft is acknowledging the tablet market, and the need for a more power efficient chip to increase the run-time length of Windows 8 on a tablet. ARM also supports instant-on, which is a feature that is not supported by Intel. This will provide users with instant gratification needed in a good tablet. It also moves Microsoft into a territory Windows had previously never touched.
Number 5: More human… less computer
In previous versions of Windows, the operating system was not very friendly. Only the very computer literate users were able to understand the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), and even fewer would be able to fix the errors. In Windows 8, Microsoft has changed the contents of the BSOD (despite all the changes, it is still blue…) to make it easy to understand even to technophobes. Instead of spurning out garbage code, Microsoft has changed it to “:( Your PC ran into a problem that it couldn’t handle, and now it needs to restart. You can search for the error online: ERROR_CODE”. This change makes it clear to the user that: one, the computer ran into a problem; two, the computer needs to restart; and three, it clearly tells the user the name of the problem so that they can search for a reason for the BSOD. The use of the smiley “:(” also makes it more lighthearted compared to old BSOD screens. Besides improving the BSOD screen, Microsoft also made changes to the installation process. Whilst previous versions of Windows took close to an hour to set up with loads of steps and information to fill out, Windows 8 only goes through the minimum needed and hence set up time is much shorter. The instruction screens for the set up screen is also more personal compared to previous versions. If the set up process for the final version of Windows 8 is similar to the DTM, most of the general public will be able to understand and setup a computer by themselves, rather than only the computer literate.
Overall, it is not possible to judge the success of Windows 8 at this stage, especially since it is only a developmental preview, but also because it will be released so late into the tablet game. However, the above are several reasons that demonstrate why Microsoft’s Windows 8 concept is not way off the mark.
