| Tech Test: Ambient Devices gadgets show weather, stock market
NEW YORK -- Ambient Devices made a splash a few years ago when it released an odd glowing glass orb that changed color depending on the direction of the stock market or the temperature outside. The orb provided just a single point of data, an approach that was the opposite of a computer's rich, confusing way of presenting information. A refreshing idea, but not one that's become mainstream, especially not with its $150 price tag. Now, the Cambridge, Mass.-based company is making some more practical gadgets that present the same kind of information in a less cryptic form: panels that spell out the weather forecast, or the day's stock movement, on plain, easy-to-read LCD screens. Unfortunately, they're still expensive, making these more of the Sharper-Image-gee-whiz type of gadgets than everyday items.
Thursday | 16 August, 2007
Hot demand and a massive battery recall are causing shortages of key components for the notebook computer industry, analysts and companies say. The worst case scenario for users is the likelihood of fewer deals for new notebook computers over the next five months because PC manufacturers are paying a premium for components and have to pass those higher costs down the PC supply chain. Users are also likely to see fewer discounts and other promotions, such as extra DRAM or a bigger hard disk drive (HDD). What normally happens during a component shortage is that PC vendors will adjust the makeup of the notebook PC to find savings elsewhere and ensure a constant price for users. For example, using less DRAM (dynamic-RAM) memory in a laptop can reduce the cost a tad, to make up for a higher priced laptop battery.
Tulie drug dogs policy gets more teeth
Students thinking of bringing drugs onto any Tularosa school property may want to think twice this school year. The dogs are coming, and that means "unannounced." At its regular meeting on Tuesday, the Tularosa Board of Education voted unanimously to contract with Kachina Canines of Roswell for a total of six unscheduled visits to the intermediate, middle and high schools during this school year. Of the three canine companies looked at by Superintendent Brenda Vigil, she recommended Kachina because of the references she received from other parts of the state. "I received very good recommendations about Kachina Canines from Chaves County and Capitan," Vigil told the board. Classrooms, lockers and vehicles will be searched when the dogs arrive on unannounced days, said Vigil.
SunEthanol gets funding boost
SunEthanol Inc., a biofuels technology startup, has secured its first around of funding to commercialize the Q Microbe, a natural bacteria capable of converting cellulose into ethanol, the company said on Tuesday. The amount of the round was not disclosed. .
XPower: A Wall Socket to Go
We live in an a golden age for portable gizmos. Wherever we go we can take our computers, telephones, personal organizer, digital cameras, video camcorders and satellite radios with us. However, along with those gadgets, we also take along -- if we're away from an electrical outlet for any length of time -- a gnawing anxiety about running out of power. There are ways to mollify that anxiety. .
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