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COMPLIMENTARY ISSUE!

THE SHOPPER'S GUIDE TO NEW PRODUCTS ±

Sandhills
Publishing

I FirstGhmpseMag.com

PORTABLE DEVICES: pages 58 to 62

SlingPlayer Mobile for Android

p. 58

i\t\<: pages 8 to

Sony BRAVIA HX800
With 3D P . 8

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_MPUTERS: pages 32 to 49

AMD VISION Technologv -

vision vision vision vision

AMDS AMDS

NEW SECTION:

Appliances p. 71 toso

July 201 • Complimentary Copy

Meet The New 3DTV

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Since 1979, Sandhills Publishing has produced publications covering technology beginning with

the introduction of Processor, Over the years, the company has developed a complete line of computing

publications, encompassing Smart Computing, PC Today, Computer Power User, and First Glimpse.

Our plain-English approach has served audiences well for 30 years, ensuring they receive

accurate and unbiased technology information to meet their needs.

PROCESSOR

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Sandhills Publishing 4
www.sandhills.com

FirstGlimpse

Table Of Contents • Volume 7 Issue 7

On Our Cover: Featured on this month's cover is Sony's BRAVIA HX800 HDTVs with 3D
($2,099.99 to $3,399.99; www. sonystyle.com), AMD's VISION Technologies (www.amd
.com), and SlingPlayer Mobile For Android ($29.99; www.slingmedia.com).

Get Details On

The Latest Product Arrivals

Dirt Devil Fantasy
Tattoo Canister
■ See page 79

Dirt Devil Featherlite
Bagless Upright Vacuum

■ See page 79

Pf/fPfcl/ Eureka ^ et Expert
™£^£i 3276BVZVacuum

■ See page 80

Eureka Pet Lover Plus
8863AVZ Vacuum

■ See page 80

Fujifilm FinePixXPIO
See page 30

Hoover FloorMate Hard
Floor Cleaner Vacuum

■ See page 7

INSIGNIA Insignia Infocast Internet
Media Display

■ See page 64

FUJEfILM

Microsoft

LG 4-Door French Door
Dispensing Refrigerators

■ See page 73

LG 3-Door French Door
Dispensing Refrigerators

■ See page 73

LG 3-Door French Door

Non-Dispensing

Refrigerators

■ See page 73

Microsoft Office 2010

■ See page 40

Microsoft Wireless Mobile
Mouse 3500 Studio Series

■ See page 40

OLYMPUS' Olympus PEN E-PL1

■ See page 21

^ll«^N SlingPlayer Mobile
SI I? Svj For Android

■ See page 58

Sony BRAVIA HX800

HDTV

Series with 3D

■ See page 8

SONY SonyVAIOVPCS111FM/S
Notebook

■ See page 35

FirstGlimpse

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FirstGlimpse

The Connected Home

Discover New Possibilities With
Today's Technology

TODAY A WIDE VARIETY of digital devices and technolo-
gies work together to make all kinds of information avail-
able whenever and wherever you need it. Stream movies to
your home theater; download photos from a relative over-
seas to a photo frame in your living room; or upload music
from your MP3 player to your car. Whatever you want to
do, there's a product out there to help you do it. Use this
digital home blueprint to identify the types of things you
want to do, and then go to the appropriate pages to learn
about related products and technologies.

23 Camcorder Memory Types

Find The Right Storage

Evolved Appliances

Bring Your Kitchen &
Laundry Room Into The
21 st Century

57 Lug A Library's Worth

The Benefits Of eReaders

10 Meet The New 3D TV

A New Dimension In Horn
Entertainment

■

42 Essential Things To Know

Wireless Printers

■i M

Future Proof Your
Home- Theater Purchase

Spend Wisely For The Long Term

FirstGlimpse

Inside This Issue

Digital Imagin

Computers

Portable Devices

Gaming, Media & More

Appliances

pages 8 to 1 9

pages 20 to 31

pages 32 to 49

pages 58 to 62

pages 63 to 70

pages 71 to 80

This Month's Lifestyle Close-up:

65 Essential Things To Know

Weather Stations

pages 58 to 62

For many of us, a cell phone is
a daily companion. To get the
most out of this device, look
for accessories in our Portable
Devices section.

Deliver Media To
Portable Devices

How Do You Want Yours?

7 1 How To Buy A Refrigerator

What You Should Know

L_U

«w

41 Dual-Band Routers

Cut Out The Interference

Compact Gadgets
For Your Car

Audio & Video That
Go With You

FirstGlimpse

ce news

COMPILED BY ANDREW LEIBMAN

There's No Slowing Spam

Google's hosted security and archiving
service provider Postini reports that spam
volumes in the first quarter of this year
were roughly 6% higher than the same
period last year. Even after spam fighters
managed to sideline 3FN, a service pro-
vider notorious for supporting botnets,
spam levels recovered in a matter of
weeks. The closure of another shady ISP,
Real Host, only knocked spam on its
heels for two days. Security firms man-
aged to stem the tide of spam between
Q4 2009 and Q1 2010, forcing levels
down by 1 2%, but year over year, the
2010 numbers were higher.

^ Smartphones

Are Hotter Than Ever

According to IDC's Worldwide Quarterly Mobile
Phone Tracker, smartphone shipments grew
56.7% in Q1 , and the firm believes 201 will be
another banner year for the handheld devices.
Nokia shipped the most phones, 21 .5 million,
followed by RIM, which shipped 10.6 million
BlackBerrys. Apple shipped 8.8 million iPhones
in Q1, which represents a 132% rise (the highest
increase of the bunch) compared to the same pe-
riod in 2009. HTC shipped 2.6 million phones,
and Motorola shipped 2.3 million. In total, 54.7
million smartphones shipped globally in Q1
2010, up from the 34.9 million devices that
shipped in Q1 2009.

6 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

FirstGlimpse

m a r

t p I a c

One In Four Households Are Mobile-Only

The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recently revealed that during
the last half of 2009, 24.5% of U.S. households relied on a wireless phone only and
did not subscribe to landline-based phone services. The report also shows that roughly
52 million adults (22.9%) lived in households with only wireless phones. This repre-
sents a 4.3% increase compared to the last half of 2008, and the numbers from 2008
showed a 4.4% increase compared to 2007. Another 1 5% of households had a land-
line but used a mobile phone the majority of the time. The CDC also reports that ap-
proximately 2% of households had no telephone service of any kind.

What Are People Using To Make Calls?

Landline
without
wireless

Wireless
only

Landline
with wireless

1st Half 2009

2nd Half 2009

Hot Gadgets

According to The NPD Group's latest Consumer Technology Household Online
Penetration Study, some CE categories were more popular with shoppers this
year. It found a 3% increase in flat-panel TV adoption, and standalone BD
players grew from 6% in 2009 to 1 1 % in 201 0. Netbooks grew from 4% to 8%.
Flash camcorders rose from 5% in 2009 to 10% in 2010. Portable navigation
device adoption also increased from 30% to 40% since last year.

2010 Consumer Electronics Household Penetration

2009
2010

Flat-panel
TVs

Personal

Navigation

Devices

Blu-ray
Players

Netbooks

The most recent unit sales num-
bers show that plasma TVs are
still popular among large-sized
(40 inches and
greater) flat-panel
TVs. Plasma TV
shipments
climbed 14%
between Q1
2009 and Q1
2010. LCD TV unit
sales, however, jumped
just 6% during the same period.
Source: Quixel Research

Online cloud storage is set to be
raking in the dough over the next
five years. ABI Research reports
that revenue from cloud-based
backup and storage service pro-
viders is expected to explode from
$75 million in 2009 to more than
$372 million in 2015.
Source: ABI Research

A new study about social media
mistakes finds that a whopping 32%
of those surveyed said they have
posted something online that they
later wish they hadn't. Of those, 3%
reported that the com-
ment disrupted their
marriage or rela-
tionship, and 6%
admitted that the
ill-advised up-
date made things
difficult at home or
in the office.
Source: Retrevo

In-Stat found that Wi-Fi will be a
feature in more than 200 million
units by 2014. The firm also reports
that cell phones will remain the
highest volume Wi-Fi-enabled device
by 201 4, and Internet tablet devices
will grow to almost 50 million units
by 201 4. By 201 3, the Wi-Fi device
Total Available Market will surpass a
mind-boggling 3 billion units.
Source: In-Stat

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse / July 2010 7

COVER STORY

Sony's BRAVIA
HX800 HDTVs With

Brace Yourself For More
Than Two Dimensions

Sony's newest line of HDTVs with 3D are de-
signed to create an intense three-dimensional vi-
sual experience. So, if you're ready to take on
what 3D technology has to offer, look no further
than the Sony Bravia HX800 3D TV series
($2,099.99 to $3,399.99; www. sonystyle.com).

Look for Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs
on Blu-ray 3D™!

HX800 & Beyond

Not only does the BRAVIA HX800
Series HDTV with 3D feature in-
credible Full HD 1080p picture
quality for your 2D entertainment
but it also capable of playing 3D
movies, 3D games and 3D sports
for an experience unlike anything

^^^M^^HHMMiBfl

Sony® BRAVIA®
HX800 LED
Backlit LCD
HDTV with 3D

40-inch $2,099.99
46-inch $2,699.99
55-inch $3,399.99
www.sonystyle.com

Theater Eco-System

Sony also incorporated energy-
saving features into the HX800

Complete Connectivity

Giving you the ultimate in connec-
tivity options, the HX800 Series

ju I vs witn power setting op-
tions such as BackLight Off
Mode, Dynamic Backlight
Control, an Energy Saving
Switch, and Idle TV Standby. All
three HX800 models are also

HDTVs with 3D are Wi-Fi adapter
ready and equipped, which lets yoi

joying a new depth in content or
a Bravia HX800 3D TV, you'll
need a 3D-capable Blu-ray Disc

Player (such as Sony's BDP-S470),
PlayStation 3 gaming console, or
other 3D-capable source plus a
Sony 3D sync transmitter and 3D
active glasses.

Sony's Motionflow PRO 240Hz
technology LED backlight tech-
nology ensures that you see the
bright whites and sharp dark
scene detail in every scene.

means they use 30% less energy
than standard TVs and can

Boldly Going Further

Netflix, YouTube, Slacker, Pandora,
and more. They're also DLNA (Digital
Living Network Appliance) compat-
ible, allowing you to access and share
photo, video, and music files from
your DLNA devices, such as your PC
or PS3, to your HDTVs screen.

For those who want a step up from the HX800 series and to move to an LED backl
HDTV with built-in 3D capabilities, Sony's Bravia LX900 Series HDTV with 3D bu
in offers a 52- and 60-inch model ($3,999.99 and $4,999.99, respectively). With tl
press of a single remote control button, you can watch as your favorite 2D shows
and movies are converted into 3D entertainment. On top of this, the LX900 series
corporates an Intelligent Presence Sensor with Face Detection that turns off your
HDTV when it senses no one is in the room.

FirstGlimpse 1

HOME THEATER

HOW TO BUY

The Right HDTV
Screen Technology

Three Technologies, One Choice

HDTV is practically synonymous with flat-panel TV these
days. Flat screens are by far the most popular sets on the
market. New TV technologies are always on the horizon, but
right now there are three to choose from. Let's go over fac-
tors about each one that may sway your buying decision.

LED

• LED is similar to LCD, but instead of using fluorescent
backlighting to illuminate the picture, it uses lots of
small light-emitting diodes.

• Because these LEDs can dim or turn off where the
picture is dark, a process called local dimming,
the screen does a much better job of rendering
black tones.

• LED combines most of the advantages of LCD
with plasma's superior contrast ratio.

• LED is a much newer, more advanced technology, so
it comes at a higher price than an equivalent LCD.

• They best fit a green lifestyle, because they consume
less power and generate less heat.

LCD

• LCD offers by far the widest selection of screen sizes
and models.

• The picture is quite bright, so it often has better clarity
in a well-lit room.

• LCD TVs don't use glass screens, so there's no
problem with reflections or glare.

• One potential drawback is the contrast ratio — the
range of blackest blacks to whitest whites. Because
the fluorescent backlighting is always on, LCDs can't
render pure blacks.

Plasma

• Plasma is widely regarded as having a picture most
like that of a tube TV, with unsurpassed contrast and
color fidelity.

• It has the widest viewing angle, so if you have several
people watching from different locations in the room,
a plasma will keep everyone happy.

• Plasma TVs are much heavier than same-sized LCD sets,
demanding more care and stability for wall-mounting.

• They consume more power, may emit a buzz at high
altitudes, and the glass screen can catch a glare from
light sources.

FirstGlirnpse

by Brian Hodge

FirstGlirnpse/ July 2010 9

HOME THEATER

Meet The New 3D TV

A New Dimension In Home Entertainment

"Avatar." "Alice In Wonderland." "Coraline." "Up." The 3D hits are
coming hard and fast from Hollywood, with the result that movie lovers
are packing the theaters in droves.

The big difference with 3D's latest resurgence is that you can now bring the
technology home with you. In addition to regular programming, with a 30-
compatible HDTV and special eyewear, you can experience the thrilling im-
pact of three-dimensional entertainment right in your home theater.

To see a 3D image on a compatible HDTV, you typically need to wear special eyewear with LCD shutter lenses that change between opaque
and clear many times per second. Synchronized to the TV, the eyewear displays alternating images for your left and right eyes, creating the illu-
sion of depth in the picture.

What Is 3D TV?

A 3D TV (about $2,000 and up) is an enhanced LED-backlit LCD or plasma HDTV. With a high screen refresh rate, such as
240Hz, a 3D TV can change its picture fast enough to present two different images for each frame of video.

The magic happens when you put on compatible eyewear ($149.99 and up). Timed to the 3D TV's refresh rate, the eyewear
alternately blocks one eye's view while allowing the other to see the picture for an instant. This shutter action happens so
rapidly that it's practically imperceptible, but it fools your eyes into believing that there's remarkable depth in your movie or
TV show.

FirstGlimpse

by Marty Sems

10 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

HOME THEATER

Media
Streaming Basics

Entertainment From A Distance

Streaming lets you enjoy a video clip or
music file on a device even though the
file is stored on another device, either
on your home network or across the
Web. Instead of fully copying the media
file to your device and then starting to
play it, streaming generally plays the
video or song as it downloads. And
unlike traditional downloading or file
transfers, streaming doesn't leave a
copy of the song or movie on your
device afterward.

Streaming Examples

• Certain HDTVs can stream video
from a networked computer or a
NAS (network-attached storage)
device.

• A Internet-connectable BD (Blu-
ray Disc) player may display
streaming movies from an online
subscription service.

• Your teen's gaming console may
be able to play content stored on
your wirelessly networked laptop.

What's On(line)?

• Video Web sites

• Internet radio

• TV channel sites

• Subscription movie services

What You Need

1 . A device to stream to:

• Recent game consoles, PCs and HTPCs (home-theater PCs), media
extenders, set-top boxes, BD players, and HDTVs are all candidates.

• Noncomputer devices can only stream certain file formats from
particular sources.

• On a PC/HTPC, you'll need a free or for-pay media player program and
a Web browser.

2. A fast broadband Internet connection and/or a PC or NAS to stream from:

• Photos, videos, and/or music files are stored on these devices.

• A free or for-pay media server program can translate your media files into
the formats your target streaming device can understand.

3. A network:

• A wired network (Ethernet or powerline) will generally give you
the smoothest results.

• Wi-Fi is vulnerable to interference, but it is easy to set up.

• Internet congestion and outages can cause online streaming media to
pause until the data stream resumes.

4. A TV and/or sound system that's connected to your streaming device to
enjoy entertainment on

FirstGlimpse

by Marty Sems

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 11

HOME THEATER

Future-Proof Your

Home-Theater

Purchase

Spend Wisely For
The Long Term

Everyone wants the most bang for their buck, but it's wise
to apply that sentiment to the long term. When every
dollar counts, it's smart to buy home-theater components
that will last you a long, long time. That means buying
quality, but it also means buying technologies that won't
become obsolete anytime soon. Here's a list of examples.

HT Video Devices

Your HDTV should support the
best high-def resolution around.
Get a 1080p set, which is back-
ward-compatible with other reso-
lutions, including 1080i, 720p,
and480i.

Your HDTV should also have mul-
tiple HDMI ports. An HDMI cable
will give you top-quality video and
audio, and the newest standard,
HDMI 1 .4, can even be used with
3D content.

A BD player is more future-proof
than a DVD player, as it can play
high-def 2D and 3D Blu-ray Discs
and upconvert DVDs to look their
best on an HDTV. Also note that a
3D BD player can play 2D discs.
Choose a model with an Internet
connection and BD-Live capability,
which lets you access updated con-
tent online and exclusive features.

HT Audio Devices

Most BD players can decode (play back) audio stored on BD movies in formats
such as Dolby Digital Plus, but not all players can handle every format in full sur-
round sound. It's better to rely on a high-quality multichannel sound system with
an HDMI 1 .4 connection. Buy an audio receiver with full support for 7.1 -channel
DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby Digital TruHD, as it will be backward-compat-
ible with 5.1 -channel playback and lesser formats such as DTS and Dolby Digital.

As for a wireless music system from vendors such as Sonos, choose one that's
expandable with additional receivers, backward- and forward-compatible with
the manufacturer's add-ons, and comes with free updates.

Other HT Devices

Get a DVR that supports HD, so that you can play back recorded high-def
shows at their top quality. Make sure that your DVR supports an external hard
drive, so you can add more capacity for recorded programs later.

A media extender frees up all the photos and videos on your family's PCs and
lets you stream them to your HDTV. For minimal interruptions, look for a media
extender that supports the 802.1 1 n standard.

Some Internet TV set-top boxes and BD players also stream video from down-
load services such as Netflix and CinemaNow.

FirstGlimpse

by Marty Sems

12 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

HOME THEATER

ESSENTIAL THINGS TO KNOW

Surge Protectors &
Power Conditioners

Why do I need protection against power surges?

A Your home-theater equipment can be irreparably
damaged by excess voltage from the fluctuations of
energy that occur when high-power devices cycle on or
off. Power surges might also occur because of bad wiring
and lightning strikes or when the electrical company per-
forms maintenance.

QWhat is the difference between a surge protector and
a power conditioner?

A Surge protectors monitor the energy coming into
your equipment to prevent damage from overvoltage.
Power conditioners monitor voltage and filter out elec-
tronic noise that can reduce your home theater's audio
and video quality.

QHow does a surge protector or power conditioner
differ from a UPS (uninterruptable power supply)?

A An uninterruptable power supply protects your
devices against voltage surges and delivers inter-
ference-free power to your home theater, but these also
feature a built-in battery that allows the connected de-
vices to continue running to give you time to properly
shut them off.

What is a joule rating?

Alt's the amount of watts a surge protector or power
conditioner will be able to absorb over one second
before it fails. The higher the joule rating, the more excess
voltage it can stop from reaching your hardware.

What is clean power?

Power conditioners often use the term "clean power" to
indicate that they remove and reject electrical noise. A
power signal filled with noise is often coined "dirty power."

What types of noise can cause interference?

Power signals can be affected by EMI (electromagnetic
interference) that leaks out of power cords and devices
as well as RFI (radio frequency interference) from electronics
that release radio waves, such as microwaves and radios.

Q
A

Can I protect my cable TV or antenna signal from
power spikes and interference?

Yes, if the surge protector or power conditioner offers
inputs and outputs for Coax cable.

Do I need to protect the phone lines that run to my
DVR or cable box?

Power spikes can come through your phone line, so
it'd be wise to invest in a surge protector or power
conditioner that can handle phone connections.

What is voltage regulation, and is it important?

Alt's the ability to prevent your components from receiving
too little or too much power. Home-theater equipment
requires consistent power for optimum performance, and the
sensitive components may suffer damage when not enough or
too much voltage is delivered. Most power conditioners pro-
vide both under- and over-voltage regulation.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 13

HOME THEATER

Yes, You Need To Calibrate

Get Optimal
HDTV Video Results

Why A Professional Calibration?

• A calibration DVD might be a tempting alternative, but it won't let you adjust all of your HDTVs settings. An ISF-certified
professional can access advanced service menus to calibrate your TV correctly. These settings aren't meant to be experi-
mented with, so if you poke around and gain access to your TV's service menu, it's best to leave it alone. Many people
have rendered their TVs useless because they didn't heed this warning.

• Calibration specialists are ISF (Imaging Science Foundation)-certified, which means they are trained to use highly special-
ized and expensive equipment to calibrate HDTVs correctly.

Your Video May Not Be All
That It Seems

• Most TVs are shipped with a set stan-
dard video mode meant for an elec-
tronics store display — this means that
the TV's settings are adjusted to show
the best picture in a bright, fluores-
cent-lit environment. Because it's un-
likely your lighting at home matches
the store's surroundings, you should
have your TV professionally cali-
brated by an ISF-certified specialist to
accommodate your home's unique
lighting environment.

• An HDTVs viewing angle and your
home-theater setup also affect how
your HDTV should be calibrated.
An ISF-certified professional takes
these factors into account when
making adjustments.

• Although you can expect to budget 1
to 1 5% of the purchase price of your
television for a professional calibra-
tion, consider it an entertainment in-
vestment that will pay dividends for
years to come.

What You Can Expect

• A calibration session includes two inputs on the set, so no matter which you
use, you will get the best image clarity and sharpness your HDTV can provide.

• A professional will use color analyzer equipment to objectively tune color
saturation and temperature as precisely as possible, letting you see video
exactly the same way it looked when it was created.

• Your HDTVs contrast will be set up to provide greater video detail as well
as the darkest blacks and brightest whites.

14 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

FirstGlimpse

HOME THEATER

HDTVs

Screen Technology
Differences

LCD (liquid-crystal display)

LCDs can use one of two
backlight technologies.
CCFLs (cold cathode fluores-
cent lamps) are the most
common, but LEDs are the
latest backlight technology to
hit the LCD scene. (See the
"LED" section for more info
on LED TVs.)
Pros

• The thin profiles and light
weight of LCDs make them
easy to mount on a wall.

• Power demands are a bit
lower than comparably
sized plasma displays and
considerably lower than
CRT televisions.

Cons

• Fast-moving images may
suffer from a slight trailer
effect, but with improved

LCD technology, the effect
is barely perceptible.

• When pixels stick on or
off, they show up as either
a pinpoint of bright light or
black, which can be dis-
tracting on-screen.

• From certain viewing an-
gles, LCDs will lose video
contrast and color.

• LCDs with CCFL back-
lighting suffer from
leaking light, and unlike
LEDs, they can't dim cer-
tain areas on-screen. This
may result in blacks and
whites that appear to be
more gray in color.

Best For

• Streaming PC content

• Bright, sunny rooms

LED (light-emitting diode)

LED TVs are actually a type
of LCD TV. These sets use
one of two LED backlight
technologies:

• Full-array lighting places
LEDs behind the screen in
a grid pattern, letting the
TV dim certain LEDs for
the best contrast ratios
available.

• Edge-lit sets have LEDs
placed around the frame
of the TV, and light is
directed toward the
center of the screen.
Edge-lit models cost less
than full-array sets and
are a lot thinner.

Pros

• By using LEDs, these sets
use a lot less electricity
than other HDTVs, and

they don't contain harm-
ful mercury.

• Overall, LED TVs are one-
third thinner than other
LCD TVs and have longer
life spans.

• Plasmas are well-known for
their deep blacks, crisp
whites, and fast response
times, but LED TVs closely
match in performance.

Cons

• These sets are costly be-
cause they feature a rela-
tively new technology.

• Blooming, or a halo effect,
may encircle bright images
that are on dark back-
grounds.

Best For

• Eco-conscious viewers

• Fast-paced gaming

Plasma

Pros

• A plasma TV's phosphors light up
evenly across the screen to create
images, which are consistently
bright and clear with vibrant
colors.

• The contrast ratio is high, so you'll
see some of the darkest blacks and
brightest whites.

The design and technology of

plasma TVs lend themselves to

large screen sizes — typically 50

inches or greater.

Rapid pixel response means no

blurry motion.

Wide viewing angles give you the

same high-quality images on-screen

no matter where in the room you

happen to be sitting.

Cons

• Some plasmas are susceptible to image
burn-in if not cared for properly.

• Low air pressure and high altitudes
may cause plasmas to buzz.

• Some plasmas have highly reflective
glass, which isn't ideal in sunny settings.

Best For

• Large groups who watch TV together

• Movies or sports with nonstop action

RPTV (rear-projection TV)

Pros

RPTVs are surprisingly lightweight for
their sizes.

You'll find exceptional picture
quality on very big screens (65 inches
and larger).

• As screens get bigger, RPTVs tend to
be more cost-effective than an LCD,
LED, or plasma TV.

Cons

• With depths of 1 6 to 24 inches, these
TVs are far too big and bulky to
mount on a wall.

FirstGlimpse

• RPTVs require lamp replacements
every few years.

Best For

• Anyone who wants to bring a cine-
matic experience home

• Big, roomy home theaters

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 15

HOME THEATER

HDTV Glossary

alderdash! OK, HDTV
jargon isn't quite that
bad, but there are a few
terms that every shopper
needs to know. Here is
your cheat sheet.

aspect ratio — Put simply, it's the shape
of the TV's screen. An HDTV has a
wider picture than a traditional TV of
the same vertical screen height. An
HDTV has a 16:9 aspect ratio, meaning
that if its screen were 16 inches wide, it
would be 9 inches tall. A regular 4:3
TV screen would be 12 inches wide at
the same 9-inch height.

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia
Interface) — A type of cable connec-
tion that carries both high-resolution
video and uncompressed multi-
channel audio between HDTVs,
home-theater receivers, and the other
components required for your home-
theater setup. HDMI cables maintain
top picture and sound quality.

HD tuner — A built-in tuner for receiving
local high-def broadcast TV channels.
You won't need one if you have cable
or satellite service. Some more expen-
sive HDTVs include one, but separate
HD tuners and antennas are available if
your TV doesn't have one.

interlaced — When an HDTV displays
an interlaced image, as in 1080i or
480i resolutions, it really shows you
every other horizontal line of a frame
of video (called a field) at a time. Sixty
times a second, the TV displays the
other field of the frame, or the lines
not shown in the previous field.
Interlaced video can appear to flicker
or might cause moving objects on-
screen to have blurred edges.

LCD (liquid-crystal display) — Like a
notebook's screen, an LCD HDTV
uses a fluid crystal substance to form
pixels of color in front of a backlight.
LCDs may not be able to match
plasma TVs' deep black and gray
areas, but they're lighter, sometimes
less fragile, and considered easier to
set up. These work better in brighter
rooms or if you will be playing un-
changing images on the screen for an
extended period of time.

plasma — Plasma TVs use a tiny tube
of gas for each pixel, and electricity
makes each pixel glow. Plasmas
create deeper blacks and sometimes
brighter colors than LCDs and have
better contrast. These also offer
slightly better viewing angles. How-
ever, older or less expensive models
can also suffer from permanent screen

damage if an unchanging image, such
as a TV channel's stock ticker or parts
of certain video games, is displayed
too long.

progressive scan — A TV showing a pro-
gressively scanned image, as in 1080p
or 720p resolutions, displays a full
frame of video (both odd-lined and
even-lined fields) all at once. Progres-
sive-scan video looks sharper than inter-
laced does and doesn't flicker.

projection — Some large-screen HDTVs
offer lower-priced alternatives to
LCDs or plasmas by using projection
technologies. These technologies
vary, but all projection TVs throw
light on a screen from the front or
rear. This means they are bulkier than
plasmas or LCDs, but some sets have
stellar picture quality.

viewing angle — No matter where you
sit in front of an HDTV with a wide
viewing angle, such as 170 degrees, its
picture should look reasonably good.
Test this before you buy.

widescreen — A TV or monitor that's
wider horizontally in relation to its
vertical height. HDTVs typically have
a 16:9 aspect ratio rather than an
older 4:3 display.

FirstGlimpse

16 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

HOME THEATER

Should You Get An LCD Or LED-LCD TV?

So you've decided to get an LCD TV. The next step is deciding which LCD TV to invest in. LCDs use different kinds of lights to project an
image onto the screen. A traditional LCD uses CCFLs or EEFLs whereas new LED-LCDs use LEDs.

Light
projection

Size

Dimensions;
Weight***

Native
resolution

Viewing
angle

Inputs
& Outputs

Refresh
rate**

What It Means

Insignia
NS-37L550A11

MSRP: $629.99*
SKU 9602959

How images are
projected on-
screen; type of
backlight an
LED-LCD uses

CCFL

The diag-
onal mea-
surement
of the TV's
screen

37 inches

Height x width
x depth; How
much the TV
weighs

24.6x35.5x9.5
inches; 32.4
pounds (with
stand)

A fixed TV
resolution;
images are
best dis-
played in this

The angle at
which the
viewer can
see the

Inputs let you
connect devices;
Outputs transfer in-
formation to pe-

screen clearly ripherals

N/A

4 HDMI, 1
Component, 1
Composite, 1 PC;
2 audio outputs

Speed at
which a
screen is re-
drawn every
second

120Hz

Panasonic

VIERA TC-L42U25

MSRP: $899.95*
SKU 9783658

EEFL

42 inches

25.1x40.2x4.2
inches; 39.7
pounds

178
degrees

3 HDMI, 1
Component, 2
Composite, 1 PC;
1 audio output

120Hz

LG LD520

MSRP: $1,900*
SKU 9797709

CCFL

55 inches

32.9x53.4x4.3
inches; 72.5
pounds

178
degrees

3 HDMI, 1
Component, 1
Composite, 1 USB;
2 audio outputs

120Hz

—

Samsung
LN60C630

MSRP: $2,499.99*
SKU 9904809

CCFL

60 inches

33.3x51.3x3.4
inches; 70.6
pounds

1080p

N/A

4 HDMI, 2
Component, 2
Composite, 2 USB

120Hz

Insignia
NS-40E560A1 1

MSRP: $999.99*
SKU 9688972

LED

40 inches

25x38.9x1.5
inches; 34.2
pounds

178
degrees

4 HDMI, 1
Component, 1
Composite;
2 audio outputs

120Hz

Sharp
LC-52LE810UN

MSRP: $2,299.99*
SKU 9730536

LED (edge-lit)

52 inches

32x49.6x1.6
inches; 52.9
pounds

176
degrees

4 HDMI, 1
Component, 1
Ethernet, 2 USB;
2 audio outputs

120Hz

^ » *

Samsung
UN55C6300SF

MSRP: $2,499.99*
SKU 9790851

LED (edge-lit)

55 inches

50.5x30.2x
1.18 inches;

N/A

1080p

N/A

4 HDMI, 1
Component, 1
Ethernet, 2 USB;
2 audio outputs

120Hz

Sony BRAVIA
KDL60EX700

MSRP: $2,999.99*
SKU 9763394

LED (edge-lit)

l inches

34.6x56.4x
2.6 inches;
60.2 pounds

178
degrees

4 HDMI, 2
Composite, 1 USB,
1 Ethernet; 1 audio
output

120Hz

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.
***Unless specified, this is without stand

** Comparing refresh rates between plasma and LCD TVs is like comparing apples to oranges.
For more in-depth information about refresh rates, please ask a sales associate.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 17

HOME THEATER

Which Plasma TV Is Best For You?

If you're planning on buying a plasma HDTV, it might be hard to decide on one just by looking at a wall of gorgeous sets. Refer to
this chart for further help when shopping.

Size

Dimensions;
Weight***

Native
resolution

Viewing
angle

Inputs

Outputs

Refresh
rate**

What It Means

Insignia
NS-42P650A11

MSRP: $499.99*
SKU 9748831

The diag-
onal mea-
surement
of the TV's

Height x width
x depth; How
much the TV
weighs

42 inches 27.5x40.6x
1 1 .9 inches;
43 pounds

(with stand)

A fixed TV reso-
lution; images
are best dis-
played in the na-
tive resolution

72 Op

The maximum
angle at which
the viewer can
see the screen
clearly

N/A

Inputs let you
connect your
components
to your TV

2 HDMI, 2
Component, 1
Composite

Outputs transfer
information from
your TV to periph-
erals, such as
audio to speakers

2 audio

Speed at
which a
screen is re-
drawn every
second

600Hz

Samsung
PN42C450

MSRP: $599.99*
SKU 9791253

42 inches

24.8x40.6x2.7
inches; 38.6
pounds

72 Op

N/A

3 HDMI, 2
Component,
1 Composite,
1 PC

N/A

600Hz

Insignia
NS-50P650A11

MSRP: $697.99*
SKU 9745916

50 inches

31.25x47.37x I 720p
11.87 inches;
50.7 pounds

N/A

2 HDMI, 2 | 2 audio
Component, 1
Composite

600Hz

Samsung
PN50C450

MSRP: $749.99*
SKU 9789725

50 inches

28.5x47.37x
1 1 .25 inches;
51 .8 pounds

72 Op

N/A

3 HDMI, n/a
Component,
n/a Compo-
site, n/a PC

N/A

600Hz

Panasonic
TC-P42U2

MSRP: $799.95*
SKU 9761059

42 inches

26.1x40.6x3.7
inches; 49.6
pounds

1080p

N/A

3 HDMI, 2
Component,
2 Composite

1 audio

600Hz

Panasonic
TC-P50G20

MSRP: $1,499.95*
SKU 9788953

50 inches

30.3x48x3.5
inches; 57.3
pounds

1080p

N/A

3 HDMI, 2
Composite,
2 Component,
1 PC

1 audio

600Hz

LG INFINIA
50PK950

MSRP: $1,699.99*
SKU 9720169

50 inches

29x46.9x2.1
inches; 66.6
pounds

1080p

N/A

4 HDMI, 2 N/A

Component, 1
PC, 1 USB, 1

LAN

600Hz

-jii

Samsung
PN50C7000

MSRP: $1,999.99*
SKU 9809723

50 inches 29.5x47.7x1.4 1080p
inches; 54
pounds

N/A

4 HDMI, 2
Component,
1 Composite,
1 PC, 1 USB

N/A

600Hz

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.
***Unless specified, this is without stand

** Comparing refresh rates between plasma and LCD TVs is like comparing apples to oranges.
For more in-depth information about refresh rates, please ask a sales associate.

FirstGlimpse

18 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

HOME THEATER

NOTEWORTHY

Accessories
& Services

WALL MOUNTS &
BRACKETS

• View your HDTV from the
best possible angle
Adjust your TV's position by
tilting it up or down as
needed

Maximize space in your
viewing room by hanging
up your TV

CLEANING KIT

Protect your HDTV's
screen by using specially
formulated sprays and
cloths while cleaning it
Eliminate the danger of
scratching delicate screens
No-drip formulas prevent
damage to other home-
theater equipment

• Hide multiple cords while
keeping them organized

• Minimize cord clutter, espe-
cially with wall-mounted sets

• Keep the focus on your new
HDTV, not the cords con-
nected to it

• Offer flexibility if you're un-
able to mount your HDTV on
the wall

Available in a variety of fin-
ishes to match any decor
Provide a place for addi-
tional home-theater equip-
ment

HDMI CABLES

• Carry uncompressed digital audio and video sig-
nals to and from your HDTV and its components

• Eliminate interference from other components with
shielding (found in higher-end cables)

As you head toward the HDTV section of your local con-
sumer electronics store, you'll invariably pass shelves of
bland-looking HDTV accessories. There are a handful of ac-
cessories that are vital to getting the most from your HDTV.
The following is a rundown of the accessories we recom-
mend to complete your home-theater setup.

UNIVERSAL REMOTE
CONTROL

• Simplify your home-theater
setup with one remote that
can control all of your
components

Program different functions
so that you will be able to
watch a movie by pressing
just one button, for example
Easily view options in the
dark with a backlit LCD

SURGE

PROTECTORS/POWER

CONDITIONERS

• Protect your home theater
from potential damage by
using a surge protector that
will absorb electrical fluctua-
tions

• Filter out "dirty power" (also
known as electrical "noise"
or radio interference) that
can degrade your home the-
ater's audio and video with a
power conditioner

• Have peace of mind know-
ing that your home theater
will give you its peak perfor-
mance for the longest
amount of time

SURROUND-SOUND
SYSTEM

Maximize your HDTV
experience with theater-
like audio

• Feel like you're in the
movie scene instead of just
watching it

• Even out softer and louder
programming with an
equalizer

HOME-THEATER
SERVICES

A home theater is a pretty big
investment, so it's wise to con-
sider letting a professional
handle your installation and
setup. Let your local CE retailer
tackle the following tasks, and
you'll be able to enjoy the full
glory of HD in no time.

• Home Theater In-Home
Consultation

• TV Recycling
TV Calibration

TV Mounting & Cord
Concealment

• Remote Control
Programming

• Speaker Setup

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 19

HOW TO BUY

A Point-&-Shoot That
Fits Your Needs

One Size Definitely Does Not Fit All

Not everyone shoots the same types of photographs under
the same circumstances. So, how do you know which digital
camera is right for you? Let the kind of shooting you do de-
termine which cameras you'll consider.

Capturing VidGO. If you want to use your camera
to capture motion segments commemorating graduations,
birthdays, and the like, today's point-and-shoot cameras are
up to the task. Many
inexpensive

. . . more advanced

cameras can
shoot well-
exposed video
and other more
advanced
models are
capable of
recording HD

1 080p images, producing sharp video that looks great when
displayed on your HDTV.

models are capable
of recording HD
1 080p images . . .

SpOrtS Shots. If your typical shooting scenario in-
volves nonstop action, you need a camera with a fast shutter
speed, which

. . . look for a

requires either

plenty of light or

a fast lens. And

to ensure you

take the best

photo results in

fast-changing conditions, look for a camera with a high

frame rate (for example, one that can shoot 5fps).

camera with a high
frame rate . . .

ClOSG-UpS. Perhaps you enjoy taking extreme close-
ups of flowers, leaves, or insects. You need a camera with
a macro mode,

You need a

which lets you

move to within

an inch or two of

your subject, to

get stunning

photos of petals,

close-ups of coins, or scary shots of bugs.

camera with a
macro mode . . .

Nighttime ShOOting. Are you a night owl? If you
shoot in low-light situations, you need a camera with a
high ISO rating, that is, one with a super-responsive sensor
so you can take well-exposed evening shots. Because low-
light shooting often
requires slower
shutter speeds,
use a tripod and
cable release to
prevent blurry
images.

. . . you need a
camera with a
high ISO rating .

FirstGlimpse

20 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

by Rod Scher

DIGITAL IMAGING

Meet Olympus'
Revolutionary
PEN E-PL1

Pro-D-SLR Quality + Point &
Shoot Simplicity + HD Video \

When we talk about D-SLR cameras, we often use words
such as vibrant, lifelike, and sharp to describe their photo
quality. Those colorful phrases can be attributed to the
large image sensors that D-SLRs have. In the PEN E-PL1
($599.99; www.olympus.com), Olympus installed an
image sensor that rivals the image quality that bulky,
heavy D-SLRs have to offer — but this easy-to-use camera
model is compact and won't weigh you down.

Performance

• 12.3MP Live-MOS image sensor is eight
times larger than what's found on most
compact cameras. The same sensor is
used in Olympus' E-30 and E-620 D-
SLR cameras.

• Select photo effects and adjustments with
the touch of a button and see instant on-
screen results with Live Guide.

• Optional interchangeable camera lenses
let you improve your shot composition
and give you creative freedom.

• With three modes of IS (image stabiliza-
tion) built into the camera body, you
won't need to purchase expensive lenses
that have IS. An add-on adapter makes
the camera compatible with micro four-
thirds lenses.

• Capture 720p HD video at 30fps with the
one-touch Direct HD Movie Button.

Intelligent Features

• Choose from 1 9 scene-select modes
and Intelligent Auto Mode to select
the best camera settings for
everyday shooting.

• To prevent blurry faces in portrait
shots, Face Detection can find up
to eight faces, even if they're moving.

Built-in pop-up flash fills dark environments with light so your subjects
look their best. Continuous AF Tracking locks on your subject to adjust
focus and brightness.

AF Live View allows you to compose and capture shots using the 2.7-
inch LCD screen.

Supersonic Wave Filter removes dust and other particles from image
sensor for spot-free images.

Six in-camera art filters let you use creative photo and video effects,
such as Pop Art and Gentle Sepia.

FirstGlimpse

DIGITAL IMAGING

Focal Length

How It Relates To Your Camera

Much ado is made about the zoom capabilities on both point-and-shoot
cameras and D-SLR lenses, but people often overlook the importance of
focal length when determining the type and quality of pictures you can
take with a given camera. Here, well explain what focal length is and
how it comes into play when you're capturing images.

Focal Length Defined

Focal length is a feature of the camera lens, expressed in
millimeters, that refers to the depth of field of the image.
For example, a focal length of 28mm or lower is considered
a wide-angle lens, while a focal length of 75mm or higher
is a telephoto lens. A 50mm lens has about the same per-
spective as the human eye.

Essentially, any digital camera you buy will be a 35mm-
equivalent camera, which means that the baseline focal
length is 35mm. For example, if you have a camera with a
5X optical zoom, the lens can make the subject appear five
times closer for a focal length of up to 1 75mm (35mm x 5).

Determine Your Focal Length Needs

If you want a point-and-shoot camera and expect to snap
photos from a long distance, opt for a camera with a 5X or
higher optical zoom. If you're looking for removable lenses
for your D-SLR, consider the type of photos you're planning
to take: For sweeping shots such as landscapes, a wide-angle
lens (28mm or lower focal length) is ideal, whereas you need
a telephoto lens (75mm or higher focal length) to capture far
away subjects, such as athletes at a sporting event or birds.

FirstGlimpse

by Seth Colaner

22 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

Camcorder
Memory !^
Types <*M

Find The
Right Storage

When it comes to non-tape-
based camcorder storage,
there are three main types:
hard drive, flash memory,
and memory card. Here,
well show you how each
type has distinct benefits that
make it best-suited for certain
lifestyle needs.

Hard Drive

Hard drive camcorders offer more
storage capacity than models that
use flash drives or memory cards,
ranging from 30 to 120GB,
meaning you can record more
video at a time. Prices start at
$400, and the price will depend
on the camcorder's lens, storage
capacity, and other features. Also
note that you will need to invest in
extra batteries due to the added
power consumption required due
to the hard drive's moving parts.

Perfect For: Anyone who needs
plenty of internal storage space to
capture life's moments.

MM.

Flash memory camcorders use the
same type of storage as USB flash
drives, making them smaller and
more lightweight than other cam-
corder types. However, these tend to
have less storage space, from 8 to
64GB. You'll find flash-based cam-
corders starting at $200, making
them suitable for budget-minded
families who plan to document their
everyday lives with the kids.

Perfect For: Frequent travelers
who need a camcorder that can fit
easily in a purse or bag or families
with children who want to test out
their videography skills.

Many hard drive or flash drive cam-
corders incorporate a memory card
slot, so you can insert a compatible
card and gain additional space to
store your videos. Some camcorders
can only store videos on a memory
card rather than to a hard or flash
drive, but one benefit of using a
camcorder that uses memory cards
is the ability to quickly insert the
card into a compatible computer or
HDTV for instant video playback.

Perfect For: Instantly adding
storage to your camcorder when
the family dog decides to show off
his latest antics.

FirstGlimpse

by Kris Glaser Brambila

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 23

ESSENTIAL THINGS TO KNOW

Share Memories
On The Web

How do I upload photos and videos to the Web?

You can use an online sharing site, which generally re-
quires an account. Click the site's Upload link and

choose the files you want to share from your computer's

hard drive.

Are there any products that make sharing photos and
videos easier?

/Yes. Many digital cameras and camcorders feature a
one-button upload tool that lets you instantly send
your photos and videos to your preferred sharing site. Like-
wise, photo- and video-editing software typically lets you
publish your favorites to the Web with just one click.

Where can I share my photos and videos online?

/Some of the most popular options are photo-sharing
sites such as Flickr and Picasa, video-sharing sites such
as YouTube, and social networking sites such as Facebook
or MySpace. You can also upload your favorites to your per-
sonal blog or Web site.

How do I share my photos and videos once I've
uploaded them?

/You can direct friends and family to your photo and
video collection by sending them a Web link via
email, or you can allow other members of the sharing site to
browse your collection.

How many photos can I post on a sharing site?

Depending on the service you use, you may be able to
post as many pictures as you want, though some sites
limit the number of separate albums you can create. Con-
versely, some sites let you create unlimited albums but limit
the number of pictures you can add to each one.

How can I avoid sending large files through email?

You can use photo-editing software to resize your im-
ages so they're small enough to be accepted by your re-
cipient's email server and don't take up too much space in
their inbox. You can also use an FTP (file transfer protocol) or
online file-sharing service to send large images and videos.

Do my images need to be in a certain file format be-
fore uploading them to the Web?

Not necessarily, though images with smaller file sizes
will upload more quickly. In this case, you should save
your images in a compressed format such as JPEG or TIFF.

How do I convert my image files to a different
file format?

Most photo-editing software lets you save your images
as a variety of formats, such as JPEG, PNG, or TIFF.
Other photo-editing or file-conversion software may give
you the option to convert an entire batch of your photos
at once.

FirstGlimpse

24 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

DIGITAL IMAGING

Digital Imaging Glossary

re you confused about
what the lingo on
camera boxes means?
Use this glossary to
help decode the world
of digital imaging.

aperture — An iris-like diaphragm opening
that can expand and contract the lens to let
you control the amount of light that passes
through it, thus affecting the exposure. The
term "f-stop" can be used interchangeably
with aperture.

burst mode — A camera mode that will let you
capture several shots consecutively after
pressing the shutter only one time.

CCD — A charge-coupled device is a type
of image-sensing component. It converts
light into energy that can be stored as dig-
ital data on your camera.

depth of field — The area that is in focus
in front of and beyond the subject of
your photo.

digital zoom — Magnifies an image digitally
by cropping it and filling in the rest with
interpolated pixels, thus degrading the
quality. Even if the numbers are impres-
sive, never choose a camera based on dig-
ital zoom.

f-stop — See aperture. Smaller f-stop
numbers mean a wider lens opening;
larger f-stop numbers mean a narrower
lens opening.

ISO — For digital cameras, the ISO setting
measures the sensitivity to light (similar to
how it does with film). Digital camera ISO
settings, such as 200, 400, and up, should
capture photos as if one were using film
with such a speed. Lower ISO settings mean
you need more light and vice versa.

LCD — The screen on the back of the camera
that lets you see a live-action view of your
subject or your photo after you've taken it.

lens — The apparatus on the front of the
camera that gathers and directs light toward
the imaging device. In a digital camera,
the lens likely has both an optical and dig-
ital zoom.

megapixel — Approximately 1 million
pixels. The higher the megapixel count, the
higher the resolution and the more you can
crop, which means (in general) better-
quality photos.

memory card — Because digital cameras
have very little onboard memory, they need
flash memory cards to store more than a
dozen or so images. The type of memory
card you need depends on the make and
model of your camera. Some of the most
popular memory cards are Secure Digital,
MultiMedia Card, Compact Flash, and Sony
Memory Sticks. In general, memory cards
are quite small.

noise — The small statistical variations among
pixels that lead to (usually) minor distortions
of color in a photo.

optical zoom — The camera's mechanical
ability to move the lens physically closer to
your subject. With optical zoom, the higher
the number (such as 5X or 10X), the better.
When choosing a camera, always consider
the optical zoom, not the digital zoom.
Digital zoom artificially adds pixels.

resolution — The number of pixels in an
image. The higher the resolution, the more
detail and quality in a photo. Resolution
is measured in a proportion (such as 2,272
x 1,704).

shutter — A mechanism that opens and
closes to allow light to pass through the
lens. You can usually control the camera's
shutter speed.

shutter speed — The length of time a camera's
shutter is open to let light through the lens and
hit the sensor, which records the image. This
is expressed in fractions of a second: For in-
stance, a shutter speed of 1/250 means that
the shutter is open for 1 /250th of a second.

viewfinder — The small opening in the
camera that the user looks through to frame
a shot. Some digital cameras don't have a
viewfinder and use only the camera's LCD
to frame the shot.

white balance — Light levels are adjusted
electronically to ensure whites in a certain
environment are pure, leading to more life-
like colors. White balance can usually be
manually adjusted, too.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 25

DIGITAL IMAGING

„ XA/hl^h D/"NiK^+ Qi CK^/^+ ^/^mrNK/N lo Di^O+ C/^K X/i^-M lO

Vvi llUi 1 r(

If you're a little confused ab
from select digital cameras,

out the most important features in a digital camera
and we also explain what these features mean.

Resolution; Shutter Memory
Optical zoom speed card

you're not al
LCD size

one. In this char
Battery life

t, we compare features

Movie
'SO mode

What It Means

More pixels mean A faster shutter Removable
bigger and clearer speed will let card that
prints; Moves the you snap ac- stores your
lens closer to tion photos photos in your
your subject without blur camera

The LCD is
the screen
on the
back of the
camera

Based on
how many
shots you can
take on a
single charge

A higher ISO
lets you take
better photos
in low-light
settings

Lets you re-
cord short
video clips
on your dig-
ital camera

|fl»j

Insignia
NS-DSC1112SL

MSRP: $129.99*
SKU 97661 88

12MP;4X

1 to 1/2,000
second

SDHC

2.7 inches

N/A

Auto; Manual:
50, 100,200,
400, 800,
1600

Yes

Casio EXILIM
EX-S8

MSRP: $149.99*
SKU 9855894

12.1MP;4X

1/2 to 1/2,000
second

SD/SDHC

2.7 inches

N/A

Auto; Manual:
64,100,200,
400, 800,
1600

Yes

Fujifilm

FinePixXPIO

MSRP: $199.95*
SKU 9772659 ^*

12.2MP;5X

1/4 to 1/2,000
second

SD/SDHC

2.7 inches

N/A

Auto; Manual:
100,200,400,
800, 1 600

Yes

ijuSj

Sony Cyber-shot
W370

MSRP: $229.99*
SKU 9757839

14.1 MP; 7X

2 to 1/1,600
seconds

Memory Stick

Duo/pro
Duo/pro

HG-Duo/SD/
SDHC

3 inches

230 shots

Auto; Manual:
80,100,200,
400, 800,
1 600, 3200

Yes

Nikon
Coolpix S8000

MSRP: $299.95*
SKU 9758674

14.2MP; 10X

1 to 1/2,000
second

SD/SDHC

3 inches

210 shots

Auto; Manual:
100,200,400,
800, 1 600,
3200

Yes

Olympus Stylus
TOUGH-6020

MSRP: $299.99*
SKU 9765213

14MP; 5X

1/4 to 1/2,000
second

SD/SDHC

2.7 inches

200 shots

Auto; Manual:
80,100,200,
400, 800,
1600

Yes

■

■n

Samsung
HZ35W

MSRP: $349.99*
SKU 9846077

14MP; 15X

1 to 1/2,000
second

SD/SDHC/
SDXC

3 inches

N/A

Auto; Manual:
80,100,200,
400, 800,
1 600, 3200

Yes

Canon PowerShot
SX210IS

MSRP: $349.99*
SKU 9770402

14.1 MP; 14X

1 to 1/3,200
second

SD/SDHC/
SDXC/MMC/
MMC Plus/
HC MMC Plus

3 inches

260 shots

Auto; Manual:
80,100,200,
400, 800,
1600

Yes

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse

26 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

DIGITAL IMAGING

Which D-SLR Is Best For You?

As D-SLR prices keep coming down, more photographers are turning to them, both as a first camera and as a trade-up to something
better. In this chart, we'll help you sort through some of the features and performance specs of select D-SLR cameras.

Resolution

LCD size

ISO range

Kit lens

Burst speed

Shutter speed

What It Means

Image sensor
in megapixels;
more means a
bigger image

Sony Alpha A230L

MSRP: $449.99*
SKU 9342473

10.2MP

Diagonal
measurement of
the screen on
the back of
the camera

2.7 inches

A higher ISO
range will let
you take better
photos in low-
light situations

100 to 3200

Standard lens
bundled with
the camera
body

Frames per
second (fps)
you can shoot
while in burst
mode

The wider the range,
the greater the gamut
of long exposures to
frozen action

18-55mm

2.5fps

30 to 1/4,000
seconds

Nikon D3000

MSRP: $549.95*
SKU 9456803

10.2MP

3 inches

1 00 to 1 600

18-55mm
f/3.5-5.6

3 fps

30 to 1/4,000
seconds

Olympus PEN E-PL1

MSRP: $599.99*
SKU 97691 58

12.3MP

2.7 inches

200 to 3200

14-42mm
f/3.5-5.6

3 fps

60 to 1/2,000
seconds

Pentax K-X

MSRP: $649.95*
SKU 9555787

12.4MP

2.7 inches

200 to 6400

18-55mm

4.7fps

30 to 1/6,000
seconds

Olympus E-P1

MSRP: $799.99*
SKU 9463573

12.3MP

3 inches

1 00 to 6400

14-42mm
f/3.5-5.6

3 fps

60 to 1/4,000
seconds

Panasonic Lumix
DMC-GF1K-K

MSRP: $899.95*
SKU 9940728

12.1MP

3 inches

100 to 3200

14-45mm
f/3.5-5.6

3fps (high
speed), 2fps
(low speed)

60 to 1/4,000
seconds

Canon EOS
Rebel T2i

MSRP: $899.99*
SKU 9778635

18MP

3 inches

1 00 to 6400

18-55mm
f/3.5-5.6

3.7fps

30 to 1/4,000
seconds

Canon EOS 7D

MSRP: $1,699*
SKU 9491944

18MP

3 inches

1 00 to 6400

N/A 8fps

(body only)

30 to 1/8,000
seconds

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 27

DIGITAL IMAGING

— Which Digital Camcorder Is Best For You?

D igital camcorders come in a number of formats: DVD, hard drive, flash drive, MiniDV, and high definition are the most common.
By comparing the following digital camcorders, you can determine which recording format and product best fit your style.

What It Means

JVC Everio
GZ-MS230

MSRP: $269.95*
SKU 9731192

LCD size

Diagonal
length of
viewing
screen

2.7 inches

Optical zoom;
Digital zoom

Recording
speeds

Two methods
for magnifying
depth of field;
optical zoom
is better

39X; 800X

The speeds
a particular
camcorder can
utilize during
recording

Ultra/Fine/
Norm/Eco

Memory card

Compatible
flash card
types (cards
not included
unless noted)

SD/SDHC

Digital still
resolution

Lines of
resolution

The number of
megapixels
the camcorder
can capture in
still images

0.3MP

Number of lines of
horizontal resolution;
the higher the num-
ber, the greater the
detail

480

Jf*

Canon
FS300

MSRP: $299.99*
SKU 9739361

2.7 inches

37X; 2,000X

XP/SP/LP

0.45MP

480

Insignia
NS-DV111080F

MSRP: $349.99*
SKU 9769398

3 inches

12X; 10X

N/A

SD/SDHC

10MP

1,080

.c
D)

Samsung
HMX-H204

MSRP: $499.99*
SKU 9879527

2.7 inches

20X; 220X

N/A

SD/SDHC

4.7MP

1,080

Canon VIXIA
HFR11

MSRP: $699.99*
SKU 9751699

2.7 inches

20X; 400X

FXP/XP+/
SP/LP

SD/SDHC

1.73MP

1,080

«jg

Panasonic
HDC-TM700K

MSRP: $999.95*
SKU 9921697

3 inches

12X; 700X

HA/HG/HX/HE

SD/SDHC/
SDXC

14.2MP

1,080

CD
>

Q
D

Panasonic
HDC-HS60K

MSRP: $699.95*
SKU 9921715

2.7 inches

25X; 60X

HA/HG/HX/HE

SD/SDHC/
SDXC

5MP

1,080

Sony Handycam
DCR-SR88

MSRP: $399.99*
SKU 9880262

2.7 inches

60X; 2,000X

HQ/SP/LP

Memory Stick N/A
PRO Duo/SD/
SDHC

480

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing

FirstGlimpse

28 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

DIGITAL IMAGING

Eipi/H Th/^ Mil/z^Pi ^^/^/^Ir^iv Th/^H* PiH"o \Jr\\ \r 1 ifs^

rll lvj If lfc? INIKUll OUUipiX If lUI rllo YUUl LI

Nikon's COOLPIX cameras won't let you miss the joy in life, thanks to their fast start-up time, shutter
speed, and auto focus. Each COOLPIX offers an ultra-compact and stylish design that will deliver
sharp and colorful photo results with its NIKKOR lens. With a wide range of Nikon COOLPIX cameras
available, it couldn't be easier to find a camera that can keep up with your photography needs.

Nikon

At the heart of the Image

Product Name
SKU

Additional
Colors Available

MSRP*

Resolution

Zoom

LCD Monitor

Nikon

COOLPIX

L22

9765091

Nikon Nikon
COOLPIX COOLPIX
L110 S570

9758692 9455369

Nikon

COOLPIX

S3000

9765107

Nikon

COOLPIX

S8000

9758674

Nikon

COOLPIX

S4000

9758647

Nikon
COOLPIX

S70

9455412

Nikon

COOLPIX

P100

9758747

ilPl

[EV ii

■I"" ™ ■

[ggj

■V

■n

9464661
■ 9464616
B 9463699

■ 9765125

■ 9765143
^9765134

■ 9765161

■ 9765152
9779807

■ 9463662

9630449

I 9630389

$129.95

$279.95

$179.95

$149.95

$299.95

$199.95

$299.95

$399.95

12MP

12.1MP

12MP

14.2MP

12MP

12.1MP

10.3MP

3.6X optical;
4X digital

15X optical;
4X digital

5X optical;
4X digital

4X optical;
4X digital

1 0X optical;
2X digital

4X optical;
4X digital

5X optical;
4X digital

26X optical;
4X digital

3 inches

2.7 inches

3 inches

3.5-inch OLED

3-inch tilt and
swivel LCD

Internal Memory &
Compatible Cards

ISO

Shooting Modes

19MB internal
& SD/SDHC

43MB internal
& SD/SDHC

47MB internal
& SD/SDHC

32MB internal
& SD/SDHC

45MB internal
& SD/SDHC

20MB internal
& SD/SDHC

43MB internal
& SD/SDHC

Up to 1600

Up to 6400

Up to 3200

Up to 6400

Up to 3200

6 Scene Auto
Selector
Modes, 16
Scene Modes,
plus Auto

6 Scene Auto
Selector
Modes, 15
Scene Modes,
plus Auto

6 Scene Auto
Selector Modes,
16 Scene
Modes, plus
Auto

6 Scene Auto
Selector
Modes, 16
Scene Modes,
plus Auto

6 Scene Auto
Selector
Modes, 1 6
Scene Modes,
plus Auto

1 7 Scene Modes;
Program, Aper-
ture Priority,
Shutter Priority,
and Manual
Exposure modes

Movie Mode

Touch-Panel
Control

Yes

Yes (HD)

Yes

Yes (HD)

Yes(HD)

Yes (HD)

Yes

Battery Type

2 AA
batteries

4AA
batteries

Li-Ion recharge-
able battery

Battery Life

240 shots with
alkaline, 660
shots with
lithium-ion

270 shots with
alkaline, 840
shots with
lithium-ion

200 shots

220 shots

210 shots

1 90 shots

200 shots

250 shots

* Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 29

DIGITAL IMAGING

FUJSFILM

Digital Camera
Durable & Stylish

FUJIFILM FinePix
XP10

MSRP: $199.95

SKU: 9766746 (Blue)
9772659 (Black)
9772631 (Green)
9772604 (Silver)

www.bestbuy.com/fuji

SHOCKPROOF t^FREEZEPROOF I ,**DUSTPROOF

Quick Overview

From a rainy day to a snorkel ing adventure to
your toddler getting a hold of it, the FinePix
XP10 can handle whatever life brings at it.
Waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof, and
dustproof, the XP10 is essentially "life proof.
Capture stills and movies in HD-quality. Tough
enough for life's adventures and looks good
capturing it.

Perfect For

The FinePix XP1 is perfect for anyone who wants
a camera that can go wherever life's adventures
take them. From the birthday party to the beach to
the ski slopes . . . even in the rain or underwater.

Outstanding Benefits

• 12 megapixel; Fujinon 5x Optical Zoom; 2.7-inch LCD

• Waterproof to 10ft., Shockproof from 3ft, Freezeproof to 14°f & Dustproof

• One-touch capture of HD stills and movies with sound in 720p

• SR AUTO Automatic Scene Recognition mode detects six scene types

• Digital Image Stabilization helps eliminate blurry pictures

• Face Detection with Automatic Red Eye Removal

• Tracking Auto Focus keeps fast-moving subjects in frame and focus

• In Camera tagging for Facebook and YouTube

• Uni-body metal chassis with rubber traction pods

Coolest Feature

A separate movie shutter button delivers one-touch simplicity for
capturing 720p widescreen HD movies with sound. Successive Movie
mode even lets you capture several clips in one movie.

30 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

FirstGlimpse

DIGITAL IMAGING

NOTEWORTHY.

Accessories
& Services

JV9&

UV FILTER

Protects digital camcorder
and D-SLR lenses from
dust, dirt, fingerprints, and
scratches

Helps you get clearer,
more detailed results
when you're shooting in
bright conditions

• Keep spare memory cards
on hand so you can snap
away without having to
worry about running out
of storage space

• Consider having several
memory cards with smaller
capacities instead of one
card with a larger capacity;
that way, if something goes
wrong with one card, you'll
still have a backup

• For your digital camcorder,
keep more recording media
in your bag than you think
you'll need, just in case

ADDITIONAL

LENSES/CONVERTER

LENSES

• Extra lenses for D-SLRs and
converter lenses for digital
camcorders can enhance
your results by extending
your field of view, reducing
glare, and more
Telephoto lenses enable
you to zoom in from far
away, wide-angle lenses
give you the ability to get a
full view even if you're
close to the subject, and
macro lenses will let you
achieve up-close, detailed
shots of your photo subject

• Light up your subjects from
greater distances
Offers better control of
lighting conditions when
taking photos by directing
the angle of the flash

Prices for digital camcorders and cameras continue to fall as their
video and picture quality improves, which is especially good news
for first-time buyers or those looking to upgrade. Pairing your new
camcorder or camera with the right products will bring you better
photography results. Here are some must-have accessories you should
consider buying to get the most out of your digital imaging device.

SPARE BATTERIES
& CHARGERS

Make sure you're never
caught without the power
needed to capture the per-
fect moment
• Whether your camera uses
proprietary batteries or
AAs, keep at least one fully
charged spare or set in
your camera bag
An additional battery
charger will give you the
flexibility to power up your
camera batteries anywhere
you're headed, even if
you're traveling

Tripods are an easy way to
ensure steady video footage

# Pan while recording video
in one smooth motion

Use a tripod and your cam-
era's timer to get a picture
of the entire group without
needing someone to man
the camera

• Keeps your camera steady
while you're shooting close-
up or distance shots, which

can prevent photo blurring
V y

REM OTE SWITCH

A longer cable lets you
snap photos without
having to touch the
camera, which can also
reduce camera shake
• May enable the user to
lock the shutter for longer
exposure times

FirstGlimpse

DIGITAL IMAGING
SERVICES

Once you've set your sights
on the camera or camcorder
you want, consider taking
advantage of the digital
imaging services offered by
your local CE retailer. Not
only can you protect your
investment, but you can also
discover photography and
videography skills that will
make your photos and videos
picture-perfect.

• D-SLR or Camcorder
Service Plan

• D-SLR Training Course

• Camcorder Training
Course

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 31

COVER STORY

AMD's VISION

An Easy Path To Choose A PC

When buying a computer, you often end up comparing complex
specifications, such as the number of processor cores, amount
of memory, and hard drive capacity. But for most of us, it's not
clear what any of those specs will allow you to do with the

computer. AMD fixes that problem with its four tiers of VISION
Technology, which classify PCs in terms of the practical tasks
they're capable of handling. To learn more about each tier of the
AMD VISION Technology, read on for more details.

vision

AMD*

E
(

veryday
"omputing

Watch DVD
movies and
online videos

Photo viewing

Casual gaming

Rich Internet
browsing

Listen to music

r i

PREMIUM

vision

AMD*

Hk
Cc

• \

• F

• (

• ^

• L

3h Definition
imputing

Vatch Blu-ray/HD
novies

'hoto editing

Convert CDs to MP

Mainstream gaming

.ive TV on the PC

Multitasking

AMD VISION Advantages

Thanks to AMD's power-saving feature,
all VISION Technology notebooks can
last for more than three hours on one
battery charge, so you have the conve-
nience of working on documents or
watching a full movie when you're on
the go. And with AMD's Enhanced
Virus Protection system, your data will
remain protected from viruses.

32 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

vision

AMD*

High Performance
Computing

• Create and edit
movies

• Edit and mix music

• Advanced photo
editing and 3D
gaming

• Record TV shows

• Advanced
multitasking

Maximum
Computing

• Maximum control

• Massive headroom

• Platform overclocking

• Create and edit HD movies

• Media player video conversion

• Cutting edge gaming (FPS)

• Megatasking

COVER STORY

Whether you want a system that can design, edit, stream, play, or any combination thereof, AMD VISION Technology
makes it simple to choose a PC. Below are four computers tl

Gateway

. .. ■;."■.

AMD VISION
15.5-inch notebook
that features HD
Widescreen Ultra-
bright display
4GB of memory and
can be upgraded to
8GB

Wireless network
connectivity for
802.1 1b/g/n, as well
as a wired Ethernet
port

Offers both HDMI
and VGA output for
connecting to a
second monitor or
HDTV

Toshiba Satellite
L645D

AMD VISION

Premium
Notebook with
2.3GHz dual-core
processor that's both
power- and battery
life-efficient
14-inch HDTruBrite
LED display with na-
tive support for 720p
Built-in stereo
speakers with sup-
port for Dolby
Advanced Audio
6-cell lithium battery
with a rated time of
four hours and 10
minutes

VISION-powered notebooks

let you stay

connected longer.

HP Pavilion Elite
HPE-210y

AMD VISION

Ultimate
Powerful 3 GHz
quad-core processor
for high-performance
computing
BD player with
SuperMuIti DVD
burner to support al-
most all disc formats
1TB hard drive for
storing your collec-
tion of digital images,
music, and videos
15-in-1 memory
card reader and
802.1 1b/g/n Wi-Fi
connectivity
HP MediaSmart
Software Suite man-
ages all your multi-
media and lets you
share content on
the Web or burn it
to DVD

r ^^^^^^^^^^^^^m

Asus Essentio
CGI 330-05

BLACK

AMDH

•
•

AMD VISION Black
Features six-core
AMD processor for
top-end performance
Convenient front
panel with memory
card slots, four USB
ports, and audio
inputs

Delivers energy sav-
ings through Asus 7
Energy Processing
Unit, which opti-
mally regulates
system power and
performance
Includes 8GB of
high-performance
memory with sup-
port for up to 16GB
ATI Radeon 5750
graphics card pro-
vides great gaming
and video-editing
prowess

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 33

HOW TO BUY

Protection For Your PC

Equip Your Security Tool Chest

Your computer is a vital tool and a valued connection to
friends and family. To keep it running smoothly, you need to
protect it from viruses, spyware, and . . . well, just plain bad
luck. To do so, you need four tools: an antivirus application,
an antispyware program, a backup system, and a firewall.

Backup & Restore Tools

Security software won't help if your hard drive disinte-
grates. Plan ahead: Purchase a backup utility and then
use it; back up your
valuable data at least
every week or two.
Then, practice restor-
ing that data. If the
restoration doesn't
work, then the back-
up is doing you no
good at all; better
to find out sooner
than later.

. . . back up
your valuable
data at least
every week
or two.

Antispyware Tools

Spyware is software that tracks your computing activity
without your permission. It also causes unwanted pop-
up ads and a general slowdown of your system. Combat
spyware by using a good antispyware application from a
trusted security company.

Firewall

A firewall is a piece
of software or hard-
ware that sits be-
tween you and the
Internet, watching
for suspicious at-
tempts to connect
with your system.
Most new routers in-
clude a firewall, so if
you're using a router,
you may already have one. However, you should consider
using a software firewall, as well, for optimal protection.

. . . you should
consider using
a software
firewall, as well,
for optimal
protection.

Antivirus Applications

There are many types of viruses and related malware, but
all of them, either purposely or as an unintended side ef-
fect, negatively affect the performance of your computer.
To combat them, use a name-brand antivirus application.
Keep in mind that it's not enough just to buy the program:
Run it daily and update it
regularly. And don't use
multiple antivirus applica-
tions; they tend to confuse
each other, and the com-
bination may cause more
problems than it resolves.

Run it daily
and update
it regularly.

FirstGlimpse

by Rod Scher

34 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

COMPUTERS

SonyVAIO

VPCS111FM/S

$1,049.99

www.sonystyle.com

Designed For, Inspired
By Customers

The New Blue Label Laptops

Best Buy's exclusive Blue Label laptops
(www.bestbuy.com) are customer-in-
spired, so they're designed with
everyday uses in mind. The Sony, Asus,
Dell, and Toshiba laptops all speak to
Best Buy's commitment to a faster and
simpler laptop, as evidenced by the fol-
lowing features.

Performance &
Protection

The Blue Label line includes fea-
tures Best Buy customers asked for,
such as a long battery life, conve-
nient portability, and consistent
performance. Blue Label laptops
come with a two-year manufactur-
er's limited warranty, 30 days of
Best Buy Geek Squad support, and
one year of antivirus protection.

Beyond The Basics

What makes the Blue Label series even more unique is that they are built with
Intel's Wireless Display technology, which uses the Netgear Push2TV Adapter
to stream online and stored content from your laptop to your HDTV via your
wireless home network. In addition, each of the Blue Label laptops includes a
2010 Intel Core i5 processor with Turbo Boost Technology, which helps you
multitask efficiently and saves energy when necessary. For more information
about either of these features, see "Give Your Notebook The Big Screen
Treatment" on page 37 and "A Chip That Works & Plays As Hard As You Do"
on page 36.

The Sony VAIO VPCS1 1 1 FM/S

Holding its own as an example of the Blue Label standard is the Sony VAIO
VPCS1 1 1 FM/S ($1 ,049.99; www.sonystyle.com). Running on Windows 7
Home Premium 64-bit, the Sony VAIO VPCS1 1 1 FM/S is well-equipped for the
mobile business person or on-the-go student. It features 500GB of hard drive
capacity (with G-Sensor Shock Protection) leaving you with plenty of storage for
your collection of client files, resume, and photography portfolio. In addition,
you get 4GB of RAM, more than five hours of battery power, and the preloaded
Sony Creativity Suite for editing and organizing media.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 35

A Chip That Works

8c Plays As Hard As You Do

Intel's Latest Core Processors

The processor plays a crucial role in everything you do with your
computer. It is intimately involved in the songs you listen to, burn,
and rip; documents you create, edit, and share; movies you watch;
media you stream; Web sites you browse; games you play; and
everything else you do that makes your computer an invaluable
productivity tool and the central hub of your personal entertain-
ment. Yes, Intel's Core processors are aptly named.

i *

The Latest From Intel

The latest Intel Core processors (www
.intel.com) were engineered from the
ground up to handle the multiple de-
manding tasks we typically subject
our notebooks and desktops to, con-
currently, and on a daily basis. Intel's
latest offerings focus on efficiency
and intelligence, enabling you to do
more, enjoy more, and do both for
longer than ever.

Core i3

Intel's Core i3 processors represent the baseline of smart computing. These efficient chips
provide extended battery life and reduced energy consumption, all at compelling computer
price points. The Core i3 processors support Intel's Hyper-Threading technology for
four-way processing and excellent multitasking performance.

Core i5

The Core i5 processors reside on a higher performance tier than the Core i3s.
They feature the same energy-efficient design and four-way processing function-
ality for a superior multitasking experience. Unlike the Core i3, however, the
Core i5 comes with Intel's Turbo Boost Technology, which speeds up the proces-
sor when you need it and saves energy when you don't.

Core i7

The Intel Core \7 processors include all of the features of the Core i5, but with
the capability to support even more simultaneous processes for extreme multitasking
scenarios. With eight-way processing and Turbo Boost, there's not much risk of running
too many operations on a computer with this baby.

FirstGlimpse

36 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

COMPUTERS

■

Give Your Notebook
The Big Screen Treatment

Intel's Wireless Display Puts Your Notebook
On Your HDTV

Just because you have a notebook doesn't mean your computing experience has to be limited to your compact screen. With
Intel's Wireless Display technology and Netgear's Push2TV Adapter, which are both standard on Best Buy's Blue Label note-
books or available for individual purchase, you can enjoy an immersive visual experience from your laptop to your HDTV.

The Deal With Wireless Display

Intel's innovative Wireless Display technology, which
is featured on a number of laptops based on Intel Core
processors, is capable of wirelessly streaming online
media, Web sites, music, photos, and video content
from your notebook to your HDTV. The key to the
technology is that it is push-a-button simple to use.

How To Set It Up

The most compelling aspect of Wireless Display, be-
sides big screen computing, is the ease of setup. To
create the connection, just connect the Netgear
Push2TV Adapter to your HDTV using the included
HDMI cable, power the device, select the appropriate
HDTV input, and then push the dedicated Wireless
Display button on your notebook.

The Wireless Display Trio

To start enjoying your laptop's content on your HDTV,
these are the components you'll need.

HDTV

Intel® Wireless

Display-enabled

Notebook

l_ ^i Connect usiny

□ | lntei : Wireless Display

NHDMI Cable
) (incl

T) (included with adapter)

Netgear Push2TV Adapter

• For those who don't have a Blue Label notebook, the adapter can be
purchased separately.

• To connect a Wireless Display-capable notebook to multiple HDTVs,
you can purchase additional adapters.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 37

Experience 4G WiM AX
with fntef Inside?"

Wireless To The MAX

Intel PCs With WiMAX Keep You Connected

Wireless is the mobile device's gotta-have feature. However, the cellular 2G
and 3G networks we use today were originally designed for voice communi-
cations. But with an Intel Core processor-based notebook with built-in 4G
WiMAX, you can take advantage of an IP-based wireless network built to
send and receive data at amazing speeds.

What Is WiMAX?

Think of WiMAX as the networking technology that makes it feel like
you're connected to a speedy Wi-Fi hotspot, but unencumbered by
walls and your physical distance from your home, favorite coffee shop,
or anywhere else you roam throughout a typical day.

Intel developed WiMAX as a high-speed wireless Internet protocol that is
capable of blanketing an entire metropolitan area, which lets users that
work and play within that area enjoy blazing fast connectivity city-wide.

With broadband speeds and coverage areas similar to what your mo-
bile phone has to offer, WiMAX will let you quickly access email,
streaming video and audio, and music downloads and make Voice
over IP phone calls wherever you go. But in order to connect to a
WiMAX network, you need a device that features built-in support.

Jump On The WiMAX Express

For those who live in an area with 4G
WiMAX coverage, you'll need a data plan
from a service provider, such as CLEAR, and
a WiMAX-compatible notebook or netbook.

4G WiMAX is being added to new cities all
the time. Here's a list of select major cities
that currently offer the wireless network.

Atlanta
Austin
Baltimore
Charlotte
Chicago
Dallas/Ft. Worth
Houston
Kansas City

Las Vegas

Philadelphia

Portland

Raleigh

San Antonio

Seattle

Tacoma

Washington, D.C.

FirstGlimpse

38 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

Intel Inside Makes All The Difference

Wireless Display & WiMAX-Enabled Notebooks

Intel WirelGSS Display-Capable Notebooks. These notebooks let you beam your computing experience from the small screen
of the notebook to the big screen of your HDTV.

Intel Core
Processor Type

Asus U52F-BBI5

SKU: 9963892 ! Intel Core i3 350M

Asus U43F-BBA5

SKU: 9964036

Intel Core i5 450M 2.4GHz

up to 2.66GHz with Turbo Boost

Samsung R580-11

SKU: 9972957 i Intel Core i3 35 0M

Dell 15z-2249CPN

SKU: 9684515

Intel Core i5 430M 2.26GHz
up to 2.53GHz with Turbo Boost

Sony VPCEB23FM/BI

SKU: 9979978 ! Intel Core i3 350M

Sony VPCA24FM/W

SKU: 9980021 | Intel Core i3 350M

Sony VPCEA24FM/L

SKU: 9987752 I Intel Core i3 350M

Sony VPCEB26GM/BI

SKU: 9999605

Intel Core i5 430M 2.26GHz
up to 2.53GHz with Turbo Boost

Sony VPCS1 1 1 FM/S

SKU: 9701289

Intel Core i5 430M 2.26GHz
up to 2.53GHz with Turbo Boost

Toshiba A665-S6050

SKU: 9988697 ! Intel Core i3 350M

Toshiba R705-P25

SKU: 1007392 ; Intel Core i3 350M

Toshiba E205-S1 904

SKU: 9701191

Intel Core i5 430M 2.26GHz
up to 2.53GHz with Turbo Boost

Netgear
Push2TV Adapter

Sold separately

Included

Sold separately

Included

Sold separately

Included

Screen size
(inches)

15.6

15.5

13.3

Hard drive size;
RAM

Dimensions (HxWxD)
(inches)

500GB; 4GB (DDR3) ! 1.3x15.2x10.12

640GB; 4GB (DDR3)

1.25x13.54x9.49

500GB; 4GB (DDR3) i 9.41x13.54x1 .2 to 1 .49

500GB; 4GB (DDR3) j 1x15x9.9

320GB; 4GB (DDR3) ! 1.22x14.56x9.77

500GB; 4GB (DDR3) ; 1.07x13.6x9.39

500GB; 4GB (DDR3) i 1.07x13.6x9.39

500GB; 4GB (DDR3) ! 1.22x14.56x9.77

500GB; 4GB (DDR3)

1.2x13x9

500GB; 4GB (DDR3) I 1 .18 to 1 .48x14.98x1

500GB; 4GB (DDR3) i 0.66 to 1 .01 x1 2.44x8.94

500GB; 4GB (DDR3) ; 1.2x13.7x9.6

Intel 4G WiMAX-Capable Notebooks & NetbOOkS. Connect to the Web with Wi-Fi-like speeds, but with city-wide coverage.

Intel Processor Type

Mobile Broadband i Screen size (inches) i Hard drive size; RAM

Dell i15R-1803MRB

SKU: 99301 37 ! Intel Core i3 350M

4G WiMAX

Dell M4R-2265MRB

SKU: 9934151 j Intel Core i5 450M 2.4GHz up to 2.66GHz with Turbo Boost j 4G WiMAX

DelliM1012-1091OBK

SKU: 9935345 i Intel Atom N450

Toshiba M645-S4050

4G WiMAX

SKU: N/A | Intel Core i5 450M 2.4GHz up to 2.66GHz with Turbo Boost \ 4G WiMAX

FirstGlimpse

15.6

10.1

N/A

500GB; 4GB (DDR3)

I 500GB; 4GB (DDR3)

250GB; 1GB

N/A

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 39

osoft's Wi

Mobile Mouse 3500

$29.99 | www.microsoft.com

The Perfect Pair

With Microsoft® Wireless Mouse 3500 & Office 2010

If you or someone you know is gearing up to hit the books, then Microsoft (www.microsoft.com) has the perfect
one-two punch to beat the end-of-summer blues: an attractive new wireless mouse and the ultimate in productivity
software, Microsoft Office 2010. Available now at Best Buy, this pair is sure to be a hit with scholars everywhere.

z&t

Wireless Mobile Mouse 3500

Gone are the days of beige-boring PC peripherals.
With its latest mice, Microsoft is pulling the style
train into the input device depot for a much-needed
makeover. The 3500 Studio Series mice ($29.99)
sport three fun designs — the artistically inspired
Folk Pink, geometric green Geode, and the organic
multicolored Wave — to splash some new hues on
your desktop, dorm room, or coffee shop tabletop.

With Microsoft's exclusive BlueTrack Technology™,
you'll be saying goodbye to your mousepad because
it combines the best parts of optical and laser mice for
precise performance on virtually any surface*.

The new wireless mouse also utilizes an incredibly
small Plug-And-Go Nano Transceiver, which lets
you leave it plugged in when you move your note-
book between the library and the cafeteria or carry
it inside the house.

Microsoft Office 20 10

Enabling users to create, connect, and access in more collabora-
tive ways than ever before, Microsoft Office 201 is the latest
productivity platform that anyone can put to good use. Packed
with the potential to revolutionize the way you work, three ver-
sions are available to suit a variety of needs: Microsoft Office
2010 Home and Student, Home and Business, and Professional.

With a number of new features designed to improve the way
you work, youll be able to use Office 2010 to wow your pro-
fessors and students alike. You can embed video and broad-
cast your slideshows for offsite viewers with PowerPoint
2010. Excel's Sparklines feature allows you to generate mini-
charts within cells, making data easier to analyze. Outlook
2010 cuts down the clutter in your email inbox by organizing
long email strings into easy-to-follow conversations. And
throughout all of the applications included with Office 201 0,
Microsoft's highly efficient Ribbon menu makes it easy to find
the tools and options you want and reveals the hidden fea-
tures you didn't know existed.

*BlueTrack Technology does not work on clear glass or mirrored surfaces.

40 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

FirstGlimpse

Dual-Band Routers

Cut Out The Interference

Nearly every Wi-Fi network operates on the 2.4GHz frequency, which means you'll
be competing for signal quality with neighbors. You may also experience radio in-
terference from common household electronics, such as microwaves, landline
phones, baby monitors, and mobile phones. To avoid this interference, you can in-
vest in a dual-band router, which is an 802.1 1 n wireless router that can broadcast
on both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies.

Requirements & Setup

• You'll need a dual-band wireless adapter for any computer that you want to
connect to the 5GHz wireless network. Dual-band wireless adapters are
available as USB dongles or internal cards for desktop computers.

• The 5GHz frequency has a smaller range than the 2.4GHz frequency (50 feet
vs. 1 00 feet). This means the PCs that connect to the 5GHz network will
need to be located within 50 feet of the router.

The Power Of
Dual-Band

• A dual-band router creates
two 802.1 1 n wireless networks,
one in the 2.4GHz band and
one in the 5GHz band. You
can configure each one with
different passwords and security
credentials.

• Because the 5GHz frequency
will be relatively free of interfer-
ence, it'll provide faster Wi-Fi
speeds. Thus, you should con-
nect to it for streaming video

or audio, downloading music,
playing online games, copying
files over your Wi-Fi network, or
other tasks that require a speedy
connection.

• Connect to the 2.4GHz network
when you're checking email or
browsing the Web. If there are
multiple computers on your
home network, the 2.4GHz fre-
quency may seem faster than it
used to, because you aren't
sharing the connection with an-
other computer that's down-
loading files or streaming video
on the 5GHz frequency.

FirstGlimpse

by Nathan Lake

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 41

ESSENTIAL THINGS TO KNOW

Wireless Printers

What are the benefits of a wireless printer?

A Unlike a wired printer, you won't need to connect your
computer to the printer with a cable. Instead, they con-
nect via a wireless network.

Q Besides printing documents, what else can I do with
a wireless printer?

A There are wireless printers that can fit different lifestyle
needs. For example, a wireless photo printer is ideal
for printing photos for scrapbooking. If you have a home of-
fice, a wireless all-in-one model will let you print, copy, and
fax reports.

Q Without using a PC, can I print documents with a
wireless printer?

A Yes, select wireless printers will let you print docu-
ments from the Web, while others will let you insert a
digital camera memory card or USB flash drive to select and
print items.

QWhat does it mean when a printer has built-in wire-
less capabilities?

A When a printer has built-in wireless capabilities, you
won't need to add a wireless adapter to connect it to a
wireless network.

Q
A

What is 802.11 b/g?

This spec indicates the type of wireless connectivity
technology the printer uses, and 802.1 1 b/g is the most

common wireless protocol you'll find. It's important to
make sure your wireless router and printer use wireless net-
works that are compatible. Wireless-N routers will work
with 802.1 1 b/g network devices because they're backward-
compatible.

QWhat does it mean when a wireless printer has
Bluetooth compatibility?

A Some wireless printers will allow you to print docu-
ments using smartphone apps. You may also be able
to print from a PC using a Bluetooth connection, but an
adapter for either your printer or PC may need to be pur-
chased separately.

How do I add a wireless printer to my network?

A Your wireless printer will include software that will
walk you through a step-by-step process to connect
your printer to your wireless network.

Can I place a wireless printer anywhere in my
home?

A Yes. If it remains within your wireless network's range,
you can place a wireless printer anywhere in your
home, such as in a central location.

QCan I connect multiple computers to a wireless
printer?

A Yes. As long as each computer is connected to the
same network as your printer, you will be able to
print from it.

FirstGlimpse

42 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

Computing Glossary

hopping for a computer
can be intimidating, espe-
cially with all of the com-
plex terminology. Here,
we'll explain some com-
mon computer jargon.

Bluetooth — A short-range wireless
standard that connects devices such
as computers, printers, PDAs, and dig-
ital cameras so they can be used to-
gether without being connected
physically with a cord.

broadband — Network connections that
transmit high-speed Internet access.
Broadband speed varies depending
on the provider. Cable companies of-
fer speeds of around 8 to 11Mbps,
whereas phone companies offer DSL
(Digital Subscriber Line), which sup-
ports speeds of 3 to 5Mbps.

CRT (cathode-ray tube) — An old analog
display technology for TVs and computer
monitors. It features an electron gun illu-
minating phosphor dots that line the in-
side of a glass tube. When the phosphors
are lit, they display on-screen images.
CRTs consume a great deal of power and
are heavy and bulky. Many CRTs support
digital signals, though these degrade
when converted to analog.

dual-core processor — This integrated
circuit, which controls the computer,
features two processors, each with its

own cache, on a single die or chassis.
In a dual-core configuration, the oper-
ating system has two processors to
handle instructions, speeding up the
computer and its ability to multitask.

Ethernet — A widely used LAN protocol
in which computers and networks are
physically linked with a cord.

firewall — Hardware or software that
limits access by a network or another
outside source to your computer; it
also may limit your computer's access
to the network. These security mea-
sures are designed to protect your com-
puter from outsiders who'd like to
exploit it in some way. By the same
token, firewalls may prevent infected
files on your computer from accessing
the larger network and spreading the
problem to other users.

LAN (local-area network) — A group
of computers that are physically
connected by wires so they can
communicate with one another and
share information.

LCD (liquid-crystal display) — This tech-
nology sandwiches liquid crystals be-
tween thin sheets of glass. The crystals
twist and untwist to allow and block
light from a backlight, forming the im-
ages you see. LCDs are thinner, lighter,
and consume less power than CRTs.
Initially used mostly in notebook PCs,

you'll now find LCD TVs and computer
monitors, and they are also in digital
cameras, cell phones, and portable
DVD players, among others.

office suite — Productivity software,
such as Microsoft Office, StarOffice,
and OpenOffice, that often includes
word processing, spreadsheet, presenta-
tion, database, and financial tools.

operating system — The software, such
as Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Mac
OS X, that controls a computer and its
peripherals and serves as the primary
interface for the users.

processor — Also known as a micro-
processor or the CPU, this integrated
circuit controls the computer.

RAM (random-access memory) — A

type of memory that's read from and
written to by the CPU and hardware.

upgradeable — This term refers to the
ability to add or swap out hardware to
boost a computer's performance, in-
crease its speed, or replace a defective
or obsolete device or component. For
instance, you may add more memory,
replace an old CRT with a widescreen
LCD, or swap out an older video card
for a newer one that features an ATSC
TV tuner so you can watch digital TV
on your computer. Look for a computer
with expansion slots or empty bays.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 43

— Which Notebook Computer Is Best For You?

A notebook computer is a pretty big purchase for most people, and it's usually a bit overwhelming, too. This chart compares the
features and specs from several different types of notebook models.

What It Means

Operating system

Dell 11545-
4266PPU

MSRP: $479.99*
SKU 9693482

The software
(usually Windows
or Mac OS X)
that controls
your computer

Windows 7 Home
Premium

Processor

Chip that con-
trols the com-
puter (typically,
a bigger num-
ber is better)

2.26GHz Intel
Pentium

Hard drive size;
RAM

How much data
the computer
can hold; Mem-
ory that's read
and written to

250GB; 3GB

j Dimensions;
Screen size Weight

Optical drives;
Media card reader

The diagonal
measurement
of the note-
book's screen

Height x width Drives that can read

x depth; How
much the lap-
top weighs

15.6 inches

1.5x14.7x9.6
inches; 5.8
pounds

and write discs; Slots
that read media cards
without a
separate peripheral

DVD±RW/CD-RW;
Yes

HP dv4-2165dx

MSRP: $649.99*
SKU 9705373

Windows 7 Home
Premium

2.13GHz Intel
Core i3

500GB; 4GB

14.1 inches

1.34to1.57x
13.15x9.45
inches; 5.2
pounds

Double-layer

DVD±RW/CD-RW;

Yes

Toshiba Satellite
E205-S1904

MSRP: $899*
SKU 9701 191

Windows 7 Home
Premium

2.2GHz Intel
Core i5

500GB; 4GB

14 inches

1.22x13. 7x
9.57 inches;
5.1 pounds

Double-layer

DVD±RW/CD-RW;

Yes

Apple MacBook

MSRP: $999*
SKU 9944833

Mac OS X 10.6
Snow Leopard

2.4GHz Intel
Core 2 Duo

250GB; 2GB

13.3 inches

1.1x13x9.1
inches; 4.7
pounds

Double-layer

DVD±RW/CD-RW;

Dell Studio
s15z-2249CPN

MSRP: $999*
SKU 9684515

Windows 7 Home 2.2GHz Intel
Premium Core i5

500GB; 4GB

15.6 inches

N/A

Double-layer

DVD±RW/CD-RW;

Yes

Asus G60JX-RBBX05 Windows 7 Home
MSRP: $999.99* Premium

SKU 9736955

2.26GHz Intel
Core i5

500GB; 4GB

16 inches

1.6x10.4x
14.8 inches;

Double-layer
DVD±RW/CD-RW;

7.5 pounds Yes

Sony VAIO Windows 7 Home

VPCS111FM/S Premium

MSRP: $1,049.99*
SKU 9701289

2.2GHz Intel
Core i5

500GB; 4GB

13.3 inches

1 .08 to 1 .24x
12.95x9
inches; 4.4
pounds

Double-layer

DVD±RW/CD-RW;

Yes

ylL

Alienware M15x

MSRP: $1,999*
SKU 9722255

Windows 7 Home 1 .6GHz Intel
Premium Core i7

320GB; 4GB

15.6 inches

1.9x1 4. 9x
12.2 inches; 9
pounds

Double-layer

DVD±RW/CD-RW;

Yes

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse

44 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

\Ml

nich Netbook Is Best F

apabilities that notebooks do, but these compact devices a
find the netbook that fits your mobility needs, here's a co

Hard drive size;
Operating system Processor RAM

-r\v \/r\\

^ V V 1

Netbooks don't offer the full c
connected while on the go. Tc

Ol YOU r

re ideal for those who need to stay
mparison of the latest models.

Memory
Graphics card card reader Ports

v- ^^ m

What It Means

The software (usu-
ally Windows XP
or 7) that controls
your PC

Chip that con- How much data
trols the com- the computer
puter (typically, can hold; Mem-
a bigger num- ory that's read
ber is better) and written to

Controls the
quality of the
video and im-
ages you see
on-screen

Slots that can
read media
cards without
a separate
peripheral

Sockets that
give your com-
puter access
to different
peripherals

MSI Wind
U135-206US

MSRP: $309.99*
SKU 9748977

Windows 7 Starter

N/A

Included

3 USB,
1 Ethernet

urn*

1.6GHz Intel
Atom

160GB; 1GB

Gateway
LT2122u

MSRP: $329.99*
SKU 9728498

Windows 7 Starter

1.6GHz Intel
Atom

250GB; 1GB

Intel Graphics
Media
Accelerator
3150

SD/MMC/
MS/MS PRO/
xD-Picture
Card

3 USB,
1 Ethernet,
1 VGA

Samsung
NP-N150-JA03US

MSRP: $349.99*
SKU 9727287

Windows 7 Starter

1.6GHz Intel
Atom

160GB; 1GB

Intel Graphics
Media
Accelerator
3150

SD/SDHC/
MMC

3 USB,
1 Ethernet,
1 VGA

IP""!

f 1

HP
210-1080NR

MSRP: $379.99*
SKU 9739458

Windows 7 Starter

1.6GHz Intel
Atom

250GB; 1GB

Intel Graphics
Media
Accelerator
3150

SD/MMC/
MS/MS PRO/
xD-Picture
Card

3 USB,
1 Ethernet,
1 VGA

^ffl

Asus Eee PC
1008PB-CFE002S

MSRP: $399.99*
SKU 9727702

Windows 7 Starter

1.6GHz Intel
Atom

250GB; 1GB

Intel UMA

MMC/SD

2 USB,
1 Ethernet,
1 VGA

Toshiba
NB305-N410BL

MSRP: $399.99*
SKU 9705488

Windows 7 Starter

1.6GHz Intel
Atom

250GB; 1GB

Intel Graphics
Media
Accelerator
3150

Included

3 USB,
1 Ethernet

m»

Dell
M1012-2044OBK

MSRP: $449.99*
SKU 9728692

Windows 7 Starter

1.6GHz Intel
Atom

250GB; 1GB

Intel Graphics
Media
Accelerator
3150

Included

3 USB,
1 Ethernet

Sony
VPCW211AX/L

MSRP: $449.99*
SKU 9724183

Windows 7 Starter

1.6GHz Intel
Atom

250GB; 1GB

Intel Graphics
Media
Accelerator
3150

SD/MS Duo

2 USB,
1 Ethernet,
1 VGA

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 45

Which All-ln-One PC Is Right For You? —

An all-in-one computer is compact, thanks to all its hardware being placed in the monitor. Some models offer a touchscreen
interface that lets you access functions by selecting on-screen items with your finger, while others rely on a wireless mouse and
keyboard. To see which all-in-one PC fits your needs, check out the chart below.

What It Means

Operating system

Averatec
D1133AF1E-2

MSRP: $449.99*
SKU 9952623

The software
(usually Windows or
Mac OS X) that con-
trols your computer

Windows 7 Home
Premium

Processor

Chip that con-
trols the com-
puter (typically,
a bigger num-
ber is better)

1.5GHz AMD
Athlon X2

Hard drive size;
RAM

How much data
the computer
can hold; Mem-
ory that's read
and written to

250GB; 2GB

Display;

Optical drive Ports

Display size
(measured di-
agonally); Disc
drive included
with the system

Inputs the
computer has
for accessing
peripherals

Graphics card

Controls the
quality of your
video and im-
ages

18.4 inches;
Double-layer
DVD±RW/
CD-RW

4 USB, 1
Ethernet, media
card reader

ATI Radeon
HD3200

ViewSonic VPC 190

MSRP: $599.99*
SKU 9907379

Windows 7 Home 1.66GHzDual- 160GB; 2GB 18.5 inches; 6 USB, 1 Intel Graphics

Premium Core Intel Atom Double-layer Ethernet, media Media

DVD+RW/ card reader Accelerator

CD-RW 900

fr ^~

minium

Sony VAIO
VGC-JS450F/S

MSRP: $999.99*
SKU 9561592

Windows 7 Home
Premium

2.7GHz Intel
Pentium

500GB; 4GB

20.1 inches;
Double-layer
DVD±RW/
BD/CD-RW

1 USB, 1
Ethernet, media
card reader

Nvidia
GeForce
9300M GS

Apple iMac
MC413LL/A

MSRP: $1,499.99*
SKU 961 1569

MacOSXv10.6
Snow Leopard

3.06GHz Intel
Core 2 Duo

1TB; 4GB

21 .5 inches;
Double-layer
DVD±RW/
CD-RW

4 USB, 1 Ether-
net, 1 FireWire,
media card
reader

ATI Radeon
HD4670

Apple iMac
MB952LL/A

MSRP: $1,699*
SKU 961 1587

MacOSXv10.6
Snow Leopard

3.06GHz Intel
Core 2 Duo

1TB; 4GB

27 inches;
Double-layer
DVD±RW/
CD-RW

4 USB, 1 Ether-
net, 1 FireWire,
media card
reader

ATI Radeon
HD 4670

Gateway
ZX4300-01e

MSRP: $749.99*
SKU 9932711

Windows 7 Home
Premium

2.7GHz AMD
Athlon II X2

640GB; 4GB

20 inches;
Double-layer
DVD±RW/
CD-RW

6 USB, 1
Ethernet,
media card
reader

ATI Radeon
HD4270

HP TouchSmart
300-1120

MSRP: $899.99*
SKU 9912717

Windows 7 Home
Premium

2.7GHz AMD
Athlon II X2

750GB; 4GB

20 inches;
Double-layer
DVD±RW/
CD-RW

5 USB, 1
Ethernet,
media card
reader

ATI Radeon
HD3200

HP TouchSmart
300-1122

MSRP: $999.99*
SKU 9912753

Windows 7 Home
Premium

2.8GHz AMD
Athlon II X2

1TB; 4GB

20 inches;
Double-layer
DVD±RW/
CD-RW

5 USB, 1
Ethernet,
media card
reader

ATI Radeon
HD3200

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse

46 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

Software Listings

Get More Out Of Your PC

Computers can be used to create greeting cards, play games, keep track of your finances, and more. The thing is, most of these
functions aren't available straight out of the box. To fully harness your computer's potential, you'll need to buy software. Here
are some options.

Art/Illustration/Graphics

■ Adobe Photoshop
Lightroom 2
$299*
www.adobe.com
This photo management software from Adobe
lets you quickly and easily import, process,
manage, and showcase your images.

Corel PaintShop Photo Pro X3

$99.99*

www.corel.com

Corel PaintShop Photo Pro X3 lets
you manage, edit, and share your digital
photos. You can make automatic fixes in the
enhanced Express Lab, or you can use the in-
cluded advanced editing tools.

Broderbund PrintMaster
Platinum

] $39.99*
www.broderbund.com
Create projects such as photo greeting cards,
scrapbook pages, family newsletters, and
more with the templates and fonts included
with PrintMaster Platinum. You can also edit
photos before adding them to your projects.

Roxio Creator 2010

$99.99*

www.roxio.com

Use Roxio Creator 2010 to easily
capture, enhance, and save your photos,
videos, and audio projects. Sharing is available
using a variety of methods. It also includes tu-
torials for advanced users and beginners.

Audio/Video

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate
Collection

$129.99*

www.pinnaclesys.com
Pinnacle Studio Ultimate Collection comes
with a full set of plug-ins and a Chroma-key
green screen for advanced effects, editing,
and production.

a Roxio Toast 10 Titanium
For Macs

$99.99*

www.roxio.com
Use Toast 1 Titanium from Roxio to burn
audio tracks, video clips, and other data to
disc. You can also convert files for playback
on other devices.

Cakewalk Music Creator 5

$39.99*

www.cakewalk.com
A user-friendly interface lets you
bring your music to life and give it a profes-
sional sound. You can record, transcribe,
and print your very own music.

^^t i Apple Final Cut Express 4

J www.apple.com
A drag-and-drop interface provides
seamless movement between editing,
trimming, and adding effects to your
videos. The software is compatible
with popular HD formats, including
HDV and AVCHD.

* Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retail pricing, i

Business Applications

Microsoft Office Home And
Student 2010

$149.99*

www.microsoft.com
The Home and Student version of Microsoft
Office 2010 has enhanced features for cre-
ating and managing documents and includes
Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and OneNote.

Adobe Acrobat 9
Standard (Upgrade)

$99*

www.adobe.com
Upgrade to Adobe Acrobat 9 Standard to
easily create, combine, and manage various
PDF files with improved features.

Intuit Quicken Home &
Business 2010

$99.99*

www.quicken.intuit.com
The 2010 version of Quicken Home and
Business includes automatic bill reminders
and a one-page view of your finances. Plus,
it shows you where you are spending and
where you can save.

Intuit QuickBooks Pro 2010

$179.95*

www.quickbooks.intuit.com
Easily keep track of your compa-
ny's finances with QuickBooks Pro 2010.
You can organize and reference your cus-
tomer, vendor, and employee financial infor-
mation all in one place.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 47

Games/
Entertainment

i*sR

Activision Barbie
& The Three
Musketeers

$19.99*
www.activision.com
Choose a character with a
unique ability to help you
tackle obstacles and solve
puzzles to uncover a plot
against the prince and be-
come a true musketeer.

Disney Interactive
Studio Alice In
Wonderland

$19.99*
disney.go.com/disney
interactivestudios
Inspired by the Tim Burton film,
this game lets you fall down the
rabbit hole and experience
Alice's adventure in Wonder-
land. You can play as the Mad
Hatter, White Rabbit, or an-
other character from the film to
help Alice on her journey.

Electronic Arts
The Sims 3

| $49.95*
www.ea.com
Create your very own Sims.
Customize their personalities,
appearances, and homes and
send them out into the world to
explore the neighborhood and
meet new friends.

Lego Indiana Jones
2: The Adventure
Continues

$29.99*
www. I ucasarts.com
Explore the locations from all
four films and build your own
levels and environments. And,
all of your favorite characters
are depicted in Lego form.

Home
Productivity

H Nuance Dragon
NaturallySpeaking

$199*
www.nuance.com
Dictate emails, reports, and
documents much faster than
you can type by letting Dragon
NaturallySpeaking do the typ-
ing for you. The software has an
accuracy rate of up to 99%.

Apple MobileMe

r mobile ?

www.apple.com
MobileMe, Apple's
Internet service, lets you keep
your email, contacts, and cal-
endar up-to-date across your
i Phone, i Pod touch, Mac, and PC.
It also lets you store and share
documents online via iDisk, and
you can manage everything on-
line through a suite of Web appli-
cations at www.me.com.

HDeLorme Street
Atlas USA 2010

www.delorme.com
Street Atlas USA 2010 Plus is up-
dated with new roads and road
names, and it's now ready to use
on any of your favorite devices,
such as GPSes, netbooks, com-
puters, and smartphones.

Susteen Data
Pilot Backup &
Sync Kit (LG)

$24.99*
www.datapi lot.com
Back up and sync your cell
phone memory to your com-
puter with a backup and sync
kit. Kits for other phone manu-
facturers are also available.

Security/
Utilities

Kaspersky Lab
Internet Security
2010

www.kaspersky.com
Kaspersky Internet Security
2010 includes protection from
the latest viruses, spyware, and
ma I ware threats.

ppM Virus 2010

System Clean-Up
& Repair

www.kaspersky.com
Kaspersky Anti- Virus 2010
includes essential protection
against Internet threats, such as
viruses, spyware, Trojans, and
more as well as phishing and
identity theft defense.

EffSIW Sweeper 201

$39.95*

www.webroot.com
Protect up to three computers
from viruses and spyware.
Spy Sweeper stops both known
and potential threats by
blocking suspicious activity
and is compatible with
Microsoft's Windows 7
operating system.

Trend Micro

Titanium

AntiVirus+

$39.95*
www.trendmicro.com
Trend Micro's Titanium Anti-
virus-!- has been designed to run
in the background, so it can
provide protection from the
latest threats without bogging
down your system.

Avanquest
Fix-It Utilities
1 Professional

$49.95*
www.avanquest.com
Fix- It Utilities 10 Professional
can make your computer run
like new. It performs more
than 250 tests to see what is
slowing your computer down
and then fixes the problem,
giving you better perfor-
mance.

iolo System
Mechanic

$49.95*

www.iolo.com
With System Mechanic, you
can find and fix errors and frag-
mentation on your PC, clean
out clutter, and optimize your
system for best performance.

Acronis True
Image Home
2010

$49.99*
www.acronis.com
This software backs up your
entire computer, including the
operating system, files, settings,
and more, so you can easily
re-create your system in the
event of data loss.

iolo
DriveScrubber

$29.95*

www.iolo.com
When it's time to get rid of
your old computer, use Drive-
Scrubber to ensure all of your
personal data has been de-
leted. DriveScrubber will
wipe your entire drive, in-
cluding free space, and re-
store damaged drives.

FirstGlimpse

48 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

NOTEWORTHY

Accessories
& Services

KEYBOARD

• An ergonomic design can
cut down on the wrist
strain associated with
carpal tunnel syndrome

• Bluetooth connectivity
lends itself to a tidy desk
because there's one less
wire to contend with

• A specialty model, such as
a gaming or media key-
board, adds functionality
to your pastime of choice

• Offers an affordable way
to connect all of your
peripherals, even if you
have more gadgets than
USB ports

• Adds the convenience of
easy USB access — no
more reaching behind
your computer to plug in
your USB devices

EXTE RNAL HARD DRIVE

• Protect precious video and
photo memories: Back up
to an external hard drive

• Keep your computer run-
ning more efficiently by
saving large files, such as
your media collection, on
an external drive

A wireless mouse will cut
down on cable clutter at
your desk and also offers
the convenience of por-
tability for laptop use
A gaming mouse can de-
liver better accuracy and
speed for the ultimate
in control

Consider customizable
buttons if you want to be
able to access media, files,
or programs with one-
touch access

A computer is a big investment, and now that you've taken the
plunge, it's time to decide what accessories you need to go
along with that shiny new purchase. We've rounded up several
of our favorite extras for every computer owner. Whether you
have a laptop or desktop, be sure to add these items to your
shopping list to complete your computing experience.

CLEANING KIT

• Specially designed cleaners
will keep your computer
screen clean without run-
ning the risk of scratching
its surface

• Cloths are often made of
low-conductivity material
in order to reduce static

V y

• Ensure the electrical current
running to your desktop or
laptop computer doesn't ex-
ceed proper levels

• Portable models will protect
your laptop when you're on
the go for work or play

• Bridge the gap between
long-distance family and
friends with online video
chatting by adding a Web
cam to your setup

A quality photo printer will
eliminate trips to the drug-
store for 4x6 prints and give
you the ability to instantly
share your photo memories
An all-in-one model is the
perfect addition for any
busy family that needs a
device that can operate
as a copier, scanner, fax,
and printer

To keep your desktop or
laptop computer in tip-top
shape, take advantage of the
computing services offered at
your local CE retailer. They
can help you keep your ma-
chine running smoothly and
free from the dangers that
lurk online.

• Computer Setup &
Networking

• Virus & Spyware Removal

• Data Backup & Recovery

• Hardware & Software
Upgrades

• Training & Consultation

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 49

COMPACT GADGE

Deliver Media
To Portable
Devices

How Do You Want Yours?

With all the compact devices that can deliver media tc
it's easy to stay entertained anywhere you go. Devices
TVs, media players, and DVD players use a variety of >
media you want. You just have to decide how you wai

plav the

Disc Media

While driving to visit relatives, your family can watch
movies and TV shows and listen to music or books on CD
with a portable DVD player.

Many portable DVD players also have widescreen or dual
displays and headphone jacks so everyone in the back
seat can enjoy the entertainment.

Over-The-Air Media

Using a portable TV, such as the FLO TV Personal
Television ($199.99; www.flotv.com), you can watch
live television wherever a signal is available. A variety
of programming is accessible, with a mix of network
and cable channels.

A portable audio player with an HD Radio tuner can pull
in crisp, clear audio over the air for you to enjoy while
jogging through your neighborhood.

Downloaded Media

Portable media players, such as the Archos 5 Internet
Tablet ($299.99 to $499.99; www.archos.com), can
download and store music, videos, photos, games,
and apps.

You can also download content onto your computer and
use a USB cable and proprietary software to transfer it to
your portable devices.

Streaming Media

Some portable media players have built-in Wi-Fi to stream
media to the device and keep your internal memory free to
store other things. This lets you enjoy Internet radio, Web
videos, or other content from your PC on devices such as
media tablets, smartphones, and other portable devices
with wireless Web connections. A Web connection also al-
lows for Web browsing, downloading media and applica-
tions, and instant messaging with friends and family.

by Tessa Warner Breneman

FirstGlimpse

50 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

COMPACT GADGETS

Discover These
MP3 Player Feati

Not long ago, MP3 players were good for simply
playing your MP3 songs, but now they have so
much more to offer. For instance, some of the

latest models feature built-in Wi-Fi, video play-
back, and ports for attaching external storage op-
tions. No longer a single-function device, MP3
players can expand your multimedia possibilities

Connectivity Features

Pairing a Bluetooth-enabled MP3
player and a wireless headset will let
you listen to music cord-free.

MP3 players with built-in Wi-Fi can
connect to hotspots so you can
stream online content, access your
email account, and more.

A player with an integrated radio
tuner lets you listen to local AM/FM
stations, and an HD Radio tuner
will play HD Radio. Some models
include station presets so you can
recall your favorite channels.

Multimedia Capabilities

Watch video content (some players
support HD) that's streamed via an
Internet connection or saved to your
MP3 player's hard drive.

You can use your MP3 player as a
photo viewer if it supports photo
formats such as JPEG, BMP, PNG,
or GIF.

Some MP3 players can use mobile
applications. Once installed, you
can use them to play games, follow
your favorite sports teams, seek out
concert venues, and much more.

Functionality & Storage

If you prefer an interface without but-
tons, an MP3 player with a touchscreen
lets you scroll through and enlarge on-
screen content with your finger.

If you can't fit your entire music collec-
tion on your MP3 player, a model that
supports memory cards or USB drives
will give you the flexibility to play
songs from an external source.

Some MP3 players also feature ports
for connecting to an HDTV or PC, so
you can transfer data or view videos on
a larger display.

FirstGlimpse

by Joanna Safford

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 51

OMPACT GADGET

Portable
Navigation
Devices ^

GPSes Offer New Feat

In your car.

Portable GPS units for your car
have become even easier to
use while adding sophisticated
features. Easily transferred from
one vehicle to another, most
now feature traffic overlays,
turn-by-turn audio directions
with realistic-sounding voices,
2D and 3D displays, and
touchscreen interfaces. Many
offer Bluetooth integration, al-
lowing you to make hands-free
telephone calls using the GPS
unit's touchscreen and speaker,
and others can even play MP3
audio files.

While you hike, hunt,
or camp.

Hunters, hikers, and campers will appre-
ciate the smaller, lightweight GPS de-
vices that are easily carried in a pocket
or fanny pack. A hiker can pinpoint her
location and set waypoints as she walks;
her digital "trail" is always there, so she
can find her way back to the camp-
ground, ranger station, or favorite fishing
spot. The newest portable devices are
rugged and water-resistant. Caught in a
downpour? Not a problem; your pocket-
sized GPS can handle a little rain. Take
it hiking, biking, camping, fishing, or
geocaching, because it's rugged enough
to stand up to some jostling around.

While you exercise.

If you're a fitness buff, there's a
whole subset of GPS devices just
for you. Wristwatch-sized units
can monitor your heart rate as they
track your location. Most can save
speed, waypoints, miles traveled,
calories burned, and elapsed time
as you go. Transfer data from the
GPS unit to your computer to gen-
erate robust and sophisticated
reports on your health, your work-
outs, and your improved perfor-
mance.

by Rod Scher

FirstGlimpse

52 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

COMPACT GADG

Compac
Gadgets

For Your Car

Audio & Video That Go With

In a driving-oriented society, you have to learn how to make the
most out of the ride and still drive responsibly. However, in-car
entertainment options aren't limited to just AM and FM radio
stations anymore; your options now include radio transmitters,
portable video options, and Bluetooth-enabled mobile acces-
sories. These gadgets will entertain you and help you communi-
cate as you go throughout your day in the car.

Music Gadgets

FM transmitters output audio from
your portable media player to your car
speakers via your car radio frequencies,
so you can listen to soundtracks, audio
books, and other content stored on your
player while road-tripping or during
your daily commute.

Portable satellite radio devices can
be used with vehicle kits, so you can
dock your device in your car and listen
to hundreds of commercial-free chan-
nels through your car speakers. These
include a cable, antenna, and uni-
versal connector.

In-Car Video

Portable DVD players
are best for passengers
who prefer to watch
movies with head-
phones. And once you
reach your destination,
you can take the player
with you.

Rearview minicameras
help you see what's
happening behind your
car, adding extra secu-
rity. It also helps you
back up safely.

FirstGlimpse

Bluetooth Accessories

A Bluetooth kit attached to your car
stereo will stream songs from your
MP3 player or cell phone. These
kits will also allow you to make
hands-free calls, so you don't have
to put the cell phone to your ear
while driving.

Bluetooth transmitters for MP3
players, such as the Scosche
Tunestream Stereo Bluetooth
Transmitter for iPod and iPhone
($79.99; www.scosche.com), can
stream music to a Bluetooth-en-
abled audio system.

by Joanna Safford

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 53

OMPACT GADGETS

^9*

^Maw Hi

■

Pocketable
Camcorders

Capture Video On The Move

Summer presents many opportunities to shoot video and capture
photos. With a compact camcorder or digital camera that fits into your
bag or pocket, you can be ready to capture footage at the beach, park,
or zoo. Then when someone asks you what you did this summer, you
can pull out your camera and show them.

Conveniently
Compact

Built-in flash memory allows
for a smaller camera size,
because there are no moving
parts to take up space.

Cameras use memory cards
for storing images. If your
camcorder has a memory
card slot, you can add storage
capacity without adding to
the camera's size and weight.

Many models have built-in
LCD screens to record or
view photos and video.

Packing Lots Of Punch

Many camera and camcorder models
can capture high-definition video or
high-resolution photos while also in-
cluding built-in editing capabilities.

With included sharing software, it will
be easy for you to upload video and
photos to the Web and email your files
after they've been retouched and edited.

You can also find image stabilization,
automatic low-light detection, face de-
tection, playback functions, and digital
zoom on many camera and camcorder
models. Some camcorders even have
silent mode for recitals and lectures.

Video & Photos To Go

Some camcorders and cameras offer durable
weatherproof designs that are ideal for both
beach vacations and outdoor activities. And, with
LCD screens that prevent sunlight reflection, you
can enjoy viewing your content indoors and out.

A compact camcorder, such as the Flip
UltraHD ($199.99; www.theflip.com), is af-
fordable and easy to use, so anyone in the
family can grab it and shoot footage at birthday
parties or barbecues with ease.

With smile mode, you can be sure your com-
pact camera will be able to adjust to your
family and friends so you won't miss a picture-
perfect moment.

by Tessa Warner Breneman

FirstGlimpse

54 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

>MPACT GADG

Gaming
On The Go

Portable Consoles

Are Media Powerhouses

Snap a photo. Call a friend. Surf the Web. Listen to music. Watci
some video. And, when you get a moment, play a game or two.

This isn't a smartphone we're talking about. It's
a portable gaming console. And these aren't
bargain-bin gizmos that just play a built-in game
or two. These are full-fledged gaming systems
with outstanding multimedia capabilities.

Made to play graphically intense (relatively
speaking) games via downloads and/or discs,
current portable consoles have advanced wide-
screens up to 4.3 inches (measured diago-
nally). In fact, some have resolutions almost as
high as DVDs plus support for millions of colors.
With such nice screens, it's a small wonder that
most pocket game systems also let you play
videos, browse photos, and more.

Portable consoles often feature buttons and con-
trols that are similar to the ones used by their "big
brother" consoles made by the same manufac-
turers. Physically, of course, they're designed for
pocketability. Some open like a small notebook
with dual screens and side-mounted controls.
Others have a sliding design that hides their
buttons when not in use.

All This, Plus . . .

Gaming isn't everything, and there are scads of other ways you can
enhance your mobile lifestyle with a portable console. Depending on
the model, they support:

Movie and TV show file playback

Music file playback

Audio editing, including removal of vocals for karaoke

Photo slideshows and editing

Media streaming from the manufacturer's flagship console

A TV connection for sharing entertainment on a bigger screen

Wi-Fi networking

Internet browsing, email, and game and content downloading

Connecting to your friends' portable consoles for gaming

and sharing

Multiplayer and cooperative gameplay

Internet phone calling

Bluetooth for a wireless headset

Digital audio recording

Snapshots from digital cameras

Animation creation

Personal calendaring with photos

by Marty Sems

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 55

:OMPACT GADGETS

Small
Computin

Is A Netbook Right For You'

Netbooks include a blend of features that make them ideal for
Web-related tasks such as browsing the Internet, checking your
email, or keeping in touch using your favorite social networking
sites. However, it's important to note that a netbook doesn't offer
the same functionality or features as a notebook, and it should be
considered a PC companion. Read on to learn how a netbook can
meet your mobile computing needs

email, or keeping in
sites. However, it's

Netbook Connectivity

Every netbook has one or more of the fol-
lowing connectivity options built in, so you
can stay connected on the go.

• Wireless LAN (802.1 1 b/g/n) allows you to
connect to the wireless hotspots in restau-
rants, libraries, and coffee shops.

• An integrated 3G broadband modem uses
cellular technology to keep you connect-
ed in more places, even when a Wi-Fi
hotspot isn't available.

• You can access the Internet by plugging an
Ethernet cable into your netbook's Ethernet
port and connecting it to a network.

56 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

Netbook Features & Benefits

Each feature you'll encounter on a netbook offers unique benefits that can
simplify your mobile computing tasks such as emailing and Web-browsing.

Feature What It Means Lifestyle Benefit

Familiar
operating system

Lightweight
and thin design

Netbooks feature Windows XP or
Windows 7 Starter editions.

Most netbooks weigh 3 pounds or
less. For example, Averatec's net-
book with an Intel Atom processor
weighs only 2.2 pounds.

You won't have to learn how to
use a brand-new OS.

You can take your netbook with
you everywhere you go without
hauling a lot of extra weight.

Reliable

There are no internal moving parts

Your netbook can withstand

solid-state drive

to break or wear out.

accidental bumps, and your
data will be safer.

Extended Small screen size, lower clock

battery life speeds, and no internal optical

drive make netbooks low-powered
with a battery life of up to 11 hours.

You can work for longer with-
out needing to plug into a wall
outlet.

by Kris Glaser Brambila

FirstGlimpse

Digital Convenience

eReaders can bring you books, blogs, and the Web
wherever and whenever you need them. New electronic
ink displays are easy on the eyes and provide a natural and
familiar reading experience. And on models with Wi-Fi or
3G capabilities, you can shop right on the device: Select
and pay for your purchase, and you can be reading your
new book or magazine within a minute or two.

Extra Features

The new eReaders are feature-rich: Need bookmarks? Got it
covered. Notes and highlights? No problem. Eyes a little
weak? Just enlarge the text. And while many eReaders utilize
a proprietary file format, most can also display books in a va-
riety of popular file types, including PDF, Microsoft Word,
text, ePub, and PDB.

More Than Books

eReaders are useful for more than just books. Need
today's paper or the latest issue of your favorite maga-
zine? Click a button and select the edition you want;
it'll be on your eReader in 30 seconds. Music and
media? Many eReaders can play MP3 files and dis-
play photos, and some can even read content aloud.

Perfect for students, businesspeople, or frequent
travelers, eReaders can carry thousands of books in
a backpack or purse: This means every textbook a
student will ever read will be stored in one neat,
lightweight package. And a businessperson or world
traveler can carry every management book, every
novel, every financial advice book, and every
newspaper or magazine she could want.

by Rod Scher

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 57

PORTABLE DEVICES

COVER STORY

SlingPlayer Mobile
For Android

$29.99
www.slingbox.com

SlingPlayer
Lands On Android

A Great Mobile TV Experience

Just think of all that TV programming
you pay for each month. Sports,
movies, must-see TV . . . it's pouring
in, all the time. Unfortunately, you
can't always be home to enjoy it.

A DVR helps, of course, as it lets you
record shows to watch another time.
Assuming you have the time, that is.
Between family activities, house
chores, and sleep, your minutes at
home may already be spoken for.

Come to think of it, most of your free
time — your truly free time — happens
when you're away from home. There's
your lunch hour in the break room at
work. Your daily commute via public
transportation. Your workout on the

exercise bike at the gym. Settling into
hotel rooms when you're on the road.

With a Slingbox, you can take advan-
tage of your free time on the go to catch
up on your favorite shows. A Slingbox
at home and the SlingPlayer Mobile app
on your portable device makes it easy to
watch live or recorded programming
with the ability to pause, fast-forward,
rewind, and even schedule DVR record-
ings over a 3G, 4G, or Wi-Fi connec-
tion. And for Android users, a new
SlingPlayer Mobile for Android app
($29.99) enables the most advanced
Slingbox viewing yet:

• The fastest connection and response
times of any mobile SlingPlayer

• Easy touchscreen access to recently
viewed channels

• An intuitive remote control layout

• Support for all U.S. carriers, including
Verizon, Sprint, AT&T, and T-Mobile

Supported Slingbox models include the
SOLO ($189.99) and the PRO-HD
($299.99). The new SlingPlayer Mobile app
works with Android phones sold for use in
the United States, Canada, Australia and
select countries in the EU. The supported
phones include the popular HTC Droid
Incredible, HTC Evo 4G, and the Motorola
Droid. For a complete list of the Android
phones that are supported by SlingPlayer
Mobile, seewww.slingbox.com.

FirstGlimpse

58 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

PORTABLE DEVICES

MP3 Player
Glossary

ho doesn't want an MP3 player? It can help you relax, motivate
you, and ensure you always have a song to match your mood.
When you head to your local CE retailer to snag one, make sure
you have this glossary so you can choose the perfect model.

AAC — Short for Advanced Audio Cod-
ing, this format is a competitor of the
more common MP3 file format. It is
the default format used by Apple.

Click Wheel — Apple's proprietary cir-
cular control on the front of the iPod.

Certified For Windows Vista — A certifi-
cation from Microsoft that ensures your
portable devices, such as MP3 players,
and media, such as digital music and
videos, are compatible with each other.
This was once called PlaysForSure.

download — In terms of digital music,
downloading is when you retrieve a song
from an Internet site or another network
connection and save it to your computer
or portable music player. You can down-
load songs from music Web sites such as
iTunes, Napster, or Rhapsody.

DRM (digital rights management) — A

security mechanism for digital media,
associated with copyright. A common
DRM scheme for digital music involves
getting a licensed file to authorize play-
back of a free or purchased song.

earbuds — Small, circular devices you
put into your ears so you can listen to
music on your player. These serve the
same function as headphones. Many
music players include their own ear-
buds, but you can purchase a separate

pair that are more comfortable or of
better quality.

flash memory — Solid-state memory
with no moving parts that is lightweight
and small. In terms of digital music
players, a flash-based player is lighter
and smaller than a hard drive-based
player, and also, it won't skip. Thus,
flash-based players are popular for use
during exercise. However, the ca-
pacity of a flash-based player isn't as
large as a hard drive-based player.

FM tuner — If your music player has a
built-in FM tuner, you will be able to
listen to music that is broadcast from
local radio stations.

hard drive — Storage that consists of
rigid platters inside a fixed casing.
In terms of digital music players, a
hard drive-based player is larger and
heavier than a flash-based player.
Because of the moving parts (the plat-
ters), hard drive-based players are also
prone to skipping. However, their ca-
pacities are much larger than those of
flash-based players.

iTunes — An application that is down-
loaded onto your computer and lets
you play, organize, download, and pur-
chase music, videos, podcasts, and
television shows on your portable
media player or computer.

MP3 — Perhaps the most popular digital
audio encoding format. It compresses
audio to about one-twelfth the original
size while still providing excellent
sound. In general, a 1MB MP3 file will
last about one minute.

play list — A queue of songs a user
creates to play on a computer, burn to
a CD, or transfer to an MP3 player. The
p lay I i st includes only directions to
the location of the songs, not the
songs themselves.

podcast — A downloadable episode that
is similar to a radio program. A user can
subscribe to a podcast for updated
episodes, or she can download pod-
casts one at a time.

screen — The display on the front of a
portable music player. A player's screen
can either display in color or black
and white.

WMA — Windows Media Audio is a
digital audio format created by Microsoft.

widescreen — A screen with a 1 6:9 as-
pect ratio.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 59

PORTABLE DEVICES

Which MP3 Player Is Best For You?

iPods are cool, sure, but you have other choices when it comes to listening to your tunes. This chart compares the most impor-
tant — and coolest — features from select MP3 players.

Memory type

Capacity

Songs

Video; FM tuner
capabilities

Colors

Battery life

What It Means

Hard drive How much

(moving parts, memory the

more capacity) player has

or flash (no
moving parts)

SanDisk Sansa Clip+ Flash
MSRP: $39.99*;
$49.99*
SKU 9448564

Based on four-
minute songs
at 128Kbps,
the number a
player can hold

Some MP3 players Several players

can play video or offer a variety of

let you listen to color choices
radio stations

2GB; 4GB

500; 1,000

No; Yes

How long the
battery will last
when playing
music

Black, red, blue

15 hours

Apple iPod shuffle

MSRP: $59*; $79*
SKU 9229765

Flash

2GB; 4GB

500; 1,000

(AAC)

Neither

Black, silver, 10 hours

pink, green, blue

Sony W Series
Walkman

MSRP: $59.95*
SKU 9964382

Flash

2GB

N/A

Neither

Black

1 1 hours

Sony E Series
Walkman

MSRP: $79.95*
SKU 9443792

Flash

8GB

N/A

Both

Black

30 hours

Apple iPod nano Flash

MSRP: $149*; $179*
SKU 9416376

8GB; 16GB 2,000; 4,000

(AAC)

Both

Pink, orange,
green, blue,
purple, black,
silver

24 hours

Finis SwiMP3

MSRP: $149.99*
SKU 9525515

Flash

1GB

240

Neither

Blue

8 hours

Apple iPod touch

MSRP: $199*;
$299*; $399*
SKU 8771732

Flash

8GB; 32GB;
64GB

1,750; 7,000;
14,000 (AAC)

Yes; No

Black

30 hours

Microsoft Zune HD

MSRP: $199.99*;
$269.99*
SKU 9449581

Flash

16GB; 32GB 4,000; 8,000 Both

Black, silver

33 hours

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse

60 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

PORTABLE DEVICES

Which GPS Device Is Right For You? -

One of the hottest CE devices around right now is a GPS, and what a useful device it is, too. Here, we compare some models
available on today's market. All of these units come with maps already loaded, and you can purchase additional maps, as well.

Screen size;
Dimensions

Text-to-speech;
Traffic receiver

Preloaded
maps

WAAS

Bluetooth; MP3
playback

Included charging
adapters

What It Means

Insignia

NS-NAV01
MSRP: $99.99*
SKU 9351603

The diagonal
measurement
of the screen;
Height x width
x depth

4.3 inches;

3.1x4.7x0.6

inches

Unit calls out spe-
cific street names;
Unit receives traf-
fic updates and re-
routes accordingly

The regional
maps that
come included
with the GPS
unit

Yes; No

Entire U.S.

A satellite and
ground station
system that
gives exception-
al GPS accuracy

Yes

Some units com-
municate wire-
lessly with other
Bluetooth devices
or play MP3s

No; No

AC adapters plug
into the wall; DC
adapters plug into
your car's cigarette
lighter

DC adapter

TomTom
XL 335LE

MSRP: $129.99*
SKU 9927276

4.3 inches;

3.3x4.8x0.9

inches

Yes; No

Entire U.S.

No; No

DC adapter

Garmin
niivi 255

MSRP: $139.99*
SKU 8977574

3.5 inches;

2.9x3.9x0.8

inches

Yes; No

Entire U.S.
(including
Puerto Rico)
and Canada

No; No

DC adapter

Magellan
RoadMate1424

MSRP: $149.99*
SKU 9894383

4.3 inches;

3.2x4.8x0.7

inches

Yes; Yes (with op-
tional Traffic Link
adapter)

Entire U.S.
(including
Puerto Rico)
and Canada

Yes

No; No

DC adapter

Insignia

NS-CNV20
MSRP: $179.99*
SKU 8947312

4.3 inches;
3.2x4x0.9
inches

Yes; Yes

Entire U.S.

Yes

Yes; No

DC adapter;
AC adapter

ei m\

TomTom
XL 350TM

MSRP: $229.95*
SKU 9927197

4.3 inches;

3.2x4.7x0.9

inches

Yes; Yes (with
optional traffic
receiver)

Entire U.S.
(including
Puerto Rico)
and Canada

No; No

DC adapter

u u v *

Magellan
RoadMate 3065

MSRP: $299.99*
SKU 9904781

4.7 inches;

3.4x5.4x0.6

inches

Yes; Yes

Entire U.S.
(including
Puerto Rico)
and Canada

Yes

Yes; No

DC adapter

Garmin
niivi 3790T

MSRP: $449.99*
SKU 9888961

4.3 inches;

2.9x4.8x0.4

inches

Yes; Yes

Entire U.S.
(including
Puerto Rico)
and Canada

Yes; No

DC adapter

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse / July 2010 61

PORTABLE DEVICES

NOTEWORTHY

Accessories
& Services

GPS CHARGERS

• Make sure your travel
companion always has
a full battery

• If you do run out of battery,
charge your GPS with an
adapter; these can plug into
a wall, PC, or car's DC outlet

MP3 PLAYER CASES

• Protect your MP3 player
from bumps and scratches

• Quickly access your play-
er's functions with a clip

• Keep your player out of
your way with an armband

GPS MOUNTS

Mounts can be placed on a
car dash or stuck to a wind-
shield to be within reach

MP3 PLAYER
EARPHONES

Match earphones to your
needs: If you don't want
anything bulky, opt for
earbuds that fit inside your
ear; to hear every musical
detail, try headphones that
cover the ear completely
Listen to your music
without the interference
of background noise with
earphones that offer a
noise-canceling feature

CELL PHONE CHARGERS
& BATTERIES

• Keep your phone charged
no matter where you are;
adapters for your cell phone
let you use solar power, your
car's DC outlet, wall power,
or your computer to charge
your phone

• Be prepared for emergen-
cies with extra cell phone
batteries

No matter where you go, a wireless device can add enjoyment
to your journey. To make sure you are taking full advantage of
the capabilities your wireless devices offer, check your local
CE retailer for accessories that can enhance your mobile expe-
riences. We've listed our favorites below.

MP3 PLAYER DOCKS &
SPEAKERS

• Portable speakers let you
play music for a group;
some include radios and
can also play CDs

• With a portable dock, you
can recharge your player's
battery as you listen to
music

• Play your music through
car speakers using an FM
transmitter

Safeguard your phone from
wear and tear with a case
Universal cases fit most
sizes of cell phones; some
of these will include clips
and wrist straps for porta-
bility and accessibility
Fitted cases specifically fit
your phone's model type;
these can be hard acrylic
casings, rubber sleeves, or
leather pouches
Avoid getting scratches and
fingerprints on your phone's
screen with stick-on or hard,
clear screen protectors

• Keep your hands free while
still being able to use your
phone

• Link compatible cell phones
to a Bluetooth headset to
make or take calls without a
tangled mess of cables

• Use a headset that offers
noise-canceling capabilities
to ensure you don't miss
any of your conversation

Whether your wireless device
is brand-new or nearing the
end of its life span, your local
CE retailer offers services to
help you take care of all of
your wireless device's needs.

• Protection plans for GPSes,
MP3 players, and cell
phones

• Phone and battery recycling

• GPS setup and deck instal-
lation

• MP3 vehicle integration

• MP3 player setup and
training

• Cell phone repair services
and loaner phones

FirstGlimpse

62 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

GAMING, MEDIA & MORE

HOW TO BUY A

Turntable

What To Consider Before Spinning Vinyl

Although they never entirely went away, turntables are
making a comeback thanks to audiophiles seeking the
warmer audio quality that analog LPs offer vs. digital files,
younger users curious to what the hype is all about, and the
modern features manufacturers have added to bring conven-
tional turntables into today's digital age. When buying a
turntable, consider the following advice.

Ports. Beyond playin
modern turntables in-
tegrate features tied to
digital music. USB
ports let you transfer
album-based analog
recordings into digital
files for MP3 player
playback. Docks and
auxiliary line-in inputs
allow you to connect
MP3 players, which is
particularly useful for
DJs, and CD burners
can copy albums di-
rectly to CDs.

g analog-recorded albums, many

USB ports let you
transfer album-
based analog
recordings into
digital files for
MP3 player
playback.

Cleaning aCeGSSOrieS. Many audiophiles clean
an LP before spinning it to safeguard against dirt, dust, and
other undesirables; prolong the turntable's needle (also
called a stylus); and bring out subtle details in a recording.
Every turntable owner should invest in a wet and/or dry
cleaning brush and cleaning fluid specifically made for LPs.

. . . less-expensive
but still suitable
options exist.

Budget.

Literally, a
high-end turn-
table can cost
the equivalent
of what you'd

spend on a top-shelf luxury car. Fortunately, less-expen-
sive but still suitable options exist. Entry-level turntables
(roughly $100 to $250), for example, are fine for first-
time owners starting an LP collection, those who prima-
rily want to transfer their old LPs into new digital files,
and prospective DJs who'll put excessive wear and tear
on a turntable.

Amplification. Compared to modern digital audio
devices, turntables output a weaker signal that necessitates
amplification. Older stereos (typically pre-1990s) contain a
phono preamp to do just this. Many modern A/V receivers
don't. To work

. . . look for a

around this, look
for a turntable
with a phono
preamp or con-
sider a turntable
with built-in

speakers. Another option is to buy a separate phono
preamp. (Some can also convert analog signals to digita

turntable with a
phono preamp ,

FirstGlimpse

by Blaine Flamig

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 63

GAMING, MEDIA & MORE

An Internet & Media
Device With Free Apps

Access Your Favorite Parts
Of The Internet In Any Room

With Insignia's Infocast Internet Media Display ($169.99; www.bestbuy.com), you can instantly view and share photos and
videos and access your favorite Web-based content via 1,500+ apps. Best of all, there are never any fees for the apps. Ever.

Vibrant Touchscreen Display

The Infocast Internet Media Display offers a sharp, responsive 8-
inch color touchscreen display that's convenient for accessing
your favorite photos, videos, and apps. And with 2GB of internal
memory, compatibility with all major memory cards, and apps
that pull pictures from online sharing sites such as Picasa,
Facebook, and Photobucket, it's never been easier to share with
friends and family. The Infocast supports SD, SDHC, MMC, CF,
xD-Picture card, Memory Stick, and Memory Stick PRO Duo.

See & Hear The Latest Info

By accessing a Wi-Fi connection, the Insignia Infocast can keep you up-
to-date through a variety of information sources. Whether it's checking
your Facebook news feed, following tweets on Twitter, or listening to
your favorite ShoutCast podcasts, you'll always be in the know. The
device also includes a microphone and SRS Sound Technology for
high-quality audio input and output. And for even better sound and
flexibility, you can connect it to external speakers.

Perfect For Any Room

The Infocast works great in any situation. Use it as an alarm
clock and wake up to Pandora, today's weather, and your email.
Use it as a digital photo frame in the living room and flip through
photos you snapped with your camera or photos friends and
family post to sharing sites such as Flickr. Use it as a companion
in the kitchen and listen to music, look up recipes, and check
your calendar. You can even take it to the office to keep up with
top news stories, stock quotes, and podcasts.

Free Apps, Yes, Free,

Infocast users can easily customize their devices with over 1,500
apps from chumby industries at no charge and with no subscription
fees. There are chumby apps in almost every conceivable category:
From games and entertainment to education and humor, and from
employment and weather to news and travel, all apps are free for
users of devices compatible with chumby apps, such as the Infocast
tablet. And because the Infocast can freely copy files to other Infocast
devices, friends and family can share apps, photos, and videos simply
by dragging and dropping files from one device to another.

FirstGlimpse

64 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

GAMING, MEDIA & MORE

ESSENTIAL THINGS TO KNOW

Weather Stations

What kind of information does a weather station typ-
ically display?

A Nearly all weather stations list both indoor and out-
door temperatures as well as the time. Many models
also feature a three- or four-day weather forecast with condi-
tion icons, such as the sun or clouds with rain, and the day's
expected high temperature.

Can a weather station also measure humidity , heat
index, wind, and other climate conditions?

A Yes, if a weather station supports the use of thermo-
hygro sensors to receive dew point, atmospheric, or
barometric readings, it will display additional condition
information.

How does a weather station know what the tem-
perature is?

A To detect the current outdoor temperature, most
weather stations use a wireless sensor that you place
outside to receive temperature information. These sensors
have a range of up to 330 feet. An additional sensor on
the weather station will determine the current indoor tem-
perature.

Why is the transmission range of the weather sta-
tion's wireless sensor important?

A If the range of the wireless sensor is too short, you may
be limited to placing the sensor in areas that don't re-
flect the true air temperature, such as near pavement or in a
regularly sunny area.

What's the benefit of an Internet-connected weather
station?

A By connecting to the Internet, a weather station can
receive detailed forecasts from the National Weather
Service or other professional organizations. At a glance, this
will let you see how weather conditions will change through-
out the day and access forecasts for other cities.

What's the benefit of a weather station that can
show forecasts for more than one location?

A This feature will let you see weather information for
cities where your friends and family are without going
online or watching TV. If you regularly travel or work in
other parts of the country, this is a convenient way to keep
abreast of the weather.

Can a weather station help me prepare for the con-
ditions at a specific venue, such as a golf course?

A Yes, some Internet-connected models feature weather
information for points of interest, such as sports ven-
ues, parks, and golf courses, to help you plan your day.
Typically, a weather station will break down the forecast
into different times throughout the day and list the sunrise
and sunset time.

QWill a weather station alert me of impending severe
weather?

A Some Internet-connected models are capable of
alerting you to severe weather warnings issued for
your city or ZIP code.

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 65

GAMING, MEDIA & MORE

This Month's -
Blu-ray Disc Releases

A Single Man

Rating: R Format: Blu-ray Disc | MSRP: $34.95* | SKU: 18589052

( Release Date: 7767^01

Our Family Wedding

Rating: PG-13 | Format: Blu-ray Disc | MSRP: $29.99* SKU: 1001237

fRelease Date: 7/13/2010 )

The Bounty Hunter

Rating: PG-13 | Format: Blu-ray Disc MSRP: $38.96* SKU: 18609751

C Release Date: 7/1 3/201 0~)

Date

MSRP*

SKU

Rating

(

July

A Single Man

7/6

$34.95

18589052

Accidents Happen

7/27

$29.98

18561742

Alpha Dog

7/13

$26.98

1017335

Assault On Precinct 1 3

7/13

$26.98

1017344

Batman: Under The Red Hood

7/27

$24.99

1008373

PG-13

Battlestar Galactica: Season 3

7/27

$89.99

18613727

N/A

Being Human: Season 1

7/20

$34.99

1006648

N/A

Beyond The Darkness

7/27

$24.95

18529692

N/A

Bitten

7/6

$24.99

18582778

Black Narcissus

7/20

$34.99

1014277

N/A

Cats & Dogs

7/20

$24.98

18518378

Chloe

7/13

$34.95

18638635

Crouching Tiger,
Hidden Dragon

7/27

$24.95

8165558

PG-13

Evil Aliens

7/20

$17.98

18561979

N/A

Eyeborgs

7/6

$29.98

18562696

N/A

Fan boys

7/27

$19.97

1017229

PG-13

Fireplace Impressions

7/13

$14.98

18628161

N/A

Forbidden World

7/20

$26.97

18582969

Galaxy Of Terror

7/20

$26.97

18582978

Greenberg

7/13

$39.98

1 8600896

In Bruges

7/13

$26.98

18553121

Insomnia

7/13

$19.99

9963046

Ip Man

7/27

$24.99

1014259

N/A

Jason & The Argonauts

7/6

$24.95

18575302

Jimmy Hollywood

7/6

$19.99

18567124

N/A

Johnny Handsome

7/27

$19.99

1001176

Just Another Day

7/20

$29.98

18561906

Ladybugs

7/6

$19.99

18567197

PG-13

Larry The Cable Guy:
Git-R-Done

7/6

$17.98

18562669

N/A

Last Chance To See

7/6

$39.98

18621826

N/A

Leaves Of Grass

7/27

$24.98

18523843

Life After People:
Complete Season 2

7/27

$39.95

1 8540749

N/A

Lock Up

7/27

$19.99

1001185

Love & Other Disasters

7/6

$17.98

18562632

Middle Of Nowhere

7/13

$29.98

18562832

Mother

7/20

$24.99

18582905

Operation: Endgame

7/27

$24.99

9996089

Our Family Wedding

7/13

$29.99

1001237

PG-13

Parasomnia

7/13

$24.98

18572996

Poirot: Classic Collection

7/27

$59.99

1 8468203

N/A

Puppetmaster

7/27

$25.98

18625516

N/A

Rambo

7/27

$19.99

1001149

Shark Week:

Jaws Of Steel Collection

7/13

$24.98

18571272

TVPG

Stargate Universe 1.5

7/27

$32.99

1001219

N/A

Steamboat Bill, Jr.

7/6

$34.95

18580325

N/A

Steve Byrne:

The Byrne Identity

7/6

$17.98

18561833

N/A

The Bounty Hunter

7/13

$38.96

18609751

PG-13

The Greatest

7/13

$26.98

18628259

The Red Shoes

7/20

$34.99

1014213

N/A

Tin Man

7/20

$19.97

18550203

N/A

Uncle Nino

7/20

$34.99

18604374

Victor/Victoria

7/27

$17.98

18563598

N/A

White Collar: Season 1

7/13

$69.98

9895737

N/A

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse

66 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

GAMING, MEDIA, & MORE

ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) Ratings

In order for parents to select gaming software appropriate for their children,
ESRB (www.esrb.org) ratings are listed on the front and back of most game
packages to provide concise and impartial details about a title's content.

MOTTO Early Childhood.

^^ Titles with this
Kjkf rating have con-
tent that may be
suitable for chil-
dren ages 3 and older. These
software titles contain no
material that parents would
find inappropriate.

iMilJlJ Everyone. Titles
^^J with this rating
^^0 have content that
Wftm may be suitable

for children ages 6
and older. Games in this cat-
egory may contain minimal
cartoon, fantasy, or mild vio-
lence and infrequent use of
mild language.

JaHSq Everyone 1 0+.

rfi Titles with this
fg^l rating have content
H^irVi| that may be suit-
able for children
ages 10 and older. Games in
this category may contain
more cartoon, fantasy, or mild
violence and language as well
as minimal suggestive themes.

M3^ | Teen. Titles with

l#^P this rating have

jl content that may
n i SJO ' d be suitable for

children ages 13
and older. Titles in this cate-
gory may contain violence,
suggestive themes, crude
humor, minimal blood, simu-
lated gambling, or infrequent
use of strong language.

Mature. Titles
with this rating
have content that
may be suitable
for persons ages
1 7 and older. Games in this
category may contain in-
tense violence, blood and
gore, sexual content, or
strong language.

Adults Only.

Titles with this
rating have con-
tent that is only
suitable for per-
sons 18 years and older.
Games in this category may
include prolonged scenes of
intense violence, graphic
sexual content, or nudity.

For additional information, ESRB ratings on the back of
game packages include content descriptions and depictions.

GAMING TIPS FOR PARENTS

Aside from checking a game's
ESRB ratings, there are other
ways you can ensure the
games your youngsters are
playing are age-appropriate.

• Carefully look at everything
on a title's packaging, in-
cluding the game graphics.

Find game reviews, screen
shots, or demos to get a
better idea of a game's
content.

If available, use the game's
parental controls to
restrict inappropriate
content.

Learn about games by
talking to other parents and
older children who are fa-
miliar with or have played
certain titles.

Participate in your children's
gaming and discuss their
games as much as possible.

Be aware of non rated
ESRB material a game may
contain. "Mods" are pro-
gram downloads that can
alter a game's content,
and online games often
have live player chats as
well as other user-generated
content.

FirstGlimpse,

First Glimpse / July 2010 67

GAMING, MEDIA & MORE

Which Gaming System Is Best For You?

Game consoles and portable devices are no longer limited to gameplay. They can also access the Internet, download media, and play your fa-
vorite DVDs or CDs. To help you find a gaming device that will suit you well, here's a comparison of the most popular selections you can find
at your local CE retailer.

Hard drive size

What It Means

How much
data the system
can hold

Compatible
memory cards

Cards that will let you
save and offload data,
such as game saves or
personal media

Optical drive

Aside from game
discs, other playable
media formats

Video
resolution output

Ports

Highest number of Hookups for

video pixels that is
sent to a TV or
portable console
screen

controllers as well
as video and audio
outputs

Sony
PlayStation 3

MSRP: $349.99*
SKU 961 1611

250GB

PlayStation and
PlayStation 2 cards
with optional USB
memory card adapter

CD, DVD, BD

1,920x1,080

1 A/V, 1 Ethernet,
1 HDMI, 1 optical
digital audio, 2
USB

Nintendo Wii

MSRP: $199.99*
SKU 991 6446

512MB

SD/Nintendo
GameCube
Memory Card

Can only play
game titles

720x480

4 controller,
1 Component,
1 Composite,
1 S-Video, 2 USB

Microsoft
Xbox 360 Elite

MSRP: N/A

SKU N/A

120GB

Xbox 360
Memory Unit

CD-RW, DVD-RW,
and more

1,920x1,080

1 A/V, 1 Ethernet,

2 memory,

1 HDMI, 3 USB

Nintendo DSi

MSRP: $169.99*
SKU 9249725
(blue)

256MB

None

Dual 256x1 92

1 headphone,
1 microphone

Nintendo DSi XL

MSRP: $189.99*
SKU 97601 66

256MB

None

Dual 256x1 92

1 headphone,
1 microphone

Sony PSPgo

MSRP: $249.99*
SKU 9459659

16GB

Memory Stick Micro

None; download to
internal and remov-
able memory only

480x272

1 USB,

1 headphone

Sony PlayStation
Portable 3000

MSRP: $169.99*
SKU 91 75082

64MB

Memory Stick Duo

UMD (Universal
Media Disc)

480x272

1 video out/
headset, 1 USB,
1 DC out

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse

68 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

GAMING, MEDIA & MORE

Included

Online

Wi-Fi access;

Parental

Compatible

accessories &

Available

community

Media streaming

controls

game formats

services

accessories

Controllers

Perfect for

Web site

Access the Inter-

Help parents de-

Game titles that

Accessories

Extras that can

Included

Who can benefit

membership

net without a

cide what content

can be played on

included with

help enhance

controllers;

from the special

for downloads,

cable hookup;

their kids can or

the game system

the console

your gameplay

wired/wireless

features the gaming

upgrades, and

Send and receive

cannot access

controller com-

system offers

media wirelessly

patibility

Yes, free

Yes, 802.1 Ib/g;

Included, options

Sony Play-

DualShock 3 wire-

Blu-ray remote,

Includes 1

Someone who wants

PlayStation

Yes

available for PS3

Station 3 titles

less controller, USB

Bluetooth head-

DualShock 3

the value of a full

Network

games, BDs,

and select

cable, PlayStation

set, memory card

wireless con-

gaming system with

membership

DVDs, and

PlayStation

Network member-

adapter, wireless

troller; wireless

a BD player and

Internet

titles

ship, A/V cable

keypad, cables

media streaming

Nintendo Wi-Fi

Yes, 802.1 Ib/g;

Included, options

Nintendo

Wii remote and

Wireless Wii

Includes 1 wire-

Gamers of any

Connection

Netflix streaming

available for Wii

GameCube

nunchuck, sensor

remote, wheel,

less Wii remote

age who want a

titles, online fea-

and Wii titles

bar, Wii Sports

classic (wired)

and nunchuck;

unique wireless

tures and down-

game, console

controllers, wire-

both

gaming experience

loads, and more

stand, A/V cable,
adapter

less sensor bar

(some titles require
a wired remote)

that requires little
gaming knowledge

Yes, free Silver

Available with

Included, options

All Xbox 360

Wireless con-

HDMI cable,

Includes 1 wire-

Those who want to

membership to

optional net-

available for Xbox

games and more

troller, headset,

Xbox 360 hard

less controller;

play games in HD

Xbox Live and

working adapter

Elite console and

than 300 Xbox

A/V cable, net-

drive, universal

wireless

with full theatrical

free Gold mem-

accessory; Yes

Xbox Live

games

work cable,

media remote,

sound and need a con-

bership for one

Netflix trial

networking

sole with plenty

month

adapter

of hard drive space

Nintendo Wi-Fi

Yes; Yes

Included, options

Nintendo DSi

AC adapter,

Audio headset,

N/A

Users who want a

Connection

available for
Nintendo DSi
content

and Nintendo
DS titles

2 styli

battery power
pack, screen pro-
tectors, carrying
cases, styli

handheld gaming
system that lets them
take, personalize, and
share photos

Nintendo Wi-Fi

Yes; Yes

Included, options

N/A

Rechargeable bat-

Cases, adapters,

N/A

Those who want a

Connection

available for DSi
software, DSi
Browser, DSi
Shop, and more

tery, AC adapter,
stylus, and 4
preinstalled titles

headphones, full-
sized stylus

handheld gaming
system better-suited
for social gaming with
a large screen

Yes, PlayStation

Yes, 802.11b; Yes

Included

Available for

AC adapter,

Protective screen

N/A

Those who need a

Network

download from
PlayStation store

USB cable

film, cradle, head-
phones, memory
cards, cases

bigger screen for their
gaming, Internet, and
media entertainment

Yes, free

Yes, 802.11b; No

Included, options

PlayStation

AC adapter,

Battery charger,

N/A

Those who want to

PlayStation

available for

Portable titles

battery pack

travel case,

enjoy gaming as well

Network

UMDs, Internet,

memory cards,

as movies, photos,

membership

and video down-
loads

A/V cable, AC
adapter, car
adapter

and music when
they're on the go

Pirc+^lirmr^cci

First Glimpse/ July 2010 69

GAMING, MEDIA & MORE

NOTEWORTHY

Accessories
& Services

RACING WHEELS

• A gaming steering wheel
puts you in the driver's
seat of a virtual race

• A comfortable, accurate
wheel will give you more
control with turns, braking,
and acceleration

• Be sure to purchase a
racing wheel that's com-
patible with your specific
gaming console

• Adding a keyboard can
help game efficiency —
type in text codes and chat
with other players quickly

• Look for a model with a
touchpad so you can
easily scroll around the
game display

• Models that offer hotkeys
will enable you to quickly
perform tasks, such as
gameplay actions

USB DEVICES

A USB media hub will
let you connect other
USB devices (including
MP3 players and portable
gaming devices) to your
game console
Use a USB rechargeable
battery pack to charge
the Li-Ion battery for guitar
controllers

• Add a heavy-duty bass
pedal to your gaming drum
set to replace your stan-
dard pedal

• A tripod microphone stand
will make your song-based
games more true to life

• Extra cymbals for your
rock drum kit will give you
more freedom to express
musical ability

The gaming experience goes beyond the game itself — you
need the right console peripherals and the best just-in-case
services. We've compiled a list of some of the must-have
accessories that will only enhance your gameplay, so be
sure to remember these items on the next trip to your local
CE retailer.

EXTERNAL MEMORY

• External hard drives, USB
drives, or memory cards
back up your in-progress
games

• When additional memory
is connected to live (on-
line) games, you can save
gaming content and
downloads

• The more memory you
have, the more games and
downloads you'll be able
to store

• Use a hands-free headset to
enhance your gaming expe-
rience by planning strate-
gies aloud with your team

• A Bluetooth 2.0 headset is
designed to communicate
with your gaming console;
Bluetooth headsets will be
compatible with most
game consoles

• Consider noise-canceling
headsets with echo-mini-
mizing microphones so
you can hear and be
heard clearly

• Bluetooth technology lets
you play while also
having the freedom to
move around

• Some controllers use tra-
ditional AAA batteries to
sustain your playing time

• Find the best design for
your grip: ergonomic or
traditional

Your local CE retailer pro-
vides some helpful services,
both in-home and in-store, to
enhance your gaming con-
sole. Specifically, the profes-
sionals can set up online
connections, install system
updates, and transfer data to
a gaming storage device.

• Configure online accounts

• Console system updates

• Stream media from a PC
to a gaming console

• Connect a console to a
home-theater system

FirstGlimpse,

70 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

APPLIANCES

HOW TO BUY

A Refrigerator

What You Should Know

Find Your Type

Refrigerator types are broken down according to a model's
freezer placement:

• Top-freezer models are broken horizontally with the
freezer located above the fridge

• Bottom-freezer models are also split horizontally, but
freezer access is located below the refrigerator door

• Side-by-side models are split in half vertically, with the
freezer on the left side and fridge on the right

• French-door models have a top fridge compartment split
vertically and a freezer located below

• If you want a fridge that sits flush with your kitchen cabi-
netry, look for a counter-depth model

Samsung's RF4287
Four-Door Refrigerator
$2,999 | www.samsung.com

Energy Efficiency

Regardless of the refrigerator type you choose, you can
save money with an Energy Star-qualified model:

• Energy Star models only use 435kWh and cost $48 to
annually operate

• Models often feature LED lighting, self-adjusting thermo-
stats, self-closing freezer doors, or alarms that go off when
a fridge door is left open

Consider Capacity

To avoid wasted storage space and energy, select a fridge
with the correct capacity:

• Households with one to three people should look for a
fridge with no more than 1 1 cubic feet

• A family of four should opt for a model with at least 14
cubic feet

• If you have more than four people in your home, consider a
fridge with 1 8 cubic feet or more

Other Features

Depending on your daily use, you can find beneficial
eatures such as:

• Specialized organization to accommodate gallon con-
tainers, pizza boxes, eggs, and more

• Digital temperature controls that allow you to maintain
more accurate cooling levels

• In-door ice and water systems give you convenient ac-
cess and typically make room for additional freezer
space

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 71

APPLIANCES

More Innovation
More Organization

French Door Refrigerators For Every Style & Space

Convenience, organization and innova-
tive features — these are just some of the
many benefits of owning an LG French
door refrigerator. With plenty of EN-
ERGY STAR® qualified options, LG re-
frigerators fit your lifestyle — and your
kitchen — perfectly.

Convenient Configuration

The unique bottom freezer design vir-
tually turned the refrigeration industry
on its head. But LG French door re-
frigerators take that design one step
further — for even more convenience.
A wide selection gives you plenty of
options — dispensing, non-dispensing,
3-door and 4-door models. The French
doors allow you wide-open access for
storing everything from pizza to party
trays. Plus, the twin doors require less
clearance to open, so they fit comfort-
ably in tight spaces or opposite
kitchen islands. Capacities range from
the compact 20 cu. ft. to the ultra-
large 28 cu. ft., so you'll get all the
space you need.

The Ultimate
In Organization

Many models feature the 4-compartment
crisper system that allows you to neatly
store everything from party trays to fruits
and vegetables. Double freezer drawers
on 4-door models give you organized
storage and easy access to the things you
reach for often — while you also get
plenty of space for things you don't.

72 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

LG 25 Cubic Foot
French Door Refrigerator

LFX25978ST $2,499.99
LG 28 Cubic Foot
Ultra Capacity
4-Door Refrigerator

LMX28988ST $2,999.99

Innovative Features

Like having ice but don't want to give
up storage space to get it? The Slim
SpacePlus™ ice system creates more
usable shelf space by locating the ice

LG Slim
SpacePlus™
ice system
gives you
more usable
shelf space
and ice on
demand.

FirstGlimpse

maker on the door, and allowing full
use of the entire height of the top
shelf — without sacrificing door space.
Select models also offer the industry's
tallest dispenser*, so you can easily fill
glasses, pitchers, coffee pots, water bot-
tles, vases and more.

Sleek Style

No matter what French door configu-
ration you decide on, LG offers sleek
finishes that are sure to fit your style.
Choose from smooth black, smooth
white or stainless steel, and make your
kitchen as beautiful as it is functional.
And for a sleek built-in look, the
modern counter depth design option is
also available.

*Compared to other leading ice & water French door refrigerators.

APPLIANCES

LG ENERGY STAR Qualified French Door Refrigerators

r i

-J

)

4-Door French Door
Dispensing

■

Model

SKU

Stainless Reg. $*

Black/White Reg. $*

ENERGY STAR®

Cabinet Opening

Capacity

Counter Depth

LMX25988ST
TBD

LMX25984ST
9794348

LMX28988ST
9818297

$2,799.99

$2,599.99

$2,999.99

$2,499.99

$2,299.99

$2,699.99

Yes

33 inches

36 inches

25 cubic feet

28 cubic feet

LMX21984ST

Ava

ilal

3\e

Colors

nan

□ ■□

3-Door French Door
Dispensing

Stainless Reg. $*

Black/White Reg. $*

ENERGY STAR®

Cabinet Opening

Capacity

Counter Depth

Available Colors

—

LFX25978ST
TBD

$2,499.99

$2,199.99

Yes

33 inches

25 cubic feet

LFX25976ST
9808272

$2,399.99

$2,099.99

Yes

36 inches

25 cubic feet

LFX21976ST

□ ■□ DBD

LFX28978ST
9848949

$2,699.99

$2,399.99

Yes

36 inches
28 cubic feet

□ ■□

3-Door French Door
Non-Dispensing

Stainless Reg. $*

Black/White Reg. $*

ENERGY STAR®

^auinei wpenmg

Capacity

Counter Depth

Available Colors

LFC20760ST
8828049

$1,499.99

$1,199.99

Yes

30 inches

20 cubic feet

□ ■□

LFC23760ST
8829743

$1,599.99

$1,299.99

Yes

33 inches

23 cubic feet

□ ■□

LFC25776ST
TBD

$1,799.99

$1,499.99

Yes

36 inches

25 cubic feet

LFC21776ST

□ ■□

^^r

IBB

ENERGY STAR® qualified refriger-
ators have features that help save
energy — that means you can save
money on utility bills for the life-
time of the appliance.

Whether you're shopping for a
specific style, size, finish or fea-
ture, LG offers a wide selection of
ENERGY STAR® qualified French
door refrigerators. Designed to fit
your lifestyle and your space, LG
has a refrigerator for everyone —
and the perfect one for you.

The Key Features

A ICE & WATER DISPENSING

9 ULTRA CAPACITY

A SLIM SPACEPLUS™ ICE SYSTEM

9 COUNTER DEPTH AVAILABLE

Life's Good

FirstGlimpse

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 73

APPLIANCES

NEW ARRIVAL

Freshness & Flexibility

Samsung's RF4287 Four-Door Refrigerator ! t-

Too many refrigerators are "one-feature-fits-all/' leaving them un-
able to adjust to your family's needs. And if you're always multi-
tasking, you need a refrigerator that can tackle more than your
typical ice box. With its counter-height adjustable temperature
mid-drawer and innovative cooling system, Samsung's Four-Door
RF4287 ($2,999.99; www.samsung.com) was built with life's
changing requirements in mind.

Flexible Features

The RF4287 can pull double duty helping you entertain on the week-
ends or feeding your family during the week, thanks to the FlexZone
drawer, which:

• Provides four (or fewer) adjustable compartments to lodge serving
dishes and food items of different shapes and sizes

• Sits at counter-top level with an EZ-Open Handle™ and opens sepa-
rately from the fridge's exterior, so anyone in the family can grab a snack

Coolest Feature: The FlexZone drawer provides separate temper-
ature settings and an adjustable divider to accommodate partic-
ular items that require different chill levels, such as cold drinks, deli
meats, snacks, and party hors d'oeuvres.

Effortless
Efficiency

The RF4287 has a
handful of energy-
efficient features,
including:

• An alarm to let
you know when
the door isn't
tightly closed

• Energy Star-
qualified

• Interior energy-effi-
cient LED lighting

The Right
Amount Of Cool

The RF4287's Twin Cooling Plus system
will save you time and money because:

• The refrigerator and freezer have sepa-
rate airflows to keep the freezer air dry
and to maintain a 75% humidity level
in the refrigerator, keeping food
fresher longer

• The Twin Cooling Plus system keeps
your food fresh for longer periods of
time, so you're able to make fewer
trips to the grocery store and spend
more time at home

FirstGlimpse

Samsung RF4287
Highlights

• Spacious 28-cubic-foot interior

• FlexZone drawer with EZ-Open Handle™
and up to four flexible size compartments

• Twin Cooling Plus system keeps food
fresher longer

• Sophisticated French, four-door design
with your choice of a black, white, stain-
less platinum, or stainless steel exterior

• External filtered ice and water dispenser

• Bright interior LED lighting that's energy-
efficient

•*

74 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

APPLIANCES

Select The Right Samsung Refrigerator

With the number of technologically advanced refrigerators available from Samsung, you can select an appliance
that fits your lifestyle needs and budget. To find the refrigerator that best suits your needs, consult the breakdown
below for the advanced innovations and benefits that select Samsung refrigerators deliver.

AMSUN

Product Name
SKU

RS261MD

9747165

RS265TD

9791769

RF266AE

9499027

RSG257AA

8763144

RF267AE

9510004

RFG297AA

8763153

$1,099.99

Width 35-3/4

$1,599.99

35-3/4

$1,799.99

35-3/4

$2,299.99

35-15/16

$2,399.99

35-3/4

$2,699.99

35-3/4

RF4287HA

9790988

$2,999.99

35-3/4

Height To Top Of Refrigerator

68-5/8

-1/2

68-5/8

-1/2

68-1/2

Height To Top Of Door Hinge

69-7/8

'-3/4

69-7/8

Counter Depth

Yes

Depth Less Door

29-5/8

29-1/8

23-5/8

29-1/8

29-7/8

Depth Without Handles

33-15/16

27-7/16

33-3/4

Depth Including Handles

36-1/2

35-5/8

36-1/4

Depth With Door 90° Open 46-3/1 6

46-3/1 6

47-3/4

45-7/1 1

47-3/4

Side-by-side

French door

Side-by-side

French door

Freezer Capacity

Food Capacity

Temperature
Control Type

Twin Cooling
System

Power Freeze &
Power Cooling

Humidity-
Controlled Crisper

Energy

| Consumption

(kWh/year)

Thru-The-Door
Water Dispenser

Thru-The-Door
Ice Dispenser

Other Colors

Other Features

9.4 cubic feet

9.7 cubic feet

8.1 cubic feet

9.3 cubic feet

8.1 cubic feet

9 cubic feet

1 6.2 cubic feet

15.8 cubic feet

17.7 cubic feet

15.2 cubic feet

1 7.4 cubic feet

1 9.5 cubic feet

Graphic Display

Digital

Yes

543

502

462

560

519

550

Yes

White,
Stainless steel

Black

Black, White,
Stainless steel

Black, White

295 pounds

308 pounds

254 pounds

328 pounds

Six temperature
settings, two
gallon door bins,
and LED lighting

Two clear crisper
drawers, Multi Air
Flow technology,
five clear door
bins, and two
gallon bins

Cool Select pantry
drawer, freezer
drawer with EZ-
Open Handle,
and five door bins

Six temperature
sensors, egg con-
tainer, wine rack,
and gallon door
bins

Cool Select pantry
drawer and three
gallon-size door
bins

Surround Air
Flow, three
gallon-size door
bins, and freezer
door EZ-Open
Handle

48-5/8

French door

7.7 cubic feet

20.3 cubic feet

Digital

Yes

562

Yes

Black

361 pounds

4 cubic foot Flex-
Zone drawer, two
gallon-size door
bins, Surround
Air Flow, and
pizza pocket

All measurements are in inches.

FirstGlimpse

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 75

APPLIANCES

Refrigeration That Saves You Time & Money

Frigidaire (www.frigidaire.com) is committed to designing high-performance appliances with effortless features that
can help you get the job done quickly. Frigidaire refrigerators are also 1 0% to 80% more energy-efficient than non-
Energy Star-qualified appliances. Below are some models that can help you save money and the environment.

FRIGIDAIRE

Features

Highlighted Features

Also
Available

Top Mount

18 Cubic Foot

Refrigerator

FFTR1814LW

MSRP: $499*

SKU: 8726284

Store-More™ Humidity-Controlled Crisper
Drawers and Gallon Door Shelf
Full-Width Freezer Shelf and Racks
Half-Width Freezer Shelf
Ready-Select™ Controls
Clear Dairy Door
Reversible Door

SpaceWise Adjustable Wire
Shelves. Easily adjust shelves up
and down to create more space
for taller items.

FFTR1814LB

Top Mount

18 Cubic Foot

Refrigerator

FFHT1817LS

MSRP: $649*

SKU: 9793794

Store-More™ Humidity-Controlled Crisper
Drawers and Gallon Door Shelf
Full-Width Freezer Shelf and Racks
Ready-Select™ Controls
Cool Zone™ Drawer
Clear Dairy Door
Reversible Door
Stainless Steel Exterior

ENERGY STAR. Frigidaire EN-
ERGY STAR refrigerators use
1 0% less energy; even less en-
ergy than it takes to run a 60
watt light bulb. This keeps more
money in your pocket instead of
the utility company's.

FFTR1814LM
FFHT1814LW
FFHT1814LB

Top Mount

21 Cubic Foot
Refrigerator

FFHT2117LB

MSRP: $649*

SKU: 9793685

Store-More™ Humidity-Controlled Crisper
Drawers and Gallon Door Shelf
Full-Width Freezer Shelf and Bins
Ready-Select™ Controls
Cool Zone™ Drawer
Clear Dairy Door
Reversible Door

SpillSafe® Adjustable Glass
Shelves. Adjustable shelves are
designed to keep spills con-
tained, making cleanup a breeze.

FFHT1826LW

Top Mount

18 Cubic Foot

Refrigerator

FFHT1826LB

MSRP: $679*

SKU: 9793667

Space-Wise Adjustable Glass Shelves
Store-More™ Humidity-Controlled Crisper
Drawers and Gallon Door Shelf
Full- Width Freezer Shelf and Racks
Ready-Select™ Controls
Cool Zone™ Drawer
Clear dairy Door
Reversible Door

Store-More™ Capacity. Large
Capacity refrigerator gives you
room to store more. Store-
More™ Organizational System
includes gallon door bins,
stacked drawers, and adjustable
door bins to keep food
organized and easy to
find.

mmm

FFHT2117LW

Side-By-Side

26 Cubic Foot
Refrigerator 1 "

BFHS2611LM

MSRP: $899*

SKU: 9830623

PureSource3® Water Filtration
Store-More™ Humidity-Controlled Crisper
Drawers and Gallon Door Bins
Spill-Safe® Shelves
Energy-Saver™ Plus Technology
Ready-Select™ Controls
Store-More™ Capacity

Silver Mist Finish. Unique Silver
Mist finish reduces finger prints
and smudges so it's easy to
clean.

FFHS2611LW
FFHS2611LB

EKEE2

Side-By-Side

26 Cubic Foot

Refrigerator 1

FFUS2613LS

MSRP: $1,099*

SKU: 9793721

Highest ENERGY STAR Rating

Frigidaire's selection of Tier 3
ENERGY STAR-certified
refrigerators are 30% more
efficient than the federal
standard. That saves
more energy and more
money on utility bills.

FFUS2613LPF

FUS2613LEF

FUS2613LM

t Standard depth model.

FirstGlimpse

*Prices listed in this issue are for general reference and may vary from retailer pricing.

76 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

Good For The Earth &
For You

Energy Star-qualified appliances
and small electronics adhere to
strict energy efficiency guidelines
set by the Environmental Protection
Agency and the Department of
Energy, which means you can pur-
chase with confidence when you
see the Energy Star logo. Updating
just five- or 1 0-year-old appliances
and electronics can significantly
decrease the amount of energy you
use and lead to cost savings.

Hot Stuff

Dish This

Older ovens with a self-cleaning

Forget prewashing. An Energy Star-

function can really make a dent

qualified dishwasher can do all the

your energy budget. But some new

work for you, and it can save gal-

models have a steam-cleaning ca-

lons of water. New rack designs

pability, which cleans with
water instead of excessive

maximize

Cooler Than Ever

exposure,

temperatures or harsh

and more

cleaners. And now, mi-

Most new refrigerators utilize

efficient

crowaves are considerably

advanced compressors and

jets can

more energy efficient, so get-

more insulation, which means

clean your

ting a more capable model

they save energy, keep food

dishes

can improve your energy sav-

cold and fresh for longer, and

using less

ings, as well.

run quieter than older fridges.

energy.

>. .,

FirstGlimpse

by Andrew Leibman

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 77

APPLIANCES

Hoover

Floorcare

As America's iconic home cleaning brand, Hoover® has been keeping The Standard For Clean Set On HIGH™ for more than 100 years and
2010 is no exception. If you haven't used a Hoover lately, now is the time.... this is definitely NOT your grandmother's Hoover!

WINDTUNNEL

WindTunnel® Rewind
Bagless Upright

MSRP: $129.99 SKU: 9497699

Hoover®'s WindTunnel® T-Series™ bagless upright vac-
uums combines a sleek, lightweight design with supe-
rior cleaning power. These products make thorough
cleaning simple, at a practical price. These vacuums
feature patented Hoover® Wind-Tunnel® technology
that removes embedded dirt* and minimizes blowback
or scatter on carpet. While each model is lightweight,
each offers all the power needed to get floors truly
clean with no loss of suction".
Features Include:

• Lightweight Design — Only
16.5 pounds

• WindTunnel® technology

• Cord Rewind with 27' Cord

• Intuitive Power Controls

• Rinsable filter and high-quality
filter made with HEPA media
(neither filter needs to be re-
placed during the warranty
period with proper care)

• No Scuff Bumper

5 Position Carpet Height
Adjustment
8' Stretch Hose
System Check Indicator
Easy Belt Change System &
Brushroll Access
Limited 2-year warranty

Hoover® Platinum Lightweight Bagged
Upright and Portable Canister

MSRP: $299.99 SKU: 9025271

The Hoover® Platinum Lightweight Bagged Upright of-
fers superior cleaning power that removes more dirt from
carpet, than other lightweight bagged upright models
tested*. Weighing less than 12 pounds, the vacuum is
easy to move from room to room, upstairs and
down, with little effort. The included Hoover®
Platinum Portable Canister has a convenient
shoulder strap, stretch hose and on-board
tools for all your above floor cleaning needs.
The Lightweight Bagged Upright features
patented Hoover® WindTunnel® technology that
removes embedded dirt* and minimizes blowback or
scatter on carpet, with all the power needed to get floors truly clean.

Features Include:

• Lightweight Design — Less than
12 pounds

WindTunnel® technology
Intuitive Power Controls with
high/low speed control
Easy-Change bag made with
HEPA media

Self-Sealing Bag

Bag Check Indicator

Extra-Long 35' Power Cord

No Scuff Bumper

Edge Cleaning Channels

Auto Height Adjustment

Limited 6-year warranty

Hoover LiNX™ Cordless Stick Vacuum

MSRP: $179.99 SKU: 9025253

The LiNX™ Cordless Stick Vacuum with Fade Free* Lithium
Ion rechargeable battery transforms daily hard floor
cleaning with cordless convenience and upright perfor-
mance". You'll have no need for a dustpan and broom
with this versatile stick vacuum in the kitchen. The fin-
gertip power controls and brushroll on/off switch, edge
cleaning bristles, low profile and extreme recline handle
allow for effortless cleaning, even under furniture.

The LiNX™ Cordless Stick Vacuum features a Cyclonic
Filtration System, which cleans the air moving through
the filter, as well as patented Hoover® WindTunnel®
technology that removes embedded dirt*", and gets
floors truly clean in a snap.

Features Include:

• LiNX™ Cordless Fade-Free*
Lithium-Ion Battery System

• Powered Brushroll with
WindTunnel® Technology

• Intuitive Power Controls

• Fuel Gauge

• Edge Cleaning Bristles

Wide Cleaner Mouth
Low Profile Base
Extreme Recline Handle
Bottom Release Dirt Cup
Limited 2-year warranty

■o 1 <

Hoover^ FloorMate™ Hard Floor Cleaner

MSRP: $149.99 SKU: 9878889

The new Hoover® FloorMate™ Hard Floor Cleaner with
SpinScrub® technology is the ultimate 3-in-1 cleaner that
vacuums, washes and dries hard floors with one simple
tool unlike any steam mop or mopping systems on the
market. The FloorMate™ Cleaner's two-tank system
keeps clean and dirty water separate so you never put
dirty water back on the floor, and the exclusive Hoover®
patented SpinScrub® technology with counter-rotating
brushes gently scrub from all angles to get sealed hard-
wood, tile and vinyl floors truly clean. Quick-drying
power gets the water off of floors quickly so you can get
back to living on them in minutes.

Features Include:

• New Multi-Purpose SpinScrub®
Technology

• Dual Tank Technology

• Quick Drying Power

• 13" Wide Cleaning Path

• Removable nozzles and
brushes

Beltless design
Folding Handle
Rubber Wheels
Limited 1 -year warranty

FirstGlimpse

78 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

APPLIANCES

Dirt Devil

Floorcare

Dirt Devil has been providing quality cleaning tools for families for more
than 20 years. With spirit and style to spare, Dirt Devil proves that when it
comes to vacuuming, redder is definitely better!

( \

Dirt Devil® Fantasy Tattoo Canisters ^Sl^^

MSRP: $79.99 SKU: 9878816 ^^^mV

Introducing the Fantasy Tattoo Canister, the JjF

only vacuum in the Dirt Devil family de- §3

signed in a variety of colors. Available for Jg

a limited time exclusively at Best Buy

stores and on BestBuy.com, this stylish 1

Pink Bouquet canister provides a light-

weight, yet powerful clean in an easy to

use machine — the hallmark of all Dirt

Devil® vacuums. All colors are

available for purchase on ^-^e: ^S

BestBuy.com. ^^ 6£4^k

^mJ0^\^

Features Include: ^^ '_ * J^ Ml ^% "

• Variable Speed Control \ H^^* B^J*

• Extension Wand ^41

• 11" Nozzle

• Automatic Cord Rewind H

• Full Bag Indicator flB -

• 20' Corel flfll ' J ( H

• 10 Amps Hi

• Limited 1 -year warranty

• On-Board Tools: Dusting Brush and Crevice Tool

V J

Dirt Devil® Gator Cordless Hand Vacuum

MSRP: $49.99 SKU: 9497626

Introducing the new Dirt Devil® Gator Cordless Hand Vacuum, designed
for the way people clean with a user-friendly, comfortable handle that is al-
ready in the right position for proper cleaning. A "pop and drop" dirt cup
means users can simply push the two side buttons to release it — no parts,
no mess — just clean hands. Plus, each
unit comes with a built-in crevice
tool that easily pulls out to get
into tight spaces. Available in
the signature Dirt Devil®
red, its sleek, cordless de-
sign makes it the perfect tool
for fast pick-ups on any surface.

Features Include:

• Easy-Use Dirt Cup

• Lightweight Design — only 5.2 lbs

• Brush Roll Attachment

• Sleek Design

• Built-in Crevice Tool

• Energy Star Rated

• 15.6 Volts

• Limited 3-year warranty

Dirt Devil® AccuCharge Stick Vacuum

MSRP: $59.99 SKU: 9501185

The Dirt Devil AccuCharge Stick Vacuum is lightweight yet
powerful and perfect for quick pickups on both carpet and
hardwood. This convenient vac features a swivel head for
easing cleaning around furniture and is complete with a
folding handle to make storage a snap.

Features Include:

• Energy Star certified

• Lightweight Design — only 5.85 lbs.

• Swivel Head

• Folding Handle

• Bagless Convenience

• Motorized Brush Roll

• 15.6 Volts of power

• Limited 2 -year warranty

Featherlite® Bagless Upright

MSRP: $69.99 SKU: 9877826

Introducing the new Dirt Devil® Featherlite Bagless
Vacuum, a compact upright with full power.
Weighing in at less than 1 5 pounds, the carrying
handle makes it easy to take up a flight of stairs,
and a Multi-Height Adjustment setting enables it
to clean all flooring types efficiently. When the
job is done, a Bottom Empty Dirt Cup makes it
easy to clean out for the next big job, and its
folding handle simplifies storage.

Features Include:

• Folding Handle

• Lightweight Design — only 14.65 lbs.

• Brush View Window

• Rinsable Filtration

• Multi-Height Adjustment

• Bottom Empty Dirt Cup

• No Scuff Bumper

• 25' Power Cord

• 12.0 Amps of power

• Limited 1 -year warranty

• Includes on-board tools, hose,
and turbo tool

FirstGlimpse

Dirt-

FirstGlimpse/ July 2010 79

APPLIANCES

eureka/

Invented for the way you dean 1 '

Pet Expert
3276BVZ

MSRP: $119.99 | SKU: 9840425

• Hair Raiser Pet self-
cleaning brush lets you
touch up upholstery
while leaving your
vacuum in the closet

• PET Power Paw® attach-
ment loosens, grabs,
and vacuums away hair

• HEPA charcoal filter
reduces odors as it
traps dust and pollen

Effective and
comfortable to
use, this cy-
clonic model
lets you empty
its dust chamber
without getting
pet dander all
over your hands.

No More
Pet Peeves

Eureka's Pet Model Vacuums
Remove Hair & Odors

Our clogs, cats, and other critters are part of our families. But
thanks to Eureka (eureka.com), their fallen fur and special
smells don't have to be part of our households.

The Boss @
SmartVac™ Pet
Lover 4870SZ

MSRP: $149.99 | SKU: 9533187

• A sealed vacuum path en-
sures that all airflow passes
through the HEPA filter

• Odor eliminating bag elimi-
nates pet odors and captures
allergy causing pet dander

• On/Off brush roll switch and
multi-position height adjust
allow you to easily pick up pet
hair and litter from any surface

Equipped with pow-
erful suction and
tools to get the job
done. Reduce pet
dander with the
Sealed HEPA Filter
System and elimi-
nate pet odors with
the Odor Elimin-
ating Bag

Pet Lover
Plus 8863AVZ

MSRP: $169.99 | SKU: 9840434

• Dual Powered Edge
Cleaners™ vacuum the
baseboards so you don't
have to

• Whirlwind® Cyclonic
Technology forces large
debris away from the filter
to maintain suction

• Its self-cleaning dust
brush telescopes to
reach up high

A sealed HEPA
filtration path
gives this Eureka
an edge in any
animal lover's
home. Break out
the Pet Power
Paw for those
favorite sleeping
spots.

Pet Lover Oh!
439AZ

MSRP: $79.99 | SKU: 8893129

• Telescopic Comfort-Grip
handle lets you adjust its
height with 13 settings

• Empty its dust cup
without a mess thanks to
Eureka's Pet Combo
Tool

• An allergen charcoal
filter catches the smells
and fur you could do
without

With a PET Power

Paw® attachment

and a slim II -inch

cleaning path, this

compact Pet Lover

goes where other

vacuums don't.

And at less than 12

pounds, it's usable

by anyone.

FirstGlimpse

80 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

GLIMPSE AROUND THE CORNER

A Peek At The Digital Future

Powerline
Networkina

Consumer electronics devices are con-
necting to the Web to bring all kinds of
new features to traditional devices, such
as audio and video streams to your
home theater, Internet-based weather re-
ports to radios and stereos, photo-sharing
to digital photo frames, and
more. But things get tricky
when it comes to net-
working these devices,
which are often dis-
tributed throughout
the house.

Wireless is great, but
only the latest wireless net-
ing gear can handle the high band-
width of HD content. Using wired
Ethernet is a more reliable and robust
means, but installing an Ethernet jack in
every room could be pricey and
labor-intensive. But with a pow-
erline network, you can keep
your connected devices online
without knocking holes in
your walls or upgrading your
entire home network. Read on
to find out how powerline net-
working combines the bandwidth of
wired networks with the ease of use re-
quired for a Wi-Fi network.

Online Outlets

A powerline network relies on an-
other kind of network that all homes
already include by default, the power
network. The electrical system in your

home consists of one or more fuse
boxes and copper wiring that runs be-
tween each power outlet to give your
electronics the current they require to
operate. A powerline network simply
taps into this existing network and uses
the copper wiring to pass data bits be-
tween powerline network adapters.
Powerline adapters utilize a technology
called OFDM (orthogonal frequency-
division multiplexing), which enables
the copper wiring to carry multiple data
streams even while powering appli-
ances and devices throughout your
home. The latest devices also work in-
dependent of line voltage and current
frequency to provide a consistent and
reliable networking experience.

This Internet access solution makes a lot
of sense because there's always an outlet
near the computer and another outlet
near the Internet-enabled devices you'll
likely be using. And if you can plug in a
power adapter and an Ethernet cable,
you can install and configure a powerline
network yourself in minutes.

Powerline Particulars

To build your own powerline network,
all you need is a pair of powerline net-
work adapters, which are typically
sold in pairs. Do note that you'll need
an additional powerline adapter for
each additional device you want to
connect to the network beyond the first
device. Installation generally involves

FirstGlimpse

First Glimpse/ July 2010 81

GLIMPSE AROUND THE CORNER

A Peek At The Digital Future

plugging a powerline adapter into a
wall outlet near the PC and running a
short length of Ethernet cable between
the powerline adapter and your
router. To complete the network setup,
simply plug a second powerline net-
work adapter (which will be the same
brand and model as the powerline
adapter plugged in near the PC) into
an outlet near the Internet-enabled
device, such as a gaming console in
the home theater, and run a short
length of Ethernet cable between the
device and the adapter.

Powerline's Pros

Powerline networking's biggest ben-
efit for users is that it requires no new
wires to work. And it's no bandwidth
slouch either; powerline networking
equipment that adheres to the Home-
Plug AV specification can handle
bandwidth-hungry HD video content
streaming between 200Mbps and up
to 1,000Mbps. Because power lines
can be shared between businesses
and homes, many powerline adapters
have built-in encryption that lets you
secure data traffic with the touch of
a button.

Powerline adapters are generally com-
patible with any device that communi-
cates over a standard Ethernet port,
such as desktop and notebook PCs,
game consoles, DVRs, network storage
devices, set-top boxes, Web-enabled
TVs, and more. Some powerline adapt-
ers also provide power, freeing up an
outlet for another device.

Additional features you'll find on pow-
erline networking equipment include
an auto detection capability, which
makes setting up a powerline network
plug-and-play simple, and an auto
sensor capability, which automatically

configures the network speed based on
current conditions.

Networking Simplified

Powerline networks offer many of the
same benefits you'll experience with

other networking technologies with
few of the drawbacks. In fact, you
might say powerline is the network
lifeline your home theater has been
longing for all along. \H

Netgear's Powerline
AV Ethernet Adapter Kit

You already know how easy it is to build a powerline network, but with
Netgear's Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter Kit (Model XAVB 101: $129.99;
www.netgear.com), you get loads of features that make getting your Internet-
capable devices online easy, no matter where in your home they reside.

The Netgear Powerline AV Ethernet Adapter Kit, as its name suggests, relies
on the HomePlug AV specification, meaning it is designed to handle the band-
width and quality of service demands of home- theater applications. These units
support a data rate of up to 200Mbps, which is enough to transmit visually stun-
ning HD video to your home-theater equipment without a hiccup. The kit in-
cludes a pair of Netgear powerline Ethernet adapters, a 5-foot length of Ethernet
cable, and a setup CD. Each unit features three tri-color LEDs that indicate data
rate and connectivity, so you know at a glance if they're online. With the touch
of a button, you can enable 128-bit AES data encryption to make sure every-
thing that travels over the network is safe from prying eyes. These powerline
adapters can supply connected devices with both network connectivity and
power, as is the case with some wireless routers. This kit is generallv ranahle of
creating a powerline network in up to 5,000 square- foot homes.

FirstGlimpse

82 July 2010 / FirstGlimpseMag.com

Most consumer electronics are meant to be used inside,

but during the summer months, you and your family spend

most of your time outside. The following devices are meant to

be taken outside and include features that can enhance

the time you spend in the great outdoors.

Garmin
Dakota 20

Never lose your way
with a rugged i zed
outdoor GPS device
that can record
waypoints as
you go.
$349.99

Motorola Talkabout
Two-Way Radios

Keep in touch with the rest of your
party while hiking up a fourteener
or camping in a national park.
$67.99

Charbroil
Grill 2 Go

Grill on the
go in portable
style, whether you're
camping, tailgating,
or on a picnic.
$199.99

Insignia

Outdoor

speakers

Take your favorite tunes
outside to play during a Fourth
of July party or summer BBQ.
$99.97

%*'<

h2o Audio
Waterproof Earbuds

Listen to your favorite music while
doing laps at the local outdoor
pool or laying out at a waterpark.
$49.99

Kodak Playsport

With a waterproof camcorder,
you can capture video footage
of your kids playing at the •
beach for the first time.
$179.99

'■^ 1 ] M WJIJ; ££Ug^i

Since 1979, Sandhills Publishing has produced publications covering technology beginning with

the introduction of Processor. Over the years, the company has developed a complete line of computing

publications, encompassing Smart Computing, PC Today, Computer Power User, and First Glimpse.

Our plain-English approach has served audiences well for 30 years, ensuring they receive

accurate and unbiased technology information to meet their needs.

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