In September last year I called Netgear Nighthawk X4 “major disappointment routers second wave.” During testing, the device worked so bad that I promised will certainly come back to it after the company Netgear released a new firmware capable to take full advantage of its existing equipment. Soon it happened, and the current review fully replaces the previous one.

My initial testing based on firmware version 1.0.0.52. In the new version of firmware tests involved 1.0.0.76. If you purchased Nighthawk X4 and still have not updated the firmware, I strongly recommend to do it and install a latest version of the software.

I suspect that competitive pressures forced the company Netgear release their product too early, because the firmware update has led to a significant increase in its performance. If the old firmware Nighthawk X4 RT-AC87U conceded in all respects, the new software Netgear router not only significantly improve their results, but also bypassed in some tests the product ASUS.

Performance when using the bridge

However, to overcome the design of ASUS in all categories failed. If you want to get the best performance 802.11ac router, it must be docked to the second router, which will work as a wireless bridge. Connect client device to the bridge with a cable, and it establishes communication with the router, showing a very high-speed data transmission. Taking, for example, the Roku device or PC to use as a home theater, you’ll get the absolute best performance (of course, provided that the cable connecting Ethernet).

Netgear Nighthawk X4: revised version

The rear panel connectors are Nighthawk X4 5-port switch Gigabit Ethernet, power button and switch the LEDs on the front panel.

When I connected with the second Nighthawk X4 same router that is configured as a wireless bridge with a new firmware its capacity has grown by an average of 20% compared with what we saw earlier. But after installing the new firmware on the two routers from ASUS and configure one of them as a bridge, a combined system of ASUS demonstrated performance that is 24% higher performance Netgear.

Disappointing that Nighthawk X4, configured as a bridge, still can not find the SSID routers attached to the client device (one of them was working at 2.4 GHz and the other at 5 GHz). You have to enter this information manually, and if you make a mistake, it is necessary to reset all the settings and start all over again. Touch screen user interface ASUS RT-AC87U, and the router will find one and all SSID, then you only have to choose only the desired item from the list and enter the password. That’s the way it should be.

New firmware Netgear provides an even higher productivity growth compared with what we saw in the previous test when connected via Wi-Fi-adapter 802.11ac with USB. For these tests, I chose adapter ASUS USB-AC56. In such a scenario actually observed a significant increase in performance, however, most of its growth has fallen short distances (when the client device was at 3 and 6 meters from the router).

Netgear Nighthawk X4: revised version

When connected via Wi-Fi-adapter with USB interface 802.11ac new firmware Netgear provides an even higher productivity growth.

Interestingly, the ASUS RT-AC87U with the new firmware in two bandwidth tests, in contrast, fell, and in the tests at long range fell by almost half. On average, according to the results of testing in this scenario Nighthawk X4 was slightly ahead (4%) of its competitor.

Performance 802.11n network at 5 GHz

If your portable computer does not have built-in adapter 802.11ac, and you do not plan on buying it, perhaps you will be interested to learn how to work with 802.11ac router adapter 802.11n. In this test, I have been involved dual band adapter Intel Centrino Ultimate-N, built-in gaming notebook AVADirect, which I use for testing routers.

With the new firmware Nighthawk X4 performance in the most difficult test (for the organization of communication with home theater) at 5 GHz decreased. Although the client device closer to the router, then when it is placed in my home office, the signal on the way to the customer had to overcome more walls and insulation levels. When running the test elsewhere to improve or maintain performance at a constant level.

New firmware ASUS also proved to be slower than in the previous test. In the kitchen, the gap was minimal, but at longer distances, it increased. However, RT-AC87U with the new firmware generally run faster than Nighthawk X4 with new software code.

Performance 802.11n network at 2.4 GHz

The usefulness of this test is possible to argue because people are actively switching to standard 802.11ac, featuring higher performance. But, looking around your own home, I was surprised to find how many surveillance cameras and other devices are still connected to the network 802.11n 2.4 GHz.

Perhaps this figure looks even more interesting to others, because thanks to the new firmware performance Nighthawk X4 increased significantly (except for data transmission over long distances), while the firmware update ASUS, on the other hand, led to a serious reduction in the rate of RT-AC87U.

Performance with NAS

The New firmware provided a substantial increase in speed of operation both reading and writing. Given the fact that the router Nighthawk X4 is equipped with two USB 3.0 ports and one port eSATA, I decided to make important changes in the testing procedure. Previously, the files were transferred to the client PC via network cable with a mechanical hard drive with an interface USB 3.0. Now, however, I decided instead of a mechanical hard drive to use the solid-state drive with an interface USB 3.0.

The first thing I check how much time it will take to copy a collection of small files, totaling 10 GB SSD portable device in my desktop PC through a router Nighthawk X4 firmware that was used in the first review. Next, the same operation was carried out with a file size of 10 GB. The first two tests were tests “read” because the files were transferred to a portable SSD solid state drive on a desktop PC. In tests “on the record” the same files are copied to the solid state drive back to the desktop portable solid state drive connected to the router.

As can be seen from the chart, the new firmware Netgear really gives certain advantages in this area, especially in terms of the execution speed of write operations. But, in general, my opinion of NAS devices has changed. If they have for you is really important, the dedicated NAS device will be a better alternative.

Is it worth buying?

One of the distinguishing features of the router “second wave» Netgear Nighthawk X4 and ASUS RT-AC87U is the support of multi-technology MIMO, allowing the router to simultaneously serve multiple clients (simultaneously serve more than one client can all modern routers, but they give each client only of their attention, and then move on to the next cycle of the client).

But immediately after the appearance of the two routers on the market technology MU-MIMO are not supported. When this feature in the next firmware update finally included, support for MU-MIMO still does not bode well, in that case, if it is not supported by the client device. Given how the curve of the portable computer market behind the timing of the most modern equipment, it is unlikely in the near future is to wait for the embedded adapters Wi-Fi 802.11ac in laptops.

Given all this, after installing the new firmware and the observed productivity growth I have every right to increase the score Nighthawk X4 from 2.5 to 3.5 stars. New firmware ASUS RT-AC87U helped this device to save the title of the fastest current router. Let’s see what happens when I’m testing another batch.

Netgear Nighthawk X4 (model R7500)

Pluses:

• Dynamic Quality of Service (QoS);

• support for four spatial streams (4×4);

• the presence of two USB 3.0 ports and port eSATA.

Disadvantages:

• Router ASUS RT-AC87U, working together with a bridge 802.11ac standard is still much faster;

• support for MU-MIMO technology has yet to organize (the same applies to the device ASUS).

Findings

The new firmware has significantly changed my opinion of the router Netgear Nighthawk X4. This product was actually launched on the market in the unfinished version. Fortunately, the firmware can be rewritten. And if you bought the device R7500, before taking it to a service center, make sure that the changed firmware.

Price: $ 280.

Rating: 3.5

Source: Netgear

The post Router Netgear Nighthawk X4: Corrected version appeared first on Raqwe.

In the wake of the popularity of portable gadgets, many manufacturers have established production of various “smart” electronics, among which a special place is occupied by the device for a healthy lifestyle. Jawbone company recently updated its line, releasing another unusual fitness tracker UP Move. From conventional devices with such functionality, it is different in that it is made in the form of “pills”, which is installed in a special holder and is mounted on the clothes. The front surface of the device, equipped with 14 LEDs, displays the minimum amount of information. It is able to symbolically show time, the level of the current task and carry the device in sleep mode or active workout by long-pressing on it. For each exposure can enjoy the spectacle of lights winked in a circle. It looks very funny.

The model is powered by a standard battery CR2032, and its resources, according to the manufacturer, should be enough for half that for devices of this kind are very good. It is noteworthy that UP Move has just splash-proof so that when making water treatment it is better to take in order to avoid trouble.

In a clear plastic container stacked device itself, replaceable battery, clip for hanging on a backpack or clothing, the key to open the battery compartment, which is easily replaced by a coin, and very brief instructions.

The Basic kit is sufficient to monitor the conduct of training and passed the day steps. Lock with the backdrop is made entirely of medical grade plastic, which makes it water resistant, but you can not take advantage of the claimed function monitor sleep. To implement it, you need to purchase a bracelet with an open back, allows the device to directly adjacent to the wrist. He is available in two types – wide and narrow, as well as in different color versions.

Wear tracker on the clip I personally was uncomfortable all the time afraid of losing. The bracelet is made of hypoallergenic medical grade plastic, in this respect is much more convenient. However, my neutral light color, three days later became dirty gray and return it in its original condition was very problematic.

To activate the device you want to synchronize with your smartphone, which is first necessary to download the free app business under Android or IOS. Communication takes place simultaneously via WI-FI connection and characterized by the minimum voracity of the power interface Bluetooth 4.0 BLE. And since it is not supported by all smartphones, before buying is to clarify this point. The application interface is simple and very clear.

The software is able to track information about daily activities, sleep, and diet. However, it is desirable for the proper calculation constantly enter into the details of all the dishes and on the number, which is time consuming, but the monitoring exercise and sleep occurs with little or no involvement of the owner.

The day-to-day application builds graphs of motor activity, analyzes the quality of sleep, according to the interesting facts about health and strongly encourages. In achieving the goals on the day of the LEDs blink tracker in a circle, and the LED driving or sleep in the application starts to light up.

If I want to compete, then it is provided – you can share the results with the owners of the same device through the service Jawbone, as well as in social networks.

Subjectively, the data obtained with this apparatus, fairly accurate, but recurring problems with synchronization, which were treated reboot the device and smartphone.

Source: Jawbone

The post Fitness tracker Jawbone UP Move review: Personal Trainer appeared first on Raqwe.

Style – that’s what always been a PC manufactured by Voodoo, which a few years ago acquired HP. However, with the economic recession that has gripped the US desire to acquire high-end gaming machines have diminished consumer and brand Voodoo long disappeared into the vast ocean of products HP.

And now, like Venus, swimming to the shore in an open shell, she is reborn in the form of a laptop computer Omen, which, along with a great performance in games boasts a beautiful and slim figure. And let’s not underestimate the importance of style. Today, most manufacturers of gaming notebooks, with very few exceptions, readily willing to sacrifice exquisite design and throw existing strengths of the window of a flying train on rails in order to save on travel.

However, the creators Omen is not the case. The flowing lines of the computer draw attention before you open the display. And with a raised screen diagonal size is equal to 15.6 inches, thin base of the laptop resembles the blade and it creates a sense of floating in the surrounding area.

In its anterior part has a thickness Omen 15.5 mm and the rear – 19.9 mm. Just incredible. For comparison, the thickness of the front part likewise equipped Alienware pattern 13 was 26.3 mm and the rear – 28 mm.

Stylish solutions

Among other design, refinements should be noted Adjustable backlight that illuminates the dynamics keys WASD, the power button and three zones on the keyboard. Such a move is not new and has already met earlier, but still deserves the highest praise. Further, it is worth mentioning the joints. HP designers intentionally made part of the hinge chrome, and at the ends of its color changes like a hot exhaust pipe. LED backlighting enhances ventilation holes to create an atmosphere. Everything is done very nicely.

On the left side of the keyboard is a vertical row of programmable function keys. They are programmed very easily, but their options are limited. I have not managed to create macros for gamers used key sequences (for example, to reload by pressing the «R«, pauses 400 ms, and then press “1” to return to the main armament).

According to the designers of HP, a lot of the time it took them to ensure that originating from Omen reminded rustling sounds do not sit on a desk fan. Ambient air is sucked in through the holes located at the front of the bottom panel cools laptop components and thrown back. This approach helps inter alia to save key during prolonged cold gaming sessions.

I decided to check out a bold statement HP, reaching the top of the heat map Razer Blade Pro and Omen after hour cycle test execution Heaven 4.0 the basic version of DirectX 9. While the top panel, Razer Blade Pro warmed almost evenly among Omen most of the heat was concentrated in the back of the computer. The cooling system is really impressive when you consider how small and thin to get this laptop.

Glitter luxury

Some of the HP and does give a luxury. Touchscreens gamers do not need, and yet, on top of the display Omen posted the digital digitizer. Screen with a diagonal of 15.6 inches made of IPS technology and has a 72-percent color gamut, allowing a very juicy picture. Running several tests, I did not notice any failures in the color spectrum or any other shortcomings. The brightness is also evenly distributed.

Resolution of 1920×1080 pixels in an era of laptops 4K may seem modest, but HP explained that consciously went for it in order to reduce power consumption. Moreover, in practice, games rarely used resolution higher than 1920×1080, even if the monitor supports it.

For luxury, I would mention the presence and 16 GB memory type DDR3 / 1600 and SSD 512 GB M.2. By themselves the components no complaints, but they push the price up. Using the format M.2 is welcome, because it finally removes restrictions mSATA, which is superimposed on laptops over the past few years. The device M.2 Samsung, set in Omen, allows you to bring read and write speed up to 746 and 671 MB / s compared to 496 and 254 MB / s, which showed mSATA drive in the Razer Blade Pro.

Transferred to us for testing PC worth $ 2,100. HP offers nine different trim levels – some of them are considered optimal, we have yet to discuss. But for now, the most important for gaming laptops have the CPU and GPU, which in all trim levels are the same HP.

During ventilation air passes inwardly through apertures in the bottom panel and rears ejected.

Main components

Solving computational problems, HP laid on a quad-core Intel Core i7 4710HQ microarchitecture Haswell. But for a gaming notebook the most important – is the processing of graphics, which entrusted the GPU GeForce GTX 860M. As if trying to confuse us, NVIDIA offers just two different versions of 860M. One of them is based on the old architecture of Kepler while the other (the one installed in the laptop HP) is based on more productive architecture Maxwell. The graphics processor in different models attached Omen 2 or 4 GB of memory.

To appreciate what does still made Omen, I decided to compare this computer model 2014 Razer Blade Pro. According to its specifications, both gaming notebooks is very similar. Razer Blade Pro c 17-inch screen equipped with a processor located one step lower, and in exactly the same graphics chip GeForce GTX 860M based on the architecture Maxwell, albeit with 2 GB of memory on board.

Following the results of performance tests 3DMark, Tomb Raider and BioShock: Infinite Computer Omen has appeared a little faster, albeit slightly.

I ran other tests. But as the specifications of both notebooks are almost identical, any difference, as expected, have been identified.

It may be added that there were no attempts to modernize the CPU and GPU HP Omen and Razer Blade Pro manufacturers have not yet been taken.

Why 4GB?

Expediency equipment graphics cards 4GB of memory is now a lot of questions and does not give a significant performance boost in games. In fact, RAM or video card needs to operate at a higher resolution, or for highly active anti-aliasing.

Questions arise with respect to other solutions designers Omen. Graphics processor GeForce GTX 860M is best suited for 1080p resolution at 60 frames per second. If the laptop screen has a higher resolution requires an increase in the frame buffer, using this processor you can not provide an acceptable frame rate for the game. When translating test BioShock: Infinite and Tomb Raider at maximum frame rate image quality on both laptops dropped to 40 with a little. That’s not bad, but it is believed that the best perception of games needs 60 frames per second or higher. The only reason to increase the amount of memory available to the graphics processor coupled with the expectation that an increase in the framebuffer consoles PC games will also use more graphics memory.

But in this case HP makes sense to think about installing a graphics processor Omen next generation: Nvidia GeForce GTX 870M. In the end, it was the graphics processor has reduced the thickness of the notebook to 17.8 mm. According to the results of the test, this processor is 20-30% faster than the GTX 860M. The only obstacle is related to architecture – 870M processor architecture uses Kepler, and not Maxwell. Pay for it will have to heat and time PC is on battery. Razer Blade laptop I have not tested it, but if we start from a larger heat Razer Blade Pro, use it better to winter.

Battery: for good gaming machine

Games and long battery life hard to fit together, but they make friends helps architecture Haswell. I have implemented standardized tests PC Mark 8 Home Conventional and discovered that Razer Blade Pro 14 was slightly better than the Omen: 9345 points against 8346. However, the battery capacity from Razer Blade Pro 2014 is 78 watt-hours, and at Omen – 58 watt- hour. Screen brightness for both computers at the same time is equal to 130 units.

Since both notebooks are targeted primarily at the game, I decided to oppose the mixture, web browsing, photo editing and regular games PC Mark 8 pure gaming tests. The basis was taken the test Heaven 4.0 in basic mode.

Razer Blade Pro 2014 lasted only an hour. Outstanding result can not call it. Omen worked for 45 minutes longer. This means that the resources of HP Omen enough for a short flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles or to travel on commuter trains, and for the transcontinental flight, you will need extra batteries. Although, of course, taking into account the weight and size of the duration of the computer from independent power supply is not so bad.

The CPU also not be discounted

To evaluate the performance of the CPU, I performed on both devices test coding Handbrake: file of 30 GB is transformed into a file that can be played on the tablet Android. Here Omen thanks to its processor was a little faster, and both computers left far behind dual-core multithreaded. Do I need a quad-core processor with Hyper-Threading technology in the gaming laptop? Debatable, but for fans of games that only they are limited and controversial double. But if we assume that video transcoding has become a routine task for those receiving it from a variety of sources, additional cores and Hyper-Threading, of course, are an added advantage.

Welcome back …

Overall, the new gaming laptop deserves the name Omen. His appearance deserves special praise, and he has a good gaming performance with a very slim design and efficient heat removal system. And with the 4 GB and 16 GB of graphics memory, supplemented by solid state drive capacity of 512 GB, the price of $ 2,100. In comparison with laptops in its class is quite reasonable.

But buying Omen for myself, I would prefer to save and select a configuration with 2GB of video memory, 8 GB memory type DDR3 / 1600 and SSD 512 GB for $ 1,800.

Those who had the opportunity to observe the transformation of the company from beginner Voodoo PC market in a fairly recognizable brand in its niche, I can only sympathize. Instead flourish, as is the case with the Alienware after becoming a part of Dell, the brand gradually fade. However, the appearance of HP Omen gives some hope.

HP Omen: genes Voodoo, style and grace

Texture panel looks stylish but attracts fingerprints.

Pluses:

• cold enough to touch even in games.

• Surprisingly reasonable price for its class.

Disadvantages:

• Elegant notebook features a very weighty power adapter reminds sexy model dressed in “sweats” with sagging knees. Moreover, due to the short duration of the battery pack, this “brick”, apparently, you have to carry with you.

• The lid is literally attracted fingerprints.

Findings

New thin gaming laptop HP Omen, weighing 2.12 kg, has a stylish look, which has always been characteristic of the famous brand Voodoo and has sufficient headroom.

Price: $ 1,699.

Rating: 4 stars

Source: HP

The post Notebook HP Omen review: Genes Voodoo, style, and grace appeared first on Raqwe.

Do better and to reach for you people. Here is a general principle which must always adhere to manufacturers. But improvements are rarely the same successful as that proposed for $ 800. ElitePad tablet business in 1000 with a screen having a diagonal of 10.1 inches. Heir product ElitePad 900 with a single-core processor Intel Atom Z2760 was significantly faster quad-core Intel Atom Z3795 chip and display with higher resolution (1920×1200 pixels vs. 1280×800). The RAM is also doubled and reached 4 GB. Thus, the manufacturer has improved everything to complain ElitePad 900 users while maintaining its positive features. Even the length of the device from the battery, and that increased.

Scratch-resistant Gorilla Glass 3, protects the display, as well as aluminum rear and side panels are commendable. ElitePad 1000 meets the military standard MIL-STD810G, although I doubt that he would have lasted a long time under the pressure of my little goddaughter. Joke, even in her hands the tablet is likely to last for a long time.

With daily use and movies to the display ElitePad 1000 does not have any comments, but while charging the tablet, I noticed the uneven illumination along the edges of the screen. However, the unevenness of this was visible only on a solid dark background, and I soon forgot about it safely. But the icons and text elements of the windows on the screen, which has a diagonal of 10.1 inches and a resolution of 2.3 million. Points looked too small. I had to adjust the icons using the slider, change the size of the elements. Well, then I increase the size of the text.

Those who wish to get the tablet protected from external influences will have to accept some increase in its mass. Frankly, not too high a fee for increased survival device. Model ElitePad 1000, weighing 680 g, only a few tens of grams heavier ElitePad 900. At the convenience of carrying it with you is not reflected. Require only a few additional efforts by holding the tablet with one hand for a long time. If you hold the device with both hands, muscle tension is minimal, but in the supine position better still leaned it against his stomach, or to put on the stand.

Against the background of the docking station can be clearly seen that the model ElitePad 1000 G2 does have a very small thickness of the tablet running Windows 8.1.

Subjectively Windows 8.1 on ElitePad 1000 works pretty quickly – I never had to languish in anticipation of the opening of the next window or save the file. PCMark benchmark results confirmed the earlier assumptions: tablet scored 1595 points in the tests and creative workers in 2399. Duration of the device from the battery was quite decent 8 hours and 16 minutes. With video processing having to 1080p, it also coped pretty easy – a file of 30 GB with the movie “Master and Commander” play without a hitch.

Wireless communications have ElitePad 1000 provides interfaces 802.11 a / b / g / n, Bluetooth modules and broadband data. In the 802.11ac speed was excellent in 802.11n mode acceptable.

But the physical ports are, alas, not so much. During the panel, which is opened by pressing a paper clip on the lock button are audio output for headphones and connectors for SIM-card and card microSD. That’s all. You can compensate for this deficiency by means of additional accessories. When you connect the device to a docking station ElitePad Docking Station, offered for $ 149. You get four additional ports USB 2.0, HDMI and VGA, and audio line out. Somewhat cumbersome, but very useful.

In addition, users are able to purchase more compact adapters HDMI / VGA ($ 49.), Ethernet ($ 39.) And USB ($ 29.). For $ 249. For sale office suite with a full-size keyboard, USB ports, etc., and for $ 149. – Additional battery for continuous operation of the device for 20 hours. Naturally, the wear plate thickness of only 9.1 mm, in this case, will be much harder. So before you purchase such a device with many accessories, you should always ask yourself the question: “Why was I buy a tablet instead of a laptop?”

Storage still raises questions. Our device comes with a memory capacity of 64 GB eMMC, that is only the minimum necessary for the tablet business class. Fortunately, HP offers and model having 128 GB of internal memory.

Oddly enough, despite all the security plate ElitePad 1000 manufacturer’s warranty is limited to only one year. Paid support services purchased, in addition, provide for an increase in the warranty period of up to five years. On ElitePad, 1000 installed a complete business software package HP, including Trust Circles, Client Security Manager, and Device Access Manager.

Today business tablet with Windows 8.1, which would be better ElitePad 1000, perhaps not find HP and designers deserve special praise for the fact that they were able to improve all components requiring improvement, without significantly increasing the weight of the device. The tablet runs pretty fast for a long time and has a complete set of all necessary accessories.

Docking station ElitePad 1000 G2 is equipped with standard connectors D-Sub, HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, four USB ports and an opening for Kensigtonskogo castle.

Tablet HP ElitePad 1000 G2

Pluses:

• tablet with Windows 8.1 device is very thin;

• Meets military specifications MIL-STD810G.

Disadvantages:

• Built-in memory capacity of 64 GB eMMC has a rather low productivity and very limited storage space;

• lack of USB ports directly on the tablet.

Findings

HP has upgraded its product ElitePad, equipped with its high-resolution screen and a faster processor. The device meets the requirements of military specifications.

Price: $ 800.

Rating: 4

Source: HP

The post Tablet HP ElitePad 1000 G2 review: to cart and go! appeared first on Raqwe.

Without exception, all modern mobile devices have a common drawback – the time of their battery life is limited capacity of the battery used. Moreover, for a long time, each producer thought their cable interface – in fact, this approach allows you to bind users to a particular accessory manufacturer, which led to the very real mobile slavery. However, a few years ago, most manufacturers of smartphones and tablets has finally agreed on a single power connector microUSB – since all devices and batteries which serves lithium battery with a nominal voltage of 3.7 V, are able to be charged from the nests USB.

Such unification really makes life easier for users. However, in the field of power laptops and even some categories Tablet PC is not so rosy – there is no standard so far, so manufacturers put those connectors that are more suited to them – for one reason or another. However, there is a solution – universal autonomous chargers have included a lot of adapters, allowing adapt to many types of connectors used. In addition, they allow you to vary the output voltage, however, a relatively small range, which still can not cover all user queries.

We decided to carry out a comparative testing of several models of universal chargers to find out how they are easy to use.

iconBIT FTB20000M

The range of the company’s products have long been present iconBIT variety of power supplies. Naturally, the firm has not left unattended and rapidly growing market for mobile devices, offering users several models of compact notebook batteries.

For conducting tests we were given a mobile charger with index FTB20000M. The model comes in a cardboard box, the back of which is traditionally reserved for technical specifications – all in great detail and in Russian.

Set of more than rich. Has its own AC charger and a convenient carrying case with two compartments, which can accommodate the battery itself and all accompanying accessories. By the way, adapters, we counted as many as 20 pieces, in addition, there are two extensions, as well as special cables cable for connecting laptops Apple.

The housing is made of anodized aluminum. Located on the top panel indicators and output voltage of the internal battery, while the main connectors and controls placed on the front end of the device. There are a connector for the charger, and two output connectors – USB and versatile. By the way, very nice addition it was possible to select the output voltage – supported values of 12, 16 and 19 V. The choice is made by slightly recessed slide switch.

According to the specification, the maximum current through the USB connector must not exceed 2 A, while the output power notebook power is 60 watts.

Test trials have shown that the protection of the USB port is activated when the threshold is 2.5 A, which is even slightly higher than the stated figure. Output voltage is drops to 4.7 V. The high-voltage output freely withstand loads up to 3.5 A, and then activated built-in protection.

TopON Top-Max

Company TopON, known for its accessories for mobile devices, has introduced new products in a series of Top-Max, whose purpose is to charge all sorts of gadgets, if there is no power outlet nearby.

Charging is packed in a cardboard box with a transparent window through which the prospective buyer can look at the device “live”. On the back side you can see the technical specifications of the model, as well as learn about the device compatible with most laptops and netbooks.

Components do not let us down – except for mobile charging box contains 11 different connectors for connecting laptops, nine adapter to charge the device (power supply not included), paper guide, and of course, the universal connection cable. By the way, a special adapter for the Apple notebooks included not included.

Metal case on the top panel are placed two-line display and buttons for switching devices.

When initializing the first thing will be asked to choose the most appropriate output voltage is adjustable from 12 to 19, while the maximum value of the discharge current must not exceed 3.5 A.

An interesting feature: the device has two output connectors, one of which is made in the form factor USB – it is used to charge smartphones and tablets and is designed for a maximum current of 2 A. The testing showed that the current limit for him is 2.5 A – a further increase in consumption fire protection. The minimum value of the voltage in this case is 4.7 V.

Maximum output load intended for powering laptops, varies depending on the voltage. So, for a value of 12 V, the current can reach 6 A, whereas at 19 protection works at 4.4 A.

Hiper PS-221

This is an interesting charger provided to us for conducting tests, is not only excellent appearance and quality of workmanship, but also very rich set – manufacturer carefully put a lot of different adapters for connecting to mobile devices, including the technique of Apple, AC adapter, instructions and a handy bag for carrying and storing all this wealth.

The packaging is in a closed cardboard box, on the back side where you can find detailed technical documentation.

The housing is made of metal, plastic is present only in the side frame of the model. Battery indicator consists of four LEDs surrounding the power button. Next to it is another line is displayed, showing the nominal output voltage.

Main connectors placed on the front end panel – a 19 V input for external power supply, USB-connector and an outlet for charging laptop.

The main governing body is the button located on the top panel. It performs several functions – so, when pressed briefly indicates the charge status, long press to turn on or off, and double-click switches the output voltage. By the way, every time you turn the voltage value is always reset to 12 V.

USB-connector output current up to two amps. Testing has shown that the protection is triggered when the value of 2.8 A, the output voltage drops to 4.8 V, indicating a fairly powerful controller.

The maximum current that can issue a connector for charging laptop is 4 A, but this is true only for low output voltage. When installing 19 protection works on the load of 3.6 A.

Rombica NEO PRO180

Universal Charger represented a young company Rombica, designed for those who love to travel. It fits easily into a backpack or bag, and the relatively small size and good looks certainly please fans of fashion accessories.

The model is packed in a small cardboard box, made in bright colors. The back surface is fully occupied listing specifications in several languages, including Russian. On the side of the package is available with the types of connectors supplied and their applications.

Packaging is very good – in addition to traditional USB-cable with microUSB connector on the miniUSB adapter and universal cable supplied with 10 interchangeable connectors. Not forgotten, and users of products Apple – for them, the set includes two cables with MagSafe 1 and 2, respectively. Of course, not forgotten, and external power supply, which allows to recharge the unit from the usual outlets.

Its appearance resembles much thinner model Mac Mini – Unibody body style made of bright anodized aluminum quibble here is nothing.

To control the device designed single button placed on the top panel. It is responsible for turning on and off the battery, the battery level control, as well as for the selection of the output voltage – supported values 12, 16 and 19 V. There are four buttons around the display, made a ring shape – they represent the built-in battery. Another three LEDs can be seen on the side – they are responsible for the information on the output voltage of the converter.

Four connectors, all located on the front face of the charger. Accordingly, two USB-connectors are used to connect tablets and smartphones, and the remaining two are for external power supply and universal cable.

Battery capacity is 18,000 mA.ch while to fully charge it from an external power supply unit will take about three and a half hours.

According to the manufacturer, the maximum output current (connector to charge the laptop) is 3.2 A. Our test is not denied – protection works at a value of 19V / 3A. USB output also did not spoil the overall impression – on the weakest of them (1 A) fire protection in excess of the threshold of 1.5 A, while the voltage at the maximum load drops to 4.8 V.

Summarizing the results of our testing, we can recognize that all, without exception, we tested standalone chargers excellent job with its main task.

“Best Buy” we considered the model Hiper PS-221 – with relatively small dimensions of the device has sufficient capacity, and most importantly – more than attractive price.

But the “Editor’s Choice” was a device iconBIT FTB20000M, has an outstanding capacity built-in battery and a lot of extra features.

The post Review of external universal battery appeared first on Raqwe.

A faster processor significantly improves the performance of NAS devices in the management of files. Chip Intel Celeron J1800 with a clock speed of 2.4 GHz, installed in the model QNAP TS-251 with two-bay, and allows for other useful features, including video transcoding on the fly and the ability to run virtual machines. On a NAS device with Atom processor is not even worth trying to solve the problems of this kind. However, to run the application Virtualization Station, managing virtual machines, you will need at least 2 GB of RAM, and the currently available models cost $ 499. Comes with a memory capacity of only 1 GB.

The main value in the model QNAP TS-251 is what is inside her modest housing.

Given this price – cheaper for the company QNAP, but expensive for everyone else, including equipment Synology – it is not surprising that the main body manufacturer decided to save. Silver and white plastic TS-251 look cheap, while there are no compartments device locks. Fortunately, in this economy and ends (with the exception of only 1 GB of RAM). You get a two-port Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI port for connection of a display, two USB 2.0 ports and two ports USB 3.0. USB 3.0 port on the front panel is used to quickly copy the contents of the device to be connected via USB, on the internal drives.

Support is implemented virtual machines is significantly better than on the fly transcoding. Handed down to us by QNAP device (which was installed 4GB of memory) demonstrated excellent performance, managing while recording 10 GB of files and folders to ensure an average speed of 53 MB / s. Reading speed in this case amounted to 33.5 MB / s. One large file size of 10 GB was recorded at a rate of 105 MB / s. Of course, performance is very important, but it should be noted that in the world there are a lot of fast devices, which are much cheaper. The main advantage of QNAP products are considered to be the operating system and a set of software functions that would otherwise not be called as phenomenal. Complete windowed graphical user interface is implemented in HTML format and displayed in a browser environment. For those who have not seen it yet, be sure to watch the video posted on the website QNAP.

Naturally, it supports all the traditional network interfaces and access protocols (FTP, Telnet, SSH, etc.), multiplayer mode, the ability to share resources, quotas – in short, everything that is present in any device NAS. Implemented as a hosting server and centralized service functions: support for Web server and e-mail, content management, video surveillance, BitTorrent and other means of loading, XBMC playback of multimedia content on the connected display, streaming DLNA and iTunes, as well as the ability to save backups in the cloud.

There are also many other things, but among the latest additions in the first place should be allocated on the fly transcoding video and offline, as well as the ability to run virtual machines. The function of conversion, while in the current beta version is implemented fairly easy, but when working with mobile applications in real time much success in trying to get me to use it and failed.

In transmit to us QNAP device is a pair of 3-terabyte drives Seagate. But the mechanism that would allow these disks to fix inside the body, we have not discovered.

In general, you need to upload files to TS-251, make sure that the functions of multimedia information processing and conversion are activated, and using application QNAP Qfile (exists in versions for Android, iOS and Windows Phone), try to play the files on a portable device . At PC and Mac has its own codecs and transcoding is not required. Unfortunately, the application for Windows Phone, we did not work at all, and Android application failed to reproduce the files recorded in the format of the operating system.

Proceed to practice

Recoding files in streaming mode with video playback on mobile devices, we have carried out only at low resolution (480p or less) and not always successful. On the other hand, direct streaming DLNA worked perfectly (thanks to the wide choice of very functional player for all platforms). Recoding offline in MP4 format also performed very well. If you often have to deal with the video really makes sense to assign all tasks transcoding device NAS. It allows you to create files with a resolution of 240p, 320p, 480p, 720p and 1080p (as well as any combination thereof). Determine the maximum resolution, processed in streaming mode without delay, it should stop. Model TS-251 also supports Plex and AirPlay.

Do you want to perform on a NAS device applications that are not supported by him? Take advantage of QNAP Virtualization Station and run programs on a virtual machine.

With the launch of the virtual machines fared much better than transcoding on the fly. Software QNAP Virtualization Station is very similar to VMware and VirtualBox, except for the fact that its management is performed remotely via a web browser. I have most of the virtual machines is presented in the format of VirtualBox, and Virtualization Station supports only OVA / OVF (open virtual format) and QVM, so the virtual machine of Windows 7 had to be created from scratch.

During testing of Windows 7 virtual machine copes with consoles HTML5 and Java, although not as fast as the machine that is running on the local PC. However, to access the virtual machine anywhere in the world (provided that the remote access to the TS-251 you have) and know that any stored data will be safe in your home, is really impressive. Furthermore, the model TS-251 consumes considerably less power than most of the PC.

QNAP offers several free apps Android and iOS, including convenient remote control.

As already mentioned above, the TS-251 cost $ 499. In the standard package has only 1 GB of RAM, and that to start Virtualization Station is not enough. Modernization will require removing the case (at first, remove wheels) and remove the drive bay, so that technophobia it better not to engage in, and wait for the soon release with 4 GB of RAM for 559 dollars.

Another pitfall associated with the license to use the camera: Surveillance Station comes with two licenses, and Surveillance Station Pro with only one. Therefore, large-scale video surveillance system without having to purchase additional licenses you will not succeed, and each of them is worth $ 55. In fairness, it should be recognized that such a practice in the QNAP is not alone: Synology and EMC / Iomega adhere to the same policy. In any case, you are interested in studying the functional description, it is necessary to carefully read the fine print.

Is it worth buying?

Model TS-251 is one of the functional devices and fast NAS. It costs quite expensive, and for the efficient use of its capabilities in full is required to increase the RAM, but you can place on the device website and e-mail, control cameras, play multimedia content streaming and solve many other problems. Very valuable asset for those who need all those features.

If you are satisfied with a simple network storage that supports streaming, on sale there are many cheaper alternatives.

QNAP TurboNAS TS-251

Pluses:

• good performance;

• rich functionality of the software;

• the proposed equipment can take the place of multiple devices.

Disadvantages:

• There is no locking mechanism compartments with disk drives;

• opportunities for virtual machines need to increase the amount of RAM;

• A new function on the fly transcoding video may not work well.

Findings

Model TS-251 – one of the most functional and versatile devices, NAS, equipped with two compartments, in its price range. But it is worth it quite expensive, and the implementation of mobile multimedia functions leaves much to be desired.

The post NAS QNAP TS-251 review: Fast, versatile, expensive appeared first on Raqwe.

Large hybrids tablets with a monoblock recently become increasingly common, and the model Dell XPS 18 should be referred to the elite of this class. Weight and dimensions of the computer makes it easy to move it within the home. It features a gorgeous touch screen with a screen diagonal of 18.4 inches and comes with a charging cradle, from which it receives energy in stationary mode.

But no matter how I liked XPS 18 model, absolutely perfect it can not be named. The configuration, which I prefer – with the fastest processor Intel Core i74510U, 8 GB of memory type DDR3L / 1600 and high-speed solid state drive 256 GB – costs money: $ 1,500., To be exact. Dell is offering three less expensive models (with the same display, but less powerful processor, less memory and a mechanical hard drive, and in one case without charging cradle), but I am sure that impression of them will be different.

Disappointing and the fact that none of the four models no input HDMI (respectively, you can not use them as a display for the game console or set-top box), and none of them support the cable connection to the network. The computer on which I stopped my attention, is equipped with integrated Wi-Fi-adapter 2×2 Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260. With regard to the XPS 18 speakers, nothing good about them, I can not say (but more on that later).

Dell XPS 18 comes with very good wireless keyboard and wireless mouse excellent (but the mouse itself off after a few hours of downtime).

By now you probably already look at the four-star rating, and think about what I mean? Do not worry. Just wanted to immediately throw all negative. In general, XPS 18 is for me a typical midsize hybrid tablet with a monoblock.

Massive stand allows you to change the angles of the screen, so that you will be comfortable to look at him as sitting at a desk or standing. Necessary to achieve a snug fit electrical contacts, charge the battery, and I must admit that I every time have to make some effort before mechanical latch works properly. Check the result helps LED that lights up when the correct position finally found.

The tablet can be charged without the charging cradle. When buying XPS 18 I certainly would buy another power adapter, because every time to unravel the intricacies of wires and disconnect it from the stand is not too convenient. If this article will be read by engineers Dell, I would like to ask them to add to the next slot and Ethernet. Support for 802.11ac – certainly good, but the cable connection will always run faster. An Ethernet jack input and HDMI (I can not fail to mention again about sore) led me into a state of complete relaxation.

Disconnecting the display from the stand, you can use it as a regular tablet (the screen with an aluminum base and a magnesium frame weighs a little more than 2 kg). And if you bend a pair of legs from behind and put them on the screen, the computer turns into a candy bar. You can put a display on the table and play games together. And lifting the screen so that it rests on top of his feet part, you will add to it almost horizontal, but still inclined position. The strong folding legs Dell sells low-end model without charging cradle.

To use the XPS 18 in desktop mode, carry a charging cradle is not necessary.

XPS 18 managed on battery pretty impressive for 3 hours and 37 minutes. This is enough for watching movies and even gaming session. Note that in the testing process, we tried to give a large enough load, so you Battery life may vary. In Dell’s claim that if you leave a light sensor on, computer on battery power for more than 5 hours. We runtime tests disabled it, fixing brightness of 200 candelas per square meter.

WVA display with a diagonal of 18.4 inches looks great and provides excellent viewing angles. Fast and accurate response at a high level, including in the performance of gestures scaling. Movies look very good, especially when playing with a hard disk or a connected storage, but the translation of YouTube videos over Wi-Fi leads to delays. Perhaps this issue can be solved by using a router 802.11ac (I tested the computer in the office, where there was only access point 802.11n).

Faint sound

Ultra-slim screen design (its thickness is only 1.8 cm) leaves very little space speakers, and the sound of the tablet, it is as thin as himself. When listening to a cover version of the song «Heroes» David Bowie, Peter Gabriel performed (she entered the album «Scratch My Back»), open bass strings sounded like a cello, violin and cello reminded. Gabriel’s voice seemed to be emasculated and was filled with unpleasant hiss.

The speakers are located in the left and right ends of the display, but the sound penetrates through the rear grille. If you want to hear good sound, use headphones or connect external powered speakers.

The model allows to play some games, not very high requirements to the equipment (such as BioShock Infinite), subject to reduce the screen resolution and reduce the image quality. Fans of the most modern computer games do not like it, but Dell’s an audience and do not count. This machine is designed for families who want to install a PC for gaming and entertainment in the kitchen (in the office, living room or bedroom) and be able to quickly move it to another room (with keyboard, mouse and power supply or not).

Expensive? Yes, if you want to get the best possible configuration. Whether or not the computer that money? undoubtedly

Dell XPS 18

Pluses:

• powerful components;

• versatility;

• excellent display.

Disadvantages:

• lack of HDMI inputs and cable interface Ethernet;

• mediocre dynamics;

• to “wake up” mouse, you need to press.

Findings

XPS 18 – expensive model (in the chosen configuration), but this is the best laptop mid-size candy bar that I have ever seen.

The post Dell XPS 18 review: Almost perfect hybrid of tablet and desktop computer appeared first on Raqwe.

A couple of years ago from the portable player to achieve high-quality highly detailed sound was not a trivial task, and connoisseurs of high-quality audio for the most part had to be content with only their home system. Now, with the advent of high-definition audio formats (with a sampling rate of up to 24 bit / 192 kHz) and supporting their mobile players equipped with the highest level of “hardware”, the situation began to change for the better.

On the market there are very few models that can please the discerning connoisseurs of high-quality sound, and in this review we look at a few of these devices.

To assess the quality of the sound, we used a series of test tracks recorded in high definition. To listen to an excellent reinforcement used in-ear headphones Fostex TE-07 and full-size SOL Republic Master Tracks XC.

Cowon PLENUE 1

Model PLENUE 1, as befits a member of the upper class among portable players, looks strictly and very elegant. Unlike some members of the class, it is quite compact and looks like a small smartphone, only slightly thicker, so that fits in a shirt pocket without any problems. The build quality raises no objections. The housing is made of metal. On the sides of the cut applied attractive, and the panels themselves a little rough.

A display with a diagonal of 3.7 inches and a resolution of 480 × 800 pixels. Made on AMOLED-technology, it provides a good viewing angles, high contrast and brightness. But the glossy front panel is not too practical in everyday life.

Touch screen coating responsive and works as a rule, from the first, so that problems with control in the process of working with them does not arise. At one end of the provided analog buttons allow you to control the volume, switch tracks, etc. Built-in menu simple and affordable, with many options and they are extremely diverse. Provides the ability to sort by folder, by artist, by album, the chosen and the output tracks in alphabetical order. The advantages include the presence of orientation sensor helps you quickly move from the current track to the selection of albums among drenched in memory of the player. Why are only variations of EQ JetEffect 7 with the possibility of manual settings, including equalization, amplification and so on, which allows you to configure all the necessary nuances.

Heart Cowon PLENUE 1 is a dual-core ARM Cortex A9 processor with a clock frequency of 1.2 GHz. To improve the sound applied DAC Burr-Brown PCM1792A, has a very impressive performance. You can also note the presence of a great crystal oscillator, which makes it possible to use the player without loss of quality and the use of an additional amplifier with both low impedance and high-impedance headphones with.

The list of supported formats is very wide – DXD, DSD, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, APE, MP3, WMA, OGG. And the player has a 128 GB built-in memory, from which the user has access to about 116 GB. It can be expanded up to 256 GB by installing a removable MicroSD memory card corresponding volume. Conveniently, the slot is hidden on the bottom below the door. There is USB-interface and with the aid of which the charging and connection to a PC.

Rhythm sound player is not inferior to the best in its class, it worked out fine mid frequency range, top and bottoms are also not forgotten, well passed the scale and dynamics of the sound.

Built-in battery capacity of 3000 mAh. h lasts an average of 8.5 hours to play the music, which is pretty good for such devices.

The package includes a handy leather case protects the device well in the fall.

• Sound perfectly: Select Player High Definition
• Rating: 87 points

Astel & Kern AK120 II

This device produces a glance the most positive impression. Perfectly executed metal body fits comfortably in your hand. Is that the bulging side buttons for sound level adjustable, slightly spoils the impression. The device incorporates two DAC chip Cirrus Logic CS4398, each of which is responsible for its own channel. Similar used in the older and expensive model AK240. In addition, in AK120 II implemented a similar balanced amplifier with a proper balanced headphone output. This allows to improve the performance and reduce the amount of signal interference.

Used display with a diagonal of 3.31 inches is not too impressive performance. Apply AMOLED-matrix with good color and touch coating. By exploring the menu this player even slightly outperforms the model of the company Cowon, and although there are settings a little less, but the convenience of management above. Access to basic setting is the same as that of Android-smartphone – using flip the Quick Access Toolbar. Although the screen is quite small, however it displays significant amount of information. Touch coating works precisely and flawlessly.

Supported formats include WAV, FLAC, WMA, MP3, OGG, APE, AAC, ALAC, AIFF, as up to 24 bit / 192 kHz.

Thanks to the built-in interface Wi-FI, you can buy and download music in high quality special online stores directly from the player, as well as to update the firmware. Provides Bluetooth version 4.0, but I think it will be less in demand by users of this device.

Built-in memory here, like the competitive production unit Cowon, only 128 GB, but it can be easily expanded to removable memory cards of the same volume. But the speed at Astel & Kern AK120 II is slightly higher.

The disadvantages include a fairly significant heating of the case at work, which, incidentally, is peculiar and models Cowon PLENUE 1.

The sound of this player has a very warm and gentle nature, as well as his excellent tonal balance – to play an exceptionally natural. However, it is slightly inferior to rhythm device company Cowon.

Charge the internal battery lasts for an average of more than 10 hours of continuous playback.

Supplied wealth is not impressive, however, it includes a convenient carrying case.

• Sound perfectly: Select Player High Definition
• Rating: 85 points

Colorfly C4

Despite the fact that this apparatus belongs to the class of portable, it is made quite impressive, it easily in the pocket is not put. Also worth noting is that the design of this device have a very unique – its sides and back of the device are decorated with natural wood. The front part is largely framed artificially aged brass. But amid the luxury look pretty weird plastic controls, although they were intended, in general, not bad, that there is one only volume slider. Among the shortcomings is the lack of key lock controls.

All connectors, and a lot of them here, sheltered on the bottom: two headphone outputs (6,3- and 3,5 mm), USB-input, microSD slot and digital coaxial input and output. Used a good screen, but it should be noted not too large viewing angles and lack of brightness adjustment. The interface does not have any special frills, it is quite strict, but quite understandable. With control as much difficulty does not arise.

The design of the device used quality DAC Cirrus Logic CS4398. According to the manufacturer, the level of signal distortion in the player is only 0.005%, and the S / N ratio – 108 dB.

Supported file formats – MP3, WMA, FLAC, APE, WAV. Built-in memory of 32 GB, but it can be expanded memory cards.

However, if the rest of the review were “omnivores”, ie easily cope with the test compositions, this turned out to be finicky to tracks format FLAC, refusing to play 24-bit files. Nevertheless Player pleased quality sound.

As shown by communication with the player, when connected via a 6.3 mm jack audio quality was slightly higher than when using a standard 3.5mm input. We were pleased we have a good rhythm. The sound is dense, with a mass of details that can please the excellent quality audio.

Capacity built-in battery lasts for an average of 6 hours playback.

• Sound perfectly: Select Player High Definition
• Rating: 78 points

The post Review players high resolution appeared first on Raqwe.

Multifunction device – an indispensable thing for office or home. Today, on the market there are many such devices. Now very popular monochrome MFP, but many people need and color printing.

This review will consider several current models of multifunction devices targeted at home and in the office.

HP Officejet 7610 e-All-in-One

This model is compared to most competitors seems rather cumbersome. And all because she is able to work with documents in A3 format. Here is used for printing inkjet technology. As conceived by the manufacturer, this device is able to compete with a laser machine-oriented use in small and medium-sized offices.

Face of the device is a touch screen with a diagonal of just over 2.5 inches, with which you can operate in standalone mode. However, it is not always triggered willingly. You also have the ability to change the angle of the panel on which the screen. Connect the machine to the office network can be through both wired and wireless built-in interface. The device is equipped with a fax function, it is able to display both color and black and white posts.

For the media feed is used here cassette feeder up to 250 sheets of A4 or A3, which should be a bit modified.

Since the device is designed primarily for office use, are provided for the automatic document feeder on the scanner glass. However, this device is quite finicky work.

Like most modern models of HP, this device support JavaScript cloud printing ePrint. The gist of it is that the user can print, including remotely relevant information from any device, able to send e-mail.

This MFP has installed the client part of the software and its own unique e-mail address to which the user can from your desktop or mobile computer, PDA or smart phone to send the print job as attachments to email messages. Server environment processes the request and sends data to the device. The main thing that the printer was connected to the network. Now supported by the majority of the most common formats (documents Microsoft Office, files Adobe PDF, JPEG-images, etc).

Also in the model applied technology AirPrint, which provides direct printing from smartphones and tablets running mobile operating system, Apple iOS.

Used to scan the CDI module (Contact Image Sensor). This is not the best option to work with three-dimensional originals, but for document processing is well suited. Noise it is not too much, and color characteristics he is quite acceptable.

The printer device used for printing chetyrehkartridzhevaya scheme with pigment inks. And on sale there inkwells both standard and increased capacity. When using the first cost per print is quite significant, the second one allows to save a lot.

The output quality is quite acceptable documents. Nice to read fonts even scored very small a size, without the characteristic or the lowering of the teeth. But the graphics output is not as good as might be desired.

Fast mode is implemented well. At a much higher speed printing than in normal mode, it allows you to be nice to save ink. Fall saturation prints is about 20%, and the quality is reflected not much. However, the level of noise produced during operation, is unlikely to please.

Brother DCP-1512R

Brother has continued to experiment with design solutions. Its regular monochrome MFP looks stylish thanks to the use of plastic in different colors. Also worth noting is very compact device. All connection sockets are hidden in the recesses of the housing. There is also a display, though not as functional as many of its competitors.

Front cover tray serves as the paper.

Copy function performed on a conventional device of this class level. The copy is only slightly darker than the original, at the conclusion of the page takes about 14 seconds.

The scanner has an optical resolution of 600 × 1200 pixels. Just realized the scanner control program will not cause difficulties in the process.

This model has a separate drum, not combined with the cartridge. His projected resource is 10 000 prints, the price – about 4000 rubles.

Canon PIXMA MG5540

This model continued line of multifunction printers for home-oriented work with photographic images.

On its top panel placed a rather large color display. Well structured internal menu is easy to learn. The model provides automatic two-sided printing, and can also play the role of a network device in a wireless LAN. Its special features include support for integration with cloud services, as well as direct printing and scanning with tablets and smartphones. There used built-in power supply.

The device uses four-color printing system with separate ink tanks. Ensures the quality of the output is well suited for both photos and text to. When using a proprietary paper the result is close to the ideal, but at any other point shown image structure, particularly noticeable on the soft tone transitions.

Fast mode allows you to save a good idea – the fall prints saturation is about 30%, and this significantly affects the quality.

The scanning unit is configured based on the CDI module, which leads to a small depth of field performance and color variability. When scanning thick books noticeable problems do not occur because the cover provides a good pressing.

Xerox WorkCentre 6015NI

Another model of Xerox is focused on those who decided to build a small office, but wants to print in color. Design of the device is quite standard, except that finish in dark blue plastic catches the eye. The buttons on the front panel of a small, but quite comfortable. The build quality of the mark, did not falter and no backlash. It is worth noting the presence of a large monochrome display with LED backlight, which displays a significant amount of overhead. On the sidebar there is a key power outage.

Cassette feeder in this model is not provided, it performs the role of a hinged lid, which is not too convenient. Housed in the upper part of the output tray is made in the form of niches, equipped with a retractable guide. Its estimated capacity is approximately 100 sheets of A4.

The device used LED printing technology, the quality of the output is relatively high.

To scan module used OED, provides a resolution of 600 TND, which is enough for office use. Processing test scale IT-8 showed a slight shift to magenta channel. Colorfully made scanner driver plethora of options. Not happy, except that the high level of noise.

The presence of USB-ports allows you to connect to the MFP flash keychain to offline scan documents to them. Of the extra comforts worth noting the presence of the fax function and the ability to integrate into the local wired and wireless network.

The scanner cover is equipped with an automatic document feeder, which copes with its responsibilities, significantly speeding up the processing of sheet material. The main thing is that the sheets were not wrinkled, otherwise they can be permanently damaged. If we consider the operation of the scanner, it is worth noting the average speed characteristics. Scan a color photo format 10 × 15 mm (300 TND) takes 23 s, and black-and-white document A4 – 14. When copying machine a little nedokladyvaet toner, so that the intensity should increase slightly.

Ricoh SP C250SF

Colour MFP Ricoh SP C250SF focused on use in small and medium-sized offices. According to the manufacturer, it provides print speeds up to 20 pages per minute in both black and white and in color. The possibility of automatic two-sided printing. Place the unit will not take too much, it is quite compact models in its class.

The device can be used as a network in a wired LAN. Availability fax machine is a standard for many office machines, and this was no exception. The front panel has a numeric keypad, which is certainly convenient. There is also a small display, which displays the settings. Displaying information on the quality adjustment.

Menu is arranged logically, to master it will not be difficult.

The model is equipped with an automatic document feeder on the scanner glass. And he deals with them delicately, which is rare. The scanner device with a high-resolution, allows to obtain digital copies of the originals necessary.

The speed of the MFP can be called high – processing color original A4 format with a resolution of 300 TND takes about 18 seconds. And up to 10 sheets of 42 leaves. Noise at work is relatively low. Processing test scale IT-8 showed only a small shift in purple and green channel. The scanner driver is quite austere, there are only the most necessary in the work setting.

If you use the automatic document feeder for copying machine is traditionally a bit over the top of the toner.

When printing to the media feed used capacious tray that fits 251 A4 sheet. In the case of large print volume can be increased further optional 500 sheets. Recommended monthly duty cycle of up to 30,000 pages.

The printer device successfully coped with the conclusion as text typed by a size of various sizes and business graphics. Yes, and print color images out his more than worthy. Fill color look completely natural, except that there is a slight predominance of purple dye. The printer does not save toner and apply it as long as necessary.

The advantages of the device is the presence of built-in Wi-Fi, whereby realized the possibility of interaction with mobile devices. But you have to install the application Ricoh Smart Device Print & Scan.

Results

Presented in the article Device cope well with their responsibilities and provide a fairly high quality output documents and images. They are all quite different, so you need to choose among them, based on their own preferences and needs. However, note that the cost per print is largely dependent on the class of models considered in devices varies markedly.

The post Multifunction devices: Home & Office appeared first on Raqwe.

Despite the fact that the computer market is going through the best of times, laptops are still available and, most interestingly, are in demand among the population (at least in that part of it which is not too hard hit by the financial crisis).

What should be the modern laptop, designed for home use? Of course, most importantly, what is the consumer – is mobility, combined with high performance, maximum functionality and, of course, relatively low cost (at least for now, when the spaces of our country is raging economic crisis). Of course, one could argue – which, in general, can be laptops, when people soon there will be nothing? However, the crisis – a crisis, and the case – the case, because as whatsoever, even in such a difficult situation, progress is not in place. Although sales in the near future are unlikely to achieve its previous level, yet mobile PCs are still sold and that it is equally important to buy.

Modern computer market offers a lot of variety of models designed for home use. In order to help readers select the right system, we tested four of the most interesting devices from different manufacturers and told about their advantages and disadvantages.

The company Acer – known manufacturer of reliable notebook is quite popular in almost all segments of the population.

Registration of a new line of Aspire stylish and dignified. The build quality is also very high – gaps between elements of design minimum and uniform, no creaking or crunching while squeezing the working area we have not noticed.

Chiclet keyboard is large, comfortable and original, it gives the notebook a certain elegance. All buttons are located on the usual places, nothing fails and does not irritate. The key travel is soft and clear, right and left <Shift> usual size. In general, print text on it is very comfortable – hands do not get tired even after a long set. For use in the dark it is equipped with lighting – it looks quite good. Among the shortcomings should be noted a small deflection of the keyboard on top of and around the digital block, but, by and large, a set that does not stop.

Relatively large touch panel separated from the main work area. Working with her is quite convenient, and the pointer moves smoothly, without unnecessary jerks. Hidden “mouse” buttons are pressed gently and almost silently.

Display with a diagonal of 15.6 inches and a resolution of 1920 × 1080 pixels has a cinematic aspect ratio, which makes watching movies a lot more comfortable. Naturally, we used LED lighting – it helps reduce energy consumption and improve its unevenness. In general, we have to admit that the screen has an excellent color reproduction and a good viewing angle, due to the use of IPS-matrix. But the brightness and contrast could be higher – in our opinion, they are a bit lacking.

The Hardware is based on a 2.9-GHz processor Intel Core i5 4210H, supplemented by video adapter, built on the base of NVIDIA GeForce GTX 860M. Yes, and 8 GB of RAM, along with a hybrid 1TB hard drive can brighten up the leisure hours of the user.

To work offline in Acer Aspire V Nitro is the battery capacity of 4450 mA. h. The battery life turned out to be not the most high – so while reading the device worked for 3.5 hours, while the “maximum performance” has reduced this time to 1.5 hours.

This laptop model has positioned the company as a home computer, intended for entertainment. Housing with a matte cover gives the impression of a solid and monolithic, its primary colors – black and silver. As a decorative ornaments used a large company logo – it seems that such a solution is becoming more popular. In general, the designers have worked on glory – the device looks solid and stylish. Build quality is good, when trying to squeeze the device barely noticeable crackling, and then only upon the application of a serious effort. So the only problem for a user, – a fingerprint, which remain even matte surfaces.

Chiclet keyboard, equipped with a digital unit, very convenient – the buttons are large, their course is soft and clear. Perhaps the only thing that did not like – too narrow key <Enter>, to get to where the habit is difficult, have to get used to this. Rough touchpad is large enough, so it is convenient for everyday work, but for gaming it practically unusable. But pressing the “mouse” buttons are not pleased – it turned out to be dull and indistinct.

For playing sounds traditionally responsible stereo production Altec Lansing, placed directly below the display. Their quality is quite high – a decent volume and minimal distortion at high frequencies produce a very good impression.

Right below the keyboard is placed fingerprint scanner HP SimplePass. On the one hand, it will appeal to fans of maximum protection, on the other – at home laptops now is not applicable.

The laptop is equipped with a matte screen with a diagonal of 17.3 inches and a resolution of 1920 × 1080 pixels, is the product of a joint effort of LG and Philips. Its brightness is more than adequate, uniform illumination of the screen, viewing angles horizontally as good. Vertical slightly worse – for normal operation is necessary to adjust the position of the cover. Alas, here applied to a matrix, made by technology a-Si TFT-LCD.

The Hardware is quite decent – a dual-core 1.7-GHz Intel Core i5 4210U, 8 GB of RAM and a hybrid storage capacity of 1000 GB. Discrete graphics adapter, one based on the NVIDIA GeForce GT 840M. Of course not forgotten wireless interfaces Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, as well as built-in camera for video conferencing.

Battery capacity is 5100 mA. h, which allows the laptop to work in read-only mode for about 4 hours. Unfortunately, at maximum load all the more pitiable – 75 minutes, and no more.

According to the positioning of the manufacturer, Lenovo IdeaPad series includes homemade laptops equipped with support for multimedia features.

As is customary in the leading brand, design unit careful attention to detail – the designers of the company very carefully relate to the traditions laid down by IBM. Overall, the device looks very attractive. The design of the body is dominated by straight lines with rounded corners and glossy elements are virtually absent.

Right under the screen there are two speakers rated at 1.5 watts each. The sound quality of the built-in audio system is quite good – even at maximum volume much distortion does not occur.

Full-size island-style keyboard is equipped with a standard-size keys. The keys are soft and comfortable, triggered without clicking. Another feature of the input device is the presence of high-grade digital unit. Typing pretty comfortable, hands do not get tired even after a long time.

The touch panel is relatively large. Its surface is rough, it is certainly nice, and a “mouse” buttons do not have any complaints – they are pressed very gently and completely silent. If necessary, the panel can be disabled by a combination <Fn> + <F6>.

The model houses a matrix with a diagonal of 15.6 inches and a resolution of 1920 × 1080 pixels, which is convenient for everyday work and for viewing widescreen movies. The display showed excellent color reproduction and picture quality, although the viewing angles could be more, especially vertical.

The laptop is made on the basis of microarchitecture Haswell. Its basis is the processor Intel Core i5-4200M – dual-core CPU, each core is clocked at 2500 MHz. RAM type is DDR3-1333 6GB – this with a margin enough for a laptop of this class, especially as the 64-bit operating system allows you to use all the RAM without any restrictions.

The Video IdeaPad Y510p is a hybrid solution – integrated with the processor adapter supplemented by a discrete NVIDIA GeForce 755M, supports the latest version of standards Shader 5.0, OpenGL 2.0 and DirectX 11.

As for battery life, the model showed more than predictable results. For example, in active use battery lasted 1 hour 24 minutes, whereas when working with office documents, this figure reached 3.5 hours. So the ability to use the device outside the home is not forgotten.

Although the body and are simply decorated, appearance of this laptop without exaggeration be called pretty cute. Rounded corners, metal lid with a luminous during the company’s logo, a brushed aluminum finish – just get attractive.

Inside, everything is just lovely – a full-size island-style keyboard is equipped with a numeric keypad, the usual location of the keys, the course clear, so that ergonomics everything is in order. We were pleased and touchpad – despite the fact that the games this pointer is not too fit, its dimensions are quite large, and cover almost perfect. But the “mouse” buttons, alas, did not like. The fact is that they have too short stroke, so pressing is sometimes overlooked.

Matte 17.3-inch screen with a resolution of 1920 × 1080 pixels has excellent brightness and contrast, all colors juicy and rich – to work with the text or view pictures on this display is very nice, but in contact with the screen to sunlight or other strong light source monitor noticeably fade. By the way, the model is very good horizontal and vertical viewing angles, due to the use of IPS-matrix.

Filling powerful enough: Quad 2.4 GHz processor Intel Core i7 4700HQ, a discrete graphics card NVIDIA GeForce GT-750M, 8GB RAM type DDR3, DVD-drive. In general, if this is still not a complete analog desktop computer, it is already very close to his machine. And, interestingly, while the device is practically not heated – the fan speed is increased only when really heavy load.

Battery life – at a good level. For example, when playing DVD-film model was able to work 210 minutes, and during a typical office activities – 4 hours with a little. By the way, charge the battery fairly quickly – about 2 hours and the notebook is ready to go.

Results

Having examined the four models of the leading manufacturers, we came to the conclusion that, at least during the time of writing, the economic crisis did not affect the activity of the bosses of the IT-market. New devices, as before, continue to produce and sell, and the level of their technical equipment continues to improve. Of course, here, as in any other industry, has its leaders and outsiders, but the gap between them gradually reduced, which eventually turns into the hands of ordinary users.

As for our preferences, “Best Buy” we have chosen the model Acer Aspire V Nitro, while the “Editor’s Choice” got a laptop ASUS N550JV. It is this device was the most perfect device having excellent performance and good functionality.

The post Review of modern multimedia notebooks appeared first on Raqwe.