Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Slim Down Your Wallet By Scanning Its Contents Into Your iPhone]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/slim-down-your-wallet-by-scanning-its-contents-into-your-iphone/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/slim-down-your-wallet-by-scanning-its-contents-into-your-iphone/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/slim-down-your-wallet-by-scanning-its-contents-into-your-iphone/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Replace your Wallet with your iPhoneWith all the high-tech toys and gadgets we carry around every day, there's one thing that's always seems to drag us back to the twentieth century: the wallet. Whether it's made of leather or vinyl or even Tyvek, the wallet feels incredibly dated and often quite bloated-- especially when over-stuffed with faded and torn membership cards. It creates an unsightly bulge that's even more pronounced with the smaller and shorter summer clothes most of us are about to start wearing

For one enterprising blogger, the solution to the overstufed, George-Costanza-style wallet is an iPhone. Albert Alberts used his scanner to digitally replicate many of his membership cards. He then created an album called WalletCards on his iPhone and loaded the images of the cards in. Surprisingly, most establishments had no problem accepting the copied cards, and bar code scanners even read them.

Naturally you won't be able to replace anything that relies on a magnetic strip or embedded RFID chip, but if you can replace everything else, you might that this trick could help you slim down that beat wallet by a good margin -- just don't try it with your driver's license. [Source: Lifehacker]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewshow-toiphonescansummeradvicewalletFri, 16 May 2008 07:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Eight Ways to Look Better In Pictures]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/eight-ways-to-look-better-in-pictures/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/eight-ways-to-look-better-in-pictures/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/14/eight-ways-to-look-better-in-pictures/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Summer is almost here and that means taking lots of snapshots, but making people look pretty in pictures is no easy job -- professional photographers get paid lots and lots of money to do just that (more than any other creative professionals, actually). Even so, you can improve the look of just about anyone (including yourself) with some basic photo-taking and -editing tips, the best of which we've compiled here. All of our suggestions can be executed using simple, inexpensive point-and-shoot cameras and free post-processing software: iPhoto on Mac, or Picasa on PC are our top choices. (Other apps, such as Adobe Photoshop Elements [PC/Mac] and GIMP [PC/Mac/Linux] are great as well, but the former will cost you a few bucks.)




1. Look younger

If you want to make your subjects look younger than they are, focus on the skin tone: Our number one tip is to use flashes in sunlight. It might seem counter-intuitive, but flashes override the shadows that overhead sunlight might cast on faces, making for pronounced under-eye and chin shadows. Also, putting anything white or translucent over the flash while indoors (or up close) will soften the light, making for much smoother skin tones through softer lighting. If you're in a bar, for example, just hold a napkin in front of the flash (in your camera settings, you might also want to turn the flash power up, if that's an option). You can also use the "brush" function -- usually indicated by a brush icon -- on most photo programs (such as those mentioned above) to virtually brush over age-revealing wrinkles, dark circles under the eyes, and blemishes.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsfeatureshow-tosummerfeaturesWed, 14 May 2008 13:01:00 EST<![CDATA[How to Look Thin In Photos]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/look-thin-in-photos/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/look-thin-in-photos/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/look-thin-in-photos/#commentsFiled under: , ,


It's spring. And if you're like us, the results of your swimsuit diet aren't quite showing yet. If you've got any graduations or weddings coming up in the warmer months ahead, you're likely to get your picture taken. If the thought of a photographer makes you want to run, relax: We've found a few tips -- online, in books, from experts -- on looking thinner in pictures.

1. Use flashes in sunlight. According to Geek Sugar, it's all about the lighting. Flashes are good because they override the shadows that overhead sunlight might cast on your face, making for pronounced under-eye and chin shadows.

2. Lean in towards the camera. Digital Camera Tracker says leaning slightly towards the camera is helpful: "Think of having a long neck like a gazelle, and tilt your chin down just a bit to avoid the appearance of a double chin," the site suggests.

3. Stand like a ballerina. No, we're not kidding. While it stops short of recommending you wear a tutu, the 'Rocky Mountain News' says you need to pose like a ballet dancer: "The most flattering (read slimming) pose: Face front and cross one leg in front of the other, then turn your body at a 45-degree angle away from the camera and turn head and shoulders toward the camera. Place feet in ballet third position (one foot angled in front of the other)."

4. Put your hands on your hips. The 'Rocky Mountain News' says your shoulders might look less rounded this way.

5. Get a shot from below, as if you were on the runway. In Camilla Morton's new advice book for women, 'How to Walk in High Heels,' model Gisele Bundchen (pictured) is interviewed about how to look good, both in front of and away from the camera. For pictures, the runway-veteran agrees that lighting is crucial, but she adds a few tips on angles and poses: "For long legs, point one leg into the center of the frame and get the photographer to shoot looking up your body," says Bundchen. We just hope it's not up your nose, Gisele!

6. Get a shot from above. The best way to hide that double chin is to have someone shoot your face from a few inches above your head. Just find someone who's taller than you. Either you'll look up at them, which makes double chins disappear, or the area below your chin will be in shadow, and won't show up in the picture at all. For a group picture where you want everyone to look good, stand on a chair and have everyone look up at you: We've been using this technique at parties for years. It works!

7. Forget about looking thin and just relax. Not all experts agree with the stand-up-straight, pose-like-a-movie-star advice. We spoke to Edward Keating, a Pulitzer-Prize-winning photographer for the 'New York Times,' who was the principal photographer for the newspaper's 'Vows' column for seven years. He says that the best thing a subject can do to look good in photographs is to be relaxed and happy. "Look at the photographer, not at the camera," says Keating. "If they're connected with me, they're not thinking about the camera and the lens."

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsgisellephotographysummeradvicethintopweight lossWeightLossMon, 12 May 2008 16:47:00 EST<![CDATA[How to Buy an HDTV for Your PC]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/how-to-buy-an-hdtv-for-your-pc/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/how-to-buy-an-hdtv-for-your-pc/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/12/how-to-buy-an-hdtv-for-your-pc/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

How to Buy an HD TV to Hook Your PC Up to
More and more of us are putting PCs in our living rooms. Some of us are using them as media centers to replace DVRs and DVD players, while others are using them to play video games, Meanwhile, some of us just like to surf the Web, check our e-mail, or watch streamed TV shows on a 42-inch screen.

But hooking up a computer to your TV isn't always easy, and the results aren't always pleasing to the eye. So, with a little help from some Engadget readers, we're going to help you pick out the best television for use with your PC or laptop. Only the results aren't quite in yet, so, for now, we'll provide you with a few tips if you're shopping for a TV in the next few weeks.

First thing you'll want to do is make sure the TV you're considering has the right ports for hooking up a computer. Not all PCs have HDMI yet so look for TVs with a DVI, or at least a VGA port for easily connecting even older PCs.

The next part is trickier. You'll need to find a television that can disable a feature called overscan. Overscan was a necessity on older televisions due to the inconsistent framing of standard definition broadcasts. The problem with overscan is that it causes text to blur, which anyone who has ever played a Super Nintendo role playing game will be very familiar with. This makes basic computing tasks stressful on the eyes. Add to that the tiny icon and font sizes that accompany HD resolutions and you'll need glasses in a week.

Only new 1080p capable sets have this feature, but its' not always advertised, and each company has a different name for it. Newer Sony sets have overscan disabled by default on its PC (VGA) inputs. New Samsung TVs have a 'just scan' mode, and Sharp calls it 'dot-by-dot.' Surprisingly bargain brand Westinghouse HD sets are great for text because they don't perform overscan at all. The downside is poor picture quality on standard definition broadcasts. [Source: Engadget]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hdtvmonitorsMon, 12 May 2008 09:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched Download: Foxit PDF Reader]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/switched-download-foxit-pdf-reader/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/switched-download-foxit-pdf-reader/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/switched-download-foxit-pdf-reader/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Switched Dowload: Foxit PDF Reader

Foxit PDF Reader

What it does:

Foxit is a replacement for that unfortunate staple of every computer user's life: Adobe Reader. Foxit reads and even edits PDFs -- those files that look exactly like original documents -- without the slowdown and crashes associated with Adobe's product.

What we like about it:

Foxit is about as close to perfect as a piece software can get: it opens and operates faster than Adobe's Reader, uses much less RAM, and packs more features into a download about a tenth the size.

In addition to reading PDFs, Foxit can perform basic editing tasks and lets you add notes to documents -- features Adobe charges several hundred dollars for in its Acrobat platform. Foxit even has some features that Adobe's professional application lacks, such as tabs for opening several PDFs in one window, and support for multimedia so you can actually play back audio and video in multimedia e-books.

What we don't like:

Our only problem with Foxit is that the latest versions are Windows-only. Mac and Linux users need love too.

Bottom line:

The existence of the fast, stable, and user-friendly Foxit makes you wonder why anyone would continue to use Adobe's bloated, crash-prone program. Get Foxit now and clicking links to PDF files will no longer prompt panic and cursing.

Download Foxit PDF Reader
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adobefeaturesfoxitpdfswitched downloadSwitchedDownloadFri, 09 May 2008 11:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Hype Check: 'Grand Theft Auto IV']]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/30/hype-check-grand-theft-auto-iv/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/30/hype-check-grand-theft-auto-iv/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/30/hype-check-grand-theft-auto-iv/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Hype Check: Grand Theft Auto IV


What it is: The latest installment in the free-roaming, crime-spree-filled video game series, 'Grand Theft Auto IV' is perhaps the most eagerly anticipated title of all time -- of this year, anyway. And, with the bevy of perfect scores being applied before and since its release, it stands to possibly be the most highly rated game of all time as well -- again at least until some other new top-notch title comes along and changes that. It's also the first game to be numbered as a proper sequel since 'Grand Theft Auto III' wowed gamers (and horrified parents) almost eight years ago. In this most recent entry, players roam pretty much anywhere they want through the streets of a somewhat scaled down New York City, playing the role of a recent immigrant from Eastern Europe. As in the earlier games, players work their way up from small-time crimes to major heists, with the ultimate goal being to make 'Scarface'-worthy names for themselves.

Why it's different: 'GTA IV' is the first of the series to appear on both the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, meaning that it blows away the earlier titles in terms of looks. Remember how in the old games buildings would pop into view at the last minute if you were driving quickly? No more; you can see skyscrapers miles away now. Those environments are more detailed, too, as well as the characters within them, who look distinctively more human than the blocky thugs in previous titles.

This is also the first title to officially offer online multiplayer through a handful of modes that range from races around the city to, well, completely disorganized mayhem. Unfortunately, they're separate from the game itself, meaning you won't be going through a mission and bumping into a buddy en-route, but they're still a blast and should give this game plenty of life. If that's not enough for you, though, the Xbox 360 version at least will include downloadable content, adding new territory to explore and missions to complete, meaning this game will continue to grow.

What we like: The new storyline, that of an Eastern European with a checkered past coming to America to escape trouble, only to find even more thanks to his dunder-headed cousin, is definitely appealing. For once the main character is a seemingly humble, likable guy; not a thug or a gangster. The streets of Liberty City, a fictionalized New York City, are familiar (including a subway system Big Apple-dwellers will be able to use without a map) yet diverse and ready for exploring, and being able to walk right into a building without having to sit through a "Now Loading" screen is a huge improvement.

What we don't like: The game is a huge improvement visually over its predecessors, but doesn't come close to comparing to recent graphical powerhouses such as 'Mass Effect'. While the cityscape looks great, as you can tell from the skyline in the above screenshot, the colors and textures are occasionally a bit flat, resulting in terrain that's somewhat dull looking. Cars in particular disappoint, with their blocky fenders and simple, generic lines. But that's somewhat forgivable given the massive scope of the environment and experience here. Also, as much as we enjoy completing them, the missions in general feel a little familiar, like frequent assignments escorting people from A to B, and constant escapes from persistent police officers.

What it costs: $59.99

Does it live up to the hype? There's absolutely no reason why any fan of the 'Grand Theft Auto' franchise would not want to pick this up. It's improved in every way over the earlier versions and the multiplayer modes plus future downloadable content will give this one far more life than any of the earlier games. It's not quite perfect (despite all those 10/10 review scores), but it is damn good. Just about any gamer out there will have a blast exploring Liberty City and working their way through the storyline -- that is except for those who can't stomach committing a few felonies on their way to gaming bliss.
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresgta ivhype checkHypeChecksummerreviewsWed, 30 Apr 2008 19:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Earth-Friendly Tech Tips]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/22/environment-what-can-i-do/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/22/environment-what-can-i-do/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/22/environment-what-can-i-do/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Environment: What can I do?
So you gave your buddy a high-five when 'An Inconvenient Truth' won some Oscars -- that's a good start. Too bad some of your favorite gadgets -- not to mention the TV you used to watch the Academy Awards -- use up a boatload of energy, even when you think they're turned off. That said, some technologies can actually help you save energy and use fewer natural resources. The convenient truth is that taking proactive steps towards living a greener life is easier than you think. Here are just a few.

Upgrade Your Lightbulbs

Don't be scared off by the high sticker prices of GE's fancy compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs). CFLs use up to 75 percent less energy than incandescents (25 percent less than halogen), last up to 10 times longer and cost between 50 and 80 percent less to use. Only candlelight is cheaper -- but that's a fire truck on your front lawn waiting to happen.
Next >>
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsclimateenergyenvironmentfeaturesgreenrecycletopTue, 22 Apr 2008 13:04:00 EST<![CDATA[How To Recycle Your Dead Gadgets]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/22/how-to-recycle-your-dead-gadgets/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/22/how-to-recycle-your-dead-gadgets/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/22/how-to-recycle-your-dead-gadgets/#commentsFiled under: , ,

How to Recycle Dead Gadgets
Grandmas get Boca Raton, but most gadgets aren't fortunate enough to live out their last days in the sun. According to the EPA, those electronics that don't rest in peace (or pieces) at the bottom of a drawer end up cramped in a landfill with the other 4.6 million tons of electronic waste that are dumped each year. Fortunately, there's a home for most any device to expire with dignity.


Computers

How to Recycle Dead Gadgets Most of the major computer manufacturers offer a recycling program for their own systems -- as well as their competitor's systems -- through their Web sites. At ComputerTakeBack.com, you can see each plan spelled out alongside any sweet trade-in incentives that manufacturers, and even some retailers, are offering. Just be sure to thoroughly erase the data on your hard drive, though.
Next >>
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresTue, 22 Apr 2008 12:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Nine Phones With Long-Lasting Batteries]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/21/nine-phones-with-long-lasting-batteries/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/21/nine-phones-with-long-lasting-batteries/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/21/nine-phones-with-long-lasting-batteries/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Some days, we all just like to talk on the phone a lot. We also sometimes forget to charge our phones before we leave the house. And let's face it, carrying our cell-phone-charger around with us all day (or overnight) is often impractical. So what phones are ideal for the sort of person that often finds themselves in charger-less jams? Take a look at our roundup, in which we picked ten standard phones (i.e., non-smart-phones) that have impressive battery life, both for talk and standby modes.



The latest version of the Motorola V195s has now been updated by T-Mobile to include Yahoo! and AIM messaging, Bluetooth connectivity, and longer-lasting battery life. T-Mobile also includes the convenient My Faves free frequent calling program, so you can use the eight hours of talk time wisely. The phone also has up to 17.5 days of standby time.



Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresMon, 21 Apr 2008 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Tips to Avoid Identity Theft]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/16/top-tips-to-avoid-identity-theft-1/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/16/top-tips-to-avoid-identity-theft-1/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/16/top-tips-to-avoid-identity-theft-1/#commentsFiled under:

In 2007, there were 8.4 million adult victims of identity fraud in the United States, according to research firm Javelin, resulting in $49.3 billion in losses and many hours of grief for the victims. Even though it seems so easy for criminals to steal your information, you can easily safeguard your ID by changing some habits and putting in a little extra effort. To help you protect yourself, Switched presents ten tips that will keep your money and information safe and, as a bonus, get you less junk mail in the process.


1. Shred everything

Anything with an account number, signature, social security number or any personal information can be used against you, and since most people throw this stuff in the trash, it's readily available for dumpster-diving thieves. Shredding your bills, ATM and credit card receipts, pay stubs, back statements and anything else with confidential info is a much safer alternative. If the paper shredder you use cuts horizontally and vertically across the paper, that's even better, since it makes taping the paper back together difficult. Likewise, any digital data on hard drives, CDs, or DVDs should also be fully wiped or physically destroyed. On the plus side, shredding is kind of fun.



Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuressecurityWed, 16 Apr 2008 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Hype Check: Dyson DC24 Vacuum Cleaner]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/12/hype-check-dyson-dc24-vacuum-cleaner/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/12/hype-check-dyson-dc24-vacuum-cleaner/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/12/hype-check-dyson-dc24-vacuum-cleaner/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Dyson D24 Vacuum Cleaner

What it is: Even those of you who wouldn't consider yourselves vacuum cleaner fetishists have heard of Dyson's line -- you know, the one you see advertised on TV, that promises to change your (vacuuming) life. Well, the ambitious designers at Dyson have released their latest, greatest, and, quite possibly, lightest -- the D24 -- and it's a significant improvement over past Dyson vacuums. This is the first time the innovative ball has been used in a Dyson model this light and compact. It's less than four feet tall and a foot wide, and weighs just under 12 pounds, which makes it easy to move and maneuver from room to room (or up a few flights of stairs).

Why it's different: Though generally rather awesome, past Dyson vacuum cleaners have suffered from being too heavy and bulky, with buttons hidden in very hard-to-reach (and unintuitive places). The new DC-24 is only 11.6 pounds -- much more powerful than a Dustbuster-style vac, yet far smaller and more maneuverable than a typical upright vacuum cleaner.


What we like: The DC24 uses Dyson's patented new Ball tech -- essentially, a big orange ball that serves as the rolling mechanism for the unit. It's rather revolutionary in terms of the mobility and turning radius: moving a vacuum around your floor has never been this fun. While traditional vacuum cleaners feel like they're stuck on invisible tracks, this one turns and pivots around any household with ease, effortlessly gliding across the floor. Like all Dyson vacs, the DC24 really does live up to the claims of controlled suction - it works on all surfaces with virtually the same suction power. We really noticed the difference when we moved from one surface to another -- the DC24 didn't struggle or even seem like it was adjusting. The canister is super easy to empty (though it fills up very fast, which probably says something about the cleanliness of our floors than anything else). The overall body is small and compact, so if you're not into displaying the well designed vacuum, you can easily store in small places.

What we don't like: The handheld wand -- while improved over previous Dyson iterations -- is still a bit of a struggle to use. The hose conveniently collapses back into its original form when you're not cleaning with it, but is just sorta painful to actually use -- it's not as flexible as we would have liked, and doesn't work symbiotically with the rest of the unit. This might be less of an issue if there was some sort of "lock mode" that prevented the vacuum from moving around, of if the wand were made of a more lightweight, flexible material.

What it costs: $399

Does it live up to the hype? Dyson's DC24 is an awesome vacuum cleaner. It makes cleaning your home something to look forward to (not even just for the anal-retentive among us), and improves significantly upon Dyson's already solid foundation. It's cheaper than other Dyson models by $100, but it's still comes in at a cool four bills -- a bit out of the average vacuum cleaner budget. But the thing comes with lifetime HEPA and washable filters (read: no bags to buy, ever), and a five-year warranty, looks great, feels great, and sucks real hard (in a good way). If you've got the cash, you won't be disappointed.


Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appliancesdysonfeatureshouseholdhype checkHypeCheckvacuum cleanerVacuumCleanerSat, 12 Apr 2008 15:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Net Threats Right Now]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/09/top-internet-threats-1/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/09/top-internet-threats-1/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/09/top-internet-threats-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,

While it may not feel quite like the Wild West anymore, the Internet is still full of people looking to rip you off -- the anonymity and secretive nature of online dealings makes them much more prone to fraud than in the real world. We've compiled a list of the top threats to your security lurking around the Internet -- and what you can do to avoid them.



The threat: The upcoming presidential election

The problem: All of the presidential candidates accept donation contributions online -- but be careful. Extremist supporters have been using "typo-domains" that mimic the Web site of a political rival; when the contributions come in, they're either pocketed or contributed to someone else's campaign. GOP Presidential nominee Ron Paul's campaign received funds from five hundred stolen credit cards, which were stolen from Frost bank; investigators discovered overseas thieves used Paul's site to test the stolen cards with $5 contributions.

How to protect yourself: Don't reply to the email -- and don't click the links inside it, either. Want to make an online donation? Google the name of your candidate of choice, go to his or her official site, and donate away ...


Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsfeaturedstoriesfeatureshackerssecurityvirusesWed, 09 Apr 2008 19:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Why You Should Wait to Buy the iPhone (Switched Podcast)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/08/why-you-should-wait-to-buy-the-iphone-switched-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/08/why-you-should-wait-to-buy-the-iphone-switched-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/08/why-you-should-wait-to-buy-the-iphone-switched-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Switched Show Podcast

Touch screens meet keyboards as the latest mobile phones debuted at last week's CTIA convention. Switched.com has a full report on the phones and the rumors -- including when you should plan to buy your next iPhone. Plus: Text Messages from The Grave.

Listen Now (mp3)

Be among the first to hear the 'Switched Show' each week. Subscribe for Free with iTunes. (Or subscribe with your own podcast aggregator by using the Switched Show feed.)

Previous Podcasts:
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ctia2008featuredfeatured storiesFeaturedStoriesfeaturesswitched podcastSwitchedPodcastTue, 08 Apr 2008 13:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Don't Spring for $50 HDMI Cables --Those $10 Ones Are Just As Good]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/07/dont-spring-for-50-hdmi-cables-those-10-ones-are-just-as-go/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/07/dont-spring-for-50-hdmi-cables-those-10-ones-are-just-as-go/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/07/dont-spring-for-50-hdmi-cables-those-10-ones-are-just-as-go/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Don't Spring for $50 HDMI Cables, Those $10 Ones are Just as Good
Here's a secret that high-end audio and video companies don't want you to know -- those $10 HDMI cables from a generic manufacturer are just as good as their $50 top of the line counterparts.

In fact, the tech site CNET has been using "high-end" $20 cables from Monoprice in its labs for testing top of the line TVs from companies such as Samsung and Sony. And trust us, CNET abuses those cables more than you ever could in your standard home theater set up.

The truth of the matter is that as far as digital signals are concerned, the quality of the cable matters very little. Used in HDTV and most satellite and cable systems these days, digital signals don't degrade as quickly and aren't subject to interference the same way that analog signals are.

So, unless you plan on running 20- and 30-foot cables around your house, or are building an audio or video production studio, you can stick to those cheaper $10 HDMI cables and will still get nothing but a top quality image.

From CNET

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredfeatured storiesFeaturedStoriesfeaturesHDHDMIhdtvHi-DefTVMon, 07 Apr 2008 16:21:00 EST<![CDATA[10 DIY Laptop Stands]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/02/10-diy-laptop-stands/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/02/10-diy-laptop-stands/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/02/10-diy-laptop-stands/#commentsFiled under: ,

10 DIY Laptop Stands
Laptops are great for their portability, but no so wonderful ergonomically. The flat key board is hell on the wrists and the hot underside is not so nice on your lap. That's why someone, now undoubtedly rich, invented the laptop stand. These $50+ angled bases for your laptop often are little more than glorified wedges of plastic.

As is often the case when there is an easier cheaper way to do something yourself, the folks at Lifehacker got on this one like white on rice and compiled a list of ten DIY (Do It Yourself) alternatives to commercial laptop stands. All are cheaper than the retail options and some of the more complex ones will give you a real sense of accomplishment when you're done.

Solutions range from simply sticking a pair of wine corks under your laptop, to simple but ingenious solutions involving a three ring binder to route cables and store an external hard drive, to complex projects that require at least a little bit of carpentry know how. Check out the entire list at the link, and do yourself a favor and choose one of these DIY option if you're in the market for a laptop stand.

From Lifehacker

Related links:
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cheapdiyfreelaptoplaptop how-toslaptop standLaptopHow-tosLaptopStandlifehackerWed, 02 Apr 2008 14:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Where's My Electric Car? (Switched Podcast)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/01/wheres-my-electric-car-switched-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/01/wheres-my-electric-car-switched-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/01/wheres-my-electric-car-switched-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Switched Show Podcast

If high school students can get four-figure mileage figures from a gallon of gas, why do most cars sputter out before the 30-mile mark? PLUS: A pill-sized bulb outshines a street light, a man loses everything to a fake Craigslist ad and a (different) man accidentally kills his wife while installing satellite TV.

Listen Now (mp3)

Be among the first to hear the 'Switched Show' each week. Subscribe for Free with iTunes. (Or subscribe with your own podcast aggregator by using the Switched Show feed.)

Previous Podcasts:
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Tue, 01 Apr 2008 14:14:00 EST<![CDATA[How to Read the Wall Street Journal Online for Free]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/24/how-to-read-the-wall-street-journal-online-for-free/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/24/how-to-read-the-wall-street-journal-online-for-free/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/24/how-to-read-the-wall-street-journal-online-for-free/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Two Ways to Read the Wall Street Journal Online for Free
One of the most frustrating things a news hound encounters online is the Wall Street Journal. The preeminent financial paper in the country has still yet to join the rest of the online news world and offer its world class reporting for free.

But fear not, faithful devourers of information, there is way around the Wall Street Journal's $79 a year subscription fee. And it's completely legal!

When you follow a link to a Wall Street Journal article -- like this one -- from a regular Web site, you get the first part of the article, but are told to subscribe to read the full article. Luckily for us, though, the Wall Street Journal struck a deal with Google and Digg that allows visitors to those sites to view the entire paper without subscribing.

So, you have two options. The first, and simpler option, is to search Google News for the headline of the article you want to read. Since you'd be following the link via Google News you'd be able to access the complete article. This can be a little tedious and doesn't guarantee you access to the entire paper however.

The second option is to use Firefox and install an extension called Refspoof. Refspoof allows you to trick the Wall Street Journal into thinking you're visiting the site via a link from another site. After installing the Refspoof ,visit WSJ.com. Then, in the "spoof" field of the Refspoof toolbar type digg.com. Then, click on the "R" icon to the right and select "static referrer."

Congratulations, you should now be able to browse the entire Wall Street Journal, sans subscription fee!

From Machinist

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diggfirefoxfreegoogle newsGoogleNewsnewswall street journalWallStreetJournalMon, 24 Mar 2008 09:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Phones For Texting and E-Mailing]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/19/cell-phone-keypads-that-work/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/19/cell-phone-keypads-that-work/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/19/cell-phone-keypads-that-work/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,


The iPhone is certainly the worlds' greatest iPod and portable Web-surfing cell phone we've ever seen, but its keyboard still stinks -- we can't tell you how many typos the touch-sensitive thing has forced us to make while writing text-messages or e-mails over the past eight months. That's why we recommend phones with actual, physical keyboards to anyone who tends to send a lot of text-messages or e-mails. Luckily, most of the smart phones out there feature actual keyboards. To find out the three we like best, check out the above Switched-exclusive video.
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredfeatured storiesFeaturedStoriesfeatureskeyboard phonesKeyboardPhonessummerfeaturesWed, 19 Mar 2008 12:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Gadget Bargains (Podcast)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/the-best-gadget-bargains-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/the-best-gadget-bargains-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/the-best-gadget-bargains-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Switched Show Podcast

The best gadget bargains are hidden inside this podcast. (Also hidden in here: Internet censorship lands in the airport, the Pentagon stocks up on PlayStation 3s and what your old GPS device says about you.)

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Be among the first to hear the Switched Show each week. Subscribe for Free with iTunes. (Or subscribe with your own podcast aggregator by using the Switched Show feed.)

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>switched podcastSwitchedPodcastMon, 10 Mar 2008 19:47:00 EST<![CDATA[How to Organize Your Cables]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/10-ways-to-cut-down-on-cable-clutter/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/10-ways-to-cut-down-on-cable-clutter/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/10-ways-to-cut-down-on-cable-clutter/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Are your wires crawling out into the living room from behind your TV, game systems and speakers? Do you get your feet tangled in the mess of computer, printer and monitor cords gathered under your desk? Constantly getting your headphones tangled up in your pocket? Roll up your sleeves and check out Lifehacker's guide to getting cables under control.

The guide, focusing on cheap and easy solutions anyone can do, offers fixes for all types of tangled wire headaches. Ideas range from an ingenious method for storing extension cords (place them in a paper towel tube) to building your own 'charging station' for managing and charging all the digital devices you've got lying around.

If your desk is still overflowing with wires, you can hide the tangled mess on the underside of your desk with a mountable wire basket and zip ties (under $20). With spring just around the corner, it's a great time to get in touch with your inner organizer.

From Lifehacker

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>how-tolaptop how tolaptop how-tolaptop howtoLaptopHow-toLaptopHowToorganizationMon, 10 Mar 2008 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Five Essential Laptop Accessories (Video)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/09/five-essential-laptop-accessories-video/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/09/five-essential-laptop-accessories-video/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/09/five-essential-laptop-accessories-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Laptops may fit into almost any backpack or carry-on bag, but their compact size means you'll still need a few accessories to stay productive and happy while you're on the road (or down the road, at a Wi-Fi cafe). We picked five of our favorite notebook peripherals that no road warrior should be without, and decided to go on and on about them in this here video. Take a look!
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>laptop featureslaptop guide featuresLaptopFeaturessummerfeaturesSun, 09 Mar 2008 10:12:00 EST<![CDATA[The 2008 Switched Laptop Buying Guide Is Here]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/03/the-2008-switched-laptop-buying-guide-is-here/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/03/the-2008-switched-laptop-buying-guide-is-here/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/03/the-2008-switched-laptop-buying-guide-is-here/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Looking for a new laptop? We've got you covered. From essential tips on what to look for in a new computer and round-ups of the handiest laptop accessories to hands-on-reviews of the latest high-end MacBook Pros and even sub-$500 Asus eeePCs, the 2008 Switched Laptop Guide will help you make the right purchases. Check back here every day for the latest laptop news and reviews, as well as a boatload of how-tos to make sure you make the most of your brand-spanking new notebook.

Happy hunting!

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Laptop GuideLaptopGuideMon, 03 Mar 2008 19:09:00 EST<![CDATA[The World's Littlest Laptops (Video)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/29/the-worlds-littlest-laptops-video/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/29/the-worlds-littlest-laptops-video/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/29/the-worlds-littlest-laptops-video/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,


They're tiny (enough for a handbag), fast (Linux) and resilient (all-solid-state memory and storage). And unlike the beauty from Cupertino, their price tag matches their stature. Check out our hands-on video with the Everex Cloudbook and the Asus eeePC.


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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>laptop guide reviewslaptop reviewsLaptopGuideReviewsLaptopReviewssummerfeaturesFri, 29 Feb 2008 19:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Five Ways to Lower Your Cell Phone Bill]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/27/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-1/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/27/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-1/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/27/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-1/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


While few of us have actually received a cell phone bill as large as this poor fellow, we've all been privy to the occasional shockingly huge cell phone bill. It's no surprise, considering the ways in which carriers can hit us with hidden fees, exorbitant rates for going over our monthly minutes, or extra charges for seemingly innocuous extra feature such as call waiting. Fool us once, shame on us; fool us twice, and we find a way to cut those costs. So, take a look at our five top tips for lowering your phone bill.





1. Choose The Right Plan

The easiest solution to high cell phone bills is as simple as switching your plan. If you're not using all your monthly minutes, then downgrade to a cheaper plan with less talk time. If you're going over your minutes, then it's upgrade time. But there are other options: Whether or not you have a family, you should still consider a Family Plan, which lets you get extra cell phones and bulk minutes at reduced rates, and the best thing is that any calls to other phones on the plan don't use up any of your minutes. If you're a heavy caller, texter, and e-mailer, then consider one of the new unlimited plans, which let you do all of the above for around $99-$150 per month (again, it' s a savings if you're a power user). There are also alternatives to being stuck with a plan. Most carriers now offer a pay-as-you-go alternatives that allow you to pay for the calls you make, which is useful for those who rarely use their cell phones at all.


Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cheap GeekCheapGeekWed, 27 Feb 2008 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[How to Avoid Online Threats (This Week's Podcast)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/25/how-to-avoid-online-threats-this-weeks-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/25/how-to-avoid-online-threats-this-weeks-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/25/how-to-avoid-online-threats-this-weeks-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

The Switched Show Podcast

Be careful who you click on. E-mail scams and phishing schemes are evolving with the times, and now are taking the shape of campaign donation pleas. This week: How to avoid giving out your identity online. PLUS: HD-DVD is (as we predicted) dead, and Lindsay Lohan takes a Web site offline by taking off all her clothes.
Listen Now (mp3)

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Mon, 25 Feb 2008 16:12:00 EST<![CDATA[How To Lower Your Cell Phone Bill]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-5/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-5/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-5/#commentsFiled under: ,



5. Cut back on text messages

The convenience of text messaging is obvious, but the charges are not. Without a pricey unlimited plan, texting can cost you up to 15 cents a pop, and that can add up quickly, especially if you're the type that uses these little typed messages for lengthy dialogues. Many airlines and banks offer flight updates and balance information via text -- while these services seem convenient, they can really do a job on your wireless bill, not to mention wake you up with a new message alert in the middle of the night. So sign up for e-mail alerts instead, and check those on your own time. And don't forget, it's sometimes easier, quicker, and more effective to just make a quick phone call!






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AOL Mobile
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expire-images2009-2-18Tue, 19 Feb 2008 14:44:00 EST<![CDATA[How To Lower Your Cell Phone Bill]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-4/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-4/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-4/#commentsFiled under: , ,



4. Shed the Extras

Although many plans include caller ID., call-waiting, and three-way calling, these same plans sometimes add hidden fees to use these services. Call up your carrier and find out if getting rid of some of these extras might trim your monthly bill by a few dollars. How often do you really use three-way calling?

Same goes for data plans. Do you really need to check your e-mail while walking down the street? Data plans, especially unlimited ones, can cost upwards of $50 per month. If you're not addicted to the BlackBerry and aren't constantly online, then you should think about downgrading or getting rid of your data plan.

Downloaded ringtones and games from third parties, and sometimes your carrier, have hidden monthly 'subscription' charges associated with them, or use up your data minutes any time you play them. And some ringtones, like the hottest new single, have a hefty download fee that is then followed with a monthly charge of up to $2.50. Is "Crank Dat" really worth that?




Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expire-images2009-2-18Tue, 19 Feb 2008 14:05:00 EST<![CDATA[How To Lower Your Cell Phone Bill]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-3/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-3/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-3/#commentsFiled under: ,



3. Avoid Calling 411

Back in the day, you could call 411 from any pay phone and get a listing for free. But these days, we all use cell phones, and calling on these babies costs a good $.50 to $1.50 a pop! Luckily, you have some other options while on the go. You can use your data plan, if you have the unlimited variety, and use one of your carrier's mobile Web-based directory assistance services, or search online directories on the Web using your phone's browser. Other options -- free information numbers such as 800-FREE-411, 800-411-METRO or 800-GOOG-411 -- give you listings for free, but they involve using your minutes (if it's on a weekday). Still, these voice-activated services are a lot cheaper than calling 411. Google also offers a text message based system that replies with results after you send a text with your query to GOOGLE (466543).




Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expire-images2009-2-18Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[How To Lower Your Cell Phone Bill]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-2/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-2/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/how-to-lower-your-cell-phone-bill-2/#commentsFiled under: ,



2. Make appointments for long calls, especially to friends or family

This may seem like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many people just pick up the phone in the middle of the day, assuming they'll never use up all their minutes. Sometimes, of course, you just have to take that call, but if you know you're going to be on the phone for a while with your chatty Cathy BFF, or your Mom, then you're better off sending them a quick (and free) e-mail with a specific time you plan to call (just like in the old days before we had so many cell phones). As you well know, most cell phone plans offer free minutes after 7pm or 9pm, as well as all weekend. So make plans to talk on Saturday or Sunday, when most of us have more free time, anyway. Also, if you're near a Web-connected computer during the day, consider using it to make Internet-based telephone calls with a free service like Skype, which lets you make unlimited calls at any time for free to other Skype numbers.




Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expire-images2009-2-18Tue, 19 Feb 2008 02:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Five Things to Consider When Buying a Laptop]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/18/five-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-laptop-1/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/18/five-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-laptop-1/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/18/five-things-to-consider-when-buying-a-laptop-1/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Five Things to Consider When Buying a Laptop
Buying a new laptop can be a daunting task. First off, there are many more factors to take into account when buying a laptop than when buying a desktop PC -- size and battery, for example. Budget laptops can be alluring, but will they have the horsepower you need for daily computing tasks? What difference does having an AMD or Intel processor make? And how do you make sense of the alphabet soup that is Wi-Fi (802.11a, b, g, n)? Well, dear reader, and potential buyer, Switched is here to help you wade through the spec lists you see on those Sunday circulars and help you make the best of your laptop money. Take a look at our crib sheet of five things to consider when picking out your new portable, which starts on the next page, so click below....


Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amdfeaturesintellaptopLaptop Buying GuidesLaptopBuyingGuideswi-fiwifiMon, 18 Feb 2008 18:18:00 EST<![CDATA[HD-DVD Is Still Dead (This Week's Podcast)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/15/hd-dvd-its-for-whom-the-bell-tolls/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/15/hd-dvd-its-for-whom-the-bell-tolls/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/15/hd-dvd-its-for-whom-the-bell-tolls/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

The Switched Show Podcast

We're callin' it -- HD-DVD has lost the format war against Blu-Ray -- but that doesn't mean now isn't a great time to get a sweet deal on an HD-DVD player.

Plus: How to extend the battery life of your cell phone, how to fend off attackers with your cell phone and a definitive answer to how many of your cell phone calls suck (in terms of sound quality). OH! And Hello Kitty!

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Switched PodcastSwitchedPodcastFri, 15 Feb 2008 20:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Top 11 Ways to Make Your Cell Phone Battery Last Longer]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/12/top-11-ways-to-make-your-cell-phone-battery-last-longer/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/12/top-11-ways-to-make-your-cell-phone-battery-last-longer/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/12/top-11-ways-to-make-your-cell-phone-battery-last-longer/#commentsFiled under: ,

Cell phones have come a long way in terms of features and styling, but the issue of battery life, or having enough of it, remains strong. Yes, you can keep your battery juiced up for days if you don't talk on the phone ever, but what's the use of that? And sure, you can carry your admittedly portable charger with you to work, but try taking it out with you for a night out on the town -- it's just not practical. Luckily, all hope is not lost -- with a quick adjustments here and there, you can extend the battery life of your phone by hours and sometimes even days. We've compiled a list of tips and tricks to keep your phone battery running longer -- take a look, follow a few, and you'll never have to say "sorry, my phone battery died" again.

Turn your cell phone off to save battery life

Turn your cell phone off.
Sure, it might seem obvious, but when was the last time you actually shut off your phone when not using it? Well, do it next time, and you'll see just how much longer your battery lasts. When you're asleep, while you're in a dead cell phone reception area, or, the next time you're at the movies....Next time you find yourself in a theater as the previews start, try turning your phone off instead of putting it on silent. You shouldn't be checking your phone during the movie anyway.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriesbattery lifeBatteryLifeexpire-images2009-2-11featureshow-toservicesummeradviceTue, 12 Feb 2008 13:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Extend Your Cell Phone's Battery Life-10]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/11/extend-your-cell-phones-battery-life-10/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/11/extend-your-cell-phones-battery-life-10/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/11/extend-your-cell-phones-battery-life-10/#commentsFiled under: ,

Clean your battery contacts
Over time, your battery connection to your cellphone can become corroded. This can then lead to sub-par battery performance. If you notice your battery contacts -- those gold-colored metallic points on the bottom -- have become discolored or have accumulated dirt, then grab a cotton swab and some alcohol and wipe both the contacts themselves and the battery compartment on your cell phone. Once any dust, lint or other debris has been cleared, the energy transfer should be back to normal and your battery may run longer.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>expire-images2009-2-10Mon, 11 Feb 2008 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel's New Penryn Processors, and Why You Should Care About Them]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/11/intels-new-penryn-processors-and-why-you-should-care-about-the/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/11/intels-new-penryn-processors-and-why-you-should-care-about-the/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/11/intels-new-penryn-processors-and-why-you-should-care-about-the/#commentsFiled under: , ,

What the Heck is Penryn? And Why You Should Care.

What is Penryn?
Those new Intel processors we mentioned during CES are finally starting to show up in laptops in reasonable numbers. Toshiba, Sony, HP, and Dell are all tossing Intel's new mobile processors, built on the chipmaker's way-smaller-than-a-human hair 45-nanometer (nm) technology, into portables aimed at the hardcore, and often media-hungry, computer-user. As we mentioned in our '5 Things to Consider When Buying a Laptop' primer, these chips will keep the "Core 2" moniker that Intel has been branding its processors with since 2006, but will have slightly different model numbers to differentiate them from the older Core 2 models.

How is Penryn different from standard Pentium Core 2 processors?
Penryn is not a revolution, but rather an evolution of Intel's Core 2 family of processors. Three new technologies have been crammed into this new square of silicon to make faster and more powerful laptops with longer battery life.

First is the 45nm size reduction of the processor's die (the tech term for a processor's casing or mold). This die shrink means the processor can have features and innards as small as 45 nanometers wide, which means that Intel can squeeze more processors out of a single slab of silicon. The newfound space not only drives down prices, but also enables the new processors to use less energy and run at cooler temperatures. Cooler-running processors mean that Intel can ramp up computing speeds without melting the insides of the computer (or burning your lap, for that matter).

When a processor's die is shrunk, however, it becomes easier for electrons to leak out wasting electricity, and counteracts some of the benefits of the size reduction. To combat this leakage, Intel has introduced a new transistor technology called High-K that reigns in much of the leakage and leads to more energy efficient processors. Tests have shown that Penryn processors can get almost a full hour of battery life over older Core 2's during normal usage and about 20 minutes more while playing back a DVD.

Lastly, is a new set of instructions called SSE4, which is aimed at speeding up media functions such as video encoding (converting video so you can edit it on your computer) and playback. The catch is that software developers must write applications to specifically take advantage of the new instructions. The popularity of the Intel processors and the dramatic performance increase guarantees that companies will get on board. Applications that are already SSE4-enabled (like the DivX video encoding suite) have seen boosts in performance of almost 40%. That's quite a difference when you're talking about cutting down what typically takes an hour to encode HD video to just over 30 minutes.

How do I know if a computer has Penryn?
Well, besides looking for the 'Penryn' logo on a laptop's spec list, make sure the model numbers start with '8' or '9' (i.e. T9500 or T8300). Penryn is the code name the new chips were developed under at the Intel labs, and often Intel chips continue to be referred to by their code name once they're released.



Do I need one now?
If you're a hardcore gamer, a videomaker or a high-def movie enthusiast with money to burn, go for it. The current models of Penryn or Core 2 9000 and 8000 series are more expensive (Penyrn-enabled laptops start at $1,000) and aimed at the upper end of the consumer market. Anyone who does a lot of video editing on the go should also serious