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News - Cutting Edge
(updated 15 September 2008)
(15.09.08)
Roku is using Trolltech's Qt for Embedded Linux in its newly released
Netflix Player. The player is a device that enables Netflix subscribers
to instantly stream a growing library of movies and TV episodes from Netflix
directly to the TV. The Netflix player promises easy use and simplicity
without a high cost. Qt for Embedded Linux - formerly Qtopia Core - is
Trolltech's leading application framework for single purpose devices powered
by embedded Linux.
"As we developed the Netflix Player by Roku we were keenly focused on creating the best possible user experience for Netflix's 8million+ customers," says Tim Twerdahl, Roku’s VP for consumer products. "Qt provided us with the tools to implement our elegant and powerful user interface quickly, providing an important time to market advantage."
Qt for Embedded Linux provides a sophisticated and proven development environment enabling manufacturers to efficiently create devices with applications that are tailored to market needs. Roku partnered with Trolltech not only due to Qt's rich user interface and reduced time-to-market capabilities, but also because the company saw benefits in Qt's ability to support multiple operating systems and devices from a single codebase. As with all versions of Qt, developers are able to focus on building the core value of each product, instead of platform specific maintenance.
Back to top(01.09.08)
Expanding its NP series of desktop projectors, NEC's a new LCD based model
NP905 is seen as a complete all-rounder in the 3000 Ansi lumens category.
It comes with a WLAN USB adapter and Windows Vista, with plug & play networking
enabling effortless and wireless presentations.
Connection to a local network is achieved quickly and simply without the need for any additional software. Features such as HQVTM (Hollywood Quality Video) technology ensure the NEC NP905 displays outstanding video quality, with video images also exhibiting particular stability and low noise.
For effortless and simple presentations without any restrictive cabling, the NP905 features a USB interface and Windows Vista for integrated plug & play wireless-LAN functionality. Even when the projector is remotely positioned, thanks to its Ethernet network connectivity, projector information can be called up at any time as well as data transmitted to it - even when the data source is also a large distance away. At the projector itself, the Windows Remote-Desktop-Function additionally allows these functions to be called up on an attached network PC, since a USB mouse and keyboard can both be connected to the projector.
Windows Vista's own simple and user-friendly application "Windows Network Projector" also allows users to send data displayed on a PC monitor to the projector. No additional software or administrator rights are required for this. It goes without saying that all network functions can also be performed using cable connections and the RJ45 interface.
The projector exploits the latest technology to score highly in video picture quality. It employs Silicon Optix's HQVTM technology, often found in digital cinema equipment as well as other applications, to ensure the best possible image reproduction. The technology guarantees excellent noise suppression, de-interlacing, high quality reproduction of detail and film-mode recognition.
A brightness of 3000 ANSI lumens and XGA resolution all ensure brilliant image quality. An innovation in this product class is the DICOM (digital imaging and communication in medicine) simulation function which has been incorporated into the NEC NP905. This allows medical data images to be reproduced with fine gray-scale gradations for use, as an example, in training or teaching courses.
NP905 is suited for a multitude of applications. Even situations with restricted space are easily handled: it offers x1.2 optical zoom, as well as vertical, up to 30° and horizontal, up to 40° keystone correction. The 3D Reform function compensates for diagonal distortions, for example due to laterally-skewed or inclined projection surfaces. Using the wall colour correction function, the projector can also adjust the colour balance of the displayed image. This compensates for any colour shading of the projection surface, to offer true colour reproduction - all at the touch of a button. Optional software available at no extra cost also allows geometric correction for rounded, arched or cylindrical surfaces to achieve distortion-free projection.
To achieve maximum flexibility, the NEC NP905 has been equipped with numerous connection ports. Reproduction of coded HD video and HDTV content is possible due to the digital HDMITM interface (with HDCP). In addition, the projector offers two VGA inputs as well as S-video, video and audio inputs, and a 3.5mm stereo audio output. The analogue PC output also allows the connection of an external monitor. The projector can be controlled and maintained via the RJ45 or RS-232 ports. A particular feature for video images is the integrated USB viewer. It permits the direct connection of external data storage devices to the projector so that stored video files (MPEG2) can be played back with exceptional ease. For optimum presentation of picture content, the NEC NP905 also comes with parallel representation functions, such as picture-in-picture or side-by-side modes, where two signals can be simultaneously displayed. Users can either choose to image a small video picture within a full-sized video picture, or display the two pictures alongside each other - this is especially popular for video conferencing.
Back to top(01.09.08)
Ostar Projection SMT LEDs are said to be more compact and efficient than
ever before and designed for integration into ultra-miniature pico projection
applications where space is at a premium. The compact LED module measures
just 5.8x4.7x1.5mm and, in contrast to its predecessor, does not require
additional connectors on board for electrical interface.
An embedded cell phone pico projector typically measures 1.5x3cm and in this configuration, Ostar provides a system brightness of 10 screen lumens with a power consumption of 1W. The larger accessory versions of pico projectors, which measure 7.5x7.5cm, can be operated with a higher wattage and can achieve brightness values of more than 15 lm.
A single Ostar® Projection SMT LED module contains four 1mm² RGB chips, two green, one red and one blue. As an alternative to this RGB version, the Ostar is also available with four monochrome ultra-white, red, green or blue chips. Depending on the colour, the chips are based on Thinfilm or ThinGaN technology and are designed for optimum efficiency. The chips are located together with ESD protection diodes on a ceramic carrier with a monolithic glass window to provide cover and protection. Besides pico projectors, the compact but powerful Ostar Projection SMT LED also lends itself to other applications such as specialty and fibre lighting.
Back to top(18.08.08)
First 16:10 pull-up screen on the market, at 70in, comes from InFocus
who also introduces a 106in pull-down screen, both purpose designed for
W-XGA projectors and laptop computer applications.
SC-PUW-70, at 70in, is said to be larger than the majority of flat panel displays available and provides a cost-effective, convenient and instant projection solution. It weights in at just 5.5lb and has five height positions, adjusted via an extension pole. It also has adjustable levelling feet for stability when extended.
The 106in SC-PDW-106 is also the first ever InFocus pull-down screen with a speed-controlled screen return and an any position locking mechanism. Installation is quick and simple using floating mounting brackets, designed to allow easy horizontal adjustment.
Back to top(18.08.08)
Nexcom's NDiS 161 is a reliable yet cost-effective digital signage media
player boasting astonishing graphics, multi-format multimedia support,
fanless design and versatile connectivity.
The player is housed in an ultra-slim, easy to mount package which is easily mounted behind large LCD screens. Based on the Intel 945GME chipset with support for Intel's Core 2 Duo Solution, NDiS 161 delivers a screen resolution up to 1920x1080i and a multi-screen display capability.
With the fanless design, the NDiS 161 is said to be highly reliable, very quiet and perfect for 24/7 operation.
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