Smart Knowledge: June 2008

Monday, June 16, 2008

Lego Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures

Imagine being able to play with Legos without having to get all the pieces. Now you can with Lego Indiana Jones. It takes the fun and creative construction of LEGO and combines it with the wits, daring and non-stop action from the original cinematic adventures. With a tongue-in-cheek take on these original adventures, LEGO Indiana Jones follows Dr. Jones's escapades through the jungles of South America to the mountaintops of India where you will build, battle and brawl your way through your favorite moments, from Indy's entanglements with snakes to his dashing boulder run.

LEGO Indiana Jones: The Original Adventures takes the fun and creative construction of LEGO and combines it with the wits, daring and non-stop action from the original cinematic adventures that enthralled audiences everywhere (Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade). With a unique tongue-in-cheek take on the original adventures, LEGO Indiana Jones follows Dr. Jones escapades through the jungles of South America to the mountaintops of India. Fans can build, battle and brawl their way through their favorite cinematic moments, from Indy’s entanglements with snakes to his dashing boulder run.

Of course, pop culture’s most iconic archaeologist will whip through all the classic moments with the help of a host of supporting characters including Marion Ravenwood and Short Round. Players can also mix and match the body parts of more than 60 playable characters to create new heroes just as they could in the best-selling LEGO Star Wars games.

thanks http://astore.amazon.com/cheap.nintendo.wii.console-20/

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Engage the rage with Super Smash Bros. Brawl! The third installment of the incredibly successful Super Smash Bros. series is now on the Wii, The roster is longer than ever, but that just means more butt to kick across over a dozen different, graphic-rich stages with original moves, new modified moves, and a brand-new super attack called Final Smash! Old favorites like Mario, Link, Peach and Kirby are now joined by such exciting newcomers as Wario, Solid Snake and Sonic the Hedgehog. With a variety of new modes, an absolutely epic soundtrack and the ability to play with distant friends through online multiplayer, this is a game you'll have to break your own fingers to put down. Original soundtrack from 36 different artists Online Multiplayer ESRB Rated RP for Rating Pending

See your favorite Smash Bros. character, redesigned from their most recent games, brawl onto your screen once again!
A host of new characters to fight with, including Sonic, Pit from Kid Icarus, Wario and Diddy Kong
More than a dozen gorgeously-rendered stages
New special moves and attacks, including the groundbreaking Final Smash
New items and assist trophies

Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Super Smash Bros. Brawl is a great game with all your classical players like Mario,DonkyKong and Wario.The way you beat the game is you have to use each charactor in two different stages.I like it because it takes a while to beat the game and I don't like games were you can beat it in a day.I think everyone would like this game.

thanks http://astore.amazon.com/buy.cheap.wii.games-20/

Friday, June 13, 2008

Wii Play with Wii Remote by Smart Techno Review

Wii Play with Wii Remote

Wii Play collects nine quick and addictive games that are easy to pick up and play and hard to put away. With the intuitive controls of the Wii Remote, even the most inexperienced gamers will have no trouble mastering the controls. Every game features a multiplayer mode, so you and your friends can compete for the high score or go head to head to see who's the best. Wii Play comes with a white Wii Remote, so your friends can join in the action. Games include:

Features

Shooting Range, a point-and-fire game of target practice in the Duck Hunt tradition
Billiards, a simplified variation of nine-ball with stunningly realistic physics that uses your Wii Remote as your pool cue
Find Mii, in which you scan the crowds to find the right Mii - Miis you and your friends created make an appearance
Tanks!, where you command a toy tank on a miniature battlefield in a gauntlet of 100 missions
Other games include Pose Mii, Table Tennis, Fishing, Charge! and Laser Hockey

thanks http://astore.amazon.com/cheap.nintendo.wii.console-20/

Xbox 360 Console Includes 20GB Hard Drive

The Xbox 360 Premium System is the way to begin experiencing the ultimate in next-generation gaming. Now improved with an HDMI port, your games and video entertainment will look better than ever when connected to an HDTV. Amazing Digital entertainment and video gaming experiences, unprecedented in home console entertainment, are waiting for you -- all you have to do is turn on the controller to this incredible device and an unsurpassed level of adventure and excitement can be yours. Xbox Live Marketplace - Download the latest game demos, arcade games, television, movies, and more straight to your Xbox 360 console via any Broadband Internet service Games - Games look, feel, and Sound realistic with 480p/720p/1080i HD Output via HDMI or Component cable, 16 - 9 widescreen aspect ratio, anti-aliasing, and multi-channel Surround sound support Digital Entertainment - Play DVD movies right out of the box, play HD DVDs with the Optional HD-DVD Player (sold separately), rip music to the 360 Hard Drive, connect your Digital Camera and share your digital pictures with friends, or connect your Xbox 360 to a Windows XP or Windows Vista Media Center PC and Stream TV, Music, Movies, and Pictures to your Xbox 360 console over your network! NOTE - Some features may require optional Xbox Live GOLD service; One month of complementary Xbox Live GOLD service is included

thanks http://astore.amazon.com/buy.cheap.xbox.360-20/

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Flip Video Mino Series Camcorder, 60 Minutes (White)

Introducing the Flip Video Mino
From the makers of the popular Flip Video Ultra comes the Mino, which puts the power of video in your pocket. The super-portable, super-simple Mino makes it easy to capture and share high-quality video anywhere and everywhere. And thanks to its flip-out USB arm and intuitive, built-in software, Mino lets you view, edit and upload your videos to popular video-sharing sites instantly. In addition to its sleek compact design--complete with touch-sensitive, backlit buttons--Mino boasts a rechargeable battery that powers up automatically while plugged into your computer or electrical outlet.

Flip Mino Highlights

All That Flip Video Goodness, Only Smaller
At 40% smaller than its already pocket-sized brother the Flip Ultra, the Flip Mino barely makes a dent in even the tightest of jeans. But small in size doesn't mean short on function;

Mino's got all the Flip features--simple user-interface, one touch-recording, built-in USB, intuitive editing software, easy sharing functionality--that folks have come to know and love.

Sleek, Portable Design
The Flip Mino is the perfect combination of form and function. Its minimalist, retro front is the perfect complement to its high-tech modern back, with a large no-glare screen, touch-sensitive panel, and glowing backlit control buttons. All focused around Flip's signature red record button that lets you go from pocket to recording in seconds.

With a camcorder this small and sleek, there's no limit to where you can take it and what you'll end up shooting. From a short film to enter in your favorite festival to footage of a hot new band, the Mino makes it easy because it's always with you and always ready to go.

Mind-Boggling Quality
Despite its diminutive size, the Flip Mino produces video that rivals that of camcorders costing much, much more. With 2 GB of flash memory, the Mino can record up to 60 minutes of VGA (Video Graphics Array)-quality video that looks sharp when played back on your laptop or television (TV cable included). The high-quality microphone captures crisp, detailed audio, whether you're paddling down the Amazon, or rockin' out at your favorite club.

Revolutionary Built-in Software
Flip Video's revolutionary software is built into the camcorder, so there's no need for clunky 3rd party software or cables. Just plug the Mino into any PC or Mac via the flip-out USB arm and you'll be viewing, organizing, editing and sharing your videos effortlessly.

Technical Specifications:

Video: Full VGA, 30 frames per second, MPEG4
1.5-inch color LCD screen to play back and delete videos
Video quality comparable to more expensive camcorders
2x digital zoom
TV out and connector cable for instant viewing on TV
Connect to computer via innovative, flip out USB arm
2 GB built-in flash memory
Built-in rechargeable battery (Lithium Ion), charges on both USB and fast AC charge

thanks http://astore.amazon.com/cheap.flip.video.camcorder-20/

Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Playstation 3 40GB By Smart Techno Review

Playstation 3 40GB

As DVD playback made the PlayStation 2 more than just a game machine, hefty multi-media features make the PlayStation 3 an even more versatile home entertainment machine. Features such as video chat, internet access, digital photo viewing, and digital audio and video will likely make it the central component of your media set-up. Still, it is first and foremost a powerful gaming console.

Smart Review

More Than I Expected...I Keep Finding Cool Features
I'm not a console gamer. I bought the PS3 strictly as a Blu-ray player. However, over the past three weeks, I've been discovering all kinds of cool things to use it for. I didn't know it had built in WiFi, and didn't care. But when it quickly found my wireless network, I used Nero MediaHome to stream video to it, which it played well, except the HD video, which was chopy. I actually ended up running an Ethernet cable to it because I am using my PC as a media server now. It plays Xvid and H.264 fine (after a 10 second demuxing process). The picture slideshow features are cool, too.

I've also enjoyed downloading free demos of games directly to the PS3 and playing with them. I can only squeeze in about 20 minutes of gaming per week if that, so the free demos have been enough. The UI is beautiful and fun to use.

Cons: I wish is would have come with a better manual. All I got was a quick setup type manual. It was fine to get me started but it didn't say anything about all the cool stuff it can do. Fortunately, I've jumped on lots of PS3 websites and stumbled upon stuff. The user community is good at explaining things like, you can only connect a USB HD formatted in Fat32 to the PS3. The PS3 is definitely not marketed to folks like my parents who rarely sit and read user forums.

thanks http://astore.amazon.com/cheap.playstation.3.-20/

Saturday, June 7, 2008

Flip Video Mino Series Camcorder 60 Minutes (Black)

Flip Video Mino Series Camcorder 60 Minutes (Black)

Introducing the Flip Video Mino

From the makers of the popular Flip Video Ultra comes the Mino, which puts the power of video in your pocket. The super-portable, super-simple Mino makes it easy to capture and share high-quality video anywhere and everywhere. And thanks to its flip-out USB arm and intuitive, built-in software, Mino lets you view, edit and upload your videos to popular video-sharing sites instantly. In addition to its sleek compact design--complete with touch-sensitive, backlit buttons--Mino boasts a rechargeable battery that powers up automatically while plugged into your computer or electrical outlet.

In the Box:

Camcorder (with built-in rechargeable battery)
TV connector cable
Wrist strap
Soft carrying case
Quick start guide

Technical Specifications:

Video: Full VGA, 30 frames per second, MPEG4
1.5 inch color LCD screen to play back and delete videos
Video quality comparable to more expensive camcorders
2x digital zoom
TV out and connector cable for instant viewing on TV
Connect to computer via innovative, flip out USB arm
2 GB built-in flash memory
Built-in rechargeable battery (Lithium Ion), charges on both USB and fast AC charger

Mino is a camcorder that goes anywhere. Simply put it in your pocket! Then easily share your video on the web on MySpace, YouTube, and AOL.

Weighing in at just over three ounces, the remarkably slim yet powerful Flip Video Mino raises the bar for high-quality, portable, and easy-to-use video. Smaller than most cell phones, Mino fits neatly into a jeans pocket to capture life's stories whenever and wherever they happen ? at a party, a concert, the beach, even on a bike ride. The Mino also features Flip Video's built-in software that lets you simply plug the camcorder's signature flip-out USB arm into any computer for immediate editing and sharing. For the first time, the Flip Video software lets you easily upload video directly to MySpace as well as to YouTube and AOL Video, making it even easier to share video. In addition to quickly posting videos on sharing and social networking sites, they can email videos and video greeting cards; create custom movies with their own music; capture still photos from video; save and organize videos on the computer; and, for the first time, seamlessly order and send DVDs anywhere in the world. Custom editing of movie mixes, with the option to set them to your own music Capture of still photos from video Order DVDs online and have them shipped anywhere in the world TV connection for instant viewing (cable included) Tripod mountable Internal rechargeable battery delivers up to 4 hours of use between charges Unit Size is only 3.94 x 1.97 x 0.63 HWD

USER REVIEW

The iPod Nano of Video Recorders
Summary:
Love the convenience, form-factor, and results. The price is a bargain for this much capability.

Pros:
*Small enough to go everywhere you go.
*One thumb runs the whole thing.
*Lighted touch sensitive buttons guide you through steps.
*Very usable video quality.
*Drop dead simple Windows integration.
*Speaks native YouTube.
*Survives routine drops, coffee splashes, UPS crushers, and overstuffed computer bags.
*Lickable packaging with all the interconnect you need.
*Storage pouch doubles as lens cleaner.

Cons:
*More fingerprints than a crime scene.
*Mac installation not as slick as Windoze.
*Sound ease-of-use trumps quality (tech note: needs a better compressor/limiter).
*No SD slot (just like an iPod).

http://astore.amazon.com/cheap.flip.video.camcorder-20/

Magellan Maestro 4250 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator bu Smart Techno Review

Magellan Maestro 4250 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator

Details

Size: 2GB
Color: Silver/Black
Brand: Magellan
Model: Magellan Maestro 4250
Dimensions: 2.10" h x 9.75" w x 5.13" l, 1.85 pounds
Native resolution: Unknown

Features

Voice Command; AAA TourBook reviews and ratings
4.3-inch WQVGA full-color, anti-glare, touch-screen display
Bluetooth for hands-free calling
SmartDetour prompts drivers to route around traffic and delays
Simple, intuitive interface; Utlra-thin design, only .7 inches deep.

Smart Review

We've been big fans of Magellan's Maestro line since it came out in early 2006. The Maestro interface is incredibly easy to use, even for those who are not completely comfortable with electronics. At the same time, Magellan was ahead of the industry with useful innovations like multi-destination routing and pre-loaded reviews for points of interest like hotels and restaurants (from AAA). With it's 3200 and 4200 series, Magellan has improved the Maestro line giving them a SirfStar III chipset that provides super-fast. satellite lock and making them thinner. In fact, at .7 inches, these are -- at the time of this writing (November 2007), the thinnest portable GPS navigators available. Distingushing between models is also fairly easy.

USER REVIEW

Great product! I was also considering the Nuvi 660 but purchased the 4250 as it had voice recognition. The VR does perform reasonably well as long as you keep the background noise down, which is understandable.
One big suggestion is to purchase the Bracketron UFM-100BL Nav-Mat GPS Friction Dash Pad to mount to the Maestro, or any suction cup GPS unit - it really does stay in place without sliding! Another great product.
I am an end user and have no affilation with either company.

http://astore.amazon.com/magellan.maestro.gps.navigation-20/

Wednesday, June 4, 2008

Garmin nüvi 660 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator By Smart Techno review

Garmin nüvi 660 4.3-Inch Widescreen Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator

See more and explore with nvi 660. This widescreen travel companion and navigator features preloaded maps, hands-free calling, traffic alerts, FM transmitter and more. Like the rest of the wide nvi 600-series, its large touchscreen display puts the world at your fingertips.

Smart Reviews

With a gorgeous widescreen display, the Garmin nüvi 660 GPS Personal Travel Assistant is your answer to the call of adventure. A sleek navigator and a keen travel assistant, the nüvi 660 is preloaded with highly detailed City Navigator NT road maps for the entire United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. This map database features nearly six million points of interest (POIs), including hotels, restaurants, gas stations, ATMs, and attractions, and the data is provided by NAVTEQ, a world leader in premium-quality mapping.This preloaded navigator brings all this fantastic map data to your fingertips with a super-bright, 4.3-inch widescreen display for improved map viewing, day or night. Use the touch screen interface to select destinations, look up POIs, and play your favorite MP3s and audio books. The display also helps you control hands-free calling, traffic alerts, and the FM transmitter, all from the screen of your personal travel assistant.

thanks http://astore.amazon.com/garmin.nuvi.portable.gps.navigator-20/

Monday, June 2, 2008

Canon EOS 40D 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera with EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens Review By Smart

Canon EOS 40D 10.1MP Digital SLR Camera

Description

Welcome to the next generation of digital SLR photography-the Canon EOS 40D. The EOS 40D combines Canon's tremendous know-how in both the digital and photographic worlds, creating a camera that not only does everything one would expect of a traditional digital SLR, but one that incorporates staggering leaps forward in technological innovation. With new features like Canon's EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Live View Function, a more powerful DIGIC III Image Processor, plus a 10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, a 3.0-inch LCD monitor and more, the EOS 40D elevates digital photography to new heights, enhancing the shooting experience, and delivering images one could only expect from a Canon. EOS Integrated Cleaning System, Picture Style settings, Spot metering, and Highlight Tone Priority for advanced in-camera image control Large 3.0-inch LCD monitor and advanced Live View Function with new options for reduced shutter time lag and quiet operation Wide range of accessories, including interchangeable focusing screens, extensive remote control options, new battery grip BG-E2N, and new dedicated wireless file transmitter WFT-E3A DCF 2.0 (Exif 2.21) - JPEG, RAW and RAW + JPEG simultaneous recording possible - up to 3,888 x 2,592 resolution JPEG Auto and manual exposure and focus modes Shutter Speeds - 1/8000 to 30 sec. (1/3-stop increments), X-sync at 1/250 sec. Auto pop-up, retractable, electronic-flash in pentaprism Dimensions (W x H x D) 5.7 x 4.2 x 2.9 inch (Body Only); 26.1 ounce

Product Details

Amazon Sales Rank: #41 in Camera & Photo
Brand: Canon
Model: 40D Kit
Released on: 2007-08-30
Dimensions: 10.00" h x 14.00" w x 12.00" l, 10.00 pounds
Display size: 3
Included Software: Yes

Features

10.1-megapixel CMOS sensor captures enough detail for photo-quality poster-size prints
Kit includes body and EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Standard Zoom Lens
Large 3.0-inch LCD display with enhanced Live View and broadened color gamut
6.5 frame-per-second continuous shooting; sRAW mode; 35-zone metering system; integrated Self-Cleaning Sensor Unit
Powered by BP-511A, BP-511, or BP-512 lithium-ion battery pack; stores images on CF cards

Editorial Reviews

Manufacturer Description

Building on the success of Canon's perennially popular "prosumer" EOS 20D and 30D models, the EOS 40D advances the state-of-the-art for mid-range digital SLR cameras, making it a natural first choice for advanced amateur photographers and entry-level professionals, and an ideal second body for more established photo pros. Indeed, given the level of feature upgrades and improvements, technological wizardry, and user-requested creative controls, the Canon EOS 40D SLR's "prosumer" appellation may refer more to its accessible price point than to the exceptional quality, clarity, and resolution of the images it creates.

From the camera's newly enhanced, 10.1-megapixel CMOS imaging sensor (designed and manufactured by Canon) and its proprietary and super-efficient DIGIC III image processor, to its completely redesigned autofocus sensor and fast, 6.5 frame-per-second (fps) continuous shooting capability (for bursts of up to 75 Large/Fine JPEGs or 17 RAW images), the EOS 40D SLR puts the fun in functionality and makes serious photo business a positive pleasure.

Customer Reviews

The latest generation of a highly successful line
Having used a 10D for about five years, and having passed up on buying the 20D and 30D, I finally decided it was time to update. This camera is just as easy to use, with several improvements, including a much bigger LCD screen. Since it is a direct descendant of my older camera, it felt very familiar immediately, with no "learning curve." I highly recommend this for the "part-time pro," that is somebody who must rely on the performance and reliability of a camera to get the job done and get paid, but who doesn't have the day-in-day-out volume of business to justify the price of a $7K+ "real" pro camera. It is an exceptionally good deal.

http://astore.amazon.com/canon.eos.slr.digital.camera-20/

Tags: canon eos 40d, digital, camera, Smart, review