Flower-Power Party for 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle Review

The millionth Volkswagen New Beetle will run off the production line this summer. To mark the occasion, enthusiasts from all over Europe will meet in exactly one month’s time on the New Beetle Sunshine Tour. In addition to standard models from the New Beetle and New Beetle Cabriolet range, many custom cars with special paint finishes and completely revamped bodies will be joining the parade along the Baltic coast. The Baltic Sea Tour starts on Sunday 14 July in Lübeck. It will finish with a flower-power party featuring the New Beetles at the Grömitz promenade.

The private initiative "Beetle Sunshine Tour" was launched by New Beetle Cabriolet owner Gabriele Kraft from Lübeck in 2004. She is organizing the tour for the fourth time. "This meeting is not just about beautiful cars, but about the people that love the New Beetle," she says. 135 entry forms have been received from all over Germany and its neighboring countries. Gabriele Kraft is optimistic that the cars meeting at Grömitz beach will number 250 for the first time.

This does need a large amount of planning as there will be a stage at the finish on which everybody can present their favorite car. There will be concert by a surprise act later on. "In the morning, the cars will be on show in the P+R car park at VfB-Lübeck/Lohmühle football club before we head towards Grömitz promenade with a few fun stop-offs along the Baltic," says the organizer.

Any interested New Beetle drivers can register free of charge on the website at www.beetle-sunshinetour.de. The New Beetle Sunshine Tour is supported by Volkswagen and Grömitz council.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Euro Sedan

Mitsubishi will present in Frankfurt the European version of the Mitsubishi Lancer sedan . The European Mitsubishi Lancer sedan will have three engine options:
- 1.8 liter DOHC MIVEC engine with aluminum cylinder block [max. output 105 kW (143 PS)] mated to either the INVECS-III 6-speed Sport Mode CVT or a 5-speed manual transmission
- 2 liter turbocharged diesel engine [103 kW (140 PS)] mated to a 6-speed manual transmission
- 1.5 liter DOHC MIVEC engine [80 kW (109PS)] mated to a 4-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission

Mitsubishi Press Release:The new Lancer sedan has already been launched in North America, Russia and Japan (Japan-market name: Galant Fortis) and has been well-received as a "global standard sporty sedan" that achieves the optimum balance between quality of ride, road performance, safety, environmental and comfort performance.

To meet European market requirements, three engines are available in the new Lancer: a new 1.8-liter DOHC MIVEC with aluminum cylinder block [max. output 105 kW (143 PS)]; a 2-liter turbochargeddiesel [103 kW (140 PS)]; and a 1.5-liter DOHC MIVEC [80 kW (109PS)] unit.

New European Lancer sedan product features

- The packaging realizes generous living space with a body that is wider and taller but only slightly longer than the current model. The wider track realizes better stability.

- The exterior design creates a body with vibrant looks and a strong road presence using proportions comprising a large cabin wrapped in sporty, wide-stance styling and by combiningthe Mitsubishi Motors hallmark inverted-slant nose with a trapezoidal grille. The new Lancer is the first model to employ the new design identity that will mark Mitsubishi Motors sedans to be introduced in future.

- The following powertrain configurations are available: A new 1.8-liter DOHC MIVEC engine with aluminum cylinder block [max. output 105 kW (143 PS)] mated to either the INVECS-III 6-speed Sport Mode CVT or a 5-speed manual transmission; a 2-liter turbocharged diesel engine [103 kW (140 PS)]mated to a 6-speed manual transmission; and a 1.5-liter DOHC MIVEC engine [80 kW (109PS)] mated to a 4-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission. All the powertrains deliver responsive power and excellent environmental performance. The high-rigidity platform, used on the Outlander and Delica D:5*3, delivers outstanding crashworthiness; a revamped suspension underpins and supports high levels of handling and response together with safety performance.

- Features enhancing passive and impact safety include: SRS airbags (driver and front passenger airbags, driver knee airbag, side and curtain airbags); adaptive front lighting (AFS) that improves the driver's field of vision at night; and rain-sensitive auto wipers.- The European Lancer's utility and convenience specification includes a Rockford Fosgate premium sound system, giving superior sound reproduction, as well as with paddle shifters that allow the driver to change gear without taking his hand off the steering wheel. Standard on all models is Mitsubishi Motors Cocochi interior that includes a pollen-removing air filter in its occupant-friendly specification.

2008 Lancia Musa and Ypsilon Unveiled Review

The absolute star is the New Musa which makes its first public appearance at an international motor show. Two Musa Platinos are on display with two different engines, the 100 bhp 1.9 Multijet and the 90 bhp 1.3 Multijet with DPF. The first version has Masaccio Black paintwork with leather and Alcantara® Starlite upholstery, while the second features a two-tone body (Peyrano and Rouge) combined with Chocolate upholstery in leather and Alcantara® Starlite. Both cars are lavishly equipped: in the safety field, for example, they feature an ESP system, 6 airbags, foglights, the Blue&Me® system and TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System); where comfort is concerned, they are offered with automatic dual-zone climate control, cruise control, satellite navigation, parking sensors, radio controls on the steering wheel and electrical rear windows. And finally, the two new Musa Platino sport 16” alloys, a leather-covered steering wheel and gear lever knob with contrasting stitching and the GranLuce sunroof.

The display is completed by a car equipped with the 95 bhp 1.4 16v engine, with a DFN (‘Dolce Far Niente’) robotised gearbox in the Oro specification, and the following safety features: 6 airbags, ESP, TPMS, foglights and the Blue&Me® system. The attention paid to occupant comfort is underlined by the dual-zone automatic climate system, cruise control, a radio with CD and MP3 file player, parking sensors, radio controls on the steering wheel and electric rear side windows. And that is not all: Airtex fabric also guarantees excellent transpiration. The 16” alloys, leather-covered steering wheel with contrasting stitching and two-tone body (Masaccio Black and Botticelli Grey) complete the model’s elegant, refined livery.

There is also space for the Ypsilon Sport MomoDesign, the most outspokenly sporty, but nonetheless fashionable version that was the fruit of collaboration between Lancia and MomoDesign, two Italian industrial concerns that are famous throughout the world, now united by innovation in design, the use of cutting-edge materials and attention to detail.

There will be two examples of the Ypsilon Sport MomoDesign on the catwalk in Germany, one powered by the brilliant 95 bhp 1.4 16v engine and the other by the 105 bhp 1.3 Multijet, the most powerful diesel in its category.

Both have two-tone paintwork, which has always been a distinctive feature of Lancia and is now the result of a long, complex painting process. One combines an opaque Titanium grey roof with a Casorati Yellow body, while the body of the second car is Masaccio Black. In addition to the two-tone livery, the two Ypsilon Sport MomoDesign cars mount a wide range of standard and optional equipment: automatic dual zone climate control, a radio with a CD and MP3 file player, the Blue&Me® system and foglights.

The Frankfurt stand is completed by the Lancia Thesis and Lancia Phedra flagships, epitomising the marriage of ‘elegance and innovation’. Visitors will be able to admire a show car that is derived from the latest version of the Thesis, and a 7-seater version of the Phedra Emblema, the best example of the ‘Italian art of living’, powered by the brand new 170 bhp 2.2 Multijet engine. This engine incorporates a double sequential-parallel turboblower, thanks to which response times are limited even at low speeds, a factor which enhances elasticity, entertainment and performance. With peak torque of 370 Nm available at just 1500 rpm, the car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.8 seconds (compared to 12.5 second for the 136 bhp 2.0 Multijet version). Pick-up from 80 to 120 km/h in 5th is 11 seconds (0.7 seconds faster than the 136 bhp 2.0 version). Top speed is 200 km/h and consumption is also identical to that of the 136 bhp version. Overall, this outstanding performance means high cruising speeds, good acceleration and pick-up, but low consumption. Once again the Phedra tops its class, with a perfect combination of elegance, roominess and comfort even for 7 people, and it is always a pleasure to drive. And even emissions are low thanks to the DPF particulate filter.

The show car derived from the Lancia Thesis Sport has elegant two-tone bodywork (Maserati Quartz Dolomite, tone-on-tone) that sets off the lines of the model beautifully. The striking design of the 18” spoked alloys adds an extra touch of elegance, with a nuance that matches the colour of the roof. The same elegance is evident in the interior, thanks to the new Frau® Beige leather upholstery with coordinated black finishing elements and black ebony wood inserts. It is powered by the 2.4 Multijet 20v engine and a five speed self-adaptive sequential automatic transmission, and delivers a maximum of 185 bhp at 4000 rpm, with peak torque of 330 Nm at 1750 rpm. What is more, with this equipment, the car has a top speed of 222 km/h and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds.

The public in Frankfurt will learn all about the concept of the Lancia Cafés, which are being opened all over Europe, where people can meet and enter the ‘Lancia world’, interfacing with the worldwide network of Lancia Cafés, to understand and appreciate every aspect of the historical values, modernity and future of the brand. The same spirit will animate the showrooms to be built in the coming years and the stands at the various international shows, like the one prepared for the 62nd Frankfurt Show. In fact, the stand is inspired by the concept of the Lancia Café, which is evident in the high quality level, where every detail is perfectly in line with the elegant temperament and quality of Lancia cars. Even the furnishings and materials of the stand reflect the refinement and craftsmanship of the interiors of all Lancia models. The whole effect is set off by architectural elements that create the effect of a deconstructed, filtered, dynamic space: an environment that is not perpendicular or conventional, in line with the unique nature of Lancia design. The concept of the Lancia Cafés has also given birth to the Lancia Boutique, a refined environment where people can admire the precious collection of accessories and clothing with the brand logo, created in collaboration with leading names in the fashion world.

The stand is therefore a shop-window onto the brand, with the relaxed, convivial atmosphere of a sophisticated lounge. In this superb display, Lancia confirms the amazing vitality of a brand which for a century has managed to maintain its identity as the maker of cars that combine comfort, elegance and cutting edge technology. And the brand intends to tackle the coming years with the same spirit and goals, constantly proposing superb new products. Suffice it to say that 2006 saw not only the debut of the new Ypsilon, today’s peak model, but also that of the new Delta HPE, which will be marketed in 2008. And now the New Musa faces 2007. But other novelties are in the pipeline. Lancia has set itself the goal of reaching the milestone of 300,000 registrations a year by 2010, exploiting the brand’s history, genes and unique styling. With these guidelines, it aims to consolidate its position on the Italian market and to grasp the good prospects on the major European markets, also targeting new markets like Russia, Turkey and Scandinavia and, subsequently, returning to right-hand drive markets in Europe and further afield, such as the United Kingdom, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus, Japan, Australia and South Africa.

South beach kihei maui hawaii

South Beach is a beachfront home with five bedrooms and lots of tropical character. With just a few steps separating you from the ocean, this is beachfront living at its most convenient.

Every room at South Beach was designed to maximize your relaxation while on holiday. Common rooms are soft and elegant, with cool marble floors sweeping through the open kitchen, living area and dining room. Its bedroom suites feature dark wood and details typical to the area. Where South Beach really shines, though, is outside: a freeform pool with smooth stone terrace invites guests to spend most of their time there and even dine alfresco under the shade of umbrellas. The ocean is in full view while you lounge. The villa comes fully-equipped with entertainment amenities, including TV/DVD and wireless internet, for those times you'd prefer to remain indoors.

Kihei is a largely residential area free of hotel congestion and a bit more authentic Hawaii than your average pocket of homes in Maui. It's bordered by beaches on all sides, so guests don't have far to go to sample the areas other stretches of sand. The popular town of Wailea, with restaurants, shops and nightlife is also just a few minutes away by car.

Note: the lot next door to South Beach is currently under construction. Please ask for up-to-date information on its status and how it might affect your stay.

2008 Dodge Viper SRT10 Roadster

After skipping model year 2007, Dodge has made its unruly Viper even more venomous for ’08. With a slight bump in displacement, to 8.4 liters, the addition of variable valve timing as well as other engine revisions, the Viper’s V10 engine now rips out 90 more horsepower, for 600 hp and 560 pound-feet of torque. That’s good for zero-to-60-mph times of less than four seconds, and thanks to improved, opposing-piston Brembo brakes, zero-to-100-to-zero times of less than 12 seconds.

Other improvements for the revised sports car include a new gearbox and clutch with smoother action, along with a revamped cooling system and a new speed-sensing limited-slip differential to help the rear wheels stay in check. The Viper also gets modest appearance changes that result in a more bad-boy appearance, the most obvious being the hood, which now has a larger air-intake scoop and aggressive-looking louvers. Inside, there are more color choices and improved materials for the ’08, which will go on sale this spring.

Installing Your Home Network's Wireless Routers and Access Points

Adapted From: Home Networking for Dummies:

Suppose that you want to share a digital subscriber line (DSL) or cable modem with all the computers on your wireless network. Suppose that you have two computers on the first floor, and you're dying to do work on your wireless-equipped laptop while you relax in your bed (on the second floor), but the signal doesn't reach. Don't worry; manufacturers have come up with some clever hardware devices to overcome your problems.

Wireless routers

By definition, a router transfers data between multiple networks. In home networks, you can use a router to move data from one network (your home network) to another network (the Internet). This is how you share a DSL or cable modem Internet connection with all the computers on the network.

A wireless router (frequently called a wireless local-area network [WLAN] router) has an antenna that captures the signals from all the computers on your wireless network, effectively acting like a hub or a switch.

The router also has ports for Ethernet connections. For most wireless home networks, the Ethernet port is used to connect the DSL or cable modem to the router. However, you can also use those ports as a hub for an Ethernet network, essentially combining three networks: the wireless network, an Ethernet network, and the Internet.

A router also provides IP addresses to the computers on the local network. Because it does so, it's acting as a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server. The router provides a single point of communication with your DSL or cable Internet service provider (ISP). (The ISP sees only the router, not the individual computers that are on the network.) Some routers even come with built-in firewall capabilities.

WLAN routers are easy to install and configure. You must physically connect the unit to a DSL or cable modem using Ethernet cable. The port is usually labeled WAN (for wide-area network) or Ethernet. The manufacturer's instructions can help you make the connections.

Wireless access points

Unlike cabled networks, wireless networks don't need a hub or switch. If all you want to do is network a group of wireless computers, you just purchase a wireless adapter for each computer, put them all within 300 feet of each other, and voilà! - instant network.

But what if you already have an existing cabled network? For example, suppose that you have two computers in your den connected to each other with network cable, but you want to link up a computer in your bedroom without pulling cable through the attic.

That's where a wireless access point, also known as a WAP, comes in. It's a box that has an antenna (or pair of antennae) and an RJ-45 Ethernet port. You just plug it into a network cable and then plug the other end of the cable into a hub or switch, and your wireless network should be able to connect to your cabled network. A WAP actually performs two functions.

• It acts as a central connection point for all of your computers that have wireless network adapters. In effect, the WAP performs the same function that a hub or switch performs for a wired network.

• It links your wireless network to your existing wired network so that your wired computer and your wireless computers get along like one big happy family.

Wireless access points are sometimes just called access points, or APs.

Configuring a wireless access point

The physical setup for a wireless access point is pretty simple: You take it out of the box, put it on a shelf or on top of a bookcase near a network jack and a power outlet, plug in the power cable, and plug in the network cable.

The software configuration for an access point is slightly more involved and is usually done via a Web interface. To get to the configuration page for the access point, you need to know the access point's IP address. Then, you just type that address into the address bar of a browser from any computer on the network.

A device's configuration page typically offers the following configuration options that are related to the wireless access point functions of the device. Although the options given here are specific to a particular device, most access points have configuration options similar to these:

• Enable/Disable: Enables or disables the device's wireless-access-point functions.

• SSID: The Service Set Identifier used to identify the network. Most access points have well-known defaults. You can talk yourself into thinking that your network is more secure by changing the SSID from the default to something more obscure, but in reality, that protects you only from first-grade hackers. By the time most hackers get into the second grade, they learn that even the most obscure SSID is easy to get around. So it's best that you leave the SSID at the default and apply better security measures, as described in the next section.

• Allow broadcast SSID to associate? Disables the access point's periodic broadcast of the SSID. Normally, the access point regularly broadcasts its SSID so that wireless devices that come within range can detect the network and join in. For a more secure network, you can disable this function. Then, a wireless client must already know the network's SSID in order to join the network.

• Channel: Lets you select one of 11 channels on which to broadcast. All the access points and computers in the wireless network should use the same channel. If you find that your network is frequently losing connections, try switching to another channel. You may be experiencing interference from a cordless phone or other wireless device operating on the same channel.

Switching channels is also a friendly way for neighbors with wireless networks to stay out of each other's way. For example, if you share a building with another tenant who also has a wireless network, you can agree to use separate channels so that your wireless networks don't interfere with each other. Keep in mind that this tactic doesn't give you any real measure of security; your neighbor can secretly switch back to your channel and listen in on your network. So you still need to secure your network.

• WEP - Mandatory or Disable: Lets you use a security protocol called wired-equivalent privacy.

Diamond-covered Mercedes SL-Class

The Mercedes SL legend began over 50 years ago and to celebrate 50 years the limited edition Mercedes-Benz SL550. This charming diamond covered Mercedes SL was on display at an auto show. It hasn’t been confirmed that the diamonds used are real or fake.

However, this glittering diamond shine automobile would be costing millions even if fake diamonds were used. It would be damn cool to drive this glittering car around the town?

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W80 Review by Howard Creech

The consumer digital camera market is currently flooded with compact and ultra-compact 7 megapixel P&S (point and shoot) digital cameras. This horde of very similar entry-level digicams offer reasonable prices and comparable features (like ease of use, quick operation, image stabilization, 3X zooms, 2.5 inch LCD screens, and good battery life), but in this mass of high-tech ubiquity very few digicams stand out.

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Buying Choices for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W80 (silver) Best Buy | $229.99 Dell Small Business | $195.49 Best Buy for Business | $229.99 view detailed pricing from 25 stores starting at $195.00 100.0% of people recommend this product - view 2 opinions | rate product

Sony’s new Cyber-shot DSC-W80 is a stylish auto-exposure only digicam that was designed to appeal to casual photographers, snap-shooters, first time digital camera buyers, and shutterbugs that value compact size and operational simplicity. At first glance, the W80 doesn’t seem much different from its legions of competitors, plus it has a few niggling negatives. The menu system is poorly designed, default images are slightly soft, the built-in flash is a bit anemic, and users can’t delete an image immediately after capture. However, I was impressed with the W80’s ability to consistently and easily capture excellent images in a variety of lighting situations.

NUTS & BOLTS

Viewfinder/LCD Screen

Most compact and ultra-compact digicams don’t provide optical viewfinders anymore, so for those who prefer optical viewfinders for framing and composition the W80 offers a solid benefit. That said, the W80’s optical viewfinder is small, rather squinty, only covers about 85 percent of the image frame, and provides no diopter correction adjustment for those who wear eyeglasses.

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Most of the W80’s target audience will use the 2.5 inch (6.35 centimeter) “Super HAD” TFT LCD screen to frame and preview compositions, track action, review (and save or delete) captured images, and access the camera's menu system. LCD images are bright, fairly sharp, color correct, and fluid. The LCD gains "up" (brightens) automatically in dim/low lighting and W80 users can also manually boost LCD screen brightness. The screen info display provides all the data the W80’s target audience is likely to want or need.

On the negative side of the scale, the W80’s LCD screen resolution is only 115,000 pixels, which makes for somewhat grainy preview images (most of the W80’s competition offer LCDs with screen resolution in the 200,000 pixel range) and that may affect the ability of the user to precisely confirm focusing. Unlike some of its competition, the W80 also provides a real-time (live) histogram which makes it possible to check for and correct (via exposure compensation) under/over exposure problems.

Zoom/Optics

The W80's f2.8-f5.2/5.8mm-17.4mm (35-105 in 35mm equivalent) Vario -Tessar zoom is built to a patented Carl Zeiss optical formula (6 elements in 5 groups with 3 aspheric elements). The zoom extends from the camera body automatically when the camera is powered up and lens retracts back into the body when the camera is powered down (a built-in lens cover protects the front element). Zoom operation is smooth, quiet, and very quick.

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Default resolution (sharpness) is a bit soft. Barrel distortion (straight lines bow out from the center) at the wide end of the zoom is slightly above average, but pincushion distortion (straight lines bow in toward the center) at the telephoto end of the zoom, is lower than average. Chromatic aberration (purple fringing) is remarkably well controlled. Very minor purple fringing is visible in high contrast edge/color transition areas at the wide-angle end of the zoom range, but essentially disappears at the telephoto end of the zoom range. There is some noticeable corner softness, but no visible vignetting (darkened corners).

Minimum focusing distance, in macro mode, is 1.8 inches (4.0 centimeters). Macro images (shot in natural light) are bright and relatively sharp with bold colors and good detail capture - typically, highlight detail is sacrificed to preserve shadow detail.

(view medium image) (view large image) Shiny green grasshopper on bright red Hibiscus bloom

Most photographers don’t like digital zoom (digital zoom just enlarges/magnifies the center of the image). The W80 (like several of its competitors) provides an ingenious method for getting a little extra zoom reach without the grainy washed-out look characteristic of digital zoom images. Sony calls this feature SmartZoom (Canon calls it Safety Zoom and Panasonic calls it Extended Optical Zoom). When SmartZoom is enabled the camera uses a smaller area at the center of the CCD sensor (creating a narrower angle of view) which allows the 3X zoom to magically grow to a 4.5X zoom (at 3 megapixels) without degrading image quality.

The W80’s zoom isn’t threaded, so filters and auxiliary/conversion lenses can’t be used.

Auto Focus (AF)

The W80 features a multi-point (9 AF area, center AF, and spot AF) closest subject priority contrast detection auto focus system. AF is very quick and dependably accurate, even in difficult lighting. Depress the shutter button halfway and almost immediately the camera locks focus and a green confirmation light appears. The W80 provides two AF modes - single AF (depress the shutter button halfway and the camera locks focus on what’s in front of the lens) and monitor AF - the camera focuses continuously (even when the shutter button hasn’t been pressed).

(view medium image) (view large image) This grab-shot, in poor lighting, nicely demonstrates the efficacy of the W80’s AF system.

The W80’s Face Detection function automatically isolates and locks focus on up to 8 faces (only 2 faces in soft snap scene mode) in the image frame and then optimizes all exposure (white balance, sensitivity, flash, etc.) parameters. The W80’s Face Detection AF option is only available in the auto mode and soft snap scene mode. Logically, Face Detection AF should be available in all shooting modes. The W80 also provides an automatic AF assist beam for quicker and more accurate focusing in dim/low light.

Optical Image Stabilization (OIS)

Sony’s Super SteadyShot optical image stabilization system largely eliminates fuzzy images by quickly and precisely shifting lens elements in the Carl Zeiss zoom to compensate for shaky hands and camera movement during exposure. W80 users can shoot at shutter speeds up to 3 f-stops slower than would have been possible without image stabilization. The W80 offers two active IS modes (plus off) - in continuous mode IS is engaged when the shutter button is depressed halfway. IS can be also engaged just prior to exposure (called shoot only mode) which is equally effective and requires less power.

Manual Focus (MF)

Like most of its competition, the W80 doesn’t provide any manual focus capability.

Flash

The W80's tiny built-in multi mode (Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye reduction, Slow Synch) flash is fairly weak. Maximum range (according to Sony) is 21.7ft/6.6m @ ISO 3200. Real world (effective/useful) flash range is more like 6-8 feet @ ISO 100.

Like most compact and ultra-compact digicams the W80’s flash is too close to the lens so redeye is an ongoing problem. Savvy users will elect to run the redeye removal tool automatically. Generally, when using/testing P&S digicams, I set the built-in flash to off, since I much prefer the realism of natural lighting to artificial looking flash-lit images. I didn’t use the W80’s built-in flash so I can’t comment on flash recycle times. Moderate and heavy flash users and indoor shooters may want to consider Sony’s optional HVL-FSL1B slave flash. The HVL-FSL1B will expand lighting options, but it is one of the ugliest slave flash units I’ve ever seen.

Memory Media & Image File Format(s)

The W80 saves images to 31MB of internal memory or to Memory Stick Duo or Memory Stick PRO Duo media. Sony doesn’t include a starter card in the box.

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JPEG only, the W80 does not support RAW or TIFF image formats.

Connectivity

USB 2.0 out and A/V out

Power

The W80 draws its power from the Sony NP-BG1 3.6V, 3.4Wh (960 mAh) rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack. The W80’s battery life (power depth) is noticeably above average for compact/ultra-compact P&S digicams. I didn’t keep track of exposures (Sony claims 340 exposures) but I used the camera through several heavy full-day shooting sessions and I never ran out of juice - long weekends and short vacations may require a nightly recharge. A backup NP-BG1 is probably a good idea for those once in a lifetime trips and longer vacations.

The included Sony BC-CSG charger is the compact foldaway prongs type, but it is very slow (up to 4.5 hours for a full charge).

Included

NP-BG1 rechargeable lithium-ion battery, Battery charger, Wrist strap, USB and A/V cables, software CD-ROM, and a basic manual (printed).

EXPOSURE

The W80 is an AE (auto exposure) only digicam. Exposure options include – Auto (in Auto mode the camera sets all exposure parameters), and Program AE (in Program AE mode the camera selects the aperture and shutter speed, but users are free to choose most other exposure parameters). The number of lighting situations that can trick camera light metering systems into underexposing or overexposing images is legion. Shooters who want to make minor exposure adjustments like lightening up a dark scene or darkening a light scene (to add some detail and texture) are limited to the exposure compensation function. The W80’s base exposure can be incrementally adjusted over a 4 EV range (+/-2 EV) in 1/3 EV increments.

Users can also select one of the W80's Scene modes and the camera will automatically optimize all exposure parameters for the specific type of scene selected. Scene modes include: Twilight, Twilight Portrait, Soft Snap, Landscape, Beach, Snow, High Sensitivity, and Face Detection. There is no dedicated portrait, action/sports, fireworks, pets, or children scene modes – which is a bit strange, since most of the W80’s competition provides an almost dizzying array of scene modes.

Movie Mode

The W80 captures MPEG video at 640X480 @ 30 fps (and lower resolution/slower frame rate options) with mono audio – maximum clip size is 2GB. The W80 outputs video at HD (high definition) 1080i, but users must shoot their video clips in the 16X9 aspect ratio to take advantage of this option.

Metering

The W80’s default multi-pattern (evaluative) metering mode consistently provides accurate exposure information to the camera's processor, but there is a slight tendency toward over exposure (clipped highlights) in bright lighting. A spot metering option biases exposure on a small area at the center of the frame (useful for portraits, back lit subjects, and high/low contrast subjects). The center-weighted option allows savvy shooters to create traditional looking landscapes and Classic style portraits.

White Balance (WB)

The W80 provides a fairly typical (for compact/ultra compact P&S digicams) selection of white balance options, including Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Fluorescent 1, Fluorescent 2, Fluorescent 3, Incandescent, and Flash. Images made in the Auto WB mode show a slight, but consistent warmish cast. Most consumer and entry-level digicams boost color saturation a bit and the W80 is no exception – default color is noticeably over saturated.

Sensitivity

The W80's Sensitivity (ISO) options are fairly standard, but they should be adequate for the camera's target audience. The camera provides (default) TTL Auto sensitivity and user selected sensitivity values of ISO100, 200, 400, 800, and1600 – plus ISO 3200 (via the high sensitivity scene mode).

In-Camera Image Adjustment

The W80 provides shooters with a useful range of exposure tweaks including saturation (Black & White, Natural, Sepia, and Vivid).

Compact and ultra-compact digicams usually don’t provide the ability to bracket exposures, but W80 users can enable Auto Exposure Bracketing and with one press of the shutter button capture 3 exposures of the same scene in rapid sequence (varying the exposure incrementally between the three images).

Finally, the W80’s in-camera editing function (retouch) allows users to select various effects including soft focus, partial color, fisheye lens, cross (star) filter, and cropping.

DESIGN, BUILD QUALITY, CONTROLS, & ERGONOMICS

The W80 is a compact brick shaped metal-alloy bodied P&S digicam. The camera is solidly built and attractive, but I took some ribbing from a couple of my friends during the time I was testing the W80 because my sample camera was pink. The camera is also available in black, white, and silver. Controls are logically placed and easily accessed, but the menu system is cumbersome and unintuitive.

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PERFORMANCE

Image Quality

The W80, like most entry-level P&S digicams, suffers from “consumer” color interpolation - colors are conspicuously oversaturated and contrast is slightly harder than it should be. Image quality is dependably very good (outdoors in good light) and images are relatively sharp with a slight warmish cast. Chromatic aberration (purple fringing) is very well controlled. The W80’s auto exposure system is generally pretty accurate. Shadow detail (at the lower ISO values) is decent, but highlights are occasionally blown out – especially in brightly lit outdoor settings and close range flash-lit scenes. Noise is well managed - ISO 100 images are close to excellent with very good resolution and lots of snap (although very minor pattern noise is sometimes visible). ISO 200 images are very good, but with a tiny bit less pop than ISO 100 (and marginally higher noise levels). Results at ISO 400 are a bit flat and detail is starting to soften due to higher noise levels. ISO 800 images are seriously soft, colors are almost pastelish, and detail loss is evident. ISO 1600 images are useless. I didn’t try the High Sensitivity (ISO 3200) Scene Mode, but I’m assuming that the W80’s ISO 3200 images are twice as bad as the ISO 1600 shots.

Timing/Shutter Lag

The W80 is very fast, across the board, amazingly quick for a compact P&S digicam – it powers up quickly; locks focus (in good lighting) rapidly, and shutter lag with pre-focus (and from scratch once focus is acquired) is essentially real time. Shot-to-shot times are also very quick. The subject in the sample photo below is the fastest BMXer I have ever seen. I have tried repeatedly (without success) to get a good picture of him – static framing (pre-focusing on a specific spot and waiting for the subject to move into the image frame) and pre-focus were not good options because of his free-form riding style. I had to track him from the time he started his run and try to anticipate the decisive moment (and trip the shutter just before the action peaked). Surprisingly, I was able to do with the W80 what I couldn’t do with the Pentax K10D, the Olympus E510, the Canon S3 IS, and the Panasonic FZ8 – capture a mid-air image of this remarkably talented young athlete.

(view medium image) (view large image) Golden light shot of BMX biker in mid air.

A Few Concerns

The W80’s most egregious shortcoming is the clunky repetitive and completely unintuitive menu system. The built-in flash is weak and users can’t delete an image immediately after capture, they must first resort to the convoluted menu system.

CONCLUSION

The W80 should be just another pretty face in the seven megapixel compact digicam crowd, but where it really counts - the ability to capture super images easily and consistently, the W80 delivers in spades. Bottom line – if you’re looking for a compact P&S seven megapixel digicam – the W80 is worthy of your consideration.

Pros: Stylish, compact, fast, optical image stabilization, low noise (up to ISO 400), 2.5" LCD, optical viewfinder, and better than average battery life.

Cons: Slight overall default image softness, cumbersome unintuitive menu system, low resolution LCD screen, weak flash, and the full user’s manual is on CD.

Buying Choices for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W80 (black) Buydig.com | $208.95 Best Buy | $206.99 Dell Small Business | $195.49 view detailed pricing from 21 stores starting at $195.00 100.0% of people recommend this product - view 2 opinions | rate product

Buying Choices for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W80 (pink) Best Buy | $206.99 Sony Electronics, Inc. | $249.99 Amazon.com | $239.95 view detailed pricing from 17 stores starting at $199.00 100.0% of people recommend this product - view 2 opinions | rate product

Buying Choices for the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W80 (white) Best Buy | $206.99 Sony Electronics, Inc. | $249.99 Amazon.com | $239.95 view detailed pricing from 14 stores starting at $206.00 100.0% of people recommend this product - view 2 opinions | rate product

Technical Specifications

• Resolution: 7.2 megapixels (3072x2304)
• Sensor: 1/2.5” CCD
• Viewfinders: Optical viewfinder and 2.5 inch LCD
• Lens: f2.8-f5.2/5.8mm-17.4mm Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar zoom
• Auto Focus: Contrast Detection
• Manual Focus: no
• Exposure: Auto, Program AE, and Scene modes
• Flash: Built-in multi mode
• Hot Shoe: no
• Metering: Evaluative, Center-Weighted Averaging, and Spot
• White Balance: TTL Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Fluorescent 1, Fluorescent 2, Fluorescent 3, Incandescent, and Flash
• Sensitivity: Auto, and user selectable settings for ISO100, 200, 400, 800, and1600 – plus ISO 3200 (via the high sensitivity scene mode).
• Connectivity: USB 2.0HS, A/V out, and DC in
• Image File Format(s): JPEG
• Power: Sony NP-BG1 3.6V, 3.4Wh (960 mAh) re-chargeable Lithium-Ion battery pack

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Ihr Vorteil: Egal ob Sie 15, 150 oder 3.500 Gäste einladen, alle wohnen unter einem Dach und kommen ohne zusätzliche Anfahrtszeiten zum Kongress-Center, zur Event-Location oder zum abendlichen Come-Together in der Erlebnisgastronomie.

Facts & Figures: Multifunktionshallen und Freiflächen bis 3.500 qm, Business-Center und Bankettsäle bis 1.500 Personen, Erlebnisgastronomie & Shows bis 2.500 Personen, außergewöhnliche Themen-Event-Locations wie Jungle Dome, Discovery Bay oder Beach Factory bis 1.500 Personen.

Center Parcs in den Niederlanden: Het Heijderbos (60 km Düsseldorf), De Eemhof & Strandhotel Zandvoort (je 30 km Amsterdam), Port Zélande (50 km Rotterdam).

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Center Parcs in Deutschland finden Sie hier:

Tagungshotels PLZ 2

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All diese Parks bieten Ihnen hervorragende Incentive-Möglichkeiten. Weitere Informationen: Regionale Incentives

2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport Appeals

The all-new 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport is the automotive cousin to the SX4 Crossover and is designed to ease the day-in, day-out urban grindfor its drivers. Sharing a common appeal for those who live a life consistent with Suzuki's "Way of Life" brand philosophy, the four-door SX4 Sport and five-door SX4 Crossover seamlessly blend into varied driving conditions and environments.

With features derived from the highly acclaimed SX4 Crossover, and suspension and steering heavily influenced by the award-winning Suzuki Swift, the all-new 2008 SX4 Sport provides a spirited and responsive driving experience. It comes equipped with a sophisticated 2.0-liter, DOHC in-linefour-cylinder engine rated at 143 horsepower. Featuring an aggressive front fascia and grille, muscular and athletic stance, and low, rising waistline, the SX4 Sport makes a visual statement that underscores its on-road performance. With class-leading standard features, including A/C, power windows and locks, four-wheel disc brakes with Bosch ABS, six airbags, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels and remote keyless entry, the SX4 Sport is an affordable blend of driving excitement, style and performance.

As with all 2007 Suzuki automobiles, the SX4 Sport is backed by America’s #1 Warranty:a 100,000-mile/seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty.

Built in Japan, the SX4 Sport features a sophisticated 2.0-liter, four-cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine matched to a five-speed manual transmission or an available specially tuned four-speed automatic transmission. The 2.0-liter engine delivers 143 horsepower and 136 lb.-ft. of torquewith an estimated EPA fuel economy rating of 23 mpg/city and 31 mpg/highway with automatic transmission.

The chassis of the SX4 Sport borrows design elements from the award-winning Suzuki Swift that helped Suzuki earn numerous industry awards worldwide, including many “Car of the Year” trophies in Europe and Asia. The SX4 Sport features a rigid steel unibody underpinned by a confidence-inspiring chassis that was fine-tuned in Europe to provide good stability on the highway along with crisp and responsive handling and braking and minimal body roll. Its rigid structure, along with reinforced suspensionmounts, allows the front MacPherson struts and rear torsion beam suspension to work to their full potential. KYB shock absorbers and standard stabilizer bars enable dynamic handling. The combination of wide track and a large 17-inch wheel-and-tire package help optimize the ride-and-handling balance. The SX4 Sport also features large four-wheel disc brakes as standard equipment.

The SX4 Sport offers customers an extensive array of standard safety features. Active safety features include daytime running lights, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Passive safety elements include a safety-reinforced body with front and rear crumple zones designed to help absorb impact energy. The unibody design directs much of the impact energy away from the reinforced cabin area.

Six airbags are standard on the SX4 Sport: driver and front passenger advanced airbags and side-impact airbags; and side curtain airbags designed to provide additional protection for outboard front-and-rear-seat passengers. In addition, the SX4 Sport is fitted with front three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, three-point emergency locking retractor rear seat belts, ISO FIX-compliant child seat anchors and a high-mounted stop lamp.

Suzuki has created a handsome, versatile car with poise and presence far beyond the SX4 Sport’s compact size. Using a simple, elegant and flowing form that sits atop a purposeful, dynamic and substantial underlying structure, the SX4 Sport looks as if it is moving even when standing still.

The body features a low, rising waistline and large, triangular-shaped windows forward of the front doors, giving the SX4 Sport a sporty wedge shape indicative of its outstanding dynamic performance. The wide track and strong fender design also add to the appearance of traction and dynamic performance. The design is pure Suzuki in form – exciting, multi-dimensional and recreational.

While the SX4 Crossover offers a wide-open cargo hold, the SX4 Sport provides generous, secure storage within the confines of an oversized trunk. Whether using the car personally or professionally, owners will enjoy the spacious cargo area, one of the largest in the segment.

The stylish design continues inside the SX4 Sport. A functional and high-tech center panel offers large, circular controls flanked by modern aluminum-colored trim. Instruments and controls are backlit by contemporary, high-tech red lighting, and the ergonomic design of the instrument cluster and dashboard provides clear views of the meters and easy access to the controls for a true driver-oriented cabin. The sporty cockpit theme extends throughout the cabin with a dark interior featuring black cloth for a look both sharp and refined.

The handsome integrated center stack contains a standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with four speakers or an available six-disc in-dash CD AM/FM/MP3 audio system with nine speakers (including subwoofer). Both audio systems are XM Satellite Radio-capable. It is a striking example of function complementing form. Customers who want the convenience of a fully integrated iPod1 system can purchase a Suzuki iPod interface from their Suzuki dealer. Once the device is plugged in, it works seamlessly through the radio and playlists and each song’s information appears on the radio display. Also available on a dealer-installed basis is Suzuki’s Bluetooth® connectivity option. Equally distinctive in the segment is the availability of SmartPass keyless entry on the Touring trim level.

With seating for five, the SX4 Sport offers utility and style. Wide door openings provide the driver and passengers with superior ease of entry and egress, while the large cabin proportions and in-command seating position optimizes visibility, enhancing driving confidence and control. The efficient interior dimensions provide both driver and passengers with room to relax, and the exterior dimensions provide outstanding maneuverability for crowded city streets and parking areas. The roomy interior offers generous legroom and shoulder room, even for the rear-seat passengers. Interior volumes are equal to or better than volume leaders in the segment, and provide class-leading headroom.

Beyond the generous interior volume is a trunk designed for storage and security. In addition, there are many discreet storage compartments located throughout the cabin, and all the doors feature large pockets and bottle holders for added convenience.

The 2008 SX4 Sport comes with two optional packages: Convenience and Touring. The base SX4 Sport’s standard features include six airbags (front driver and passenger airbags, driver and passenger side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags), four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution, tire pressure monitoring system, front seatbelt pretensioners, power windows, locks and mirrors, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with four speakers, tilt steering wheel, 17-inch alloy wheels and daytime running lights. The starting MSRP for the SX4 Sport is $14,770 plus $625 destination and handling.

The Convenience Package adds cruise control and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated audio controls, automatic climate control and heated outside mirrors. The starting MSRP for the SX4 with the Convenience Package is $15,270 plus destination and handling. The Touring package adds a six-disc CD player, upgraded audio with nine speakers including subwoofer, fog lamps, a rear spoiler, Electronic Stability Program, traction control system and SmartPass for an additional $1000 ($16,270). An automatic transmission is available for $1,100 on all models.

targus goesgreen with new ecosmart laptop bags

Written by Laptop News

ANAHEIM, Calif., – September 11, 2007 - Targus® Inc., maker of the world's top-selling laptop computer cases and accessories, today announced its first Global line of eco-friendly laptop cases. Targus' new EcoSmart(TM) series of messenger bags, backpacks and top loading laptop carrying cases are made of PVC-free material, which makes the production of EcoSmart cases less harmful to the ecosystem. In addition to the removal of PVC material, plastics used on the cases are recyclable and all metal hardware is nickel-free. The new bags represent the first step of EcoSmart, Targus' company-wide initiative to being an eco-conscience company. EcoSmart encompasses the company's goal to promote a corporate culture of environmentally-friendly design, sourcing, operating and manufacturing practices. In addition to the new cases, some of these 'green' practices include a paper-recycling program, using recycled consumables and a more eco-friendly approach to product packaging. "Targus understands the need for programs and practices that will make a contribution to the environment,” said Al Giazzon, vice president of marketing at Targus. "Our EcoSmart initiative demonstrates our dedication to reducing the negative impact on natural resources by not only providing environmentally-friendly products, but also by incorporating eco-friendly practices company-wide to help preserve our natural resources.” Targus' new line of EcoSmart cases come in four attractive styles: Sling (TSB109US), Messenger (TSM068US), Convertible Messenger/Backpack (TSB110US) and a Top Loading case (TST022US). All of the cases include a padded notebook sleeve with scratch resistant, quilted lining; a security strap and a detailed workstation with a key hook, pen loops, accessory pockets and plenty of storage options. The cases fit 15.4" laptop computers and include specially designed pockets for a water bottle and MP3 player. The backpack includes a tuck-away shoulder strap as well as a removable shoulder strap. The Top Loading case also includes a removable shoulder strap. Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, Targus' new EcoSmart laptop bags will be available for the holiday season at Targus.com as well as through leading retailers, e-tailers and computer manufacturers' websites. About Targus Targus invented the laptop case and continues to advance the mobile accessories category with innovative and relevant solutions for today's mobile lifestyle. Targus products enhance productivity, connectivity, and security, liberating users to work in any and all environments with the utmost convenience and comfort. Founded in 1983, Targus headquarters are located in Anaheim, Calif., with offices worldwide and distribution agreements in more than 100 countries. For more information on Targus visit targus.com.

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Products to eliminate wastefulness in bathroom

By Virginia Linn, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Ripple Products' shower timers to help conserve water.

Consider these facts:

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that 2 billion disposable razors make their way into U.S. landfills every year.

Toothbrushes account for more than 50 million pounds of waste annually.

A person may use 50 to 60 gallons of water every time he takes a bath.

You don't have to go any further than the bathroom to explore ways to conserve. Several companies are producing products that can help you go green in the lavatory.

Ripple Products of Australia has developed cute timers that you can place on your shower wall to help limit your time in the shower to four minutes, which can use as little as 8-10 gallons of water if you're using a low-flow showerhead.

There are star-shaped sand timers ($12) and those that have digital timers in shapes of stars, houses, crosses and ducks ($16). They can be ordered at www.rippleproducts.com.

Recycline, an environmental consumer company in Waltham, Mass., has been making recyclable products since 1996. It first introduced the recyclable toothbrush, whose handle is made of polypropylene that currently comes from recycled Stonyfield Farm yogurt cups.

In the dental health area, it provides Preserve toothbrushes -- in adult and junior sizes -- that can be purchased individually ($3.95 for adult; $3.29 for junior) as well as tongue cleaners ($2.75) and toothpicks (box of 35 at $1.95).

Better yet, the company offers a subscription program in which customers receive a toothbrush in the mail every three months, along with a postage-paid mailer to recycle the used brush. Dentists recommend replacing toothbrushes at least four times a year because the bristles can break down in three months and don't clean the teeth as efficiently.

The brushes sent back are ground and reprocessed into a source for material for plastic lumber, used in products such as park benches. The Preserve toothbrush subscription program costs $13, when ordering four a year.

Two years ago, Recycline introduced the Preserve recyclable razor, in green, orange and yellow, also made from yogurt cups. The razor triple costs $7.46 (with two cartridges) and four-packs of triple blades cost $7.49. The razors, too, can be recycled into plastic lumber.

These products are available at Whole Foods Market, Amazon.com and also at the company's Web site at www.recycline.com or call 1-888-354-7296.

Recycline this fall also is introducing a kitchenware line -- including colanders, cutting boards, food storage containers -- also made of 100 percent recycled materials that are then recyclable, just like the toothbrush and razor.

Here are other ways to conserve in the bathroom:

Never use the toilet as a wastepaper basket to dispose of cigarette butts or tissue paper. That can waste 5 to 7 gallons of water unnecessarily.

Turn off the faucet while you are shaving or brushing your teeth or hand washing dishes.

Avoid running water in the shower while you are shampooing or soaping. Most people step away from the water to do this anyway. Many water-saving showerheads come with a button to shut off the flow without changing the mix of hot and cold water.

Repair leaks in your faucets and toilets. A leaky faucet can waste 20 gallons or more per day. Leaky toilets, even though they are usually silent, can waste hundreds of gallons per day.

(To find out if your toilet leaks, put a little food coloring in the tank. If, without flushing, color appears in the bowl, you have a leak that should be repaired. Repairing a faucet is usually as simple as changing an inexpensive washer. Leaky toilets often can be repaired by adjusting the float arm or plunger ball.)

If you are building a new home or remodeling an old one, install "low flush" toilets. These toilets use 1 to 2 gallons per flush instead of the 3 to 5 gallons used by toilets sold before 1992.