Streamzap PC Remote Control Review

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(More customer reviews)Recently, I replaced the CD Player on my stereo with a full blown PC and use my TV as the "monitor". I had been using a wireless keyboard and MusicMatch software for playing my MP3 files. After a while, I got tired of having to keep the keyboard with me if I wanted to switch tracks, stop playback, pause, etc. I found this little gizmo after a quick search and it does everything I need. The software that comes with it integrates well with the popular music software (MusicMatch, Windows Media Player, Winamp, and many more), and you can even use the remote as a rudimentary mouse. Of course, you can't enter text with it, but if you're using a PC as a stereo component, this remote is great.
You get the remote and a USB infrared receiver. Installation is a snap, and the range is great. StreamZap has said they're considering modifying the software so it would be compatible with other brand remotes, eliminating the need for their remote altogether which would be a nice touch. Until then, I programmed their remote codes into my universal remote and it takes care of everything.

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STREAMZAP PC Infrared REMOTE ACCSCONTROL UP TO 40FT

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Sharp Zaurus SL-5500 PDA Review

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(More customer reviews)The Sharp Zaurus Linux-based PDA is both extremely powerful, and easy to use.
The Zaurus's fast CPU, high quality full-color LCD, and excellent headphone sound output makes for an impressive photo viewer, MP3 and MOD music player, and video-clip displayer.
The slide-out keyboard has completely weaned me from using the handwriting system, which is unfortunate, because a lot of work was obviously put into it. Not only does the handwriting system have a help mode where you can practice strokes, but you can actually train it new, or alternate strokes for each character. But when you can type so quickly, why bother writing?
The dual expansion slots are great, allowing me to use an SD card for software installation, and still have my CF slot free for a RAM card full of MP3s or a network adapter.
Honestly, I was impressed by the capabilities of the Java system. In my opinion, Java has always been too slow and cumbersome to use, and the thought of running it on a 206MHz PDA seemed ridiculous. But from what I've seen of Java applications (even games!) running on the Zaurus, I'm beginning to realize there's a lot of potential in Java.
As a desktop Linux user, I'm also tickled to have the power and stability of my favorite OS underneath the hood. For the extremely geeky, you can get Java, C and C++ compilers that run ON the Zaurus!
The "Qtopia" environment and applications are as intuitive as they are nice to look at. The PIM applications have all the functionality I'm used to from my Palm device, and then some.
Until I can afford a wireless modem to stick in one of my Zaurus' two expansion slots, I've been using a Compact Flash ethernet dongle to get online while watching TV.
After using offline browsers on the Palm, I was shocked to find a full-fledge, desktop-quality browser built right into my Zaurus: Opera.
Opera's zoom-out feature can't be lived without. Frustratingly, most websites assume you have a screen capable of at least 800x600. On a small PDA screen, this would mean constantly scrolling left and right as you try to read. Under Opera, you can zoom out to get a better overview of the page, and still be able to read all of the text!
I've only used the Sync software (Qtopiadesktop - I used the Linux version) a few times, since my pattern for PDA usage is to use them as stand-alone devices. It was quite intuitive, though, as it looked and felt just like a larger version of the PIM software built-into the Zaurus.
Finally, while there's obviously very little 3rd party software for the Zaurus so far, since it just came out, there's been what seems to be exponential growth. I've already installed almost 20 new applications, including games, a streaming Internet radio player, and an embedded version of the popular Linux browser, "Konqueror."
Software installation is usually a snap, too. Just as with Palm, all that's usually needed is one file downloaded off a website. Run the graphical installer, wait a few seconds, and the new app. is there, ready to run!
All in all, it's a great system. Powerful and slick hardware, in a beautiful form-factor, running powerful and slick software.

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Note: There is a software update available for download at: http://www.myzaurus.com/ROMupdate3.asp Combining the power of a PC with the fun of multimedia, the Zaurus SL-5500 boasts a powerful Intel StrongARM 206 MHz processor, 64 MB standard memory, an MP3 and MPEG-1 multimedia player, and a voice recorder. It also features a high-resolution color reflective LCD and an integrated keyboard with a sliding cover.
Because of its open-source Linux/Java-based platform (with Qt/Embedded GUI), applications can be easily customized to fit your personal and business needs.
Sharp's built-in QWERTY keyboard design allows easy data input without sacrificing space. In addition to the keyboard, you can use the stylus and touchscreen to navigate through applications with ease.
Incorporating Sharp's leading LCD technology, the Zaurus SL-5500 has a high-definition color reflective TFT screen with over 65,000 colors and a 240 x 320 resolution. You'll get bright, vivid color no matter what the lighting, making it simple to view a movie or pop in a video while on the move.
The two built-in slots for Secure Digital (SD) and CompactFlash (CF) cards provide dual expansion capabilities and simultaneous use of accessories such as optional modems, memory, LAN cards, and digital cameras. The Zaurus SL-5500 is compatible with a number of modem options for maximum flexibility in communication.
The Zaurus SL-5500 comes equipped with an extensive software application package including address book, calendar, calculator, text editor, to-do list, and Word and Excel viewing and editing capabilities. Its PC synchronization program for Microsoft Outlook makes it easy to keep all information up-to-date. The Zaurus also comes complete with a docking station that features an integrated USB cable and AC adapter for easy synchronization and battery recharging.
The Sharp Zaurus SL-5500 comes with an AC power adapter and cord, USB synchronization cradle, stylus, display-protection cover, and rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
What's in the box
Zaurus SL-5500
EA-70 AC Adaptor
Docking Station (USB)
AC Adapter and Power Cord
Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery
Stylus
Display Protection Cover
CF Slot Protection Card

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ADS RDX-155-EF Instant FM Music Review

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(More customer reviews)This radio was very easy to install and the retractable antenna is cool and works well. The Instant Radio application is simple, but functional for radio listening or basic recording, but the Snaptune One software is very cool. You have to set up a recording and let it go for a while, but after a couple of days I had more than 80 songs....50 of them had artist name, song title and ablum art....very cool. Then I just right clicked on the song title and sent the songs to iTunes. The audio quality is FM, but sounds pretty damn good for FREE Songs.

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Ever listen to the radio and wonder what the name of the song is? Who is the artist? What year was it released? Instant FM Music helps you answer all of those questions! Just plug Instant FM Music into your USB Port, tune to your favorite local FM or Web Radio stations and watch as Instant FM Music & the included software not only record the station's entire playlist, but also separate and identify the songs for easy playback. includes: Instant FM Music USB Extension Cable Retractable Antenna CD Containing: Snaptune One - Instant Radio Carrying Pouch Specifications: USB 2.0 and 1.1 Compliant 96 kHz Audio Sample Rate 16 Bit Stereo RDS/RBDS Data Decoder Worldwide FM Band Support (76-108 MHz) Part Number: RDX-155-EF UPC: 7-57887-15513-1 Unit Packaging Dimensions. Height: 10.5 Width: 7.5 Depth: 4.

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Clarion MiND 4.8-Inch Bluetooth Portable GPS Navigator (Black) Review

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(More customer reviews)6/3/2009 Update
I've been using the device for a few weeks now. It has a lot of potential and things can be done, but many applications/features lack the quality of a mature product: inconsistent and unfriendly interface, missing features etc.
Major issues:
1. Small POI database. Only 2 mln POIs, and so far, no way to buy or import additional POIs. Big problem for me, and no easy way around. Finding missing POIs using Google at home takes longer than on a regular GPS unit with built-in POIs. You cannot use Google on the road (or it is much more difficult). Some GPS devices have 6 or more millions of POIs; you can really appreciate it after using the limited 2mln Clarion's database.
2. POI search speed can be from 10 seconds to 3 minutes!!! depending on user's entry. 3 minutes - it is just an absurd number. It must be fixed.
3. No Bluetooth hands-free calling. (The GPS is supposed to work with a phone. Why not hands-free calling? I need a BT headset? How many more electronics should I carry?)
4. Bluetooth dial-up network (DUN) doesn't work with my phone. I was surprised because it was one of the major selling points. Clarion provides only a list of compatible networks and my network is on that list. No list of compatible/supported phones.(My phone's DUN works with my other devices)
My hope is that Clarion will keep releasing updates and improving its functionality.Written before 6/3/2009
The great:
1. Integration with the Internet:
a) You can send POIs from the Internet to ClarionMiND. Even with good GPS units finding POIs may be difficult: you either don't find it or you find too many. ClarionMiND lets you plan your trip on your computer at home using Google Maps, and send POIs to the device. Great feature!!!
b) Great desktop-class Internet browser. You will be able to do everything you can do on your desktop at home, including Flash videos.
c) Google search, and it is integrated with navigation.
2. Navigation (I will update this review on route quality after I use the unit more):
a) So far routes look good.
b) Lane assist. It shows which lane on a multi-lane road you should take.
c) Nice job with voice directions. For example, it tells you something like, "go to the right side of the road" in order to prepare you for right turn.
d) All info needed for navigation is on the screen: compass heading (N, NE, E...), arrival time, distance, next and current street.
e) auto-zoom.
3. POI
a) Very fast search
b) You can preview POIs on the map. This is something nice and unique. You can select a single or a group of POIs and see them on a temporary map.
4. Address entry
a) Very fast.
b) QWERTY keyboard
c) Predictable entry. Only valid keys are active. As you keep entering data, it shows what was found at the top of the screen.
d) It remembers previous entry, and lets you re-start search from any level: state, city, street.
5. Hardware:
a) Gorgeous, high-resolution, large screen
b) Touchscreen works well. It is responsive.
c) Dedicated hardware buttons for Home, Top Menu, Music/Sound.
d) Great to hold in hands
6. Free Internet traffic. So far, I didn't find if it is integrated with navigation. There will be an option for radio traffic which, most likely, will be integrated.
7. Internet weather, news, email etc
8. Fast GPS lock. Less than 30 seconds.

The bad:
1.POI database is small. I couldn't find retail stores like, Walmart, Target, Costco etc
2.The car mount is awful. It is a few 100s dollars device with a "$1" mount. Very difficult to mount/dismount.
3.After you mount the device, it automatically limits its Internet functionality. Result: you cannot use the Internet in your garage when the device is mounted. You have to dismount it 1st, check the Internet, mount it again. AWFUL!!! If they wanted to make it safe, they should detect vehicle speed from the GPS.
4.Addresses are not displayed in the American format (number street, city zip), but as zip city street number.
5.Keyboard
a) Inconsistent keys. Sometimes, it is character-only; sometimes, characters and digits.
b) Inconsistent behavior: to accept, sometimes you have to click "Back", sometimes "Enter"; sometimes something else.
6.Too many keystrokes needed to see the route overview.
7.Current time is not displayed during navigation.
8.The device gets very hot.
9. Video player doesn't accept many video formats.
The bottom line:
It is a great navigation device: very fast, detailed spoken commands, plenty of details on the screen, great map, good routes. The device could be a perfect GPS but they have to add more POIs, BT hands-free calling, and polish the interface. ClarionMiND works very well with the Internet: it will have more or less of a practical meaning for different people.

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ClarionMiND is a completely new type of mobile Internet device created by the car audio and navigation expert Clarion. As a Next Generation Navigation plus Internet-Based Entertainment device, it provides GPS navigation, and with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth-enabled cellphone, the Internet can be accessed via a full browser anytime and anywhere. ClarionMiND has a new interface that allows you to navigate the real-world and the unlimited possibilities of the Internet at the touch of a finger. Standard Features: Available in Black, White and Red; 4.8-inch TFT WVGA Touch Screen; Built-In Navigation; Built-In WiFi; Stylus and Quick Reference Guide; Li-Ion Rechargeable Battery; Cigarette lighter and AC Adapter; Windshield Mount Kit. Hardware: Intel Atom Processor Architecture; 4.8 inch WVGA(800x480) Widescreen LCD Display with touch screen; Simple Three Buttons (Home, Control,Audio); Built in stylus holder; Headphone Jack; Built-In Speaker / Amplifier; Inter-changeable Li-Ion Battery and extended battery is available as an option. Storage: 512MB DRAM; 800MHz Clock Speed; 4GB Solid-State memory for Storage. I/O: MicroSD Card Slot; 2 USB Port (Standard 2.0/Mini); Built-In WiFi b/g; Built-In Bluetooth 2.0 EDR for Dial-up Networking (phone tethering) uses phone as a modem; Built-In SiRF GPS III 20-Channel GPS Antenna/Reciever; USB media control to external MP3 thru RealPlayer; Docking Station Connector for optional NK1. Dimensions: 6.61in(W) x 3.78in (H) x 1.06in (D) with Standard Battery; 6.61in(W) x 3.78in (H) x 1.42in (D) with Large battery (Option); Total Weight : With Standard Battery: 11.64oz With Large Battery: 13.76oz (Option.

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Sansa Clip+ 4 GB MP3 Player (White) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I owned the first generation clip, and the new 8gb clip+ retains everything that was great about the first while adding all around refinements.
Pros:
- Overall build quality has improved, but especially with the clip mechanism.
- Files on MicroSD integrate seemlessly with the on board memory.
- The volume and power buttons have more ergonomic placement on the device.
- Sound quality remains great.
- Audiobook files can be sped up slightly to save some "reading" time.
- The interface is a little smoother and nicer to move through.
- The square trackpad makes it easier to navigate without looking at the player. (good for runners)Cons:
- No cap on the MicroSD slot, so that could potentially get dirty.If you don't need gimmicks such as touch screens and web browsers, then this player is quite possibly the best on the market for value, size, and quality. The Clip+ is definitely worth the few extra bucks over what the first gen clip is selling for now.UPDATE: Having used the product for a while the one thing I'm disappointed with is battery life. The meter drains down to 50% at the expected pace, and then goes from 50% to 0 quite fast. I haven't timed it but i'm sure the battery life (using all default settings) is quite less than the advertised 14-15 hours.

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