This article talks about the timing of purchasing electronics - there's always a cycle, and timing the cycle will get you the best products for your dollar. Sometimes that means buying at the end of a cycle, to save money, and other times it means holding off purchasing until the start of a new cycle so you can get the newest technology. Myself, I'm waiting for the release of the Panasonic VT50, a TV that was announced at CES to rave reviews. I've set aside money to make the purchase, and am patiently waiting for it to be released (should be any time now).

On the other hand, I per-ordered an HP Envy Spectre 14 the first week it was announced, knowing full well that Ivy Bridge would be coming out soon - I just wasn't expecting it to happen within 60 days of me getting my new laptop (HP just announced two new Envy laptops). Ultimately the new Envy laptops don't have the same screen resolution or features as mine, so my laptop wasn't replaced, but at the back of my mind I do wonder if I mis-timed the purchase...

"So you've created a kickass, play-anything media center with XBMC, but it's a too hard for your less tech-savvy friends and family members to use. Here are a few ways to make your home theater PC so easy that your four year old could use it."

XBMC is a powerful media platform, but it's not always the easiest thing to use - especially for the "regular" types of users who weren't the ones to set it up in the first place. This article walks you through some of the ways to optimize the whole experience. Worth a read!

"If you have more than one computer at your workspace, ShareMouse will let you control them all with a single keyboard and mouse, as well as copy and paste text between them and drag files back and forth."

If you're looking for a simpler way to use a single mouse and keyboard across multiple computers, and found Synergy a little too hard to set up, ShareMouse is worth a look!

"When the Nikon D800 was announced, the specification that got everyone's attention was - and to a large degree still is - the massive pixel count of its 36.3MP CMOS sensor. When a moderately-sized full-frame DSLR body aspires to go toe-to-toe with medium format cameras and backs at a fraction of their price, other attributes can seem secondary."

DPReview.com has reviewed the D800, and what can I say? It's a phenomenal camera. The 36 megapixel sensor is truly state of the art, and the camera built around it is no slouch either. If you ask me, this is the FX and DX camera of the moment. Shoot it at 36 megapixel for class-leading resolution, or downsize it to 12 megapixels to exceed the D700's performance. Shoot at 15.3 megapixel for a DX crop that beats the D7000. Now, if only I can find the money for it somehow. On a more curious note, I wonder why DPReview upsampled the Canon 5DIII files instead of downsampling the D800 files; usually that makes the image that is being upsampled look a lot worse. Still, great camera. Time to raid the piggy bank, I think.

"Olympus has announced the Tough TG-1 iHS, a high-end rugged, waterproof compact camera. The main selling point of the camera is its 25-100mm equivalant F2.0-4.9 zoom lens. The TG-1 is tougher than previous Tough models, being waterproof to 12m (40ft) and shockproof from a height of 2m (6.6ft) and will have optional waterproof fisheye and telephoto converter lenses available."

What is iHS supposed to mean? Anyway, this is a new Tough camera with increased specifications from the previous models. In particular, the 4x 25mm-100mm equivalent f/2.0-4.9 zoom lens is faster than many other cameras in its class, especially at that wide end with the f/2.0 aperture. The camera has a 12 megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor which is stabilised, a 3" VGA OLED screen (but in Pentile layout), 1080p video mode coupled with a 10 FPS still shooting mode at full resolution or 60 FPS at 3 megapixel, and built-in GPS. As with a rugged camera, it features waterproofing and shockproofing. The camera also promises to feature AF technology from the PEN cameras, so hopefully it will be quick (I do suspect the technology is more on the software side). Oh and what modern Olympus camera is without the Art or Magic Filters? Available in June for US$400.

""More than a decade ago, Microsoft execs, led by Chairman Bill Gates, were touting a future where .Net coffee pots, bulletin boards, and refrigerator magnets would be part of homes where smart devices would communicate and inter-operate. Microsoft hasn't given up on that dream."

Desktop computers, check. Laptops, check. Gaming console, check. Mobile phone, check. Home automation... it looks like Microsoft is intent on offering services for every aspect of your life. Their latest innovation comes to you in the form of HomeOS, a home automation system. Home automation is nothing new, and there are numerous specialized companies ready to offer you fancy, expensive automation systems so you can stand outside your home constantly turning your lights on and off from your phone. If you have an appetite for tinkering, there are more home grown solutions such as LinuxMCE, that while it handles media streaming, also integrates with many other things such as automation and security. Apple is slowly approaching this sort of service as well though right now, it seems mostly just focused on media.

I think that HomeOS could go really well, especially if it integrates with Windows Home Server. It would not make sense if you needed two separate servers to handle your home server-like needs. I have to wonder if there is a great use for this, as them young ones seem to be living a much more mobile lifestyle than before, and whatever you have at home is not as relevant anymore.

"Aside from its unique looks, the K-01 is also a full-featured interchangeable lens camera. It has a 16 Megapixel CMOS sensor, K-mount lens support with built-in image stabilization, lots of manual controls, a boatload of scene modes and special effects, an HDR function, and 1080p video recording."

When the Pentax K-01 was announced, I mentioned (right in the headline no less) that Pentax cannot seem to do mirrorless cameras right. Well, in addition to all the issues that come with sticking to the K-mount instead of developing a new mount for a large sensor mirrorless camera (fat body due to large flange distance for the mirror box, slow AF with some lenses not designed for contrast detection autofocus), Pentax seems to have some terrible quality control issues here. Jeff Keller has a long history of reviewing digital cameras, but I don't think I have seen him point out so many issues in one review before! Nevertheless, if you are still interested, you can read the review, where the output from the camera is actually quite good, but given all the other issues, I think there are better mirrorless cameras out there.

"The ability to cram in more and more transistors in a die has made it possible to have both the CPU and GPU in the same silicon."

AnandTech has posted their review of Intel's Ivy Bridge from the perspective of a HTPC user. They looked at refresh rates, decoding and rendering benchmarks, network streaming capabilities, power consumption, etc. Their review is pretty comprehensive and should be a must read for anyone wondering if they should update or keep what they have.

"Here is something interesting, you may already know that Microsoft plans to sell Windows Media Center as a separate paid pack, but now the company has just revealed that Windows 8 will also stop the support for DVD playback."

If you want to watch DVD movies on your Windows 8 computer in the future, you will have to get the Media Center Pack or the Windows 8 Pro Pack. The basic consumer version of Windows 8 will not include the ability to playback DVD movies. Microsoft's reasoning behind the omission is that more and more consumers are getting content from streaming sources so DVD playback is no longer on the top of the required capabilities list. No word on the pricing of the Media Center Pack yet.

"Today is a big day for Adobe. Not only is the company officially unveiling the next versions of virtually all of the applications in its Creative Suite, but Adobe is also launching its Creative Cloud online offerings. This marks a major change in how Adobe is selling and marketing its flagship product: while the company will continue to offer a shrink-wrapped version of CS6, it's also introducing a subscription service with this update. For $49/month with an annual subscription or $79/month for month-to-month memberships, users can now get full access to any CS6 tool, including Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, Premiere Pro and AfterEffects. The suite will also include Adobe's new HTML5 design and development tools Muse and Edge, and will be deeply integrated into the company's tablet apps. Users will be able to download and install these apps on up to two machines."

Adobe recently announced the newest release of Creative Suite, the sixth version (CS6). As shown in the graphic above, there are numerous feature enhancements across all the products in the suite. Upgrading even one of the Abobe apps can be an expensive proposition for most people. Personally, I have a copy of Photoshop that is a few revisions behind, but would like to upgrade it. It is probably a good time to do so from a functionality perspective. What is intriguing with this latest release of apps, is that a new option purchase option is available. Called Creative Cloud, this new purchase option is actually a subscription service. For $49/month (US) with an annual subscription or $79/month (US) for month-to-month memberships, users can now get full access to any CS6 tool. For me, this is an incredibly tempting offer.

The Read link article has all the details about the new edition of Creative Suite, and the new subscription service. Once you've had a chance to read it, drop back here and let me know if you think the subscription service is a good deal.

DPReview.com has a review of the latest Micro Four Thirds camera, the E-M5. I'll spoil it a little: It's the best rated one yet. I have spent some time with the E-M5 and I have been quite impressed with many aspects of it, though the up-close and personal experience with what Olympus fans call the "Olympus Colour" did not leave me quite as impressed. It consists mainly of a very aggressive tone curve that pulls the upper-midtones and overall increases contrast to deliver a very punchy yet natural look. I think I prefer to process my raw files and their colours myself, thank you. The rest of the camera, including its low-light high-ISO noise, its AF speed, the user interface, were really good. My only quibble was with the rear command wheel, which being placed closer to the viewfinder meant I had to stretch my right thumb more than normal compared to the Lumix Micro Four Thirds cameras or Nikon DSLRs. Overall, a great performance. Now Panasonic, where is that GH3?

"SSDs serve up data quickly, and prices are low enough that some enthusiasts may want SSDs for data storage. Does the file system you use matter? We compare performance between FAT32, NTFS, and the newer exFAT file systems on two popular SSD architectures."

The folks over at Tom's Hardware are known for their in-depth and credible technology reviews and opinions. In the linked piece (hit the Read link below), they tackle a very interesting question regarding which file system is best for SSD devices. Solid State Devices have some attractive properties, including small size, robustness, performance, and noise level (which is very low). They have steadily gained acceptance and profile over the past several years as their use has expanded, and as their prices have come down. Suffice it to say that most people would now own a number of devices with SSDs inside them.

There is a huge number of SSD devices in the marketplace for a wide variety of applications, so comparing them requires some filtering of purpose. In this instance Tom's Hardware decided to focus on those SSDs relevant for Windows users with flash-based storage devices. Specifically, they focus on a comparison of the performance of NTFS, exFAT, and the older FAT32 file systems. Their review is very comprehensive, and includes background explanations of some historic systems and terms. If you are interested in optimal performance for your flash-based storage devices, this is a very good read.

"If you're wedded to one platform, it's a good bet you already have a tool that keeps your life synchronized and organized pretty well. For those of us who have to deal with multiple platforms, multiple computers and mobile devices with multiple operating systems, and work with people who use different ones than we do, there's Fruux, a free service that keeps your to-dos, calendars, and contacts in sync on almost any platform. Think of it like iCloud for the rest of us."

Way, way back, I was introduced to Outlook and Microsoft Exchange and loved it. The beauty I saw in it was the ability to have Outlook on multiple computers, and they would all synchronize with each other. Later, this would be expanded to include Windows Mobile and a web interface. It was wonderful to be able to have multiple devices all talking to each other (or in this case, a server) so that I had all my emails, contacts and tasks in one place. You could say that this was sort of like a hint at what cloud computing could offer.

Now, you'll find similar services through Google, Apple and Microsoft, but for a wider range of services and platforms but support across your iPhone, Transformer Prime, Linux Desktop and Windows laptop can prove a bit tricky. I have seen similar services in the past with a more business oriented flavour, but with Fruux out, it suggests that there still is a large enough market out there that we do not have to sit in a single camp for full syncing.

A little late with this, but here we go: Samsung announced its latest generation of NX mirrorless cameras on the 19th of April, comprising of the NX20 flagship, the NX210 compact, and the budget NX1000. All three of them share a lot of common features, chief of them the APS-C sized 20 megapixel sensor, which first made its debut on the NX200. It is not a bad sensor, compared to the 14 megapixel found in the first generation, but I am not sure how it compares to the latest from Sony and Panasonic. The other main feature is built-in Wifi, which allows photos to be shared and uploaded wirelessly. Unfortunately, the new ability to share a Wifi link with a smartphone for remote control purposes is only available on the NX1000. The feature is not too different from the one in the recently announced Nikon D3200, but having it integrated means not having to deal with a clunky dongle. Traditional camera manufacturers watch out: The new boys are hungry, and they will beat you to their game in this connected world if you are not careful!

All three cameras can also do 8FPS continuous photo taking, along with 1080p video at 30FPS in h.264 with manual controls (unclear to what extent) and in-camera panorama stitching like the Sony cameras. The NX1000 comes with a 3" VGA LCD screen, a small external flash to make up for the lack of an internal flash, as well as the mentioned smartphone link capability. It will ship with the compact 20-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS lens in June at a currently undisclosed price. The NX210 comes in a slimmer metal body, and uses a 3" AMOLED screen instead. Unfortunately it is not the Plus variety, meaning it will have the Pentile patterns. It will be packaged with the 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS lens for US$900, and be available from May. The NX20 comes in a bigger faux-SLR style body, with more external controls, a SVGA EVF, and the 3" VGA AMOLED screen is now attached to an always handy articulated arm. There is also a built-in flash. The NX20 will ship with the same 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 OIS lens found in the NX210 kit, but at a price of US$1100! Ack, I am not sure if Samsung can move many at that price. It feels like twice the price the NX10 and NX11 debuted at. Ships in May. Hit the read link for full specs and more images.

"Sometimes we get lucky, and today is one of those days. I got a draft release from a partner of Google’s upcoming Google Drive service and it gives away a wealth of information about how Google plans to take on the incumbent Dropbox. The short story? 5 GB of storage, and it launches next week, likely on Tuesday at http://drive.google.com"

Cloud storage seems to be pretty hot these days. With long time storage providers like Dropbox and Box, it looks like Google is finally jumping into the fray. Is what they provide good? Time will tell. I think it will partly be a matter of how well integrated their offerings are and how it plays with other applications. I do wonder just what Google will do with the data you store though, as I suspect, much like most of their offerings, they will use it to data mine everything about you, but for 5GB of free storage, off the bat, instead of after referrals, it is tempting.

This does raise the question about cloud storage in general and where it is heading. It looks to become much more generic, and could pose a threat against more specialized storage providers such as imgur. If Google also better integrates its other services with it, it could also compete against companies like Evernote as well. The next few years will prove to be interesting to see who wins out.

"From an electronic stethoscope to a cigar box guitar and a fuzz pedal, Instructables has you covered for the directions, and RadioShack has all the parts and pieces you'll need to make these projects and more."

Instructables.com and RadioShack have teamed up and put together an eBook with 10 fun projects you can do with your kids. It's a great opportunity to teach them that not all toys have to come from a store or downloaded from an app store. Projects range from creating your own Operation type board game to a Night Vision Camera.

If you want to take a look at all ten projects to see if any interest you, head over to the website and download the eBook.

"Getting a handle on your household energy consumption can benefit your wallet and the environment."

Being green and conserving energy is not only good for the environment. It's also good for your wallet.

MSNBC has put together a list of high tech gadgets that can help you conserve energy in a variety of ways, from the inexpensive thermal leak detector and smart plug to a Nest Learning Thermostat.

Does anybody have tips, tricks or gadgets they would like to recommend?

Nikon today unveiled the D3200, the replacement for the D3100 DSLR. What is most surprising is the sensor: It is a 24 megapixel CMOS sensor, in APS-C size. It appears to be similar to the one found in Sony's NEX-7 and SLT-A77, which also makes me wonder if the next refresh of all their DX-based DSLRs are going to use the same 24 megapixel sensor. If it is, I am going to be a little disappointed, as I was hoping that the D300/D300s replacement would use something like the awesome FX-challenging (in the high ISO noise department at least) 16 megapixel sensor found in the Fujifilm X-Pro 1.

The rest of the camera has a few upgrades, like a new 3" VGA LCD, 1080 video at 24 or 30 FPS (previously only 24 FPS) with manual exposure controls, a 4 FPS continuous mode (up from 3), and the ability to add the new WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter that lets you send images to your smartphone. In a first, Android support will come first, with iOS support coming later this year. The adapter looks rather clunky, being a small dongle that sticks out awkwardly from the side of the camera. Camera manufacturers, this is not how you build a connected camera. Until you get it, your compact camera sales will continue to dwindle in the presence of crappy smartphone cameras. The D3200 will ship in late April (isn't that a week away?) with the 18-55 kit lens for US$700, and the WU-1a for US$60.

In other news, Nikon also released a potentially nice lens for FX users: The Nikkor AF-S 28mm f/1.8. Given the FOV equivalent of a 42mm on a DX body, its neither here nor there status means it is better to use the cheaper AF-S 35/1.8 on a DX body, as the 28mm is going to be US$700. Ships in end of May.

Press releases and photo of the Nikkor after the break.

Simply Stunning: The New Nikon D3200 Is The Simple Way To Chronicle Memories With Superior Image And HD Video QualityThe Nikon D3200 Provides New D-SLR Shooters a Powerful Combination of Effortless Operation, 24.2-Megapixel High Resolution and Wireless Connectivity to Mobile DevicesMELVILLE, N.Y. (APRIL 19, 2012) – Today, imaging leader Nikon Inc. introduced the new 24.2-megapixel Nikon D3200 HD-SLR; a camera designed for photo enthusiasts ready to step up to a D-SLR or for the busy family memory keeper with an active lifestyle who demands a camera that can keep pace. From low-light to fast action, the D3200 delivers the amazing image quality Nikon is known for, either indoors or outside. Whether new to photography or upgrading from a point-and-shoot, the D3200 features Nikon’s acclaimed instructive Guide Mode to help unleash the photographer in everyone. From candid action shots to staged portraits that flatter, the Nikon D3200 provides the power to capture every moment easily and beautifully with stellar image quality and in stunning Full HD (1080p) video.Ready to tag along for any outing, the Nikon D3200’s compact, lightweight body makes it easy to pack for a quick day trip or the long haul. A host of advanced features, including a super high resolution 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, Full HD (1080p) video recording with full time autofocus (AF) and 4 frames-per-second (fps) high-speed continuous shooting mode, prepare the D3200 for challenging lighting conditions and fast paced action. Also, Nikon D3200 users will be able to take advantage of the new WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. When connected to the camera, this optional adapter can wirelessly send images to mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, preview an image before shooting and control the camera remotely.“When every moment is as precious as the next one, having a camera that takes the guesswork out of photography is important,” said Bo Kajiwara, director of marketing, Nikon Inc. “The Nikon D3200 HD-SLR offers effortless functionality and easy-to-use connectivity to mobile devices that answers the call for a capable, entry-level D-SLR that will change how you share amazing images with your friends and family.”Stunning Images to Last a LifetimeThe new Nikon D3200 delivers outstanding image quality no matter the user’s skill level by leveraging Nikon’s renowned technologies. The new 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor allows for incredibly sharp images with stunning detail and less noise, while Nikon’s EXPEED 3™ image processing engine helps to create clear, lifelike images and video with vivid colors, smooth tonal gradations and low noise.The Nikon D3200 grants users impressive performance in low-light, affording the ability to shoot with assurance even during night games and school plays. With a native ISO range that extends from ISO 100 to 6400, the D3200 can also be expanded to a high of ISO 12,800 for extreme low-light situations resulting in previously impossible photos. Additionally, Nikon’s Scene Recognition System works in tandem with the camera’s 3D Color Matrix Metering II to recognize factors such as color and brightness for balanced exposures, accurate AF, faithful white balance and beautiful flash photos.Effortless OperationBeginner photographers as well as those looking to expand their repertoire of shooting techniques will appreciate the Nikon D3200’s Guide Mode which provides step-by-step photo instructions to capture amazing images. Easily accessible through the Mode Dial found on top of the camera body, the Guide Mode walks beginning D-SLR users through the process of set-up, shooting, viewing and deleting images. Because it asks the user what kind of creative photo technique they would like to learn, the Guide Mode has been widely acclaimed for its ability to build confidence and give users the tools to create amazing images. As more people discover the benefits of replacing their camcorder with a D-SLR, the Guide Mode also walks users through the best video settings to create home movies with blockbuster flair. For those with a more advanced skill level, the Guide Mode features helpful Assist Images that serve as a visual reference to inspire users and illustrate the desired result, while guiding them through easy-to-follow techniques.Further taking the guesswork out of photography, the D3200 also includes six Scene Modes. Photographers can set the Mode Dial to Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-Up or Night Portrait, and the D3200 will automatically adjust camera settings for optimal results in a variety of conditions.Beautiful Home Movies in Full HDWhen images alone can’t tell the whole story, the Nikon D3200 offers the full HD experience of high quality 1080p video. Users can create memorable, cinematic quality videos at 24 or 30 fps and easily share HD content online with friends and family or on their own HDTV via the HDMI output.Continuing down the path that its predecessor, the Nikon D3100, started, the D3200 implements full-time AF during video recording to help capture crisp video even during the most action-packed situations. To boost the production value of any home video, the camera offers manual or automatic exposure control, and a stereo microphone input to attach an optional external microphone such as the compact ME-1 Stereo Microphone. Furthermore, the D3200 offers other HD-SLR advantages including the ability to create a shallow depth of field, amazing low-light video performance and NIKKOR lens versatility.Capturing videos on the D3200 is simple, even when in Live View. With a dedicated video record button and easy access to the Live View switch, users can capture video clips before the moment is gone. Additionally, videos play with astonishing detail and clarity on the D3200’s 3-inch, high resolution 921,000-dot LCD screen.A Camera to Keep Pace with an Energetic ExistenceAn active lifestyle requires a capable camera that is ready at a moment’s notice, and the Nikon D3200 packs powerful technology to tackle just about any challenge. Delivering up to 4 fps in high-speed continuous shooting mode, the D3200 helps ensure that important, spontaneous and easy-to-miss memories are captured, from a baby’s first smile to a game winning grand slam. Additionally, the D3200’s advanced 11-point AF system allows the user to find and keep focus while maintaining a clear view of that subject. This advanced focusing system is ideal for capturing tricky subjects like a dancer mid-leap during the big recital or a dive for the line drive in centerfield.The Nikon D3200’s power is amplified when combined with the versatility of Nikon’s legendary NIKKOR optics and powerful accessories. Compatible with Nikon’s dedicated DX-format lenses and over 50 FX-format lenses as well as Nikon’s Speedlight System, the Nikon D3200 puts creativity at the user’s fingertips. The optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter for the D3200 allows the connected user to easily share photos taken on the D3200 to an Android™ platform based smartphone or tablet, so friends and family can enjoy the moment almost as quickly as it happens.1 Android platform users are able to wirelessly transfer images from the camera to a mobile device, preview the image before shooting photos, and even remotely control the camera from up to 49 feet. The Application for use with an Android platform smartphone (2.3 series) and tablet (3.x series) is expected for release in May 2012.2 Additionally, an Application for the iPhone® and iPad® mobile digital device is expected for release in Fall 2012.3Price and AvailabilityThe Nikon D3200 outfit with the versatile AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens will be available in late April 2012 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $699.95* in either Black or Red. The optional WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter, sold separately, will be available in late May 2012 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $59.95*. For more information on the Nikon D3200, NIKKOR lenses, additional Nikon D-SLR cameras and accessories, please visit www.nikonusa.com.*Suggested retail price listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time.1 Android is a trademark of Google Inc.2 The Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility Application must be installed on the smart device before it can be usedwith the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter connected to the Nikon D3200.3 iPad and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.Nikon’s New AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G Lens Makes Wide-Angle And Fast Aperture An Attainable RealityNew NIKKOR Lens is the Latest Addition to Popular Series of FX-format f/1.8 Prime LensesMELVILLE, N.Y. (April 19, 2012) – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the wide-angle AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G, a fixed focal length lens with a large maximum aperture to carry on the legacy of superior NIKKOR imaging technology for enthusiasts and professionals. With a large maximum aperture of f/1.8 and Nikon’s exclusive Nano Crystal Coat to reduce ghost and flare, the 28mm FX-format lens offers stunning sharpness and versatility for both photos and HD video.“This NIKKOR lens is the latest addition to the popular family of f/1.8 primes designed to give HD-SLR shooters the performance and versatility needed to capture images and HD video with outstanding image quality,” said Bo Kajiwara, director of marketing, Nikon Inc. “The new AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G is a great way for photographers to discover a high-quality, wide-angle prime lens that provides amazingly crisp focus and natural background blur.”Professional and enthusiast HD-SLR photographers will appreciate the 28mm f/1.8G’s wide-angle versatility and enjoy the sharp focus and lightweight yet durable construction befitting a NIKKOR lens. The lens’ Nano Crystal Coat prevents ghosting and flare and helps produce spectacular high-resolution photos and HD video in even the most challenging lighting conditions. This 28mm lens also features a large f/1.8 maximum aperture, giving the photographer the ability to effortlessly highlight natural background image blur.The 28mm f/1.8G’s construction and optical formula is deep-rooted with NIKKOR core technology to ensure the highest level performance and versatility for the most demanding imaging applications. Featuring eleven optical elements in nine groups with two aspherical elements, the 28mm f/1.8G is designed to be a compact and durable lens maximized for versatility. Additionally, the new 28mm lens is able to resolve high resolution images with amazing sharpness and clarity, making it an ideal companion for the new 36.3-megapixel Nikon D800 HD-SLR. Professionals and enthusiasts are offered complete lens control with two focus modes, (M) manual and (M/A) autofocus with manual override that allow the photographer to tailor their focus for any shooting scenario. The 28mm f/1.8G lens is also equipped with a Silent Wave Motor (SWM) allowing for smooth, silent and precise autofocus operation essential for capturing pristine HD video.Price and AvailabilityThe AF-S NIKKOR 28mm f/1.8G lens will be available at the end of May 2012 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $699.95*. For more information please visit www.nikonusa.com.*SRP (Suggested Retail Price) listed only as a suggestion. Actual prices are set by dealers and are subject to change at any time. Specifications, equipment and release dates are subject to change without any notice or obligation on the part of the manufacturer.

"Bad news for cable TV. According to a new report, some 2.65 million subscribers have abandoned cable or satellite TV since 2008 in favor of Internet and over the air delivery. "

More and more people are giving up cable or satellite TV and substituting with content over the internet. What's worse for cable and satellite companies is that reports are showing the trend snowballing.

This is something I've considered doing myself. If not for my two kids I probably would have cut the wire a few years ago. All the shows I watch are either available via over the air HD or can be found from one source or another on the internet. Perhaps in a few years.

"Since Apple’s first iPad came on the scene in 2010, people have wondered if tablets could stand in for computers. Few would argue they’re not up to casual tasks like Web browsing and emailing, but what about the more demanding ones? What about, say, photo editing? Until recently, that was firmly out of the question. The graphics and processing power of even the top tablets couldn’t hack it. But now, with the new iPad, I’m not so sure."

Everyone likes to chase technology, I suppose, but really, editing photos on a potentially 6-bit screen on an OS without a visible file system, being limited in toolset due to lack of input depth (multi-touch isn't everything), and having limited software that might be nice to use (Snapseed, iPhoto), well, I'm going to pass on this for my serious work for now. I still think the devices need a lot more power too, especially given the new DSLRs are coming out with ever increasing mega-pixel count.