Author: Les Shu

Trimble Yuma Tablet Computer Now Available in Ubuntu Linux Flavor

Tablet computers must be big business or forecasted to be, since every manufacturer seems to have one or a few in their lineup (although it’s hard to tell if any of them are lucrative, since Apple’s iPad still dominates this market). Enter the latest contender, the Trimble Yuma from SDG Systems. Unlike other tablets that run on familiar operating systems like iOS, Android, or Windows, the Trimble Yuma uses Ubuntu Linux.

The Trimble Yuma, to clarify, is not completely new. A version that uses Windows 7 already exists. What’s new is the use of Ubuntu 10.04 LTS Netbook Edition Linux, which SDG added based on customer demand. It’s also designed for military and industrial applications. Starting at $3,695, this is not for the general consumer. SDG will also customize the unit with a different version of Linux for a fee.

In addition to a 7-inch display that works in sunlight, a magnesium alloy shell, a solid-state drive, and military-grade resistance to various environment conditions, the Trimble Yuma’s is powered by a 1.6GHz Intel Atom processor, like the ones found in many netbook computers. Also built-in are Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, two cameras, GPS, and two card slots.

Like we said, this isn’t for the most of us, unless your activities frequently take you to places like the Gobi Desert.

SDG Systems Official Website
[PCWorld: Ready for Another Linux Tablet? Meet the Rugged Trimble Yuma]

U.S. Air Force Picks Getac B300 Rugged Computer

Ever wonder who actually buys those bulky, rugged, military-grade computers? Why, the military, of course! Getac, a maker of rugged computers, and NCS Technologies, which makes “mission-specific” computers and some Getac products under license, announced that the U.S. Air Force has selected the Getac B300 fully rugged notebook computer as part of its Quantum Enterprise Buy (QEB) program, in the Fully Rugged Laptop category.

The QEB selection process evaluates each vendor’s products for quality, performance, price, and compatibility with the USAF’s strict security requirements. Getac said, “The B300 rugged notebook computer was selected for the program for meeting those stringent requirements while delivering performance, reliability, and consistent ability to withstand the harshest work and environmental conditions.”

So, what’s in a B300? You’ll find a 2.5-GHz Intel Core i5 processor, the industry’s brightest 1400 NITs QuadraClear display, 100mw high-power Wi-Fi, a 120GB SSD drive with 128-bit encryption, and a dual-battery configuration for up to 30 hours. The B300, which will be built by NCS, will be available through the QEB program in June 2012.

What does this all mean to you? Probably nothing, but if you are shopping for a rugged portable computer that can handle the elements and meets requirements to satisfy the Air Force, we point you toward the B300.

Getac Official Website
[Marketwire Press Release: United States Air Force Selects Getac B300 for QEB Fully Rugged Laptop Category]

Bracketron Smuggler Lets You Covertly Stash a Six-Pack in Golf Bag

Secret compartments are cool. Whether it’s the room behind a pivoting bookshelf, the flask inside a cane (a sword is even better), or an underground vault, the ability to stash away goods from the unsuspecting summons up fantasies of living as a mad scientist, James Bond or Batman.

For golfers who have something to hide, Bracketron recently unveiled the Smuggler, an insulated soft-sided “cooler” with a reusable cold gel pack that holds up to six cans of your favorite liquid. It’s designed to “discreetly” slide into a golf bag, which, we gather, means sneaking beverages of the adult variety onto the green. The Smuggler will sell for $24.95.

The Smuggler is part of Bracketron’s lineup of mobile accessories for golfers, including mounts for securing a GPS or smart phone device to a golf cart or bag.

Bracketron Official Website

CES 2012: Optrix Unveils VideoPro App to Shoot Detailed Action HD Videos

Optrix, the maker of the HD Sport rugged mount and case for iPhone and iPod Touch devices, is showing off its new VideoPro app at CES 2012 this week. Designed for use with an iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, and video-capable iPod Touch to shoot high-definition action videos, the app displays and records info such as lap time, GPS tracking, speed, and g-force, all without using add-on accessories. The app, which was developed with the team behind Harry’s Lap Timer, can be downloaded now from the iTunes App Store for $9.99 Continue reading CES 2012: Optrix Unveils VideoPro App to Shoot Detailed Action HD Videos

CES 2012: Valencell Exhibits Ear Bud Sensor Technology for Biometric Measurements

A runner demonstrates Valencell's V-LINC ear-bud sensor technology. The medallion with connected ear buds wirelessly streams biometric data to a mobile device, such as an iPhone.

The Consumer Electronics Show is a hotbed of new and upcoming tech products, but there are also plenty of companies showcasing new technologies that may one day end up in a product at a future CES. One such company is Valencell, which is demonstrating its V-LINC health and fitness ear-bud sensor tech. Due to the nature of the ear, V-LINC’s technology “continuously measures more real-time biometric data, with higher accuracy, in virtually any environment, than any other health and fitness sensor technology on the market,” Valencell said.

“Studies show that 70 percent of regular exercisers wear audio headsets while exercising, and Valencell aspires to connect with that audience to make health and fitness more accessible through our earbud sensor technology,” said Valencell CEO and co-founder Steven LeBoeuf. “Companies will discover how they can turn audio headsets into health and fitness devices on multiple mobile platforms by integrating V-LINC.”

At CES, Valencell is demoing how the technology would work with various mobile platforms, including iOS and Android. Demonstrators wear an ear bud prototype that measures biometric data such as continuous heart rate; calories burned; cardiovascular fitness; metabolic rate; and distance and speed while using a treadmill, stationary bike, and in other activities. The data is then streamed to one of the platforms.

Valencell says V-LINC is compatible with regular headset manufacturing processes, so a headphone maker can easily license and implement the technology into its product.

Valencell Official Website

CES 2012: Benzitech Introduces New Waterproof Cases for Smart Devices

There must be a demand for waterproof cases. Not long after we mentioned to you about the DryCASE, the folks at Benzitech sent us info on their new iDry waterproof cases for smart phones and tablets. The cases seal a device to keep out water, yet allow the devices’ touch screens to be used through the case without removal. They can submerge down to 30 feet underwater, and they float, too. The iDry products come with waterproof ear bud headphones, armbands, and neck straps.

Benzitech Official Website

CES 2012: DryBUDS SPORT Waterproof Headphones and Mic Let You Gab in Water

Cell phones and H2O should normally never mix, but for those who cannot live without their phones even when in or near water, the DryBUDS SPORT headphones with built-in waterproof microphone is the accessory for you.

Shown this week at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show, the DryBUDS SPORT is completely waterproof, according to its manufacturer, Dry Corp. That means you can bring it into the pool or shower to listen to your tunes. Paired with your phone using Dry Corp’s DryCASE vacuum-sealed waterproof case, you can utilize the microphone to make/receive calls while you soap up your bod or perform your backstrokes. The ability to access your phone through the headphones is also great for times when you can’t physically reach for the phone, like when you’re busy canoeing down a river, for example.

DryCASE Official Website

Fitness Products That Look Good in Any Home

Apartment Therapy's stylish fitness finds.

The folks over at Apartment Therapy have rounded up nine stylish fitness- and sports-related products that look sleek enough to stand alone as furniture, even if you never actually use them.

As someone who has used one of the products, the Technogym VISIOWEB, I can attest it works as well as it looks. With its large 19-inch display that does TV and iPod/iPhone connectivity, this is one piece of exercise equipment that I absolutely drool over.

[Via Apartment Therapy: Resolution: Admire Good Design … And Workout More]

Skiing Out of Control? Get Custom-Fitted Boots

The Surefoot RX130 custom ski boot lists for $995.

Ever wonder why you can’t seem to ski properly when you’re on the slopes, that you can’t turn as tight or feel in control at all times? The answer may lie in the boots you’re wearing, according to Forbes contributor Larry Olmsted in an extensive piece he’s written on the subject of custom boots. Olmsted says that of all the ski equipment, the boots are what make the experience, not even the skis themselves. (We theorize ill-fitting boots could be a reason why beginner skiers have a hard time learning, too, but no boot will instantly make you a master skier.)

The reasons for buying a custom boot? Olmsted cites three advantages: improved skiing for more control and betters turns; more comfort for more runs, less soreness, and less fatigue; and warmth for better blood circulation. Despite his championing custom ski boots, he acknowledges the high price of $1,014 to $1,214 for a pair. But for avid skiers looking to conquer the mountain, a custom boot might be the weapon you need. Hit the link to read further about how custom boots are made and the benefits they offer.

[Via Forbes: Why You Need Custom Ski Boots – Now]

U.K. Survey Finds More Older Adults Using Wii to Exercise

According to a recent survey of people aged 50 and up in the U.K., one in 25 uses a video game to exercise. Of course, we aren’t talking about the latest Grand Theft Auto or Call of Duty, but the popular Nintendo Wii and its Wii Fit accessories and games. While the survey specifically targets segments of the U.K. population past middle age, the results mirror similar surveys that have been conducted stateside since the Wii Fit exploded onto the scene; the Wii has been a been a hit with casual gamers thanks to the active movements and low learning curve required. And, Microsoft and Sony have recently entered the scene with their Xbox Kinect and PlayStation Move products and fitness-related titles.

As we have pointed out, video games are not a substitute for good-old exercise. However, according to a CNN report, the light intensity is ideal for older adults, particularly with systems that require full-body movements. These movement-based games are also great for those who never engage in any form of exercise. As we have reported in the past, institutions such as schools in Alabama and Iowa are using the Wii as part of their physical education curriculum to get kids active and help fight childhood obesity.

[Via The Huffington Post: More Post 50s Use Video Games To Exercise]

U.S. Government Health Agencies Call Upon App Developers to Create Health-Centric Apps

There’s no shortage of fitness- and health-related apps for smart phones like the iPhone and those based on Android, but we could soon see apps that are approved by the U.S. federal government.

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology is launching the Healthy Apps Challenge, a project the ONC is teaming up with the Surgeon General to encourage software developers to create new apps that promote fitness and fitness. The project is one way the ONC is trying to help Americans lead healthier lifestyles and combat major issues such as obesity, by helping them become more aware of their health-related choices.  Continue reading U.S. Government Health Agencies Call Upon App Developers to Create Health-Centric Apps

Small, Lightweight Rotauf MRK5 Helps Locate You Faster In Case of Avalanche

The chances of you ever having to face an avalanche are slim, but when you hit the slopes you should keep in mind that the risk of being buried by one is real. Survival times are also very limited, which makes rescue efforts even more critical especially when you are with few people. Experienced skiers and board riders who venture into avalanche backcountry are usually prepped in case they have to deal with an avalanche, such as a tracking beacon and shovel, and now they can add another safety tool: the Rotauf MRK5 Avalanche Marking Device. The module is small and can be integrated into your jacket or pants, unlike avalanche airbag systems that require a dedicated bag. Continue reading Small, Lightweight Rotauf MRK5 Helps Locate You Faster In Case of Avalanche

Apple Wants to See More Bluetooth Low Energy Accessories, Report Finds

The Verge reports “Apple wants to see a new wave of app-based accessories using the new Bluetooth Low Energy profile in Bluetooth 4.0, with a particular focus on next-generation health and fitness gadgets like the FitBit Ultra and Jawbone Up.”

BLE is a feature in Bluetooth 4.0—the latest version of the wireless radio-based technology that connects two devices over a short distance, such as between cell phones and headsets—designed for low-power and -latency applications. It allows devices that utilize the protocol to realize long, continuous operation before a recharge.

Along with the ANT+ protocol, the medical community and health care-related industries have taken an interest in BLE and designing products around (more about BLE in health care explained here). But, if Apple, a major, influential player in the electronics industry, is throwing its support behind it, BLE could become standard across the board.

There are no further details or timeline, according to The Verge, but the site notes that while the iPhone 4S already supports Bluetooth 4.0, it could be some time before an abundance of products show up on shelves.

[Via The Verge: Apple preps iOS accessory makers for Bluetooth 4.0; not using Bluetooth for AirPlay]