4. What can you do if you are the victim of an asbestos-related disease or mesothelioma?
If you or someone you love is suffering from mesothelioma, you have rights. One way to take stand against the callous asbestos industry that put their profits ahead of your health is to take legal action against them. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your pain and suffering, but if you hesitate you may lose your chance for justice due to the statute of limitation laws in your state. Let us help you fight. Contact us today.
3. Legal facts about asbestos and mesothelioma
- The first lawsuit regarding asbestos injury was filled in 1966 in Texas against Johns-Manville, Fibreboard, Owens Corning Fibreglas and several other manufacturers.
- Mesothelioma cases settle on average between $750,000 and $8 million.
- More than half a million asbestos cases have been filed, with 50,000 in 1998 alone.
- Up to 8 million people in the United States have been exposed to dangerous levels of asbestos. Asbestos still continues to pose a threat to workers in certain occupations.
- New legislation before the Senate of the United States called the Hatch Bill could potentially limit the amount of compensation victims of asbestos-related diseases could receive.
2. Modern facts about asbestos and mesothelioma
- Over 10,000 people worldwide are diagnosed with mesothelioma or other asbestos-related conditions each year, 3,000 in the US alone.
- It is estimated that over 110,000 schools in the United States still contain some form of asbestos.
- Even though cigarette smoking does not cause mesothelioma, victims exposed asbestos who smoke suffer a 50-90% increase in the likelihood of developing lung cancers.
- Asbestos has been banned or regulated in many industrialized countries around the world.
- Post-diagnosis survival of mesothelioma is measured in months, because by the time the cancer is detected it is too advanced for treatment.
- Because of the long dormancy of mesothelioma, experts speculate that there will be an increase of cases for the next 20 to 30 years.
1. Historical facts about asbestos and mesothelioma
- Asbestos has been used since ancient times. Greeks and Romans wove the fibers into tablecloths, napkins, and clothes, and threw them into fires to clean them. They also noted the slaves forced to deal with this material lived shorter lives and usually died of breathing or respiratory problems.
- Asbestos was used extensively in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as modern industry drove the economies of Western Europe and the United States.
- During the Second World War, hundreds of thousands of military personnel were exposed to asbestos on a large scale. Many of these servicepeople are now beginning to demonstrate symptoms of asbestos-related diseases.
- Many asbestos companies knew the dangers of their products, but chose to ignore or downplay the role asbestos played in many illnesses.
- The first reported death caused by asbestos exposure was documented in medical journals in 1924.
Multimodal treatment of mesothelioma
Doctors specializing in mesothelioma treatment frequently adopt a multimodal approach: they treat a patient with a combination of therapies. Due to the relative lack of effectiveness of single-modality treatment in affecting patient survival, the multimodal combination of treatments holds more promise for survival of malignant mesothelioma patients. For an over view of single-mode and multimodal treatment regimens, see the abstract of "Treatment of Malignant Mesothelioma" by M.T. Jaklitsch, S.C. Grondin, and D.J. Sugarbaker and published in the World Journal of Surgery in 2001.
The December 1999 issue of the medical journal, Chest, published a clinical case presentation that illustrates a fairly typical multimodal treatment. The patient was a 52-year-old man with an early diagnosis of Stage I pleural mesothelioma. Doctors performed a pleurectomy (i.e. surgery) and then delivered intrapleural doses of chemotherapy drugs. Then he received additional localized radiation and chemotherapy. Two years after the surgery he did not show evidence of the tumor.
The author concluded that "Aggressive trimodality therapy for mesothelioma is presented as a successful treatment option." (R. Buono - "Mesothelioma Clinical Presentation", Chest 1999; 116:444S-445S).
In recent years, there has been some progress made in the management of malignant mesothelioma, particularly in the area of combination of agents and treatment methods used. More details can be found in this interview with mesothelioma medical expert, Dr. Nicholas Vogelzang: "New Directions for the Treatment of Mesothelioma: An Expert Interview" (Oncology 6(1), 2003).
The following discussion of mesothelioma treatments is organized into separate sections (surgery, photodynamic therapy, radiation, etc.) so that each component of a combination of treatments (multimodality therapy) can be better understood.
Mesothelioma Facts & FAQs
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a cancer of the cells that make up the lining around the outside of the lungs and inside of the ribs (pleura), or around the abdominal organs (peritoneum).
What does asbestos have to do with mesothelioma?
The only known cause of mesothelioma in the U.S. is previous exposure to asbestos fibers. Asbestos manufacturers knew about the hazards of asbestos seventy years ago - but they kept this knowledge to themselves. The first warnings to workers exposed to asbestos were given in the mid-1960s, and they were terribly inadequate. Even today, workers are not always told they are working around asbestos and are at risk for asbestos disease.
What can someone with mesothelioma do?
- Seek out the best and most up-to-date information.
- Seek out the best medical care.
- Early screening for mesothelioma diagnosis.
- Stay in close contact with your doctor.
- Consider whether or not you want to bring a lawsuit because of this asbestos-related injury.
- Remember that resources are available to you through community and medical support groups, asbestos victims' organizations, your place of worship, as well as your family and friends.
Pleural Mesothelioma
There are two types of Pleural Mesothelioma: Cancerous and non-cancerous.
Benign mesothelioma many times can be surgically removed and is generally not life threatening or a result of asbestos exposure. Malignant mesothelioma is very serious, though. The infliction is quite rare and less than three thousand people in the US get it each year.
The following section is about malignant pleural mesothelioma:
Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the cells that affects the skin or inner lining (known medically as the pleura) outside of the lungs and inside of the ribs. This is caused ONLY by exposure to asbestos fibers found in products made mostly by US corporations. The exposure could have occurred many, many years ago because it takes many years for the disease to show up. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma and chances are that if you have mesothelioma, this is the type you have.
Often Mesothelioma is diagnosed when no symptoms are present. This could be because a tumor is present or is randomly discovered through something like a routine exam. When these symptoms do occur, they can include shortness of breath, weight loss, chest pains, pains about the lower back, chronic cough, difficulty swallowing, and severe weakness. In the initial examination a medical examination will often show a pleural effusion, which is a bunch of fluid in the area between the lungs and the wall of the chest.
A chest x-ray or CT scan is the necessary first step in identifying mesothelioma, which is followed up with what is called a bronchoscopy. A bronchoscopy requires a viewing scope to look inside the lungs. The diagnosis itself requires a biopsy which allows the medical professionals to take a little piece of tissue from the area in question. This can be done using a tiny needle, an open cut, or even these days through a tube with a camera on the end of it. This is a procedure that must happen at the hospital, but it is not a painful procedure typically.
Any fluid build-up from the pleural effusion can generally be viewed via the x-ray and can be heard through the dr.’s stethoscope during examination. The only firm diagnosis of mesothelioma can be made through the biopsy described earlier. Because other things like tumors and benign effusions can look like mesothelioma, a biopsy is the only safe way to tell as a diagnosis of mesothelioma can be one of the most difficult in the book.
As the tumor spreads over the lining between the lungs and the chest, flexibility can be increasingly painful and restricted. Because of this, breathing becomes much more difficult. It begins with shortness of breath potentially while exercising but as function continues to drop short breath can become more and more of a persistent problem.
Although there is no cure for pleural mesothelioma, the treatment options have improved for managing symptoms. As with any cancer, the prognosis is better for those diagnosed early, and treatment can be more aggressive. Most pleural mesothelioma patients are treated with a multimodal therapy, or combination of treatment options. It is possible for patients with pleural mesothelioma to live for 5 to 10 years after diagnosis, although the average survival time is about a year.
Specific types of treatment include:
Chemotherapy and other drug-based therapies
Radiation therapy
Surgery
Intra-operative photodynamic therapy.
Experimental treatments such as gene therapy, angiogenesis inhibitors, immunotherapy, and many clinical trials are also in the development stages.
Although mesothelioma remains uncurable, many other treatments have had success in pain reduction and improving lung function. Surgeries to remove tumors and reduce pressure have shown promise in pain reduction, and pain control medications are constantly improving. In some cases, X-ray therapy has been shown to control tumor pain as well.
Benign mesothelioma many times can be surgically removed and is generally not life threatening or a result of asbestos exposure. Malignant mesothelioma is very serious, though. The infliction is quite rare and less than three thousand people in the US get it each year.
The following section is about malignant pleural mesothelioma:
Pleural mesothelioma is a cancer of the cells that affects the skin or inner lining (known medically as the pleura) outside of the lungs and inside of the ribs. This is caused ONLY by exposure to asbestos fibers found in products made mostly by US corporations. The exposure could have occurred many, many years ago because it takes many years for the disease to show up. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma and chances are that if you have mesothelioma, this is the type you have.
Often Mesothelioma is diagnosed when no symptoms are present. This could be because a tumor is present or is randomly discovered through something like a routine exam. When these symptoms do occur, they can include shortness of breath, weight loss, chest pains, pains about the lower back, chronic cough, difficulty swallowing, and severe weakness. In the initial examination a medical examination will often show a pleural effusion, which is a bunch of fluid in the area between the lungs and the wall of the chest.
A chest x-ray or CT scan is the necessary first step in identifying mesothelioma, which is followed up with what is called a bronchoscopy. A bronchoscopy requires a viewing scope to look inside the lungs. The diagnosis itself requires a biopsy which allows the medical professionals to take a little piece of tissue from the area in question. This can be done using a tiny needle, an open cut, or even these days through a tube with a camera on the end of it. This is a procedure that must happen at the hospital, but it is not a painful procedure typically.
Any fluid build-up from the pleural effusion can generally be viewed via the x-ray and can be heard through the dr.’s stethoscope during examination. The only firm diagnosis of mesothelioma can be made through the biopsy described earlier. Because other things like tumors and benign effusions can look like mesothelioma, a biopsy is the only safe way to tell as a diagnosis of mesothelioma can be one of the most difficult in the book.
As the tumor spreads over the lining between the lungs and the chest, flexibility can be increasingly painful and restricted. Because of this, breathing becomes much more difficult. It begins with shortness of breath potentially while exercising but as function continues to drop short breath can become more and more of a persistent problem.
Although there is no cure for pleural mesothelioma, the treatment options have improved for managing symptoms. As with any cancer, the prognosis is better for those diagnosed early, and treatment can be more aggressive. Most pleural mesothelioma patients are treated with a multimodal therapy, or combination of treatment options. It is possible for patients with pleural mesothelioma to live for 5 to 10 years after diagnosis, although the average survival time is about a year.
Specific types of treatment include:
Chemotherapy and other drug-based therapies
Radiation therapy
Surgery
Intra-operative photodynamic therapy.
Experimental treatments such as gene therapy, angiogenesis inhibitors, immunotherapy, and many clinical trials are also in the development stages.
Although mesothelioma remains uncurable, many other treatments have had success in pain reduction and improving lung function. Surgeries to remove tumors and reduce pressure have shown promise in pain reduction, and pain control medications are constantly improving. In some cases, X-ray therapy has been shown to control tumor pain as well.
Are new treatments for mesothelioma being studied?
Yes. Because mesothelioma is very hard to control, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is sponsoring clinical trials (research studies with people) that are designed to find new treatments and better ways to use current treatments. Before any new treatment can be recommended for general use, doctors conduct clinical trials to find out whether the treatment is safe for patients and effective against the disease. Participation in clinical trials is an important treatment option for many patients with mesothelioma.
How is mesothelioma treated?
Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined.
Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma. The doctor may remove part of the lining of the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue around it. For cancer of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), a lung may be removed in an operation called a pneumonectomy. Sometimes part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing, is also removed.
Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area. The radiation may come from a machine (external radiation) or from putting materials that produce radiation through thin plastic tubes into the area where the cancer cells are found (internal radiation therapy).
Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Most drugs used to treat mesothelioma are given by injection into a vein (intravenous, or IV). Doctors are also studying the effectiveness of putting chemotherapy directly into the chest or abdomen (intracavitary chemotherapy).
To relieve symptoms and control pain, the doctor may use a needle or a thin tube to drain fluid that has built up in the chest or abdomen. The procedure for removing fluid from the chest is called thoracentesis. Removal of fluid from the abdomen is called paracentesis. Drugs may be given through a tube in the chest to prevent more fluid from accumulating. Radiation therapy and surgery may also be helpful in relieving symptoms.
Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma. The doctor may remove part of the lining of the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue around it. For cancer of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), a lung may be removed in an operation called a pneumonectomy. Sometimes part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing, is also removed.
Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area. The radiation may come from a machine (external radiation) or from putting materials that produce radiation through thin plastic tubes into the area where the cancer cells are found (internal radiation therapy).
Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Most drugs used to treat mesothelioma are given by injection into a vein (intravenous, or IV). Doctors are also studying the effectiveness of putting chemotherapy directly into the chest or abdomen (intracavitary chemotherapy).
To relieve symptoms and control pain, the doctor may use a needle or a thin tube to drain fluid that has built up in the chest or abdomen. The procedure for removing fluid from the chest is called thoracentesis. Removal of fluid from the abdomen is called paracentesis. Drugs may be given through a tube in the chest to prevent more fluid from accumulating. Radiation therapy and surgery may also be helpful in relieving symptoms.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history, including any history of asbestos exposure. A complete physical examination may be performed, including x-rays of the chest or abdomen and lung function tests. A CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI may also be useful. A CT scan is a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. In an MRI, a powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to make detailed pictures of areas inside the body. These pictures are viewed on a monitor and can also be printed.
A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. In a biopsy, a surgeon or a medical oncologist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer) removes a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist. A biopsy may be done in different ways, depending on where the abnormal area is located. If the cancer is in the chest, the doctor may perform a thoracoscopy. In this procedure, the doctor makes a small cut through the chest wall and puts a thin, lighted tube called a thoracoscope into the chest between two ribs. Thoracoscopy allows the doctor to look inside the chest and obtain tissue samples. If the cancer is in the abdomen, the doctor may perform a peritoneoscopy. To obtain tissue for examination, the doctor makes a small opening in the abdomen and inserts a special instrument called a peritoneoscope into the abdominal cavity. If these procedures do not yield enough tissue, more extensive diagnostic surgery may be necessary.
If the diagnosis is mesothelioma, the doctor will want to learn the stage (or extent) of the disease. Staging involves more tests in a careful attempt to find out whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to which parts of the body. Knowing the stage of the disease helps the doctor plan treatment.
Mesothelioma is described as localized if the cancer is found only on the membrane surface where it originated. It is classified as advanced if it has spread beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.
A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. In a biopsy, a surgeon or a medical oncologist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer) removes a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist. A biopsy may be done in different ways, depending on where the abnormal area is located. If the cancer is in the chest, the doctor may perform a thoracoscopy. In this procedure, the doctor makes a small cut through the chest wall and puts a thin, lighted tube called a thoracoscope into the chest between two ribs. Thoracoscopy allows the doctor to look inside the chest and obtain tissue samples. If the cancer is in the abdomen, the doctor may perform a peritoneoscopy. To obtain tissue for examination, the doctor makes a small opening in the abdomen and inserts a special instrument called a peritoneoscope into the abdominal cavity. If these procedures do not yield enough tissue, more extensive diagnostic surgery may be necessary.
If the diagnosis is mesothelioma, the doctor will want to learn the stage (or extent) of the disease. Staging involves more tests in a careful attempt to find out whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to which parts of the body. Knowing the stage of the disease helps the doctor plan treatment.
Mesothelioma is described as localized if the cancer is found only on the membrane surface where it originated. It is classified as advanced if it has spread beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
Who is at increased risk for developing mesothelioma?
Asbestos has been mined and used commercially since the late 1800s. Its use greatly increased during World War II. Since the early 1940s, millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos dust. Initially, the risks associated with asbestos exposure were not known. However, an increased risk of developing mesothelioma was later found among shipyard workers, people who work in asbestos mines and mills, producers of asbestos products, workers in the heating and construction industries, and other tradespeople. Today, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets limits for acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace. People who work with asbestos wear personal protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure.
The risk of asbestos-related disease increases with heavier exposure to asbestos and longer exposure time. However, some individuals with only brief exposures have developed mesothelioma. On the other hand, not all workers who are heavily exposed develop asbestos-related diseases.
There is some evidence that family members and others living with asbestos workers have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, and possibly other asbestos-related diseases. This risk may be the result of exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers. To reduce the chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibers, asbestos workers are usually required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace.
The risk of asbestos-related disease increases with heavier exposure to asbestos and longer exposure time. However, some individuals with only brief exposures have developed mesothelioma. On the other hand, not all workers who are heavily exposed develop asbestos-related diseases.
There is some evidence that family members and others living with asbestos workers have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, and possibly other asbestos-related diseases. This risk may be the result of exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers. To reduce the chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibers, asbestos workers are usually required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace.
What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?
Working with asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. A history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 percent to 80 percent of all cases. However, mesothelioma has been reported in some individuals without any known exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated into thin threads and woven. Asbestos has been widely used in many industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation. If tiny asbestos particles float in the air, especially during the manufacturing process, they may be inhaled or swallowed, and can cause serious health problems. In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, asbestosis (a noncancerous, chronic lung ailment), and other cancers, such as those of the larynx and kidney.
Smoking does not appear to increase the risk of mesothelioma. However, the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure significantly increases a person's risk of developing cancer of the air passageways in the lung.
How common is mesothelioma?
Although reported incidence rates have increased in the past 20 years, mesothelioma is still a relatively rare cancer. About 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States each year. Mesothelioma occurs more often in men than in women and risk increases with age, but this disease can appear in either men or women at any age.
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also metastasize (spread) from their original site to other parts of the body. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the pleura or peritoneum.
What is the mesothelium?
Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the mesothelium, a protective sac that covers most of the body's internal organs. Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles.
What is the mesothelium?
The mesothelium is a membrane that covers and protects most of the internal organs of the body. It is composed of two layers of cells: One layer immediately surrounds the organ; the other forms a sac around it. The mesothelium produces a lubricating fluid that is released between these layers, allowing moving organs (such as the beating heart and the expanding and contracting lungs) to glide easily against adjacent structures.
The mesothelium has different names, depending on its location in the body. The peritoneum is the mesothelial tissue that covers most of the organs in the abdominal cavity. The pleura is the membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the wall of the chest cavity. The pericardium covers and protects the heart. The mesothelial tissue surrounding the male internal reproductive organs is called the tunica vaginalis testis. The tunica serosa uteri covers the internal reproductive organs in women.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the mesothelium, a protective sac that covers most of the body's internal organs. Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles.
What is the mesothelium?
The mesothelium is a membrane that covers and protects most of the internal organs of the body. It is composed of two layers of cells: One layer immediately surrounds the organ; the other forms a sac around it. The mesothelium produces a lubricating fluid that is released between these layers, allowing moving organs (such as the beating heart and the expanding and contracting lungs) to glide easily against adjacent structures.
The mesothelium has different names, depending on its location in the body. The peritoneum is the mesothelial tissue that covers most of the organs in the abdominal cavity. The pleura is the membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the wall of the chest cavity. The pericardium covers and protects the heart. The mesothelial tissue surrounding the male internal reproductive organs is called the tunica vaginalis testis. The tunica serosa uteri covers the internal reproductive organs in women.
Apple iPhone 3G
The basics
Apple iPhone 3G is the newest improvement of Apple Inc.'s iPhone. This gadget boasts of fast 3G wireless technology, enterprise features support (i.e., Microsoft Exchange), and GPS mapping. It is a combination of three products in one package: It's an internet device equipped with desktop-class browser and HTML-rich email, revolutionary high-tech phone, and iPod in widescreen.
The good
This is the handset the first iPhone should have been. With its innovate tap-swipe-pinch-and-stretch interface and crisp 3.5-inch touchscreen, it's always been the best phone for user-friendliness.Now it's the best for web browsing and downloading too, thanks to the better-late-than-never HSDPA for fast 3G action. Design-wise, only the metal casing round the back has gone, making way for a plastic cover. It sounds cheap, but looks the canine's cojones. It's also got GPS and is now a top games machine too, thanks to titles such as Super Monkey Ball, which you can download from the impressive iTunes App store.
The bad
Apple may have rectified the recessing 3.5mm headphone socket with a standard jack, so you can plug in some decent cans, but they ignored our pleas for a better camera. Why change the rest then stick with the two-megapixel camera, eh Apple?
The bottom line
Undeniably beautiful, with the best interface on any mobile phone ever in the history of mobiles, the iPhone 3G would be perfect save for a few notable deficiencies.
Apple iPhone 3G is the newest improvement of Apple Inc.'s iPhone. This gadget boasts of fast 3G wireless technology, enterprise features support (i.e., Microsoft Exchange), and GPS mapping. It is a combination of three products in one package: It's an internet device equipped with desktop-class browser and HTML-rich email, revolutionary high-tech phone, and iPod in widescreen.
The good
This is the handset the first iPhone should have been. With its innovate tap-swipe-pinch-and-stretch interface and crisp 3.5-inch touchscreen, it's always been the best phone for user-friendliness.Now it's the best for web browsing and downloading too, thanks to the better-late-than-never HSDPA for fast 3G action. Design-wise, only the metal casing round the back has gone, making way for a plastic cover. It sounds cheap, but looks the canine's cojones. It's also got GPS and is now a top games machine too, thanks to titles such as Super Monkey Ball, which you can download from the impressive iTunes App store.
The bad
Apple may have rectified the recessing 3.5mm headphone socket with a standard jack, so you can plug in some decent cans, but they ignored our pleas for a better camera. Why change the rest then stick with the two-megapixel camera, eh Apple?
The bottom line
Undeniably beautiful, with the best interface on any mobile phone ever in the history of mobiles, the iPhone 3G would be perfect save for a few notable deficiencies.
Apple iPod Touch 32GB
The basics
Apple iPod Touch 32GB is marketed as the 'funnest iPod ever'. Numerous songs, movies, and games are saved in this sleek gadget which has a memory of 32GB. Its dimensions are 110x 61.8x8.5 mm, and weighs only 115g. With this gadget, everything needed for entertainment can be found in one package.
The good
How do you fit 32GB of storage capacity into something so slim? We're more stumped than the England cricket team, but that's what Apple's done with the Touch. It can hold 7,000 tunes, making it an incredibly tempting buy, even considering its wallet-rinsing price. Essentially an iPhone without the phone, this stylish 8mm-deep slab delivers fantastic widescreen video, ear-tickling audio and, thanks to its 3.5-inch Multi-touch screen, a stellar user interface - we deftly flicked through our music with Cover Flow, then zoomed into a photo by pinching our fingers on the screen with instinctive ease. The built-in Wi-Fi works brilliantly, so you can hop online at a hotspot to buy music direct from the iTunes store, surf the web or check your location on Google Maps.
The bad
£290 is still a lot to lay out for a 32GB machine, even for a delicious Apple of this high calibre.
The bottom line
By including more storage, Apple has made the iPod Touch even more desirable. Now, if it was just a little bit cheaper...
Apple iPod Touch 32GB is marketed as the 'funnest iPod ever'. Numerous songs, movies, and games are saved in this sleek gadget which has a memory of 32GB. Its dimensions are 110x 61.8x8.5 mm, and weighs only 115g. With this gadget, everything needed for entertainment can be found in one package.
The good
How do you fit 32GB of storage capacity into something so slim? We're more stumped than the England cricket team, but that's what Apple's done with the Touch. It can hold 7,000 tunes, making it an incredibly tempting buy, even considering its wallet-rinsing price. Essentially an iPhone without the phone, this stylish 8mm-deep slab delivers fantastic widescreen video, ear-tickling audio and, thanks to its 3.5-inch Multi-touch screen, a stellar user interface - we deftly flicked through our music with Cover Flow, then zoomed into a photo by pinching our fingers on the screen with instinctive ease. The built-in Wi-Fi works brilliantly, so you can hop online at a hotspot to buy music direct from the iTunes store, surf the web or check your location on Google Maps.
The bad
£290 is still a lot to lay out for a 32GB machine, even for a delicious Apple of this high calibre.
The bottom line
By including more storage, Apple has made the iPod Touch even more desirable. Now, if it was just a little bit cheaper...
Twin Charger that sells for $39.99 and is available now for iPhone and iPod
There are certainly a lot of iPhone and iPods on the market and many users own both an iPod and an iPhone. Owning two gadgets can be a hassle when it comes to charging them back up if you only have one computer in the home.
iSound has a new charger called the Twin Charger that sells for $39.99 and is available now. The device has dual docks for iPod and iPhone devices. The dock has a glossy black finish and blue LED lighting and is licensed by Apple.
The manufacturer isn’t specific, but it seems that the charger powers the devices only and synchronization of the iPhone and iPod isn't available. From the images, it also appears that any dockable iPod or iPhone will work so you can dock two iPods or two iPhones with any combination of the two
iSound has a new charger called the Twin Charger that sells for $39.99 and is available now. The device has dual docks for iPod and iPhone devices. The dock has a glossy black finish and blue LED lighting and is licensed by Apple.
The manufacturer isn’t specific, but it seems that the charger powers the devices only and synchronization of the iPhone and iPod isn't available. From the images, it also appears that any dockable iPod or iPhone will work so you can dock two iPods or two iPhones with any combination of the two
Tenbu’s nio Protects Your Gadget via Bluetooth
TenBu is a British company that makes innovative mobile accessories related to protection and enhanced mobility. The nio is their latest device and will definitely be of use for mobile owners who puts a premium on the safety of their gadgets.
With the nio, the user can create a 20 meter perimeter as a security zone for his mobile device. When protected device goes beyond the perimeter (when it is separated from the user, in other words) an alarm is set on both the nio and the gadget. The nio is compatible to many Bluetooth phones, including BlackBerries and Nokia E- and Nseries phones. The nio will set you back 39.95 pounds ($57). Watch the video after the break.
With the nio, the user can create a 20 meter perimeter as a security zone for his mobile device. When protected device goes beyond the perimeter (when it is separated from the user, in other words) an alarm is set on both the nio and the gadget. The nio is compatible to many Bluetooth phones, including BlackBerries and Nokia E- and Nseries phones. The nio will set you back 39.95 pounds ($57). Watch the video after the break.
Nokia Mobile Phones: A Resplendent Gadget
Today, there are many mobile phone manufactures in the market such as Samsung, Nokia, LG and BlackBerry. A very tough competition prevails in the market due to the existence of numerous manufacturers. In order, to remain in the market, these existing companies after a long research and surveys are coming up with latest and advanced handsets. But apart from all these issues, all the Nokia mobile phones are the leading handsets in the market. The popularity and demand of the gadgets are also increasing exponentially. These widgets are known for their looks and high end innovative specifications.
At a very steady pace, the Nokia mobile phones are gaining popularity all over the globe. This brand comes up with latest models of mobile phones almost at definite intervals. The handsets from this brand are very durable and assures the reliability factor. The gadgets from the brand of Nokia comes with great battery back up and high end features. Almost all the Nokia gadgets come embedded with latest features and technologies. As a matter of fact, Nokia’s effort and vision have highly been appreciated by people of all age groups. This brand has efficiently played an important and pioneering role in the evolution of the wireless communication. Nokia has even launched different models of handsets keeping in mind, about the needs of different masses.
Among all the Nokia mobile Phones, the ‘N’ series models are highly in demand. These handsets are very popular too. The N85, N79, N96, N78, N82 and so on, are some of the example of the popular Nokia N series. In fact, Nokia has recently launched the N series which has gained popularity in very less time. Let us take a look at Nokia N97 and Nokia N96.
The latest Nokia N97 Internet Tablet is a world-class gadget. It has a very large fan following all over the world. This breathtaking gadget permits its users to access the functional menus at a very steady pace wit the support of a QWERTY keyboard. Moreover, the option to establish Internet connections anytime, anywhere around the globe would also enthrall you. This model further comes embedded with the GPS facility which will allow the users to locate their way. This widget is an unique combination of stunning features and advanced specifications.
The latest Nokia N96 is a stylish widget which works proficiently on 2G network as well as on 3G network, thus allowing the users to talk on desired destinations. This gadget is very easy for the users to carry and operate as it comes enriched with user friendly options. The over all dimensions of the device is 106.5 x 52 x 13.7 mm. This gadget weighs only 115 grams. Furthermore, this gadget further comes equipped with 2 mega pixels camera. This camera phone comes with an auto focus feature, video recording and digital zoom features. The camera and video recording features of this stylish handset would allow the users to capture images as well as record video clips without any hassles. Furthermore, this mobile phone comes supported with the Bluetooth wireless technology and a USB port, so that the users can transfer files from their handsets to other compatible devices. In this handset, one can find numerous messaging options such as SMS, Multi media service(MMS), e-mail and instant messaging. This handset has a large phone book memory too, in which the users can store their contacts in it.
The stylish Nokia N76 handset comes with an integrated FM radio option and visual radio feature. The built-in music player of this handset supports all the popular music file formats such as MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+ and WMA. The gadget even supports UMTS 2100 and Quad Band networks which work on the frequencies such as GSM 850, GSM 900, GSM 1800 and GSM 1900. The embedded battery of this system when fully charged delivers up to 3 hours of talk time and delivers standby time of approximately 200 hours.
The Nokia mobile phones come equipped with high quality camera options. Moreover, these gadgets are supported with advanced connectivity options such as GPRS, EDGE, HSCSD, 3G, WLAN, Bluetooth, Infrared and USB port. Thus, the handsets from this brand allow the users to be in touch with their near and dear ones with ease.
At a very steady pace, the Nokia mobile phones are gaining popularity all over the globe. This brand comes up with latest models of mobile phones almost at definite intervals. The handsets from this brand are very durable and assures the reliability factor. The gadgets from the brand of Nokia comes with great battery back up and high end features. Almost all the Nokia gadgets come embedded with latest features and technologies. As a matter of fact, Nokia’s effort and vision have highly been appreciated by people of all age groups. This brand has efficiently played an important and pioneering role in the evolution of the wireless communication. Nokia has even launched different models of handsets keeping in mind, about the needs of different masses.
Among all the Nokia mobile Phones, the ‘N’ series models are highly in demand. These handsets are very popular too. The N85, N79, N96, N78, N82 and so on, are some of the example of the popular Nokia N series. In fact, Nokia has recently launched the N series which has gained popularity in very less time. Let us take a look at Nokia N97 and Nokia N96.
The latest Nokia N97 Internet Tablet is a world-class gadget. It has a very large fan following all over the world. This breathtaking gadget permits its users to access the functional menus at a very steady pace wit the support of a QWERTY keyboard. Moreover, the option to establish Internet connections anytime, anywhere around the globe would also enthrall you. This model further comes embedded with the GPS facility which will allow the users to locate their way. This widget is an unique combination of stunning features and advanced specifications.
The latest Nokia N96 is a stylish widget which works proficiently on 2G network as well as on 3G network, thus allowing the users to talk on desired destinations. This gadget is very easy for the users to carry and operate as it comes enriched with user friendly options. The over all dimensions of the device is 106.5 x 52 x 13.7 mm. This gadget weighs only 115 grams. Furthermore, this gadget further comes equipped with 2 mega pixels camera. This camera phone comes with an auto focus feature, video recording and digital zoom features. The camera and video recording features of this stylish handset would allow the users to capture images as well as record video clips without any hassles. Furthermore, this mobile phone comes supported with the Bluetooth wireless technology and a USB port, so that the users can transfer files from their handsets to other compatible devices. In this handset, one can find numerous messaging options such as SMS, Multi media service(MMS), e-mail and instant messaging. This handset has a large phone book memory too, in which the users can store their contacts in it.
The stylish Nokia N76 handset comes with an integrated FM radio option and visual radio feature. The built-in music player of this handset supports all the popular music file formats such as MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+ and WMA. The gadget even supports UMTS 2100 and Quad Band networks which work on the frequencies such as GSM 850, GSM 900, GSM 1800 and GSM 1900. The embedded battery of this system when fully charged delivers up to 3 hours of talk time and delivers standby time of approximately 200 hours.
The Nokia mobile phones come equipped with high quality camera options. Moreover, these gadgets are supported with advanced connectivity options such as GPRS, EDGE, HSCSD, 3G, WLAN, Bluetooth, Infrared and USB port. Thus, the handsets from this brand allow the users to be in touch with their near and dear ones with ease.
XDR™ Memory Architecture
The Rambus XDR™ memory architecture is a total memory system solution that achieves an order of magnitude higher performance than today's standard memories while utilizing the fewest ICs. Perfect for compute and consumer electronics applications, a single, 4-byte-wide, 6.4Gbps XDR DRAM component provides 25.6GB/s of peak memory bandwidth.
Key components enabling the breakthrough performance of the XDR memory architecture are:
XDR DRAM is a high-speed memory IC that turbo-charges standard CMOS DRAM cores with a high-speed interface capable of 7.2Gbps data rates providing up to 28.8GB/s of bandwidth with a single device.
XIO controller IO cell provides the same high-speed signaling capability found on the DRAM, but adds additional enhancements like FlexPhase™ technology that eliminates the need for trace length matching.
XMC memory controller is a fully synthesizable logical memory controller that is optimized to take advantage of innovations like Dynamic Point-to-Point which provides for capacity expansion while delivering the signal integrity benefits of point-to-point signaling.
XCG clock generator provides the system clocks with four programmable outputs and is guaranteed to meet the clocking requirements for the XIO and XDR DRAM devices.
Key components enabling the breakthrough performance of the XDR memory architecture are:
XDR DRAM is a high-speed memory IC that turbo-charges standard CMOS DRAM cores with a high-speed interface capable of 7.2Gbps data rates providing up to 28.8GB/s of bandwidth with a single device.
XIO controller IO cell provides the same high-speed signaling capability found on the DRAM, but adds additional enhancements like FlexPhase™ technology that eliminates the need for trace length matching.
XMC memory controller is a fully synthesizable logical memory controller that is optimized to take advantage of innovations like Dynamic Point-to-Point which provides for capacity expansion while delivering the signal integrity benefits of point-to-point signaling.
XCG clock generator provides the system clocks with four programmable outputs and is guaranteed to meet the clocking requirements for the XIO and XDR DRAM devices.
Intel® Core™2 Quad processor for desktop PCs
Introducing the Intel® Core™2 Quad processor for desktop PCs, designed to handle massive compute and visualization workloads enabled by powerful multi-core technology. Providing all the bandwidth you need for next-generation highly-threaded applications, the latest four-core Intel Core 2 Quad processors are built on 45nm Intel® Core™ microarchitecture enabling faster, cooler, and quieter desktop PC and workstation experiences.
Plus, with optional Intel® vPro™ technology, you have the ability to remotely isolate, diagnose, and repair infected desktop and mobile workstations wirelessly and outside of the firewall, even if the PC is off, or the OS is unresponsive.
Features and benefits
With four processing cores, up to 12MB of shared L2 cache¹ and 1333 MHz Front Side Bus the Intel Core 2 Quad desktops processor delivers amazing performance and power efficiency enabled by the all new hafnium-based circuitry of 45nm Intel Core microarchitecture.
Whether you're encoding, rendering, editing, or streaming HD multimedia in the office or on the go, power your most demanding applications with notebooks and desktops based on the Intel Core 2 Quad processor.
Plus, with these processors you get great Intel® technologies built in²:
Intel® Wide Dynamic Execution, enabling delivery of more instructions per clock cycle to improve execution time and energy efficiency
Intel® Intelligent Power Capability, designed to deliver more energy-efficient performance
Intel® Smart Memory Access, improving system performance by optimizing the use of the available data bandwidth
Larger Intel® Advanced Smart Cache, optimized for multi-core processors, providing a higher-performance, more efficient cache subsystem.
Intel® Advanced Digital Media Boost, accelerating a broad range of multimedia, encryption, scientific and financial applications by significantly improving performance when executing Intel® Streaming SIMD Extension (SSE/SSE2/SSE3) instructions.
Intel® HD Boost³, implementing new Intel® Streaming SIMD Extension 4 (Intel SSE4) instructions for even greater multimedia performance and faster high definition video editing and encoding.
Intel® Virtualization Technology (Intel® VT)², enabling greater security, manageability, and utilization.
Future ready, designed to perform in highly threaded programs with powerful Intel® multi-core technology.
Plus, with optional Intel® vPro™ technology, you have the ability to remotely isolate, diagnose, and repair infected desktop and mobile workstations wirelessly and outside of the firewall, even if the PC is off, or the OS is unresponsive.
Features and benefits
With four processing cores, up to 12MB of shared L2 cache¹ and 1333 MHz Front Side Bus the Intel Core 2 Quad desktops processor delivers amazing performance and power efficiency enabled by the all new hafnium-based circuitry of 45nm Intel Core microarchitecture.
Whether you're encoding, rendering, editing, or streaming HD multimedia in the office or on the go, power your most demanding applications with notebooks and desktops based on the Intel Core 2 Quad processor.
Plus, with these processors you get great Intel® technologies built in²:
Intel® Wide Dynamic Execution, enabling delivery of more instructions per clock cycle to improve execution time and energy efficiency
Intel® Intelligent Power Capability, designed to deliver more energy-efficient performance
Intel® Smart Memory Access, improving system performance by optimizing the use of the available data bandwidth
Larger Intel® Advanced Smart Cache, optimized for multi-core processors, providing a higher-performance, more efficient cache subsystem.
Intel® Advanced Digital Media Boost, accelerating a broad range of multimedia, encryption, scientific and financial applications by significantly improving performance when executing Intel® Streaming SIMD Extension (SSE/SSE2/SSE3) instructions.
Intel® HD Boost³, implementing new Intel® Streaming SIMD Extension 4 (Intel SSE4) instructions for even greater multimedia performance and faster high definition video editing and encoding.
Intel® Virtualization Technology (Intel® VT)², enabling greater security, manageability, and utilization.
Future ready, designed to perform in highly threaded programs with powerful Intel® multi-core technology.
AMD Turion™ 64 X2 Dual-Core Mobile Technology
AMD Turion™ 64 X2 Dual-Core Mobile Technology Overview
AMD's most advanced family of dual-core processors made for mobility—delivering outstanding multi-tasking performance in thin and light notebook PC designs
Simultaneous 32- and 64-bit performance and designed to be compatible with the next generation 64-bit Windows operating system, Microsoft® Windows® Vista™.
Rich choices for customers of all kinds —long battery life, better security with Enhanced Virus Protection* , and designed for compatibility with the latest wireless and graphics technologies—today and tomorrow
Leading-edge Mobile Performance
AMD64 dual-core performance delivers exceptional multi-tasking and multi-threaded performance for both 32 – and 64-bit environments
Featuring AMD's innovative Direct Connect Architecture for leading-edge dual-core processor performance
HyperTransport™ technology boosts overall system agility so your applications are responsive and you get incredible performance
AMD Turion™ 64 X2 dual-core mobile technology featuring AMD Digital Media XPress™ delivers a rich experience on today's multimedia-enhanced software, enabling stellar performance and playback quality on digital entertainment such as games, streaming video and audio, DVDs, and music
As a leading innovator in today's microprocessor technologies AMD products offer lasting reliability and cutting-edge technology
Enabling Your Mobile Lifestyle
Uniquely optimized to support today's innovative thin & light notebook designs empowering highly mobile business professionals and consumers living today's on-the-go lifestyle
AMD PowerNow!™ technology , the first dynamic power management technology in the industry, delivers performance on demand and can extend system battery life up to 65%
Compatible with currently available 802.11a, b, g, and Bluetooth wireless solutions, AMD Turion 64™ X2 mobile technology enables mobile PC users with integrated Wi-Fi certified WLAN technology to keep in touch. Anywhere mobile users go—from the airport, to poolside, to a remote office location—they can access the Internet, check e-mail, and stay connected
Richer Choices
Allows customers to choose among the best in wireless connectivity, graphics, and security
Renowned industry innovator AMD collaborates with industry-leading technology companies to bring you a powerful notebook with the exceptional performance and mobility you expect
AMD's most advanced family of dual-core processors made for mobility—delivering outstanding multi-tasking performance in thin and light notebook PC designs
Simultaneous 32- and 64-bit performance and designed to be compatible with the next generation 64-bit Windows operating system, Microsoft® Windows® Vista™.
Rich choices for customers of all kinds —long battery life, better security with Enhanced Virus Protection* , and designed for compatibility with the latest wireless and graphics technologies—today and tomorrow
Leading-edge Mobile Performance
AMD64 dual-core performance delivers exceptional multi-tasking and multi-threaded performance for both 32 – and 64-bit environments
Featuring AMD's innovative Direct Connect Architecture for leading-edge dual-core processor performance
HyperTransport™ technology boosts overall system agility so your applications are responsive and you get incredible performance
AMD Turion™ 64 X2 dual-core mobile technology featuring AMD Digital Media XPress™ delivers a rich experience on today's multimedia-enhanced software, enabling stellar performance and playback quality on digital entertainment such as games, streaming video and audio, DVDs, and music
As a leading innovator in today's microprocessor technologies AMD products offer lasting reliability and cutting-edge technology
Enabling Your Mobile Lifestyle
Uniquely optimized to support today's innovative thin & light notebook designs empowering highly mobile business professionals and consumers living today's on-the-go lifestyle
AMD PowerNow!™ technology , the first dynamic power management technology in the industry, delivers performance on demand and can extend system battery life up to 65%
Compatible with currently available 802.11a, b, g, and Bluetooth wireless solutions, AMD Turion 64™ X2 mobile technology enables mobile PC users with integrated Wi-Fi certified WLAN technology to keep in touch. Anywhere mobile users go—from the airport, to poolside, to a remote office location—they can access the Internet, check e-mail, and stay connected
Richer Choices
Allows customers to choose among the best in wireless connectivity, graphics, and security
Renowned industry innovator AMD collaborates with industry-leading technology companies to bring you a powerful notebook with the exceptional performance and mobility you expect
The AMD Turion™ X2 Ultra Dual-core and AMD Turion™ X2 DUAL-CORE Mobile Processors
Enhanced Processing And Memory Capabilities For The Power To Do More, Faster
Get the performance you need while multitasking and still get the long battery life you want while on the go.
With true multi-core technology, notebook PCs based on AMD Turion™ X2 Ultra Dual-Core Mobile Processors and AMD Turion™ X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processors can deliver significantly greater bandwidth with support for power-optimized HyperTransport™ 3.0 technology and PCI Express® 2.0, increasing data throughput and improving system performance while helping to extend battery life.
Next-Generation Power Management
Get long battery life with performance on demand. Enhanced AMD PowerNow!™ Technology dynamically switches performance states (processor core voltage and operating frequency) based on processor performance requirements enabling today’s more mobile and demanding PC user to extend battery life. With AMD Dynamic Power Management, each processor core, and the integrated memory controller and HyperTransport™ technology controller are powered by a dedicated voltage plane to give you the performance you need while multitasking on the go. Independent Dynamic Core Technology extends battery life by dynamically optimizing the operating frequency for each core in the processor based on end-user application needs. And AMD CoolCore™ Technology extends notebook usage while on battery by turning off processor features that are not being used.
Range Of Products Provide Smarter Choices For The Money
Choose the right performance for your mobile lifestyle. Mobile solution options include AMD Turion™ X2 Ultra Dual-Core Mobile Processors, which are designed to enable extreme performance and mobility, and AMD Turion™ X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processors, which deliver exceptional performance and long battery life. All to give more choices to today’s more mobile PC users.
The Security And Reliability You Want With The Value You Expect For The Long-Term
Run the 32-bit applications of today and the 64-bit applications of tomorrow. Get the advantage of today’s powerful applications in a power-efficient notebook PC with the forward-thinking technology to support the advanced applications of the future. Take comfort in security innovations such as Enhanced Virus Protection*.
Get the performance you need while multitasking and still get the long battery life you want while on the go.
With true multi-core technology, notebook PCs based on AMD Turion™ X2 Ultra Dual-Core Mobile Processors and AMD Turion™ X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processors can deliver significantly greater bandwidth with support for power-optimized HyperTransport™ 3.0 technology and PCI Express® 2.0, increasing data throughput and improving system performance while helping to extend battery life.
Next-Generation Power Management
Get long battery life with performance on demand. Enhanced AMD PowerNow!™ Technology dynamically switches performance states (processor core voltage and operating frequency) based on processor performance requirements enabling today’s more mobile and demanding PC user to extend battery life. With AMD Dynamic Power Management, each processor core, and the integrated memory controller and HyperTransport™ technology controller are powered by a dedicated voltage plane to give you the performance you need while multitasking on the go. Independent Dynamic Core Technology extends battery life by dynamically optimizing the operating frequency for each core in the processor based on end-user application needs. And AMD CoolCore™ Technology extends notebook usage while on battery by turning off processor features that are not being used.
Range Of Products Provide Smarter Choices For The Money
Choose the right performance for your mobile lifestyle. Mobile solution options include AMD Turion™ X2 Ultra Dual-Core Mobile Processors, which are designed to enable extreme performance and mobility, and AMD Turion™ X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processors, which deliver exceptional performance and long battery life. All to give more choices to today’s more mobile PC users.
The Security And Reliability You Want With The Value You Expect For The Long-Term
Run the 32-bit applications of today and the 64-bit applications of tomorrow. Get the advantage of today’s powerful applications in a power-efficient notebook PC with the forward-thinking technology to support the advanced applications of the future. Take comfort in security innovations such as Enhanced Virus Protection*.
AMD Sempron™ Processor Overview
The AMD Sempron™ processor performs at the top of its class when running the home and business applications most. The AMD Sempron™ processor’s full-featured capabilities can include AMD64 Technology, HyperTransport™ technology, up to 256KB total high-performance cache, One 16-bit/16-bit link @ up to 1600MHz full duplex system bus technology, and an integrated DDR2 memory controller.
The AMD Sempron™ processor provides the productivity enhancing performance you need for your everyday applications. It runs over 60,000 of the world’s most popular applications, so you can enjoy solid performance. With 35 years of design and manufacturing experience and shipments of more than 240 million PC processors, you can count on AMD to provide reliable solutions for your home or business.
Affordable - Performance
The AMD Sempron processor performs at the top of its class on the home and business applications that you need and use most.
The AMD Sempron processor is designed for day-to-day computing and beyond.
Full-Featured to Improve your Computing Experience
The AMD Sempron processor lets you enjoy a dynamic Internet experience with smooth streaming video and audio.
The AMD Sempron processor saves you time and effort; enabling your system to boot and load your applications quickly.
Applications that allow you to communicate with family, friends and colleagues will run smoothly with the AMD Sempron processor.
The AMD Sempron™ processor’s advanced architectural features help ensure affordable performance and full-featured capability. These features include:
AMD64 Technology
HyperTransport technology
Up to 256KB total high-performance, full-speed cache
One 16-bit/16-bit link @ up to 1600MHz full duplex system bus technology,
Integrated DDR2 memory controller on certain models
Built-in security with Enhanced Virus Protection* that works with Microsoft® Windows® XP SP2 to help protect against viruses, worms, and other malicious attacks. When combined with protective software, Enhanced Virus Protection is part of an overall security solution that helps keep your information safer.
Enjoy full compatibility with the tools you use daily.
The AMD Sempron processor is designed to run more than 60,000 of the most popular software applications, so you can enjoy reliable performance for a wide variety of computing needs. And since the AMD Sempron processor is compatible with leading PC peripherals, it helps keep everything running smoothly.
Get more value from your PC.
The AMD Sempron processor is ideal for families, students and other budget-conscious or entry-level computer buyers. It includes the right set of features you need for day-to-day computing, and gives you more power for your money than other similar processors. This means you get a PC configured with better components such as CD drives, graphics capabilities, and more.
Reliability from an Industry Leader
AMD is an industry leader that is dedicated to enabling you to get the job done at work or at play.
AMD is constantly striving to find the right solutions for you and your home or business needs.
AMD’s superior quality and track record have long been recognized by a number of the industry’s top publications, organizations and high-tech experts. AMD products, technology, manufacturing, facilities, executives and corporate and community programs have earned a multitude of awards and recognition over the years.
The AMD Sempron™ processor provides the productivity enhancing performance you need for your everyday applications. It runs over 60,000 of the world’s most popular applications, so you can enjoy solid performance. With 35 years of design and manufacturing experience and shipments of more than 240 million PC processors, you can count on AMD to provide reliable solutions for your home or business.
Affordable - Performance
The AMD Sempron processor performs at the top of its class on the home and business applications that you need and use most.
The AMD Sempron processor is designed for day-to-day computing and beyond.
Full-Featured to Improve your Computing Experience
The AMD Sempron processor lets you enjoy a dynamic Internet experience with smooth streaming video and audio.
The AMD Sempron processor saves you time and effort; enabling your system to boot and load your applications quickly.
Applications that allow you to communicate with family, friends and colleagues will run smoothly with the AMD Sempron processor.
The AMD Sempron™ processor’s advanced architectural features help ensure affordable performance and full-featured capability. These features include:
AMD64 Technology
HyperTransport technology
Up to 256KB total high-performance, full-speed cache
One 16-bit/16-bit link @ up to 1600MHz full duplex system bus technology,
Integrated DDR2 memory controller on certain models
Built-in security with Enhanced Virus Protection* that works with Microsoft® Windows® XP SP2 to help protect against viruses, worms, and other malicious attacks. When combined with protective software, Enhanced Virus Protection is part of an overall security solution that helps keep your information safer.
Enjoy full compatibility with the tools you use daily.
The AMD Sempron processor is designed to run more than 60,000 of the most popular software applications, so you can enjoy reliable performance for a wide variety of computing needs. And since the AMD Sempron processor is compatible with leading PC peripherals, it helps keep everything running smoothly.
Get more value from your PC.
The AMD Sempron processor is ideal for families, students and other budget-conscious or entry-level computer buyers. It includes the right set of features you need for day-to-day computing, and gives you more power for your money than other similar processors. This means you get a PC configured with better components such as CD drives, graphics capabilities, and more.
Reliability from an Industry Leader
AMD is an industry leader that is dedicated to enabling you to get the job done at work or at play.
AMD is constantly striving to find the right solutions for you and your home or business needs.
AMD’s superior quality and track record have long been recognized by a number of the industry’s top publications, organizations and high-tech experts. AMD products, technology, manufacturing, facilities, executives and corporate and community programs have earned a multitude of awards and recognition over the years.
AMD 580X CrossFire™ Chipset - Overview
AMD 580X CrossFire™ Chipset: Backbone of the Enthusiast Platform
AMD 580X CrossFire™ Platform Chipset is a defining milestone for the PC industry, as it is the only true, unrestricted 2x16 PCI Express® platform. Designed from the ground up for performance, this advanced CrossFire chipset pumps an unparalleled bandwidth of up to 8 GB/s to each GPU. The result is astonishing performance with brilliant and intense 3D graphics. This architecture increases bandwidth and dataflow and reduces the bottleneck that occurs in other pseudo x16 solutions.
The unique, high bandwidth architecture of AMD 580X CrossFire chipset offers the utmost flexibility and options: from support of the fastest GPUs to connector-free CrossFire graphics cards; from one to multiple GPUs. The advanced semiconductor technology and supreme architecture allows for extreme overclocking and unprecedented control of the enthusiast user over system behavior and performance – while delivering rock-solid stability and thermal efficiency. Combined with the feature-rich ATI SB600, the AMD 580X CrossFire is the enthusiast dream solution for AMD AM2 platform.
Performance Leader
Unrivalled bandwidth from the only true 2x16 PCI-Express single chip, AMD 580X CrossFire delivers the performance promise of 2x16 PCI-e slots.
Total of 40 lanes of PCI Express: a true information highway
Enables high-end graphic solutions even without a 'CrossFire Edition' GPU
Perfectly mated with ATI SB600 for serious peripheral performance
Maximum Flexibility
Start with a backbone of AMD 580X CrossFire chipset, and then shape a GPU solution to an ever-moving performance target. AMD 580X CrossFire allows the flexibility and freedom to always stay above the competition.
Allows for flexible 'modular' multi-GPU solutions: start with one GPU and when performance demands it, add a second
Supports connector and connector-free CrossFire graphics cards
Build a CrossFire platform for every need and style
Ready for the next generation CrossFire graphics cards
Overdrive: Unprecedented Control
Built by AMD’s outstanding engineers and with devotion to the enthusiast community, AMD 580X CrossFire offers maximum control over system and graphics performance - with a highly tuneable architecture and plenty of headroom for overclocking.
Enthusiast-friendly BIOS allows tuning of every possible motherboard component for maximum overclocking potential
Ability to adjust multiplier, front side bus, HyperTransport™ option, memory, CPU, and the PCI Express interfaces
High overclockability without voltage adjustments: default voltage setting on the platform offers high tunability without the need to increase voltage
Robust, Quiet and Elegant
CrossFire Xpress 3200 chipset is designed for cool, quiet, and crisp operation.
Fabricated in an advanced semiconductor process by the most respected semiconductor manufacturing company in the world: TSMC, and by ATI’s superb engineers, CrossFire Xpress 3200 chipset provides greater headroom for overclocking.
No active cooling required: no need for complicated thermal solutions
Ample design margin for maximum stability and performance
Enthusiast Dream Platform
AMD 580X CrossFire chipset is one of the best chipsets ever built: unrestricted 2x16 PCI-Express interfaces for outstanding performance, flexibility to support any modern graphics card, maximum control over performance parameters, and robust and quiet operation. Specially designed from the ground up, AMD 580X CrossFire and the ATI SB600 provide the definitive enthusiast platform for AMD AM2 configuration.
raid data recovery
"Hard drives do die, and regular backups can save your assets."
Second, in preparation for reformatting, you obviously did a backup where you pick and choose what files to copy off. As you've discovered, you can miss things. When performing a one-off backup for any reason, I once again recommend using a backup or imaging program to backup everything. Even if you never need 95% of it, that time when you need something in the 5% will make this step well worth it.
Now, as I said, a reformat by definition erases your hard disk. All of it, at once.
As it turns out, there are two common types of format: "normal" and "quick".
A "Quick" format simply erases the hard disk's root directory, twiddles a couple of other things, and you're done. Note that it did not actually go out and overwrite files.
A "normal" format actually goes out and overwrites all of the data on the disk. You'll know you're performing a normal format as it takes a long time.
If you've done a quick format, then there may be hope. You'll need to investigate "unformat" utilities or file recovery software. Normal "undelete" utilities will probably not work, as they often assume that you've simply deleted a file. Here you've deleted everything. A utility like GetDataBack might be called for. (There are others as well. This isn't something I've done a lot of, so perhaps readers will chime in with some utilities that have worked for them.) These utilities actually scan your entire hard drive and try to piece back together that which was erased. If not a lot has changed or otherwise been damaged, you can often get a lot of your data back.
This is why I say "stop using the drive". The more you use it, the more the contents of the drive changes, and the less likely it will be that your data can be recovered.
You'll notice I've focussed on "Quick" Format, and that's on purpose. It happens to be what most people do, which is fortunate, since data recovery from a complete format gets much trickier. In fact, in order to recover data from a true, data-overwriting normal format, you're typically talking data recovery services and a lot of money.
software escrow
I was arranging for some a custom software package to be written for my organization, and someone asked if I'd arranged for "software escrow". What is that, and why would I want it?
Getting someone to write software for you can result in a wonderful, custom solution to your problem. It can also incur a significant amount of risk if things go wrong.
Software escrow is one way of protecting you in certain types of projects when certain things go wrong.
•
When you contract out for software to be written for you, there are several decisions that are part of the process. One that's often overlooked is whether or not you get a copy of the source code when the project is done.
The source code is the collection of written instructions that the programmer actually writes to create a program. For many types of programs, the source code is then transformed into the "executable" that you actually run. For example "notepad.exe" is a executable program that comes with Windows. Somewhere back at Microsoft they keep the written instructions, or source code, that the programmers used to create it.
Open source software projects make the source code publicly accessible. Anyone with enough knowledge can create the software executable using the source code. Closed source, or "proprietary" software is just the opposite ... the source code is not available publicly, only the executable. Companies use this approach to retain their intellectual property, and trade secrets.
When you contract with someone to write software for you one decision, implied or explicit, is whether the source code belongs exclusively to the developer, or whether you get a copy. If you do, you have the safety of being able to have someone else make changes or fix bugs in the future, but the developer is giving up some of his or her potential control of that software. If the developer retains the source code and you don't have access to it, then you are dependant on the developer for all future updates. Typically developers will charge more if you get the source code.
It's common to opt for the cheaper option, or to have the developer simply not give you the option.
So what happens if your developer goes out of business? What if all of the source code simply disappears?
That's where software or source code escrow comes into play.
As part of arranging for your software to be written, you and the developer can agree that a copy of the source code will be given to a neutral third party - an escrow agent. The agreement would then specify under which conditions that agent would be allowed to release the source code to you. For example one of the conditions might be the developer's bankruptcy or going out of business for other reasons. By using software escrow, the developer is protected as long as it makes sense for them to retain control, and you are protected should the developer disappear. (Naturally other conditions might trigger the release, but the developer's going out of business is a clear example.)
Software escrow is not fool proof. For example, what happens if the escrow agent goes away? And escrow typically adds some cost to your transaction.
But I think of it as an insurance policy.
Auto Insurance
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Mortgage Refinancing Steps
Before you refinance your mortgage, it's a good idea to make sure you understand all the in's and out's of the process.That the whole aim of this site - to get you up to speed on refinancing with good unbiased information. This is the by far the best way to make sure you get the best deal and have a happy home refinance.
Step 1: Should you refinance your mortgage?
There are many situations where home loan refinancing can be a benefit to you. From saving thousands, consolidating debt to tapping into your home equity, refinancing could be the solution to your problems. Read our article Should I Refine My Mortgage to see if refinancing your home loan is for you. You can also use our Refine Loan Calulator to see if the numbers add up and it is in your best interest to refinance.
Step 2: Be aware of the dangers of mortgage refinancing
As in any industry there are some bad eggs in the mortgage broker community. These dishonest brokers put their personal profit before your financial well being. To make sure you don't get ripped off make sure you read our article Dangers of Mortgage Refinancing and become aware of the how to avoid this potential pitfall.
Step 3: Learn how to pick the best mortgage broker
To get the best mortgage refinancing deal you need to deal with an honest broker that genuinely has your best interest in mind. These brokers usually follow certain practices when dealing with their customers. Read our article How to pick up the Best Mortgage Broker to find out what these practices are.
Step 4: Understand the different mortgage loan types
Home loans come in many shapes and sizes. Each home loan type serves a different purpose. What loan is best for you depends on your situation, and the reasons why your refinancing your mortgage. Flexibility and having the option to repay your mortgage faster might be more important then having stability of your repayments. Read this list of the most common Home Refinance Loan Types to understand what your options are.
Step 5: Find a mortgage broker
Armed with this essential home refinance information you can now safely find a broker to refinance your home loan. If you want, feel free to take advantage our Refinancing Right team's hard work and use one of our Recommended Brokers.