LCD VS CRT...upgrade perhaps?

LCD is something almost everyone into at the moment. LCD monitor, LCD tv...

Its slim, stylish design, widescreen and everyone will fall for that. But I still root for CRT. For me, CRT is still the best. Of course LCD technology is catching up with whats lacking but still, the technology is expensive. Plus, the propaganda of the radiation of CRT boost sales on LCD because of the health concern. Heck...we live in radiation everyday and its already part of our modern life. Minimal CRT radiation wont kill you, or getting you a cancer. People should concern more on the smokes of cigaretes and when walking out there on streets. Radiation from handphone is much more serious, and if its not for marketing new evolution of handphone, they wont bring this matter up.Duh~

There is a BIG possibility for me to buy a new PC this May as I will getting my first bonus. Hehhehe~ So I have been thinking, should I change my monitor to LCD? hmm...I'm a CRT lover. Haha. I'm all over CRT. My TV set is still a CRT, my 2nd monitor for my laptop is CRT...some of my friends root for LCD and say I should go for one. Hmm...is it time already?

For me, CRT is better because it can produce better picture. The color and contrast is much better than LCD. Yeah, its bulky, hideous, ugly...but as long as I get better picture it will all be good. I only use laptop since its the only multimedia thingy I have since my student time. And once, I saw my friend connect a CRT to his laptop as his laptop LCD problem and the picture is 10x better. The color, the tone...everything. And thats the moment I totally devote myself for this old technology.

Hehhe. Another thing is, CRT unlike LCD gives clear image no matter from any angle you watch. You can lay down, watch from side, anywhere and the quality is the same, unless you look from the back...Duh~

LCD in the other hand is much more lighter than CRT, and less eye strain compared to CRT. And also consume less power. I dont care much of this though, since the monitor is sticked in only one place and not going to move it around. But thats just where it ends. Good point of LCD is lower power consumption and less eye strain after watching for a period of time. Much more expensive LCD will give good picture quality matching CRT. But still, its the money we are talking about.

People going for LCD to get better graphics are bull and nonsense. Its just a marketing strategy. Even pros will use CRT as LCD is still behind in quality.  Try to watch normal videos in those so called HD LCD TV...the image is pathetic. It is sure not something I would pay for. If the meaning to get beautiful picture is to spend every cent of my hard earned money..thats just stupid. Its better to stay with CRT and watch normal quality video with very good picture.

So, for upgrade to LCD during this time...maybe a No no for me. Haha. To upgrade, better make it really satisfying. If its just for the sake of getting LCD because everybody has one...thats just wasting money. For me, an upgrade is something you'll satisfy for a long period...maybe 3-4 years. And with LCD is still expensive ( a good one) I think I'll stick with CRT monitors.

With the same price of LCD, I can get a larger CRT. RM485 for a 17" LCD? hmm...too pricey. Yes, I can get cheaper LCD but in long run, this LCD is getting cheaper and its not worth it haha...wat the heck i'm using large monitor though. hmm..17" or 19" CRT is enough for me. And it will only cost me RM100. guahahahaha

CRT pros:

Better picture, color
Good viewing angle
High refresh rate

CRT cons:

Heavy, bulky, ugly
high power consumption
eye straining after some time
radiation???

LCD pros:

Lightweight, stylish
low power
less eyestrain

LCD cons:

Have certain resolution
Blur image on fast moving objects
Loss in color quality
Bad viewing angle (not same case for more expensive LCD)
Pricey~

For whole list of Pros and Cons between LCD and CRT, do visit this link here --> HERE

It will totally help if you are deciding between CRT and LCD...for me, CRT all the way~

-LB-

SONY MDR-XD200, Studio Monitor Series Headphones Review

Today I went to Sony Style to look for headphones. I was looking for something priced less than RM100, to buy for my brother. My Altec Lansing headphone is still in good condition, I took extra care when using it since from previous experience my headphone never last long.

Sometime ago, I am using Philips. Bought it with a bargain price, RM80 before seeing it again in a fair and sold at RM140. Never thought the original price is that pricey. I sold it to a friend anyway. Its a good headphone, nice bass...just the treble is to sharp cutting through my ear. hahaha. I'm used to listen music at very high volume (even now)

Back to review, I bought this headphone with staff price at Sony Style at Jaya Jusco Tmn Equine. Looking for something with bass, but the guy there recommend me this gear as another one labeled "Super Bass" is just a super bass. Other sound is not satisfying as he himself using this headphone (pffttt...every seller using this sentence...I just not falling for it again).

So I bought MDR-XD200. Tested there using Sony MP3 player and as I was trying for bass music, went through quite a song and it was satisfying.

MDR-XD200 has 40mm driver (normal headphone in this price range has 32mm driver), 3.5m chord, 70 ohm impedence (other headphone has 35 ohm, higher impedance is better for more power). Doesnt have volume control at the chord. Ear pad covers ear fully and very comfortable. Unfortunately, its not a noise cancelation phone even though it looks like a closed type phone. Its actually semi-closed. There is a bit gap at the pad leaking the sound. It has switch at side of earpad between movies and music (but the difference is hardly noticable).

When arrived home, first thing I tested was the bass (I'm a bass lover)...and I crash to pieces...

As I was using Philips Aurilium PCS805 usb soundcard, for speaker usage, I set the bass for max. When I plug in this headphone, the bass was very distorted. Afraid it would damage the driver I quickly stop the music. Even Wonder Girls - This Fool song also crashed like hell. It does not reach that bass level.

What I do is, minimize the bass equalizer setting until minimum and up the level bit by bit to check distortion level. After reaching the middle, its the maximum for this headphone. I just had to satisfy with that. The music sounds good after that. Listening to rich bass music, I can only turn up the volume to certain level - 40% or the sound will get distorted.

As for the treble, its really great. Crisp and sharp. Listening to Sweet Child of Mine and Yngwie Malmsteen is great. The guitar sound is crisp and nice. 

Tested watching movie Die Hard 4.0 and the sound for movie is really great (for headphone at this price range). Voice is clear and so does the background.

Conclusion:

Overall, the sound is nice. Its just that the bass is not reaching my expectation. This headphone would perfectly match to those looking for a good headphone for music and movies. Sounds is balance as the bass not overpower (but i look for something with very good bass). Maybe after hundred hour of usage the sound quality will improve. Will totally recommend this phone to anyone not looking for overpowering bass (you should look for other alternative for that purpose). This phone is considered low end and should not be considered audiophile material. Comparing it with other phone in higher price just not make sense. huhu~ 

Do pay more for whole lot better sound...but yet, price does not always speak the quality ;)

Pros:

- Very very very good sound quality

- need to turn very loud to distort (which is what I did firstly..ahahaha)

- long chord

- big earpad, comfortable to wear for long hours

- looks cool

Cons:

- should have better bass

- movie <-> music switch function is hardly noticable, in fact no changes at all

Rating: 7/10

-LB-

Brand or Specs??

There are many brands in the market. There is Sony, LG, Samsung, Panasonic and so on. But the thing is, is their product match the price? Can we get same stuff with better spec at the same price?

For me I would choose the spec than the brand. Although regarding this matter one should do a better research on the price offered and also the specs.

As an example, I was craving for mp3 player or multimedia player. I go for my n95 but being a phone and most of the time it will be used for calling, battery run out pretty damn fast. I seek another media player for entertainment during travel.

Being a staff for electronic company, I got staff price for their item. But still, for me the product is pricey. 2gig mp3 player with nice sound will cost me RM170. I look around the net and looking for mp5 player. 

I found one with bigger capacity (4GB flash memory), support more format (mp3, avi, mp4, wmv, etc), 3" screen and no need conversion for video files. Can just copy and drag to folder. And this player also has TVoutput, where I can bring as a player for movie, videos, music, etc. when traveling or staying at hotels or anywhere that provide tv.

And guess the brand?? Its brand-less.ahahaha..made in china product. But still the quality is quite good. 

As for sound quality, its decent enough for my ear. Provided with quality headphone the bass will just pump in. Plus it has built in speaker and mic too. For multimedia gadget, this mp5 player will suit me fine. Maybe will buy another one as present for my sister if she get good result in exam ;)

For portable media player, PMP, I think its better to buy it from internet. I do tried to look for one at Low Yat, but the seller there will just rip you off. Thinking you are a noob and they demand high price. I bought this mp5 player for RM150 plus shipping from lelong.com.my. I dont have to walk around lowyat to look for one with my taste and regret few minutes later after found another one with cheaper price., dont have to pay for parking, tolls, fuel and dont have to go out from kajang.gyahahahaha.

I dont care its china made and it suppose to be priced lower, since my budget was RM170 and I get something with more specs. Now can watch video while driving..lalalalala~

Gee gee gee gee baby baby baby~

-LB-

Book Xcess, Amcorp Mall, Read More for Less

If you are looking for CHEAP!! NEW!! books, novels,biography,motivation, etc, then head on to Book Xcess store located inside Amcorp Mall, level 3. Just infront of escalator and on top of Popular.

I found this shop September last year when I was sending my sister for tuition, hanging around and looking for shop selling 2nd hand novel. But what I found was a shop that sell firsthand new novels and other book at a very cheap price. 

Even malay novels cost around RM19-RM30!! But novels sold here only sells for average RM17.90!!! Thats damn cheap too. Even some hardcover novels selling at the same price. There is also promotion when you buy a book, then you can get the promoted book for only RM9.90. SO DAMN CHEAP!!

Today I visit there again just to see that they still maintain their business and the price remains like the last time I was here.

Bought 3 thriller novel, which I havent read yet. Maybe will read when want to sleep. The shop owner is also nice, she reccommend good books if you ask for it :-D

Guys, Harry Potter latest book, hardcover only sell for RM34. I seriously reccommend you not to go anywhere else if you are looking for novels. Here is the place to be. Same title in Popular bookstore or Kinokuniya will cost around RM39.90. Just now I spend RM45 for 3 novels. Hehhehe~

Its seldom I came here, so I think it wont be too bad if I bought 3 title at one time.

I do ask the owner how come they can sell these book at very low price and she answered they deal directly with the publisher. Well, I hope this shop will be more popular and expand their business by opening other branches. This will also encourages Malaysians to read more.

Last time I will be looking for 2nd hand book shop. Now I have a new place to go..hehhehe~

Book Xcess - Read More for Less

-LB-

Increase Internet Browsing Speed

Many of us sick with slow browser loading time eventhough the broadband connection we subcribe suppose to deliver more. Actually, its not the ISP fault. Its just the setting of our operating system, make it WinXP, Vista, WinMe or Win98...all of it have limited our internet connection capability by limiting simultaneous connection to the internet (for security purpose). Blame it on the developer.

I've found a tutorial through some forum and it works for me. Loading heavy pages has never been this quicker. But you need basic knowledge about registry before implementing this tweaks. But this tutorial also have included a link where you can download the special software to set the optimal setting for your computer, in case you are not sure what you are doing with the registry.

But my advice is, backup your registry first by enabling your system restore by going to My Computer>right click>Properties>System Restore and tick enable.

You can access system restore menu at Start>All Program>Accecories > System tools> System restore. After you go here, click at create restore point.

By enabling your system restore also is the best way to recover your PC/Laptop if infected with virus. You just have to restore back the registry to the date before the computer is infected. And everything will go back to normal ;)

System restore wont disturb your data, such as documents, files, etc...but if you do install software in between the system restore checkpoint, you might have to install it again because it will restore before registry of the application is there.

Back to our topic, increasing your internet speed, you can download the tutorial from the link below or visit the forum HERE (need to register first).

Tutorial download link:

Make_ur_Internet_n_Bandwidth_Rapid_-_Rapid_Speeds_100__works.pdf

Hope this tweaks works for you as it works for me. Credit to Venki from warez-bb.org for sharing this wonderful tweaks.

-LB-

My N95

Entering 2009, finally I am able to buy a new handphone replacing my old Nokia 6600. Bought it for RM1200 using my saving money. My 6600 have given me a lot of trouble recently. Keypad problem most of the time.

Well, for some reason 6600 undestructable. You can smash it on the ground, fall from the cabinet, went into accident (its just scratched, not disturbing its functionality at all!!) and thus I shall award Nokia 6600 with the most heavy duty handphone in the market. Its also shockproof, eventhough it doesnt have the shockproof label. Probably nokia is being humble not to publish their phone like this...ahahahahahaha.

Before this, as you can see in my wishlist I wanted N73 instead of N95. Probably because of the price at that moment. Not that the price of N95 is reduced to the same price of N73 I swap my choice instead. Planning to buy N82 but the keypad sucks. N95 is perfectly fit into my palm.

Whats best is N95 is all in one gadget. All you have to do is install few other software to make this phone complete. I choose to install Smartmovie, Garmin GPS  and few games of your choice. Now you have video player, mp3 player, gps, calculator, barcode reader, document editor, calculator, alarm clock, wifi, internet access (3g), camera, radio, video recorder, games, calendar, organizer, photo galery and the list goes on and on.

Its all in one gadget. You will also provided with video cable to connect your N95 to TV. So whenever you are traveling and hotel gives boring tv channel, you can just plug in your N95 and watch your favourite movie (well, you need to load it first into the handphone).

Or bored staring small screen when surfing the net. You can also turn it on and view from your TV screen. I will fully utilise this wonderful gadget. Even brought along all given cables when travel (well, another reason why the battery drain fast...hahahaha).

Boring in the bus or unknown territory? Just subscribe to daily unlimited 3G service. For celcom user just dial *118# and choose "Broadband" and follow the menu. You will be charged RM6 for one day unlimited internet access. Cheaper than using the broadband alone and be charged by per-10KB.

Its a right choice to wait for the price of this wonderful gadget gets lower. Now its affordable. Same price as Sony handphone (the one specialize in camera) since N95 picture is better in my opinion. With 5MP and Carl Zeiss optics, the images produced is much superior than any other camera phone, except the more latest one (still good enough for decent photoshoot). 

If you have big hand (palms) like me, looking for handphone and you plan to use it for a long period, dont want to be left behind in technology (well, N95 is already quite old), N95 is a perfect match for you. I use it a lot during working since need to use a lot of images for documentation, listening to music while travel, watching video when boring and surfing the net before sleeping (got wifi in my house). I'm really happy with my new N95. Hopefully nothing will happen to it in near future. Ameenn~

-LB-

Google is Good~

Last time I never checked all those stuff that google had. i just love their email because of the simplicity (the reason why I keeps on using gmail in html mode).

Just now while playing around gmail I tried to change it to normal mode (last time I use this mode is around last year, when they are still in beta version and its still not quite good). Next what I found out when using this mode was they have theme included :-D

Well, I chose the underwater view. Nice one, because blue is nice :-D

Next I tried installing Google Desktop (a sidebar on yer desktop actually). Well, I know google had this for a long time already (yet I tested it just now). Whats great is that it has cool clock, plus the clock has day and date and I dont need to double click or anything because its already displayed :-D You can add any google gadgets to your google desktop. There are whole lot more but I just put on few because too much would be messy and inefficient. Whats on my GDesktop is digital clock, gmail, wheather and To Do List.Hehhe~

Gmail can also be accessed directly from the Google Desktop. I really like this feature. Usually I had gmail notifier at my taskbar to tell if there is any new mail coming in. Allowing me to check the sender and title to know the importance whether need to check it soon or later..hahha~

Whats cooler is when u set Google as your homepage. Uh-huh. You can set the top theme (well, the search box to be exact) and its no more plain old boring look :-D

You can choose what to display on the homepage, like gmail, wheather, time n date and also news headlines. Google is so cool. Yahoo is so boring. Hahha..well, I'm not a fan of yahoo except for its fantasy football and live football matchcast. I rarely on my YM or any yahoo application. 

I dont know if Yahoo have same feature, but heck...I like Google. Yahoo have this I think, but the interface is not as interesting as Google. I think I use it last time but didnt continue because its boring and messy. Hahha~

Here is my Google homepage and its sidebar. Click for larger view.

To download and install Google desktop, Click HERE

For google homepage, or iGoogle, you can go HERE

Its worth to try this feature if you use Google features regularly in daily life ;-)

-LB-

un-boxing Casio and new speaker

Hi, just want to share some pic when me enjoying my time opening my casio and new speaker. Well, new speaker you can say its just cap ayam, china made...never even heard the name of the brand. But still I need to upgrade my old speaker. Sound is decent. Forget those Sonic Gear, Altec Lansing, Logitech...some china made stuff also can produce sound without making me thinking hard on which one I should take home.

Well, this cap ayam speaker gives me 60W RMS, extra output terminal, nice and strong bass (dont care much since I got additional Sony Mini Hifi speaker to be added on, provide extra bass to any subwoofer it attached to) and I can turn the volume knob loud enough without cracking any sound (yes...believe me. even some middle-end altec n sonic gear crack after some level).

Well, havent turn this new speaker full though. Currently 25% speaker knob, 10% master volume, 10% wave volume and full volume for media player...yes...believe me. Its loud enough!! 50% speaker knob turned with same software setting as above already made conversation in my room unclear.

Anyway, here is my speaker setup below my studying table :D

Satelite speaker on top of my old sony speaker. Combined and both working together to produce nice sound when listening to music.

My old sonic gear speaker, wonder where I put it? ;-)

I place it in the livingroom for tv. So we dont need another home theater in my house. I am amazed the good sound produced by my old speaker when used at TV. Sound is nice and loud. Well, my sister satisfied enough to have better sound for her to listen to music and watch movies in front :P

Here is my new casio, unopen box. As promised by the seller.

Got twin sensor, for direction (act as a compass) and thermometer. Now can know where the Kiblat is when going traveling to new places :P

Well, my uncle says he can get at more cheaper price. I'm satisfied enough not to be troubled heading/driving to KL just to get cheaper by tens of ringgit because I can get it at reasonable price without hassle from the internet :P

Ok then...bye. This is just my show off entry...muahahaha.

p/s: no savings for this month. totally broke, damn...

-LB-

Big Apple Donuts and Printer with C.I.S.S tank

Yesterday I went to Lowyat to look for a printer. Well, my old one is still OK but have to replace the cartridge. Hmm..If I want to change the cartridge, this would be my 3rd set of cartridge. Costing RM130 for each set, totals to RM390. New printer price is RM130, but still when the ink is out need to buy new cartridge.

Because of this, I've decided to buy new printer with CISS (Continuous Ink Supply System) which is pricier but worth it since buying only the ink for next refill, and more value for the money. Amount of ink is a lot compared to regular/ori cartridge. Plus you can see whether there is still ink or not in the tank and be prepared for your next refill.

Its not that regular printer cannot refill, still can but its too messy when refilling the ink. And when the ink is dry, it will damage the print head. And print quality is not as good anymore. 

But this is not a problem for printer with C.I.S.S since the cartridge wont get dry as long there is ink in the tank.

At first, I planned to buy Canon IP1880 priced RM279 complete with tanks. So this is my budget. But when I think this time I buy for the long term, why not buy printer with a complete package. So I bought Canon MP145 costing me RM340...RM61 extra from my wallet T__T

But I was happy with my shopping :-D Now I have printer for scanning and photostating also. Hehhehhe. Much more easier to do my work. And photo print quality is great too. And now I can ask mom to buy 4R sized photo album since she always complained...

"Itu beli kamera digital tu tgk kat situ (laptop) je lah? Lepas tu tak tgk2 dah?"

Hahhaha... T_T padan muke

So this month already spent RM6++  (shite...not even 3 December yet), including new printer and my new watch and belanja my family makan last nite. Hehhehhe. As for my new watch, this is actually in my budget for next year. But since I got it with a bargain price which I can hardly get, I decided to go for it and not next year. It does burn a hole in my wallet. Hahhahha. But hell, its a bargain. Hehhehhe. it has digital compass and thermometer. On display has time, day, date and month. Nice one..just what I'm looking for.

I'm replacing my old watch not because I dont like my old watch. Its because I REALLYx3 like my old watch that I change it. It was a gift from my late father for my excellent in PMR. Recently I already replaced the body of the watch, and it took about a year to get my beloved watch back. And now while its still in beautiful condition I want to keep it for my memory. It has  sentimental value for me. Thats why I dont want to lose it or make it to worn out again. Using this watch for around 8years...Ghoshh. This is the oldest item in my kept besides my ex5, also my late father's. Already make up the motorcycle again for it to look like new :-D

My mom ask me to give to my bro..but since I already in love with the ex5, I say to my mom to buy him a new motorcycle. He can use the new one.  Last time she says to give ex5 to my bro...and me to get a new motorcycle. Hmm...I prefer to keep the old one, even though the top speed can only reach only 100km/j ;-)

Ah..by the way. After walking around Lowyat yesterday and felt hungry, me n my bro went to Big Apple Donuts. This is our first time. DAMNNNNNN~ It was DELICIOOOUUSSS~ the donut was SOOOFFFFTTTT~ and the top is THICKKERRRR~ (i mean the taste) compared to dunkin which is harder, and boring to eat when its cold. Lately I think dunkin is overated...since their donut quality is quite similar to those bakery shops donut. In my opinion lah...

But Big Apple Donuts is a new experience for me. Will be sure to come again next time. Yesterday bought Hawaii o-five, mango tango, dancing queen and the one with white top, and my bro choose choc. Even after we brought some home for my mom n sis, the donut is still soft and not harden like Dunkin's.

Dont forget to drop by Big Apple Donut next time you pass by one. Their donut is very nice :-D

p/s: woh...Secret Recipe cake still in fridge. Hmm...will keep it for desert after lunch. Hehhehhe...ahh forgot. i also need to wear specs now. Yesterday make a new one. Will get it done tuesday. huuhhu~ T_T

-LB-

Rocky and Antonio Inoki

Last time I really enjoy watch Rocky movies, boxing all the way. What I like in all the movies is the fighting spirit and most important part is the song they played after Rocky has won the match. I really admired that song for a long time and tried searching for that particular song for quite some time. The problem is that I don't have any idea on what the title is. Ok, you can say..take a look the OST for rocky, yet you don't know which one is the ONE!?

Not until after I got myself RS account, and search it through a forum listing almost everything you wanted from the internet :-D

Downloaded the whole OST and play the music one by one. There is 4 OST albums and I picked the album random to be checked, end up its in the 1st rocky movie OST (which I checked the last) :-D

This song really pump-up your spirit. Its the winning song, remember? Hehhe..

Rocky Poster

There is another one from Japanese wrestler, Antonio Inoki theme song. Well, I know this guy from Morning Musume shows since they like to do his imitation (his chin in outward) and sometimes played the song as they do it. But the part that influence me most about this song is during Morning Musume Mechaike Special - Field Trip, the part when Okamura-sensei do jokes to cheer up Goto Maki by imitating Antonio Inoki. Where GoMaki end up laughing and to conclude the success they played the theme song of Antonio Inoki :-D

Ali and Inoki

The similarities is that both of this song, is both have fighting background by the one who used them. Rocky is about boxing while Inoki is wrestler. Either way, its a great song to be played when you have achieved something. Yeah...It really does :-P

Anyway, I've uploaded the song for you to download down there. Enjoy and listen to them when you feel down or have achieved something...Hehehe :-P

Rocky:

http://rapidshare.com/files/171571804/12_-_The_Final_Bell.mp3

Antonio Inoki:

http://rapidshare.com/files/171570930/NJPW_-_Antonio_Inoki__Honno_No_Fighter_Extended_.mp3

-LB-

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ28

Last time I was craving for ultra-zoom digital camera. I am known as a fan of Panasonic Lumix. Love their camera. Well, I'm not a good photographer, so i dont think there is a need for me to buy DSLR. But owning a semi-dslr is something different. 

It still have the simplicity of point-and-shoot camera with minimal adjustment on the manual features. Plus, you can record a video, which is something DSLR lacks. I assume only those who is serious in photography should proceed to dslr.

Me myself, I'd prefer this ultrazoom camera. Unlike normal point-and-shoot camera, these camera might have lens that can zoom up to 20x (optical). Even dslr needs to buy another set of lens to get that zoom capability.

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ18 was my choice, until recently they released the newer model, FZ28. Almost the same body with minimal changes but with better image quality and few other enhancement. This camera capable to zoom up to 18x. While using lower resolution, maybe the zooming capability can extend further. What makes both FZ18 and FZ28 is their iA mode, which is abreviation for "intelligent Auto" mode. Unlike the normal auto mode, iA will decide the best setting for exposure, speed and everything else which brings a joy for the user when image captured looks good. If user decides to to creative photography, they can also use the manual adjustment for their pleasure.  Despite being pricey with price matching DSLR, I am sure user will fully satisfied as it gives simplicity and quality. Check out the iA mode. Click Here

But comparing the image quality with DSLR is 100% unfair as they belongs to a different category. Yet, reading several reviews I believe this would perfectly match me :-D

When I choose to buy a camera, I'd consider their simplicity and the zoom capability. As for user friendly, LUMIX has won with their simple yet easy to understand camera menu. I also feel easy as LUMIX image stabilization works great. I didnt get same result using my aunty's Olympus nor my friend's Canon. 

Do some research by reading professional and user review in Internet before heading to the store. With some information you get in hand, you might have several question to ask the seller later.

I might wanna add some other features in this camera. This camera has enabled its zoom when recording (you can zoom when recording, most camera zooming is disabled when in recording mode thus you have to set the zoom length before start recording) . And you might want to know despite HD video quality it gives, the sound quality is not as good (mono, 16kbps, 44khz). But the sound lacking doesnt bother me though, as I feel its enough as long they have the sound in the video.

Price of FZ28 at the moment, cheapest I can find is RM1300 at e-bay.  Currently I am using my Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LZ5. Despite being old, its capability to zoom up to 8x optical in 3MP has beaten many other newer model in the market. I'm not looking for high megapixels (MP) camera for my use, since I only use the image to print 4R picture and nothing sized as big as giant posters. 3MP is more than enough to print beautiful 4R sized pictures.

The specs and review can be found via the link below:

Specs

Panasonic.net (Check out the iA examples)

Review

E-Bay

-LB-

How to bypass firewall at office/school

Its a norm for every offices or educational institution to block some website and program which runs with internet connection. Most of them place firewall at their server (this is my own understanding, correct me if I'm wrong). They usually block sites which allow video or music streaming, or program that supports peer-to-peer connection, such as torrents.

Of course they have reason for this!! It is for protection for those who doesn't know how to use the net wisely and surfing for p*rn website. Well, its not that just wrong to view the p*rn website, some of this site also work as a medium of a virus writer to spread their lovely virus, mainly for fun and for laughing out loud those who get infected..hahaha (even i'll join them laughing if you get virus infected in your pc/laptop like that)

Another reason also is to so that the bandwidth is enough for all internet user in the network. Imagine there's 8 person like me downloading stuff continous all the time, the bandwidth is reached and all other user which is using net for good (yah rite~) :p will not be able to continue surfing the net..hehehe

BUT ANYWAY, here I want to share this wonderful program to bypass the firewall used in your office, school, college or whatever!!

HERE's a link for advanced to configure their proxy or whatever since I'm just a normal computer user and not very Hi-Tech internet user --> HERE

For normal user, like me, here is another simple way to bypass the firewall,The one I use currently is FreeGate (yah..no spaces) and http-tunnel. Mainly its freegate since its way faster than http-tunnel. Tunneling is slow, unless you cant work it out using freegate than you can try on http-tunnel :)

Below is the link for these 2 wonderfull software:

Freegate
Http-tunnel

For beginner, I'll only give instruction for freegate. Its not that hard actually. After you've download the software, it doesnt have to be installed since freegate is standalone software. So you just need to click it open and run. Once freegate is running, it will try to find the server available, you dont have to choose because by default it will be set to the most fastest server found. If it is slow, you can just hit the search again button.

To use it, open your internet browser, go to connection setting and choose http proxy. Just set the proxy and port just as shown in the tunnel into the appropriate form.

The same process have to be repeated for your internet download manager or any other software you use which needed to bypass something which is block by the firewall. This includes p2p software, yahoo messenger, mirc, etc2...but at the moment I cant connect for torrent using freegate. Http-tunnel is more efficient for torrent and mirc.

With this HOPEFULLY you won't have problem surfing your favourite site and can just ignore all the blocks when you surf the net..hehehe. And don't use this for something stupid like p*rn...there's much more better thing out there to be look at..such as AKB48 and Morning Musume...and football highlights!! Hehehe :p

-LB-

Rechargeable Battery?

- Using electronic devices which consume a LOT of energy from battery?
- buying too much batteries drain my pocket
- playing toys which use battery as power supply and needs a lot of batteries

Above probably the main reason one should find something to solve the problem which has been solves years ago. It is simple..use Rechargeable Batteries (RB).

There is wide range of type and brand can be found sold at supermarket, hobby shop or IT outlet. But one should concern which is the most efficient and cost dynamic when buying the battery. Of course when mentioning R.B i mean the charger as well. You can choose on how is the usage of the battery and the specs suitable for you.

1. Type

Few common type of R.B is lead and sulfuric acid, nickel cadmium (NiCd), (NiMH), nickel metal hydridelithium ion (Li-ion), and lithium ion polymer (Li-ion polymer). But most common found in Malaysia would be nickel metal hydride, NiMH, which is latest and more environmental friendly compared to nickel cadmium.

If u already has the charger, make sure the battery you bought is supported by the charger. Its not the brand that differs the battery but its the type. Charger only able to charge specific type of battery because of the chemical characteristic of each batteries is different one another.

2. Battery capacity

To ensure your device functions long enough for the whole event, make sure the capacity is large enough. For example there is 900mAh, 1200mAh and up to 2700mAh and one with more value has higher capacity. For example, if you just using for walkman maybe it doesn't consume much energy compared to digital cameras and R.C toys.

Choosing the most flexible amount of capacity also can save your pocket since smaller capacity batteries is less expensive than the larger one. For digital cameras it is advised to use 2500mAh or larger for longer run of the camera. Its more durable thus doesnt have to change the battery often.

3. Charger type

There are various type of charger, traveling charger, mini charger, compact charger which suits everyone needs. Traveler charger for example support different electricity range for those traveling outside the country thus you can just use one charger everywhere around the world. But of course its much more expensive than regular one.

There is also quick charger where it is able to charge 2500mAh battery in just 2 hour!! Whereas mini charger would take 24hours to complete charging, but at very low price. Choosing the type depends on your usage. If you rarely brings your camera outside you probably just need the mini charger where you can charge the batteries when it is not being used. For those prefer mobility a charger with fastest charging rate is needed.

Choosing the right type definitely will help you saves some money and spend it to buy more rechargeable battery instead.

4. Brand

Brand doesn't concern me. As long the brand fulfill all my requirement for my usage is enough. Although larger named brand such as Energizer and GP Power Banks is much pricier compared to UNiROSS...

Hope this entry can help for those looking answers for choosing/buying recheargeable batteries

= )

Analog VS Digital

Yesterday I went to my old house. There's still my old computer monitor in the box. My mum ask whether i'm still gonna use it or else she's going to throw it away. HELL NO!!! i said. Well, not exactly like that.LOL ;P

Anyway, its just the cpu is too old (imagine 1998 technology) and I was too lazy to upgrade since its like making the whole new PC again. So i just let my paksu take it, cos he said he want to repair the cpu for his daughter to play.

Back to the topic, so I bring back this my new monitor back to Kajang. This morning when i woke up the first thing I wanted to do is of course EAT ^____________^ But then I wanted to test the monitor first.

Plug it to the socket and connect it to my laptop. Heck...the graphic was EXCELLENT. New graphic in XP plus an old monitor is a brilliant combo. Now I've decided to use the monitor for watching movies. Yayy~

Its not that I againts digital (well, yeah I guess so). Its just that at the moment digital still cant beat analog in quality. I bought the digital camera just for my convenience. Too lazy to send to process the photo. Rather to look them in my laptop. Even if I process the film, I'm gonna scan it anyway.

Well, its once we had argument with my lecturer about this digital stuff. And yes he admits analog is way lot better. Just like my monitor case, he is more to SOUND lover (yeah..me too). Sound is much more better using analog amplifier/mixer rather than the new-tech digital one.

In digital, its all numbers "1" and "0" for whole process. And when to convert it back to analog (speaker) it has some data loss...which cause the there are loss in sound, for example some instrument is not as clear as others.

Even camera, you have limited megapixel...meaning you can only print out the photo up to certain size only. But with old analog camera, there are no such thing. They can be resized as large as you want it to be.


But back to the definition of technology, technology is application of science that is used to make life easier, thus making people more lazy. Digital is much easier to handle than analog. Had to admit with that. But day by day, digital technology is catching up with analog. Digital camera pixel is much larger than the past. In year 2000, digital camera with 12MP was a dream yet we have it now available in stores.

So, my suggestions to you guys out there;

• Get analog if you want pure great quality (duhh...its not like you can find any analog stuff in stores anymore)
  
• Get digital if you want to be lazy (like me) convenience.
  

Bye.

V for Vendetta

Have you guys watch this movie? At least once? It is one of my favourite movie actually. Its not the action that make me interested to watch this movie over and over again. Its like Forest Gump, something is there that makes you want to watch it again...and again...and again!

One thing I know of what I like in V for Vendetta is the dialog all along the movie. Its full with "V" words. Here I give one of the dialog in the movie;

V: Voilà! In view, a humble vaudevillian veteran, cast vicariously as both victim and villain by the vicissitudes of Fate. This visage, no mere veneer of vanity, is a vestige of the vox populi, now vacant, vanished. However, this valorous visitation of a by-gone vexation, stands vivified and has vowed to vanquish these venal and virulent vermin van-guarding vice and vouchsafing the violently vicious and voracious violation of volition.[carves V into poster on wall]

Quote above is when he first appeared in the movie while introducing himself to Evey Hammond (Natalie Portman). Salute to the writer Andy Wachowski and Larry Wachowski for their wonderful script. Character of "V" is played by Hugo Weaving (well, barely see any shot of his face in the movie) but he is such a great actor. For me he does bring "V" to live.

Okay, here is few other quotes from V inside the movie.

V: The only verdict is vengeance; a vendetta, held as a votive, not in vain, for the value and veracity of such shall one day vindicate the vigilant and the virtuous.[giggles]

V: Verily, this vichyssoise of verbiage veers most verbose, so let me simply add that it’s my very good honor to meet you and you may call me V.

Enjoy it guys ^____________^

NEW PROTON SAGA LAUNCHED!!!

GUYS!! At last the most anticipating proton car is launched!!!!

NEW PROTON SAGA

pics credit to paultan.org

You can get the full details and review from paultan blog HERE