The world’s first algae-fueled vehicle, which is called the Algaeus, has started its long green drive across America. The car, a converted plug-in Prius outfitted with a nickel-metal hydride battery and filled with a blend of 5% algae and 95% gasoline from Sapphire Energy, set out from San Francisco yesterday and will take 10 days to make it to Washington, DC.
The group responsible for the Algaeus, the Veggie Van Organization, expects the car will only require 25 gallons of fuel to make the entire trip.
Sapphire Energy plans to produce two million gallons of algae fuel per year for the next two years with hopes of it becoming cost-competitive in the next few years at $60 to $80 a barrel. Sapphire wants to create a 10%algae blend for its future commercial products. They are also producing a million gallons of algae-based jet fuel this year.
Friday, October 2, 2009
NASA Is Running Out of Space Fuel, No Refills In Sight
So apparently, NASA needs this itsy-bitsy little thing called Plutonium-238 to make their deep-space rocketships go ZoOOOooOoOooM ZooOOOOoMM, but they're running out of it and need congress to drop $30 million to help make more.
NPR says that NASA has not made any new Plutonium-238 since the 1980s, instead opting to borrow from Mother Russia. And because they use up to 11 pounds of the material each year, it would take 8 years worth of production to begin satisfying demand again. But the requested $30 million from Congress is only a start—the full Plutonium-238 production program could cost up to $150 million.
Because it gets so cold in deep space (reaching absolute zero), spacecrafts traveling out that far need a fuel generating a lot of heat, so they can convert that energy to electricity. Plutonium-238 naturally generates a serious amount of heat as it goes through radioactive decay, so it's often the fuel of choice for these NASA adventures, such as voyages to Saturn and beyond.
According to a Johns Hopkins planetary scientist, NASA has enough Plutonium left to fuel the next Mars Rover mission, and maybe enough to test out some new power generators. After that, they need more scratch for more fuel. [NPR via MIT Tech Review]
NPR says that NASA has not made any new Plutonium-238 since the 1980s, instead opting to borrow from Mother Russia. And because they use up to 11 pounds of the material each year, it would take 8 years worth of production to begin satisfying demand again. But the requested $30 million from Congress is only a start—the full Plutonium-238 production program could cost up to $150 million.
Because it gets so cold in deep space (reaching absolute zero), spacecrafts traveling out that far need a fuel generating a lot of heat, so they can convert that energy to electricity. Plutonium-238 naturally generates a serious amount of heat as it goes through radioactive decay, so it's often the fuel of choice for these NASA adventures, such as voyages to Saturn and beyond.
According to a Johns Hopkins planetary scientist, NASA has enough Plutonium left to fuel the next Mars Rover mission, and maybe enough to test out some new power generators. After that, they need more scratch for more fuel. [NPR via MIT Tech Review]
Notebook laptops: Samsung N130 - New netbook
As September wears on, some companies are confirming the launch of new products. And Samsung is one of them. The company has announced to the public that an interesting and tiny netbook called Samsung N130 will be launched into the market shortly. This netbook will be remarkable: it will have an internal battery for an 11 hours estimated autonomy. That is a really high battery autonomy nowadays. The Samsung N130 has been equipped with an Intel Atom N270 processor and it will come with a 10.1-inch screen, resolution of 1024 x 600 pixels, WiFi connectivity, Bluetooth 2.1 connectivity, built-in 1.3-megapixel webcam (which is perfect for those people who like or need online video communications all the time), memory cards reader, and a hard drive with a storage capacity of up to 160 GB.
In addition, this new netbook also includes a GMA 950 video card, 3-cell or 6-cell battery (it is up to the user to select the most appropriate) and 1GB of RAM.
Lastly, other features include 3 USB ports, a VGA output, an approximate weight of 1.27 kg (2.8 pounds). The dimensions are 263.8 x 185.5 x 28.5 mm (10.4 x 7.3 x 1.1 inches).
In addition, this new netbook also includes a GMA 950 video card, 3-cell or 6-cell battery (it is up to the user to select the most appropriate) and 1GB of RAM.
Lastly, other features include 3 USB ports, a VGA output, an approximate weight of 1.27 kg (2.8 pounds). The dimensions are 263.8 x 185.5 x 28.5 mm (10.4 x 7.3 x 1.1 inches).
Best video game - PS3 3D mode will be available in 2010
Enough years have passed since the introduction of the technology that allows us to see 3D images on a screen. In one way or another, we know this technology is present in our world, but it has not had the impact on the society and exploitation that would have been expected to occur after its commercial launch. But that situation could change very soon since Sony has announced that all the games compatible with PS3 will have a new 3D mode.
Sony is trying a new strategy to attract new users. For that reason, the company is currently working to add 3D support for all of its available games for PS3. The transition should be taking place in 2010, according to Sony’s announcement. So, if Microsoft is pushing hard to reach its ambitious goals related to the Xbox 360, now Sony wants to change the users’ experience in a radical way (at least with the PS3 games).
We don’t know the exact specifications of the first version of this 3D mode, but some preliminary reports have confirmed that it consists of a process where the console sends 3D content by using an HDMI cable. That content is synchronized and the users will be able to see the 3D effects by using 3D glasses. So, we can get an easy deduction from this basic explanation: As usual, it will be necessary to use the traditional 3D glasses and, besides that, we will need a new TV that supports 3D (in case you don’t have one).
For now, the only thing we can do is wait for some reviews of this innovative technology, which hopefully will improve the way in which we enjoy our consoles. Maybe this will be the most important change in the video games industry during the following years. We’ll see. Apparently, 2010 will be the year of the 3D games.
Sony is trying a new strategy to attract new users. For that reason, the company is currently working to add 3D support for all of its available games for PS3. The transition should be taking place in 2010, according to Sony’s announcement. So, if Microsoft is pushing hard to reach its ambitious goals related to the Xbox 360, now Sony wants to change the users’ experience in a radical way (at least with the PS3 games).
We don’t know the exact specifications of the first version of this 3D mode, but some preliminary reports have confirmed that it consists of a process where the console sends 3D content by using an HDMI cable. That content is synchronized and the users will be able to see the 3D effects by using 3D glasses. So, we can get an easy deduction from this basic explanation: As usual, it will be necessary to use the traditional 3D glasses and, besides that, we will need a new TV that supports 3D (in case you don’t have one).
For now, the only thing we can do is wait for some reviews of this innovative technology, which hopefully will improve the way in which we enjoy our consoles. Maybe this will be the most important change in the video games industry during the following years. We’ll see. Apparently, 2010 will be the year of the 3D games.
BioLogic FreeCharge - Recharge your gadgets while riding a bike - Battery charger rechargeable
Well, the same principle used by a dynamo that generates electricity is now taken by Dahon (the world’s largest manufacturer of folding bikes), to create a new device that allows users to recharge electronic gadgets while they are riding a bike. The device is attached to the dynamo and its name is “BioLogic FreeCharge”.
It has a battery that is charged with the power supplied from the dynamo. Then, you can recharge your gadgets by connecting them to the BioLogic FreeCharge and using a USB connector that comes with this device.
We guess this charger will be useful to those who usually use a bike as one of their regular means of transport because it will provide an easy way to keep some personal gadgets charged (for example: cell phones and MP3 players).
Pentax digital camera: K-x, a novel DSLR with 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor
As expected, Pentax doesn’t want to hang back while its competitors are constantly announcing technological advances. For that reason, the Japanese corporation has decided to introduce the Pentax K-x, a very modern DSLR that offers, as a main feature, the capability of recording high-definition video with a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels at 24fps.
On the other hand, we find that this photographic camera comes with a 12.4-megapixel CMOS sensor, a maximum sensitivity of ISO 6400, 11 point wide angle SAFOX VIII autofocus system, and an image stabilizer.
The design of this camera is very attractive when compared to other cameras that have been made by Pentax recently. This way, we think the Pentax K-x will be a successful product because the great design is the perfect complement to its good technical specs.
Other features of this great camera include a 2.7-inch display, operation with AA batteries, and a still shooting speed of 4.7fps. Besides, it can capture up to 1900 shots before the batteries die completely.
Other features of this great camera include a 2.7-inch display, operation with AA batteries, and a still shooting speed of 4.7fps. Besides, it can capture up to 1900 shots before the batteries die completely.
Headphones that are motion-activated for Sony Ericsson mobile phone
There are built-in, capacitive motion sensors at the end of the headphones, which are able to automatically start or stop the operation of, for example, a cell phone. This is achieved by using a contact point sends a signal when a user puts or pulls the headphones in/out the ears.
When the user puts the headphones in his/her ears, the music can be listened to. On the other hand, it also allows to answer an incoming call if it is used as a handsfree with a supported cell phone. And when the user pulls the headphones out, the music will be paused or the call will be ended.
The MH907 headphones will be available in Europe first by the end of this week. They will cost 39 Euros (approximately US$ 57) and will come in two colors: black and yellow.
HTC Tattoo: Another Android phone with HTC touch LCD
On the webpage intended to give an overview of this new mobile phone, which is included on the official HTC website, we can read the following: “HTC Tattoo is all about you. It’s the first phone that can be customized inside and out. Decide how your phone looks, then decide what you want to look at. Texts? Twitter? Your photos? When you’re done customizing HTC Tattoo, you’ll have a phone that speaks loudly about who you are and what you’re into.”
HTC Tattoo is a latest-generation mobile phone with a lot of great features. With this phone, you will be able to chat, write and send text messages, make tweets of 140 characters or less, and use all the widgets you want in a very accessible way in order to be connected to a wide range of online services. If you want to play games, you can do it too: You only need to go to the Android Market and download all the games you want to play.
Are you a music fan? With HTC Tattoo you can group your music collection by album and artist, or create playlists, so you will be able to listen to your stored music at any time without needing to make an endless search process… yep, every song will be within your reach with a very easy access point. The same thing applies to the photos. Besides, you will also be able to access your or your friends’ photo collections on Flickr or Facebook.
HTC Tattoo was designed to be an extremely user-friendly mobile device. The search button will allow you to find any person in your contact list in a fast and easy way, or find a specific e-mail in your inbox folder, or search on the web, or find a task / appointment in the calendar application.
Are you a music fan? With HTC Tattoo you can group your music collection by album and artist, or create playlists, so you will be able to listen to your stored music at any time without needing to make an endless search process… yep, every song will be within your reach with a very easy access point. The same thing applies to the photos. Besides, you will also be able to access your or your friends’ photo collections on Flickr or Facebook.
HTC Tattoo was designed to be an extremely user-friendly mobile device. The search button will allow you to find any person in your contact list in a fast and easy way, or find a specific e-mail in your inbox folder, or search on the web, or find a task / appointment in the calendar application.
New Fuji camera to take instant color photos
In sharp contrast with the Polaroid PoGo digital camera which has a built-in printer, the Instax Mini 7S uses the Fujifilm Instant Color Film “instax mini” with a size of 2″ x 3″. This film has an image area of 1.8″ x 2.4″, which is then developed as the finished photo.
Other features of the Instax Mini 7S include a built-in automatic flash system and an electronic shutter 1/60-sec. A LED exposure indicator shows how many pictures are left and the glossy film has a light sensitivity of ISO 800.
This new instant photo camera has a price of 96 dollars and a 10-pack of the Instax Mini film costs $20.
Camera cell phone: Samsung Trill R520 with a built-in 1.3-megapixel camera
Samsung has confirmed the rumors that arose some days ago. Specifically, the company has announced that its new mobile phone, which is called “Trill R520″, will soon be available in the United States.
The technical sheet of this mobile phone indicates it includes a 1.3-megapixel camera that allows users to take pictures and record video. Besides, it has digital zoom and a night mode.
In addition, other useful features are included, for example: Built-in memory of 1 GB, a slot to insert microSD/microSDHC memory cards, USB connection, stereo Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity, headphone jack (3.5mm), Global Positioning System (GPS), support to play music formats (MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+ and WMA), and a 2.2-inch TFT display.
With regard to the battery, the specs indicate that the Trill R520 has a Li - Ion battery (880 mAh) and it is supposed to offer up to 270 minutes of talk time and up to 300 hours of standby time.
In addition, other useful features are included, for example: Built-in memory of 1 GB, a slot to insert microSD/microSDHC memory cards, USB connection, stereo Bluetooth 2.0 connectivity, headphone jack (3.5mm), Global Positioning System (GPS), support to play music formats (MP3, AAC, AAC+, eAAC+ and WMA), and a 2.2-inch TFT display.
With regard to the battery, the specs indicate that the Trill R520 has a Li - Ion battery (880 mAh) and it is supposed to offer up to 270 minutes of talk time and up to 300 hours of standby time.
LCD computer monitor: DoubleSight unveils some new Smart USB screens
DoubleSight Displays has unveiled a new line of LCD display screens which are called Smart USB monitors.
They are available in several versions: 7-inch, 9-inch, and 9-inch with webcam. Each LCD monitor is designed to work with any desktop or laptop computer with an USB port (a VGA port is not needed). And, by using a software called DoubleSight’s Display Link, the user will be able to connect up to six Smart USB Monitors to his/her existing PC.
Like most of USB screens, these screens require no video chipset. Besides, they work in both landscape and portrait modes.
You can buy these monitors by using the online DoubleSigh shop. The 7-inch monitor costs $ 139, the 9-inch one costs $ 169 and the 9-inch one with webcam has a price of $ 199.
The 7-inch monitor has a maximum resolution of 800×480, while the 9-inch version supports up to 1024×600 pixels. All the versions muster a 30ms pixel response time and are compatible with Mac OS X and Windows PCs.
They are available in several versions: 7-inch, 9-inch, and 9-inch with webcam. Each LCD monitor is designed to work with any desktop or laptop computer with an USB port (a VGA port is not needed). And, by using a software called DoubleSight’s Display Link, the user will be able to connect up to six Smart USB Monitors to his/her existing PC.
Like most of USB screens, these screens require no video chipset. Besides, they work in both landscape and portrait modes.
You can buy these monitors by using the online DoubleSigh shop. The 7-inch monitor costs $ 139, the 9-inch one costs $ 169 and the 9-inch one with webcam has a price of $ 199.
The 7-inch monitor has a maximum resolution of 800×480, while the 9-inch version supports up to 1024×600 pixels. All the versions muster a 30ms pixel response time and are compatible with Mac OS X and Windows PCs.
IBM takes on Google in business Web-mail market
BOSTON - IBM is introducing an inexpensive Web-based corporate email service that will compete with Google Inc's Google Apps, which has recently suffered several high-profile outages.
International Business Machines Corp will likely try to capitalize on the damage that those outages have caused to Google Apps over the past year. Last month millions of business users could not access email for almost two hours.
An IBM spokesman said on Thursday that the company will start selling its LotusLive iNotes next week. The lightweight email service will cost $36 per user per year, about 25 percent less than what Google charges for a more robust product.
IBM's offering does not have as many bells and whistles as Google's, but the technology giant could attract more customers because it has decades more experience serving the business market. Its products include Lotus Notes, one of the world's two most widely used email programs.
Google, on the other hand, generates the bulk of its revenue from advertisements placed on free search products targeted at consumers. It is just getting into the business of selling to businesses.
"The IBM brand will help a lot," said Forrester Research Inc analyst Liz Herbert.
iNotes will also compete with a Web-based email service from Microsoft Corp that costs about $120 per user per year, according to the software maker's website.
International Business Machines Corp will likely try to capitalize on the damage that those outages have caused to Google Apps over the past year. Last month millions of business users could not access email for almost two hours.
An IBM spokesman said on Thursday that the company will start selling its LotusLive iNotes next week. The lightweight email service will cost $36 per user per year, about 25 percent less than what Google charges for a more robust product.
IBM's offering does not have as many bells and whistles as Google's, but the technology giant could attract more customers because it has decades more experience serving the business market. Its products include Lotus Notes, one of the world's two most widely used email programs.
Google, on the other hand, generates the bulk of its revenue from advertisements placed on free search products targeted at consumers. It is just getting into the business of selling to businesses.
"The IBM brand will help a lot," said Forrester Research Inc analyst Liz Herbert.
iNotes will also compete with a Web-based email service from Microsoft Corp that costs about $120 per user per year, according to the software maker's website.
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