Author Archive: Gareth

Seasoned tech blogger. Host of the Tech Addicts podcast.

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By March 30, 2016 Read More →

Synology announce the release of the DiskStation DS416slim

001Synology are pleased to announce the release of the DiskStation DS416slim. Now available worldwide the DS416slim is an ultra-small and compact Network Attached Storage system measuring at only 18.4 cm x 16.8 cm x 23.0 cm(7.2” x 6.6” x 9.0”) and less than 700g. This NAS supports a total of 4 x 2.5” SATA III/II hard drives and also one of the J series model which adopts the Marvell Armada 38X CPU family, equipping with Armada 385 Dual Core 1.0GHz CPU and 512 MB DDR3 memory. DS416slim promises great read/write performance of around 170.23 MB/s in reading and over 77.62 MB/s in writing through Link Aggregation in Windows environment. There are dual 1GbE RJ45 LAN ports located on the rear panel, ensuring continuous service uptime and reduce the risk of unexpected LAN failure. Additionally two USB 3.0 are included to support high speed data transfer, each located in the front and rear side. DS416slim comes backed with Synology’s 2-year limited warranty. 

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Please note that the above performance is based on DSM 5.2 and the performance based on DSM 6.0 will be updated within 2 weeks. The unit should retail for around £222.00 including VAT or €248.64 excluding VAT.

DiskStation DS416slim

Incredibly Small NAS With Great Performance
Synology DS416slim is a palm sized 4-bay NAS with only 0.66kg in weight and measures 120mm x 105mm x 142mm, fulfilling your need for a personal cloud without taking up too much space. Despite its compact appearance, DS416slim makes no compromise on performance. DS416slim is powered by a dual-core CPU with hardware encryption engine and built-in floating point unit support. Under RAID 5 configuration in a Windows® environment, DS416slim delivers up to an average 170.23 MB/s in reading and 77.62 MB/s in writing through Link Aggregation, while delivering an average speed of 112.77 MB/s in reading and 78.81 MB/s in writing through single Gigabit LAN.1

The Dual Gigabit LAN with failover support ensures continual service uptime in the event of unexpected LAN failure, while the hot-swappable drive tray allows you to replace the hard drives without powering off DS416slim. Designed for easy replacement, the system fan can be quickly swapped, so the average time to repair can be significantly reduced. DS416slim comes with dual USB 3.0 ports, each on the front and rear panel, providing fast and convenient data transfer and backup to external storage devices. Running on Synology’s award-winning DiskStation Manager (DSM) operating system, DS416slim shares a rich reservoir of applications available in DSM Package Center.
Cross Platform File Sharing

Synology DS416slim supports comprehensive network protocols, ensuring a seamless file sharing experience across Windows, Mac®, and Linux® platforms. Windows AD and LDAP integration allows Synology DS416slim to fit quickly and effortlessly into any existing network environment without the necessity to recreate user accounts. Cloud Sync keeps your Dropbox, Google™ Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, Baidu and Box storage in sync with your personal DiskStation at home. Cloud Station suit allows users to sync files among multiple devices, no matter it’s Windows PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android™ tablets/phones, effortlessly keeping everything up-to-date. While you enjoy the seamless file sharing, all the file sharing over the Internet is protected at a high security level through the HTTPS, firewall, and IP auto-block that supported by DS416slim.

Reliable Backup Solution
To protect your valuable data, DS416slim can become a centralized backup destination for consolidating fragmented and unstructured information across your network through a range of options. Advanced backup privilege management makes network backup tasks safer and more efficient. Complete backup solutions such as Backup & Restore minimize the impact of disasters, keeping your valuable data safe and secure.
Your Personal Multimedia Bank

DS416slim helps you easily manage your multimedia contents and share them across Windows, Mac®, and Linux® platforms. With Video Station, you can organize your digital video library with comprehensive media information, watch movies and films, or record your favorite TV programs with a DVB-T/DVB-S stick. Photo Station’s intuitive design allows you to effortlessly organize photos into customized categories, smart albums and blog posts, and link them to social networking websites within a few clicks. Audio Station comes with built-in lyrics plugin, Internet radio and lossless audio formats support and provides music playback via DLNA, AirPlay®, and Bluetooth devices (A Bluetooth dongle is required).

Anywhere/Anytime Availability
No matter what browser you’re using, Synology offers handy features of QuickConnect and EZ-Internet, letting you enjoy accessing to the Internet with minimum effort. Combined with Synology’s mobile apps for every popular feature, including DS photo, DS audio and DS video for anywhere multimedia access, DS download, DS file, and DS cloud for seamless file download/access/synchronization, you can enjoy the content and data in your NAS anywhere, anytime.
Energy Efficient and Easy Management DesigN

Synology DS416slim is designed and developed with energy efficiency in mind. Compared with the average storage server counterparts, DS416slim consumes only 17.17 watts in regular operation. The support of Wake on LAN/WAN and scheduled power on and off can further reduce power consumption and operation cost. HDD hibernation can be configured to take effect automatically when the system has been inactive for a specified period of time. This not only saves energy but also extends the lifespan of the hard disks.

All Synology products are produced with RoHS compliant parts and packed with recyclable packing materials. Synology acknowledges the responsibility as a global citizen

Posted in: Desktop Computing, News, Press Releases, Storage Devices, Streaming Services
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By March 27, 2016 Read More →

AOC and Philips leaders in Europe’s monitor market

C3583FQ-BS_front_to_right_yellow_designAccording to the latest figures from the analyst Context, the European market for monitors shows significant signs of recovery after the turbulences one year ago. Western Europe stabilises, and also in Eastern Europe the market decrease has slowed down from quarter to quarter last year. In these market surroundings AOC and MMD, license partner for Philips monitors, have achieved further growth in their market share. In the last quarter of 2015, the two companies together grew by 4.5 percent compared to the same quarter the year before. With nearly close to 15 percent market share they together hold the number 1 position in Europe. AOC and MMD are subsidiaries of the world’s leading display manufacturer TPV.

In Western Europe, the two companies continuously grew their market share during the last four quarters and made a step of 12 percent in the fourth quarter compared to the quarter before. Together the two brands now hold the number 3 position in Western Europe.

“As did the entire IT industry, monitors have had a challenging year 2015. All market players had to handle a weak exchange rate for the dollar and economic uncertainties in several markets. With our focus on innovation and customer-centric strategy, we have managed to grow with both of our brands AOC and Philips right from the beginning of the year each quarter – even under these challenging conditions. This is now the basis for further growth, as we have signs that the market is recovering again”, says Thomas Schade, Vice President Europe at AOC and MMD.

In the market of the United Kingdom and Ireland the two monitor specialists continued their successful development. From quarter to quarter AOC and Philips monitors together increased their market share and together hold the number 4 position in the market. AOC alone grew by more than 23 percent on an annual basis. The market share of 7.3 percent for AOC is the highest market share for five years. 

Posted in: Desktop Computing, News, Press Releases
By March 25, 2016 Read More →

Lyca Group Announces Three New Services

Free-Lyca-Mobile-SIM-Card-300x300Lyca Group, the world’s largest provider of services to ethnic and expatriate communities, has launched three new offerings: Lycaremit, an online money transfer service, Lycachat, an app that allows the user to make calls, send messages and share videos worldwide and LycaTV, the world’s largest ethnic channel entertainment platform.

Global brand Lycamobile forms the foundation of the Lyca Group, created to encompass the full offering of Lyca services which provide people with the chance to improve the way they maintain close networks of friends and family across the world.

Lyca Group chairman Subaskaran Allirajah said: “We’ve built our business over the past decade by providing vital services to primarily ethnic communities across Europe, from mobile calls and data to financial services and travel bookings. The business continues to grow by responding to the needs all consumers who have family, friends and loved ones across the globe. We launch three new services today, broadening our offering and demonstrating our vision to be a truly full service multi-media platform.” 

New video on demand service, LycaTV will offer over 450 channels in 20 languages, making it the biggest platform for primarily ethnic-focused TV and movies in the world. Among the content available to LycaTV subscribers will be over 1,250 Bollywood classics via major provider Eros, the destination for premium Bollywood movies and music on demand. All LycaTV content will be available on mobile devices, smart TVs, desktops or streaming players.

The new online Lycaremit money transfer service allows customers to send money quickly and easily to family and friends in over 50+ countries at ultra-competitive rates using their smartphone, tablet or desktop at www.lycaremit.co.uk. Beneficiaries are able to collect money via banks, cash collection services or mobile wallet, depending on the destination country. It launches with an introductory offer of zero fees on all money transfers for three months up until 31st March 2016.

The free to download Lycachat app further extends the Lyca Group’s mission to connect customers with their loved ones at the most competitive price and the highest possible quality. As well as sending messages and sharing videos worldwide, the app will also let customers make voice calls with low rates to landlines and mobiles with Lycachat Out.

Posted in: Deals & Offers, News
By March 25, 2016 Read More →

EasyAcc 20000mAh Rugged Powerbank Unboxing

vlcsnap-error391When it comes to battery batteries or Powerbanks there is a wealth on the market already and they serve every need, however with Summer coming there is going to be a few out there who a looking for a solution for all their gadgets without having to have multiple batteries in their bag. Enter the EasyAcc 20000mAh Rugged Powerbank. That’s right, 20000mAh. Good for around 5 full charges of their phone. This is the perfect powerbank for the charge and forget about it approach, perhaps you work Monday to Friday, need a battery and don’t want to have to remember to charge one every night or ever other night. At 20000mAh you have a full charge every day of the week and need only remember to charge it at the weekend. 

With two full sized USB output the battery can handle two phones and if one of those supports the faster charging methods then a at full speed at up to 2.4A. Admittedly the 2A input does mean the battery might take around 12 hours to charge when drained fully but then again it does hold 20000mAh. With a rating of IP67, the powerbank can be immersed under 1 meter water for 30 minutes thanks to a little door that closes over the input and output port. I am not entirely sure of the doors effectiveness as it feels a little loose when it comes to a water tight seal.

Finally a super useful addition is the LED light. Not new to power banks however on a 20000mAh battery the light will stay on for an Age. Also included in a flashing beckon option for attracting attention is in trouble.

Posted in: Accessories, Videos/Unboxings
By March 24, 2016 Read More →

AOC Launches Premium Gaming Monitor Line-up

aocDerived from ancient Greek, AGON stands for competition, clash and antagonism. These are the strong characteristics that AOC, a market-leading display manufacturer claims for their upcoming gaming monitor line-up. The AGON series has been created to deliver the utmost gaming features and outstanding designs to the vast community of professional and hardcore gamers.

AGON – AOC’s New Gaming Line
During the year 2016, AOC plans to launch ten variants of its gaming monitors with either IPS or TN panels, each with premium technology to provide gamers with the most versatile gaming experience possible. The AGON series includes both standard and curved models with Flicker FREE technology developed by AOC; all of them enriched with either NVIDIA® G-SYNC™ or AMD FreeSync™ technology.

aoc

AGON – Developed for Awesomeness
With modern-day gamers’ increasing demand for visual precision and image quality in gaming monitors, it is essential for gaming monitors to be engineered not only with the latest technology but also exquisite exterior designs. Yet the AGON series seeks to reach above and beyond the status quo. Response times of 1 ms (TN), 144 Hz and higher refresh rates, height-adjustability, speakers and USB 3.0 ports are default features for this new line-up. With sizes ranging from 24″ 16:9 to 35″ ultra-wide, there will also be curved monitors, and resolutions from Full HD all the way to 4K. The combination of materials on the rear of the monitor will give the AGON an elegant and stylish finish, to perfectly supplement high-end gaming battle stations.

A launch event for the AGON takes place in Beijing today and the all-star Natus Vincere Dota 2 squad will be there to present the new monitor line to the press and PR professionals in attendance.

The first model of the AGON series will be available in the European market in June.

Key Features:

– AGON line-up by AOC
– 10 new gaming monitors
– G-SYNC and FreeSync
– AOC Flicker FREE technology
– Ergonomic, height-adjustable stand
– AOC Game Mode
– AOC No Input Lag Mode
– AOC Shadow Control
– FHD, QHD and 4K resolutions
– TN and IPS displays with 144 Hz+
– Sizes range from 24″ to 35″
– Curved and standard monitors

Posted in: Accessories, Desktop Computing
By March 24, 2016 Read More →

Homido Virtual Reality 3D Wireless Headset Glasses for Smartphones Unboxing

vlcsnap-error619There is no shortage around Virtual Reality launches right now and it is to be the next big thing even if you are not interested. VR Headsets are popping up all over the web for various different prices, however many of which are essentially upgraded versions of Google Cardboard. Most will avail of the limited amount of video and app content in Google and Apple’s apps stores and given the prices of these units and the quality of the apps currently available we are delving in to check out one of the higher end variants to see if there is value for money.

Step into the vr stripchat by being able to see what is happening all around you – behind you, above you, beside you and of course, right in front of you, with the clearest of vision.

The Homido Virtual Reality 3D Headset is a £47.99 option that is available from Mobilefun that looks to take Google Cardboard to another level of perfromance. Featuring:

  • Experience the virtual world through your smartphone
  • Universally compatible
  • Huge range of VR apps already available
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Adjustable display
  • Protective case included
  • Compatible with 4 – 5.7″ smartphones with iOS or Android

Posted in: Accessories, Science & Technology, Videos/Unboxings
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By March 23, 2016 Read More →

Save up to 20% at newly launched electronics retailer reichelt.co.uk #supportpaul

2016-03-23 (4)reichelt elektronik is coming to the UK. A leading retailer for tech, electronics, computer accessories and automation in Europe, reichelt is ready and raring to bring its German penchant for efficiency and discipline to British customers. Purposefully ignoring the high street, the retailer will target the UK with its new English eCommerce site and delivery service alone, read this article for more info.

Offering a range of tools, components, tech accessories and more – many of reichelt’s products can be bought 20% cheaper than elsewhere in the UK. Reichelt was first launched in Germany in 1969 and became successful as a result of its competitive pricing and high stock availability.

Visit and shop: www.reichelt.co.uk

Posted in: Accessories, Deals & Offers, News
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By March 23, 2016 Read More →

LED Melody Speaker and LED Light Unboxing

vlcsnap-error893LED Melody Speaker and LED Light Unboxing comes to us from Digi4u. This two is system looks to be an interesting blend of innovation alongside from fun at the right price.

Features:

Support Bluetooth 2.1 +EDR audio sources
Bluetooth hands-free
With remote controller to adjust the brightness and volume
Strong LED light 10~15W, Warm and white light
Loud Speaker in 10W
Can connect with Wire or adapter
Specifications:
Power supply:DC5V
Output power:Speaker 10W
LED 10W
Frequency: 200Hz -18KHz
Noise-Signal ratio: ≥60dB
Impedance: 4 OHM(Ω)
Output: 3.7V~4.2V+0.05V
Input: 5V
Speaker Unit: 40mm
Driver Unit: 52mm, 6ohms
Frequency Response: 100-18Khz
Case Material: ABS
Dimensions: 87*140mm
Weight: 600g
Color: White
Color box: 12*12*17cm

 

A review will be up soon and the LED Melody can be purchased from the link below for £22.99.

https://www.digi4u.co.uk/lk-b044-white-multi-functional-led-lamp-bluetooth-speaker-lighting-spot-for-party-new/

Posted in: Accessories, Science & Technology, Videos/Unboxings
By March 21, 2016 Read More →

QCY EasyAcc In-Ear Sweatproof Sports Earbuds

vlcsnap-error469EasyAcc have sent over their QCY branded In-Ear Sweat-proof headphones. Here we take a quick look at them before throwing them into our lug-holes and hitting the trail for a good run.

A cable connected to you phone whilst listening to the beats on a run can be a real distraction. Bluetooth is the way forward however so many Bluetooth headphones just don’t cut it, either the sound quality is low or there is interference or disruption to the signal between the headphones and the units. EasyAcc have added

Wear with Super Comfort: Ergonomic ear hooks craft from soft metal, reshape to fit your ears firmly from falling off. At only 18.5g/0.65oz, it takes minimum bulk and space. While the innovative U shape unburdens your ears for an even lighter feeling.

For Workout and More: Ideal for jogging, hiking and more with significantly-reduced stethoscope effect with sport-type earbud, get your own at Altitude Sports. Or forget yourself in the melodious world with the music-type.

Quality Stereo Sound: Impressive stereo sound with punching bass won’t disappoint any music fan. CSR chip with aptX and the latest CVC 6.0 Noise Cancellation technology ensure stable performance with reduced surrounding noises.

Impressive Battery Life: Lasts for about 6 hours on a single 2-hour charge. Remaining battery is revealed on your phone’s screen.

Package Contents: EasyAcc® Bluetooth 4.1 Sport Stereo Headphones, 5 sets of earbuds, cable clip, charging cable, user manual. 1-Year hassle-free warranty.

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By March 16, 2016 Read More →

MMD Presents World’s First Quantum Dot Colour Display

quan MMD, the leading technology company and brand license partner for Philips Monitors, announces the world’s first monitor with Quantum Dot Colour technology. With colours that are more vivid, consistent and truer-to-life than ever, the new 27-inch E-Line display 276E6ADSS delivers professional colour quality with 100 % NTSC and 99 % Adobe RGB support, all at a consumer-friendly price.

Quantum Dot Colour – making the difference
Quantum Dot Colour is an innovative nanomaterial technology that produces incredibly accurate, saturated colour – in fact, over 30 % more colour than traditional sRGB LEDs. Additionally, it costs a fraction of most colour-critical technologies and uses 25 % less energy, so saves on energy bills as well.

Artem Khomenko, Product Manager Philips monitors Europe at MMD, explains what makes this technology so different: “With a typical LCD display, there is leakage between RGB channels that compromises how well the display can cover the colour gamut. This new LCD display with Quantum Dot Colour technology achieves much sharper channel distinctions, delivering consistent, vibrant colours across the entire gamut.”
 
The new 27-inch display is emblematic of the commitment of MMD to deliver better resolution and image quality to all users – because it isn’t just professionals who benefit from fidelity in colour reproduction. The expansive colour palette is also ideal for movie lovers, amateur photographers and designers who want the confidence of consistent and true colour reproduction.

Performance under the hood
To leverage the superb colour quality, the latest member of the E-Line series features IPS-ADS technology for added image clarity, Full HD resolution with 1920 x 1080 pixels, as well as an extra-wide viewing angle of 178 degrees. Also on board are Philips Smart technologies to complement the colour performance with enhanced contrast and brightness: SmartImage Lite dynamically enhances contrast, colour saturation and sharpness to suit what is displayed on the screen. SmartControl Lite is a fast, easy way for users to fine-tune display parameters. SmartContrast automatically adjusts colour, contrast and backlight intensity to make the viewing experience even richer and more immersive. And for extra performance, 5 ms SmartResponse puts response times into overdrive for fast-moving applications like gaming.
Another valuable feature for home users is MHL connectivity: users can simply connect mobile devices to the display using an optional MHL cable, and enjoy their mobile content on a much larger screen with Full HD resolution, excellent sound from the integrated speakers – and of course the colour fidelity of Quantum Dot Colour technology.

Elegance for the living space
In a home environment, the display has to look equally good even when turned off. With its glossy white finish and silver stand, the inspired elegance of the new 276E6ADSS display complements any living space. Attention to detail is superb: instead of protruding buttons, the display has touch controls – which keep the already slim lines clean and smart throughout.

The new Philips 276E6ADSS display will be available in March 2016 at an RRP of £239,99.

Posted in: Desktop Computing, News, Press Releases
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