Nelson Wong Life Blog

Microsoft’s new “Blue Track” mouse

We’re not really sure if Microsoft is peddling a revolution here or just the mousing tech flavor of the month, but we’ve got ourselves a much better idea of where things might be going. After that little “Say Goodbye to Laser” teaser turned our pointing device world upside down, a reader spotted this MS Explorer Mini Mouse with “Blue Track” technology over on Amazon.de. Coincidence? We’re guessing no. We followed a bit more of the PI work done by our fine commenters and discovered Blue Track to be based on a blue LED combined with a wide-angle lens that’s supposed to work on more surfaces than laser and optical. Microsoft only really seems to be aiming this at the portable spectrum, hence the wireless adapter and miniature size, so perhaps Blue Track isn’t the end of laser after all.

Nikon’s new D90

Nikon finally fessed up to its new D90 prosumer DSLR, which means all that’s left for us is to do is to pick through the spec sheets, drool on the product shots and imagine ourselves taking the film industry by storm with that D90-shot indie flick we’re plotting.

INT. SUBURBAN HOME – DAY

BLOGGER sits at his computer typing. He looks inspired, witty, unkempt. The camera’s short depth of field captures the writer in his element.

Oh, right, the tech specs:

* New 12.3 megapixel Nikon DX-format CMOS image sensor with Integrated Dust Reduction System.
* Low-noise from ISO 200 to 3200, ISO 6400 available.
* D-Movie mode records in 320 x 216, 640 x 424 or 1,280 x 720 in AVI format.
* Scene Recognition System based on 420 pixel RGB sensor for improved autofocus, autofocus and auto white balance, in addition to Face Detection.
* Multi-CAM 1000 autofocus with 11 AF points.
* 3-inch, VGA Live View LCD.
* 4.5 fps continuous shooting, 0.15 second startup, 65ms shutter release lag.
* SD / SDHC storage.
* HDMI output
* 5.2 x 4.1 x 3.0-inches.
* 1 pound 6 ounces without battery.
* $1,299 kit price.

Samsung Omnia (i900) Unboxing

USB Mirror Web Cam

Brando is offering a USB Mirror Web Camera that is a webcam that also doubles up as a tiny mirror. The webcam also comes with a ring of LED lights, which will probably do its best to try and make you look brighter to the person on the other end. Brando also mentions that the webcam can be used as a spy web cam, since it looks very much like a normal desk mirror, though that really wouldn’t be very polite, would it?

product link

AlterEgo Shows Off Incredibly Realistic 3D Animated Faces

$10 Printable Sports Authority Coupon

Friends and family coupon. If you shop at sports authority stores between august-03 and 09 don’t forget to print this printable in store retail coupon for extra savings, get a $10 discount on any in store purchase over $50.

Canon loyalty program, return old camera, get refurbished Rebel XT for $275

This program allows you to replace your current Canon camera with a Canon refurbished product. The refurbished unit carries a 6 month warranty. The following models are currently offered:

SD850 IS $150
G9 $250
EOS XT (with lens kit, same as this ) $275

Taxes extra, shipping is $10 for 2-day delivery. You must return your old / defective camera (must be a Canon). Prepaid shipping label will be provided.

Call Tech Support at 866-443-8002 or 800-828-4040 to get started.
You will need the serial number of your current camera.

Toyota’s Winglet aims to usurp Segway

Prepare to step aside Segway, you had your chance to revolutionize personal transportation. Introducing the Toyota Winglet. Still under development, Winglet’s body has a 10.4 x 18-inch footprint and stands 1.5-, 2.2-, or 3.7-feet tall (depending upon the S, M, or L model chosen) and features an electric motor capable of a max 6km/h cruising speed for up to 10km a jaunt (only 5km for the S model). Like the Segway, the user controls the Winglet by shifting his weight to move the transporter forward and back or to make tight turns. Winglet will begin consumer testing at the Central Japan International Airport near Nagoya and Laguna Gamagori resort this Autumn with further testing in more crowded environments planned for 2009. It’s planned to hit a production stride in 2010. Hey Toyota, here’s a hint: you’d better start lobbying for sidewalk legalization ASAP if you’re hoping for global success. All three pictured after the break in order of S, M, and Large.