Acer unveils TravelMate 8481T laptop for the all-business crowd

Acer America Expands Business PC Lineup With Slim and Stylish TravelMate Timeline Notebook

New TravelMate Timeline 8481T Features Unique 14-Inch Screen in Ultraportable 13-Inch Form Factor, All Day Battery Life and Enterprise-Class Security and Manageability

SAN JOSE, CA--(Marketwire - August 24, 2011) - For ultimate road warriors and savvy business professionals seeking a combination of style, mobility and professional-grade security and manageability, Acer America today debuts the new TravelMate Timeline 8481T notebook PC for U.S. and Canadian customers. The lightweight TravelMate Timeline 8481T delivers outstanding performance, all-day battery life(1) and sports a unique 14-inch screen in an ultra-thin 13-inch form factor.

"True road warriors and professionals need a thin and light mobile PC that is capable of running heavy business applications and presentations," said Gregg Prendergast, vice president of commercial sales and marketing for Acer America. "The TravelMate Timeline 8481T notebook is an important addition to our commercial notebook portfolio, as it combines everything a business professional requires on the road or in the office, including exceptional performance, enterprise-level security and manageability and long battery life in a small form factor for a best-in-class mobile experience."

Sleek Mobility in a Mainstream Form Factor

At just 3.7 pounds with a super slim 0.87-inch profile, the TravelMate Timeline 8481T features an innovative new display technology to allow an ultra-compact, frameless 14-inch LCD to fit into a 13.3-inch footprint. The sophisticated industrial design trims the bezel by a third and allows 15 percent more display area so users can conduct business and boost productivity while enjoying the portability of a traditional 13-inch notebook.

The TravelMate Timeline 8481T notebook is housed in a unique dual-tone resilient magnesium-aluminum case that evenly distributes external forces and can withstand extreme pressure. The notebook also features a new metal-alloy hinge design for maximum hold strength when the cover is open, and Autolock to ensure the notebook lid is tightly secured for LCD protection.

Serious Notebook Performance for Serious Business

Ensuring mobile performance required for business users, the new TravelMate Timeline 8481T notebooks are powered by second-generation Intel? Core? i5 processors with Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 1.2 that encrypts files and folders for critical data security. The TravelMate Timeline 8481T notebooks enable professionals to run business productivity applications 60 percent faster than previous generation processors, with up to two times faster multitasking. Users can create more compelling sales presentations and run power hungry business applications up to 70 percent faster and perform complex financial calculations up to 80 percent quicker, resulting in increased productivity.

The TravelMate Timeline 8481T delivers superb business presentations with rich color and crisp images via the notebook's 14-inch Acer ComfyView LCD LED backlit display with HD (1366x768) resolution and a 16:9 aspect ratio. With Intel? HD Graphics 3000 with 128MB of dedicated system memory and Wireless Display (WiDi) technology, users can connect the notebook to an HD display with a compatible adaptor, and easily setup and wirelessly share presentations and HD videos with great image clarity and sound.

Long-lasting battery life is another extremely important requirement for professional users. The TravelMate Timeline 8481T notebook's eight-cell lithium ion battery provides up to 13 hours PC performance depending upon usage(2), to ensure users are productive for an entire working day without a power source. Additionally, the notebooks feature Acer PowerSmart long cycle batteries, which provide up to three times longer battery life cycles than traditional batteries (1,000 vs. 300 cycles). These batteries also maintain 80 percent capacity after the 1,000 cycle count, which means the battery will last longer, reducing the need to replace it. (3)

The TravelMate Timeline 8481T packs 4GB of DDR3 memory and is upgradeable to 8GB, providing plenty of space to store and manage important files and folders of any size thanks to a spacious SATA hard disk with up to 320GB of capacity at 7200 rpm. To ensure the physical integrity of the PC's data, the TravelMate Timeline 8481T notebooks feature next-generation DASP (Disk Anti-Shock Protection) technology that insulates the hard disk, providing added on-the-go protection if the notebook is accidently dropped, knocked or bumped. The hard disk drive is also soft-mounted onto the system to provide extra cushioning. The result is a significant improvement in preventing hard disk drive failure and higher MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure).

The TravelMate Timeline 8481T notebooks offer a full range of advanced connectivity solutions including Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi and Bluetooth. The Acer Video Conference solution, including high-def webcam and built-in microphone, enables high-quality video conferences so that users can easily keep in touch with business contacts.

Premium Security & Manageability

When booting up the system, the TravelMate Timeline 8481T utilizes the multi-level Acer ProShield Security with BioProtection Fingerprint solution, preventing unauthorized access while safeguarding the notebooks valuable assets and data integrity with one swipe of a fingerprint.

TravelMate Timeline 8481T users can easily manage and transfer data to and from external devices ten times faster than before with the notebook's USB 3.0 port. The TravelMate Timeline 8481T flaunts the Power-Off USB Charging technology, allowing users to charge a smartphone or other USB device without turning the computer on. The TravelMate Timeline 8481T easily becomes a charging station, allowing road warriors to travel without extra power adapters for mobile phones and other gadgets.

Pricing, Eco-Compliance and Warranty

The Acer TravelMate Timeline 8481T notebooks are available in the U.S. and Canada in early September at authorized Acer resellers. Prices for the TravelMate Timeline 8481T begin at $999.99 US/CAN.

Acer professional notebooks are submitted to a series of reliability tests and are compliant with the most stringent industry criteria. The elimination of hazardous substances throughout the TravelMate Timeline notebook's supply chain results in Acer's greenest notebook to date.(4) These TravelMate Timeline series models are Energy Star? qualified, ensuring energy savings and longer battery life and are registered EPEAT? Silver, having less environmental impact than products that do not meet the EPEAT criteria.(5)

The new Acer TravelMate Timeline Series comes with a standard one-year parts and labor warranty, which can be extended to three years with the Acer Advantage service.(6) Additionally, some models have longer warranties offered through specific channel partners. All Acer notebooks and netbooks are backed by toll-free service and support.(7)

View the original article here

Samsung's IFA app unveils Galaxy Tab 7.7, Wave 3 and Galaxy Note

By Joseph Volpe posted Aug 25th 2011 4:12PM We're about a week away from this year's IFA, but that's no reason for the tech teases to dry up. According to a report on This Is My Next, a bevy of product logos from Sammy's Android trade show app were unearthed by a tipster searching for clues in the APK. Among the soon-to-be unveiled products are the new Galaxy Tab 7.7, Wave 3 and Galaxy Note. While we've haven't heard much about the Note, we aren't really surprised to see a 7.7-inch (we assume) iteration of the OEM's popular Honeycomb tablet and an update to its Bada OS-running Wave smartphone line. Not to worry folks, you won't have to live with the suspense for long -- we'll be reporting live from Berlin before you know it.

View the original article here

Sony unveils NEX-7: 24.3 MP sensor, OLED viewfinder, $1199 price tag (video)

SONY UNVEILS UNIQUE "ALL-IN-ONE" COMPACT INTERCHANGEABLE LENS CAMERA WITH 24.3 MEGAPIXEL RESOLUTION

New NEX-7 Combines superb imaging, high performance and full palette of creative options

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 24, 2011 -- Sony is taking professional quality imaging and artistic shooting options to new levels with the introduction of the new α NEX-7 camera. Styled in magnesium alloy for strength and designed with a unique blend of classic and modern inspiration, the new compact interchangeable lens model weighs only 10.3 ounces (291g).

"For Sony, the new NEX-7 represents innovation in its purest form," said Kelly Davis, vice president of digital imaging at Sony Electronics. "Speed and style meet performance and control, creating a shooting experience unlike anything in market today."

The NEX-7 camera features a new Exmor? APS HD CMOS sensor with 24.3 effective megapixel resolution – highest in its class -- that complements the latest generation of Sony's BIONZ? image processing engine.
This unique combination of sensor and processor technology delivers flawless image and HD video quality with very low noise and exceptionally fast shooting responses. An ultra-high sensitivity range extends from ISO 100-16000, making it easy to capture clean, low-noise images in dimly lit interiors or exteriors.

Response is accelerated even further by a shutter release lag of approximately 20 milliseconds– the fastest of any interchangeable lens digital camera (as of Aug 2011). In speed priority continuous mode, the NEX-7 camera captures fast-moving action at up to 10fps (AF/AE is fixed) – the world's fastest burst shooting speed of any mirrorless interchangeable lens camera (as of Aug 2011).

The NEX-7 model offers extensive, direct control over creative settings via an intuitive new TRINAVI control interface, important for enthusiast and professional photographers. Two control dials on the top of the camera are complemented by a control wheel, giving users three customizable, manual controls and the ability to create images with the flexibility and precision of an advanced DSLR camera.

The NEX-7 model is also the world's first interchangeable lens camera (along with new α77, α65) that features an integrated XGA OLED TruFinder? viewfinder for precision framing and focusing. The viewfinder provides a bright, detail-packed, high contrast view of still images and video, with approximately 100 percent frame coverage and a wide field of view that rivals pro-grade optical viewfinders. On-screen grid lines, various shooting parameters and a level gauge can be displayed to assist with accurate framing. With the XGA OLED TruFinder?, the NEX-7 model realizes the ideal of a compact, rangefinder style camera with an eye-level, through the lens viewfinder.

The XGA OLED Tru-Finder? viewfinder is complemented by a three-inch Xtra Fine LCD? display that can be angled up to 90-degrees up or 45-degrees down for easy viewing in any shooting position. TruBlack? technology assures superb detail and contrast, while dramatically reducing on-screen reflections.

At the touch of a button, the NEX-7 camera shoots smooth AVCHD Full HD movies with high-quality stereo sound. Support for the new AVCHD Progressive (Ver. 2.0) format allows users to capture Full HD video at 60p (progressive) frame rates. for beautifully smooth, detailed video footage. 24p video shooting is also available. The Tracking Focus feature lets users select a target object on screen and focus on it accurately, even if it is moving.

Additionally, manual focus is now possible during video shooting. Enthusiasts can also enjoy full control over creating the perfect video image with Program, Aperture/Shutter Priority and all-Manual modes (P/A/S/M) – just like the most advanced DSLR cameras. Stereo audio quality is improved, with revised circuitry that lowers noise levels, especially when shooting quiet scenes.

First introduced on the NEX-C3, Picture Effects enables easy "in camera" production of sophisticated artistic effects without the need for a PC or post-processing. The camera features 11 modes and 15 effects, including new HDR Painting, Soft Focus, Miniature and Rich-Tone Mono. A generous palette of other artistic imaging functions includes 3D Sweep Panorama? mode, Soft Skin, Auto HDR, Handheld Twilight and Anti Motion Blur Modes.

The NEX-7 camera includes an integrated flash system and also features an Auto-lock Accessory Shoe for advanced shooting applications, both of which are firsts for Sony's E-mount line of cameras. The shoe supports the full range of Alpha flashes and monitors, as well as adaptors to accommodate studio lighting.

The LCS-ELC7 soft carrying case combines a snug-fitting body case and leather lens jacket to help protect the body and lens from scratches and dust. It's complemented by the STP-XH70 shoulder strap, made of the same material.

Pricing and Availability

The α NEX-7 ultra-compact interchangeable lens digital camera will be available this November in a kit with an exclusive black 18-55mm zoom lens for about $1350, or as a body-only for about $1200.

The new camera and all compatible lenses and accessories will be sold at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) as well as other authorized retailers throughout the Sony dealer network.

For "sneak peak" videos of the new products, please visit www.sony.com/cameravideos.

View the original article here

LG unveils A530 3D gaming laptop, tours the world to showcase its wares

LG'S NEWEST 3D NOTEBOOK DELIVERS ALL THE THRILLS OF SEEING, SHOOTING AND SHARING IN 3D

With 3D Dual Webcam and an Array of Powerful 3D Features,
LG A530 Adds Another Dimension to 3D Experience

SEOUL, Aug. 23, 2011 –- LG Electronics (LG) today unveiled the LG A530, a premium new 3D notebook offering all the thrills of seeing, shooting and sharing 3D content. A 3D dual webcam above the 15.6-inch Full HD 3D LCD screen lets users shoot their own 3D videos and photos, while a slew of innovative features in a luxurious metalliclook chassis deliver great looks along with an impressive stereoscopic 3D experience.

"With 3D becoming ever more popular, the logical next step is to let users make their own 3D content and watch it on a top-quality 3D screen. And that's just what our new A530 does," said J.J. Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of LG Electronics PC Business Unit. "LG is already a leader in the ever-growing world of 3D technology. With the LG A530's wide range of line-ups including 3D HD in addition to 3D Full HD, LG is already leading the 3D notebook market."

Perfect Thrills with Full 3D Creation with Dual Webcam
Whereas most 3D notebooks offer only 3D viewing, the LG A530 stands alone in providing a full, superior 3D experience, with the ability to see, shoot and share via the 3D dual webcam. With the 3D dual webcam making it simple to create dazzling 3D content, the LG A530 delivers an integrated 3D experience allowing simple, hassle-free playback of 3D content from the notebook to LG's other cutting-edge 3D devices, such
as smartphones, TVs and monitors.

The LG A530 also lets users easily share 3D content with their friends and family by uploading it to YouTube. And the built-in 3D Space Software -– LG's new integrated user interface that makes it easy to access 3D video, photos, games and movies –- presents users with an even wider range of 3D options.

Thanks to LG's proprietary Film Patterned Retarder (FPR) technology, which produces brighter 3D images that are entirely free of flicker, users can watch 3D content on the LG A530 for extended periods without worrying about eye strain or dizziness. The 3D LCD screen, with Full HD 1920x1080 resolution, keeps images brighter than on shutter glasses-type 3D notebooks, meaning richer, more vivid games, movies and pictures.

The LG A530 includes a free pair each of the lightweight 3D glasses and clip-ons, so owners can watch 3D content in complete comfort straight away. In addition, the LG A530 features an SRS Wide 3D Sound system for truly immersive audio.

Unprecedented Performance, Ultimate Convenience
To guarantee exceptional overall performance in addition to its 3D functions, the LG A530 packs a second-generation Intel? Core? i7 processor with up to 8GB memory. The new processor delivers 60 percent faster speeds and double the power for playing HD media than the previous Intel? Core? i7 processor. In addition, the NVIDIA? GeForce? GT 555M graphics card boasts 20 percent better performance than NVIDIA? GeForce? GT 540M, for the ultimate experience in 3D games and movies.

A built-in solid-state drive (SSD) complements the LG A530's high-capacity HDD drive, so boot-up times are between 20 and 30 percent faster than on competing notebooks. The speed and convenience is further bolstered by fingerprint access for quick log-in and USB 3.0 transfers data 10 times faster than USB 2.0.

Modern Look, Sophisticated Touch with Diamond Cutting
The LG A530 sports a luxurious, modern exterior in a sturdy, Ebony Black case. Its metallic look has a solid brushed aluminum finish, while the touchpad's edges have been rounded using real diamonds as the cutting element. A wider touchpad and pebble keyboard make the notebook's interior more ergonomic and comfortable to use.

LG will be rolling out the premium LG A530 in Europe, the Middle East and Africa this month followed by other markets soon after.

View the original article here

Sony Ericsson unveils Live with Walkman handset for music-loving Android users

Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman? delivers unique social music experience for smartphones

22 August 2011

Smartphone with Walkman? on the latest Android platform (Gingerbread 2.3)
Unique Facebook? integration enables instant music and media sharing
Content services from Sony provide access to the latest music and video titles

22 August 2011, London, UK – Sony Ericsson today announced Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman?, an Android smartphone that delivers a unique social music experience. A dedicated Walkman? hardware button provides instant access to the music player and consumers can also like, share and discover content through a deep Facebook? integration. The infinite button lets the consumer explore even more and the *Qriocity service from Sony provides music and video content for the consumer to enjoy.

With attractive curved design, a glossy finish and a mineral glass display, the phone has a 3.2" screen and a powerful 1Ghz processor. A front facing camera is enabled for Skype video calling, while a 5MP AF camera can capture 720p HD video recording. *Sony's xLOUD? enhances audio output, while the latest Android platform for smartphones (Gingerbread 2.3) provides access to over 250,000 applications on the Android Market?.

Nikolaus Scheurer, Head of Product Marketing, Sony Ericsson said: "Consumers want smartphones to deliver a rich and social entertainment experience. Rather than a one dimensional music experience, they want instant and seamless access to new content, combined with the ability to share and connect with their friends. The Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman? provides exactly this, in a powerful package with great style."

A perfect combination of social networking and music entertainment:

Deep Facebook? integration: Allows users to instantly access Facebook through the most used areas of the phone such as the picture gallery, music player, phonebook and calendar.
Media Discovery Application: A dynamic application placing the world of music and videos at consumer's fingertips including Facebook? recommendations from their friends.
Infinite button: Tapping it within the media player enables consumers to have instant access to new content about their favourite artist, such as music videos, artist information and lyrics search.
Qriocity music and video content services from Sony: Consumers can access millions of songs from all major labels and watch thousands of movies from all major studios. Only Sony Ericsson Android smartphones provide consumers with unique access to the entertainment services from *Sony.
*Sony's xLOUD? technology: Enhances audio output of the inbuilt speakers at high levels.
TrackID?: Identifies the music track you are listening to within the FM radio and music player. The track can then instantly be shared or downloaded.

Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman? will be available globally in selected markets from Q4 2011.
For full details all products news, please visit the press room and the product blog:
http://www.sonyericsson.com/cws/corporate/press/pressreleases/latestnews
http://blogs.sonyericsson.com/products/

Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman? at a glance.
*Please note that all services mentioned may not be available in every market.

Colours

Black and White

Facts

Size: 56.5 x 106 x 14.2 mm
Weight: 115 g

Camera

5 megapixel camera
8x digital zoom
Auto focus
Face detection
Flash/Photo light
Flash/Photo flash
Flash/LED
Front-facing camera (VGA)
Geo tagging
HD video recording (720p)
Image stabiliser
Red-eye reduction
Scene detection
Self-timer
Send to web
Smile detection
Touch capture
Touch focus
Video light
Video recording

Music

Album art
Bluetooth? stereo (A2DP)
Music tones (MP3/AAC)
PlayNow? service
Stereo speakers
TrackID? music recognition
Walkman? player
xLOUD?

Internet

Android Market?
Bookmarks
Google? search
Google Voice? Search
NeoReader? barcode scanner
Pan & zoom
Web browser (WebKit)

Communication

Call list
Conference calls
Facebook? application
Google Talk?
Polyphonic ringtones
Skype
Sony Ericsson Timescape?
Speakerphone
Twitter? (Timescape? integration)
Vibrating alert
Video chat ready

Messaging

Conversations
Email
Google Mail?
Handwriting recognition
Instant messaging
Multimedia messaging (MMS)
Predictive text input
Sound recorder
Text messaging (SMS)
Type & Send widget

Design

Auto rotation
Four-corner Home screen
Keyboard (on-screen, 12-key)
Keyboard (on-screen, QWERTY)
Live wallpaper
Picture wallpaper
Touch screen

Entertainment

3D games
Media browser
Radio (FM radio with RDS)
Video streaming
Video viewing
YouTube?

Organiser

Alarm clock
Calculator
Calendar
Document readers
Emanual
Flight mode
Google Calendar?
Google Gallery 3D?
Infinite button
Phonebook
Setup guide
Event
Timer
Widget manager

Connectivity

3.5 mm audio jack
aGPS
Bluetooth? technology
DLNA Certified?
Google Latitude?
Google Maps? for Mobile
Google Maps? with Street View
Media Transfer Protocol support
Micro USB support
Modem
Native USB tethering
Synchronisation via Facebook?
Synchronisation via Google? Sync
Synchronisation via Sony Ericsson Sync
Synchronisation with computer
Synchronisation via Microsoft? Exchange ActiveSync?
Synchronisation: Microsoft? Exchange ActiveSync? via Moxier client
USB mass storage
USB High speed 2.0 support
USB support
Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi? Hotspot functionality
Wisepilot? turn-by-turn navigation

Display

3.2 inches
16,777,216 colour TFT
480 x 320 pixels
Capacitive touchscreen (multi-touch)
Scratch-resistant

Memory

Phone memory (user-free): Up to 320MB
Memory card support: microSD?, up to 32GB

Battery life

Talk time GSM/GPRS: Up to 14 hrs 15 min*
Standby time GSM/GPRS: Up to 600 hrs*

Talk time UMTS: Up to 6 hrs 42 min*
Standby time UMTS: Up to 850 hrs*

Music listening time: Up to 17 hrs 30 min
Video listening time: Up to 6 hrs 30 min

*According to GSM Association Battery Life Measurement Technique. Battery performance may vary depending on network conditions and configurations, and phone usage.

Networks

UMTS HSPA 850 (Band V), 1900 (Band II), 2100 (Band I)
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900

UMTS HSPA 900 (Band VIII), 2100 (Band I)
GSM GPRS/EDGE 850, 900, 1800, 1900

In the kit

Sony Ericsson Live with Walkman?
1200 mAh battery
stereo headset
2GB microSD? memory card
Charger
micro USB cable for charging
synchronisation and file transfer
user documentation

View the original article here

Thrustmaster unveils Ferrari F458 racing wheel and TH8 RS shifter, dares you to get fast and furious

Thrustmaster announces the first ever racing wheel officially licensed by Ferrari & Microsoft Xbox 360

New York, August 18th, 2011 - Xbox 360? paddocks clear the way for a sweeping arrival – Thrustmaster, the innovative PC and console accessory brand, today announces the launch of the Ferrari 458 Italia Racing Wheel for Xbox 360. While this new release doesn't feature dual carburettors or overhead camshafts, it does boast two official licenses from Ferrari and Xbox 360 – an exclusive worldwide collaboration. A replica of the Forza Motorsport 4 hero vehicle, the official F458 Italia, this racing wheel provides the ideal combination to enjoy a truly immersive gaming experience – a must-have for true racing enthusiasts!

The outcome of a specific development process:
A new competitor on the crowded Xbox 360 track which offers an increasing number of quality racing games, the Thrustmaster crew is well-equipped with expertise and leadership in the field of racing wheels. To reach the pole position, a specific development process was initiated in close collaboration with Ferrari. The Maranello engineers' latest flagship, the Ferrari 458 Italia, was chosen as a basis for the creation of this replica racing wheel – a logical choice indeed owing to this unique car's design and character, on par with the Xbox 360's specifications.

On one side, the Ferrari 458 Italia features an exclusive racing wheel with a large number of controls, while on the other, an Xbox 360 controller requires controls that are specific to this console. The Ferrari 458 Racing Wheel for Xbox 360 by Thrustmaster embodies the symbiosis of these two components, combining truly unique design with exceptional ergonomics. The different action buttons and controls are within easy reach of the user's fingers – making it simple to customize settings while racing, or access the Xbox 360 interface. Most importantly, this lets gamers get comfortable with the controller incredibly quickly, and focus on immersing themselves in the total excitement of racing.

Aggressive and complete:
The racing wheel's 11 inch diameter wheel and rubber-textured grip will enable drivers to improve their best lap times consistently, with optimum comfort. Gears are shifted up and down using the wheel's built-in metal gear shifters. Unrivalled realism and detail are supported by the presence of a "Manettino?" dial enabling users to modify certain in-race settings (such as changing player views in Forza Motorsport? 4).

Extensive equipment is available out of the box with 8 action buttons, an Engine Start D-pad, an Xbox 360 Guide button and a connector for the Xbox 360 headset and microphone. Under the bonnet dwells a "Bungee Cord" automatic centring system offering progressive resistance over a 270-degree angle, for a more immersive racing experience. The pedal base has not been neglected; it features a wide footrest, a long-stroke accelerator pedal and a resistant brake pedal, for more precision.

The Ferrari 458 Italia Racing Wheel for Xbox 360 is designed to help you cross the finishing line before the competition does – its V8 is its price tag is every bit as aggressive as its looks!

The Ferrari 458 Italia Racing Wheel for Xbox360 will be available in October at a suggested retail price of $89.99.

Thrustmaster announces the TH8 RS: a fully-adjustable gear shifter with superior realism

New York, August 18, 2011 - Ready to meet the expectations of racing fans everywhere,
Thrustmaster is launching the TH8 RS – a high-end, stand-alone, versatile gearbox. The device's two
configurations – H-pattern and sequential – enable drivers to select their favorite driving style.

Realism and versatility:
Most sim racers cannot imagine shifting speeds without the use of a dedicated gearbox. With the TH8 RS, featuring unrivalled technical innovations supported by pending patent applications, Thrustmaster now offers a device that is realistic enough to satisfy even the most demanding drivers.

At first glance, the TH8 RS looks ready to be fitted to a real car. It features a 5.12" tall stick with a removable knob; the stick is also compatible with real, universal gear shift knobs. The TH8 RS includes two interchangeable shift plates, each suited to a specific configuration – ―H-
pattern‖ (7 gears plus 1 reverse gear) and ―Sequential‖ (pull the lever towards the ―+‖ mark to gear up, and push it towards the ―–‖ mark to shift down).

Total adjustability:
To allow users to freely adjust the TH8 RS to their convenience, the position and the rotation angles of the shift plate and clamping system can be adjusted by 360 degrees. The removable clamping system, optimized for any type of support, is also open to customization: it is suited to both table tops and shelves up to 55 mm thick and cockpits alike (built-in ―screw threads‖ are located under the TH8 RS). Gear strokes can also be adjusted via a downloadable PC application and the device's internal memory. The gear shifter's resistance is also fully adjustable.

Superior materials and technologies:
The internal mechanism, the lever, the outer housing and the clamping system are 100% metal. This robust design significantly contributes to the extremely realistic in-game experience delivered by the TH8 RS.

Thrustmaster has designed the TH8 RS with unrivalled precision, by including H.E.A.R.T (Hall Effect AccuRate Technology?) technology featuring magnetic sensors. Avoiding usage of potentiometers or tact switches eliminates wear due to contact, thus delivering an unlimited product lifespan. In addition, the firmware can be upgraded to offer all foreseeable evolutions, assuring users that the TH8 RS is here to make a lasting impression.

The TH8 RS with USB connectivity is compatible with the T500 RS racing wheel on PlayStation?3 (a list of compatible games is available on the Thrustmaster support website) and with all currently available racing wheels for PC.

The TH8 RS will be available in October at the suggested retail price of $179.99.

View the original article here