I’ll cut through the hype and say at the outset that a wireless video transmitter isn’t something everybody needs — if your set-top box or Blu-ray player is on a shelf next to the HDTV, running a short HDMI cable takes care of it. But there are specific situations when a wireless transmitter is the way to go — for example, you have a Blu-ray player in the bedroom and want to watch movies or streaming video from it on the bigger TV in the living room. Or you don’t want to run wiring from your home theater components at one end of the room across the floor to the front projector or HDTV at the other end.

Since the video transmitters on the market vary in price and functionality, as opposed to the technology which primarily features a 5 GHz signal for stability and distance, the decision you’ll need to make is whether the transmitter can do 1080p Full HD video and surround audio (should you have 3D-capabilities, you’ll also want it to be 3D compatible). But what about needing more than one device to be transmitting wirelessly?

Enter Belkin’s ScreenCast AV 4. Physically it’s just a transmitter box and a receiver box — but the “4” stands for the total of devices it can accept A/V signals from. So if you want the capabilities to switch between transmitting video from a Blu-ray player AND a game console and a set-top box (etc.) without having to pull out and insert cables every time, this is your new option.

The transmitter is about the size of two paperback books placed side-by-side, with the receiver even smaller. Both have a slightly raised antenna panel on the top and for cooling there’s slots on the bottom (a good suggestion is to always allow for air circulation around any electronic device, of which these two are no exception). The power button on both transmitter and receiver should be turned on and left on — no reason not to — and the addition of a USB port on their back for future updates is a nice touch.

Belkin touts the simplicity of using their ScreenCast, so I’ll give it a go. In the bedroom, I connect my Xbox 360’s HDMI cable (used for watching streaming movies and playing games) to input 1 on the transmitter’s back. I follow this with the output from my Dish Network satellite receiver, going into the transmitter’s input #2. The transmitter goes on the corner of the TV stand and I connect the power for it. You’ll notice that I’ve made no changes to the setup systems on either of the two devices — I’m expecting the A/V of each to make its way through the transmitter with the same results as if they were still plugged into the HDTV: being 1080p high-def resolution of the video and 5.1 surround audio.

The only real effort is to connect the included IR (infrared) cable to the transmitter’s IR socket. I line up one of the 4 bulb-tipped ends in front of each of the device’s IR panels (rather than just placing them in front to “strike” the panels, I secure each with a piece of cellophane tape). And since I can run 3D films on my PlayStation 3, and the ScreenCast includes that in its specs, I’ll connect this game console to input #3 — keeping in mind that its Bluetooth remote reception won’t work with one of the IR cables.

Setting up the receiver is similar to that of the transmitter — actually it’s even easier. I place it next to my front projector’s switcher in the living room, plug one end of a HDMI cable into the output socket and then swap the other end for the input on the amplifier that works as both a switcher for the projector as well as providing the audio through a 7:1 channel speaker setup. The transmitter’s power plug then goes into an AC outlet.

Now you might have noticed that I didn’t have to worry about there being line-of-sight between the transmitter and receiver. That’s because the wireless signal works through walls and can connect up to 100 feet away (I’m less than 90 feet in distance here). Also, I didn’t need to press the syncing buttons on the back of the transmitter/receiver because they’re already paired. And there’s no channel switching or other technical things to worry about.

There’s a manual “Source” button on the receiver for switching between the devices playing, but you’ll find using the credit card-sized remote, as I did, more useful for this. For controlling the devices from a distance, just aim its remote control at the receiver so that the IR signal can be transmitted back to the transmitter and outputted through the IR cable (the solid blue light on the receiver will flash when a remote’s signal is entered). The ScreenCast remote is pretty simple too: Up/Down arrows for cycling through the outputs, with an onscreen confirmation, and an “OK” button. The remote will be used with the receiver when it has first been turned on to cycle through a short setup.

So here we go. I turn on the amplifier and fire up the projector. As soon as the light hits full illumination (2 minutes), I press the StreamCast remote to bring up its menu. The only thing I want to do with it is select names for the inputs from the pre-formatted list so I don’t have to rely on memory as to which input is connected to what. Once done, I select the Xbox’s input and then aim the Xbox remote at the receiver, punch “On” and there in all its glory is Microsoft’s baby. I cycle through to the Netflix app and run through a few scenes of films and TV episodes I’m familiar with. Predictably, the image looks good and if there’s any lag in the transmission from the Xbox to what the projector’s outputting, I can’t see it.

Switching to the Dish receiver (first using the StreamCast remote and then the Dish remote), I play some movies from HBO and even though the TV signal is a compressed one, the video displayed on the projection screen is free of artifact and “noise” — it doesn’t look any better than what I’m used to, but it certainly doesn’t look any worse. I also go into some of the Dish’s static menus to check out whether the text is breaking up — it isn’t. So for all practical purposes, it’s like I have the Dish hooked up directly to the projector. And the audio is no less dynamic or multi-channel than it would be in the bedroom.

Now I don’t want you to think that I’m just sitting on the couch for all of this. During the transmission tests I’ve kept my wireless network on to see if that would interfere with the signal — some 6 hours of testing while streaming through he wireless network didn’t seem to faze the StreamCast any. Nor did turning on the microwave do anything either. Finally, I walked around the living room having a conversation on my cell phone and the cellular signal didn’t seem to have any impact on the StreamCast or vise versa. So okay, after an hour of walking, I did sit back down — sue me.

The last test was to switch to the PS3. I ran the 2D version of Iron Man and, as expected, it looked great on the projection screen. I then ejected the disc from the PS3 and replaced it with the 3D version and, other than the fact that the image was now in 3D and I had to put on 3D glasses, there was no difference in the image being presented. This was also the case when I ran a few other 3D discs that I had 2D versions of. The end result is that the StreamCast handled 3D transmissions with no more difficulty than it did 2D.

Editor’s Rating:

4.5 out of 5 stars

Excellent

Bottom Line: At a price point of $249, the StreamCast is a good choice for those who find wiring their components distasteful, difficult or impractical (a display in the basement needing the set-top box from upstairs comes to mind). Technophobes will find the StreamCast no more complicated to set up and use than that of a DVD or Blu-ray player — and yes you can connect other types of video creating devices to the StreamCast too, providing the PC or tablet or smartphone can output a HDMI-compatible signal to connect to one of the StreamCast’s inputs. Add the StreamCast’s dependability and its being able to connect to multiple HD devices, and you’ve got just so much icing added to one tasty cake.

Pros

• Multiple A/V inputs
• Option for additional transmitters/receivers
• Wall mount kit for receiver included

Cons

• Switching between inputs can take up to 20 seconds
• No paper-based manual
• Credit card-sized remote is easily lost

HP has some great savings in store, this time on their own Pavilion g6x series laptop! This base configuration model comes in at just $449.99 but manages to pack in the features and power you need to handle most applications on the go. It has a 15.6-Inch display with a 720p HD resolution for viewing all content as well. And it powered by a speedy Intel Core i3 processor which supplies a frequency of 2.2Ghz as well as 4GBs of DDR3 memory. It includes a large 500GB hard drive and even Intel HD 3000 graphics which makes HD video playback a breeze for this machine. You can also enjoy a built-in HD webcam and microphone as well as integration with Wireless b/g/n.

The base configuration, while still powerful is priced at only $449.99 with free shipping!

Understandably a DSLR ain’t your bag.  While they offer a myriad of options, controls and features, they often prove too daunting for the average photo enthusiast to tolerate.  Olympus’ newest digital camera, the SZ-31MR iHS, eschews just that.

In the image capture department the SZ-31MR appears to be somewhat of a power  house, capable of capturing 16 megapixel photos and full HD video simultaneously (or separately).  Zooming in on far objects most certainly won’t be a hurdle, as it boasts a 24x optical zoom, that Olympus says “double zoom magnification without sacrificing image quality” thanks to the “the camera’s 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor and two separate TruePic V image processors,” which mind you were originally developed for DSLR cameras. Up to 10 frames per second can be captured, which should come out blur free thanks to not only the SZ-31MR’s fast response time but dual image stabilization and high-speed autofocus.  Olympus has also included something called Multi Motion Movie IS for shake free video capture.  All of the above options can be controlled with the camera’s 3-inch touchscreen with a 920k dot resolution.  Last, but not least there is a mini-HDMI port for piping home movies and photos in full HD to your big screen when you “return from your adventure.”

The Olympus SZ-31MR iHS digital camera will in Black of Silver this April for $399.99.

Today, Nikon announced the successor to the COOLPIX 300, the COOLPIX 310.  It’s a compact point and shoot camera that purportedly can deliver SLR like shots in a compact form factor.

Under the proverbial hood is a 16.1-megapixel sensor and a lens that offers the same fast maximum aperture of f/1.8 as found in the 300.  To ensure a blur free image, Nikon’s has also folded in their lens-shift vibration reduction, which they say is the equivalent to a four step increase in shutter speed, all presumably without the reduction in image quality.

The COOLPIX 310 also offers a variety of shooting and scene modes.  Thanks to the  backside illumination CMOS sensor, the 310 is able to utilizes automatic image overlay technology, which can be applied to shots taken in low light and effectively reduce image noise (these are active when Night Portrait, Backlighting, and Night Landscape scene modes are selected).  This is all in addition to Picture Control, which can be used to adjust the vividness of colors or degree of sharpening applied to images prior to shooting, the ability to capture full HD video and a 4.2x optical zoom.   And to round out the feature set, the rear of the COOLPIX 310 boasts a 3-inch  921k-dot TFT LCD with a wide viewing angle.

The COOLPIX 310 will hit store shelves in black this February for $330.

Looking for some portable power and reliability? Look no further than this Asus laptop which is provided at a stunning price straight from Amazon! This 15.6-Inch form factor laptop has all the speed and storage you need to handle the toughest applications on the go while weighing only 5lbs. This notebook is powered by a super fast Intel Core i3-2350M 2.3Ghz processor along with 4GBs of RAM, and that’s with 500GBs of storage coming along for the ride. It’s also got a built in Dual Layer DVD Burner, 0.2MP Webcam with Microphone, 802.11BGN connectivity and HDMI connectivity.

Make sure you select Amazon as a retailer and you’ll get this computer for $579.99

Pull a gnarly trick on the slopes and you’ll probably regret not having a camera running to record your performance.   That’s where Liquid Image steps in, who has been producing goggles for all types of terrain, even Scuba diving and snorkeling, for sometime now.  At CES 2012 the company added their product line up and introduced Apex HD snow goggles, which boast built-in WiFi and a full HD camera.

Now, to be clear we’ve seen the same camera on their Impact Series cameras.  It’s capable of capturing full HD video at 30 fps, 720p video at 60fps for those who don’t want to miss a frame of action as well as a 12-megapixel shooter.  Now, from what we’ve understood, before this iteration, controlling the built-in camera required skiers to fumble around with a set of buttons directly on the mask.  Hardly ideal when you’re all suited up and ready to go.

As a result, Liquid Image has now outfitted their goggles with built-in WiFi, allowing you to administer settings as well as obtain a live preview of the camera directly on your smartphone.  Alternatively, a fellow skier could follow and change the settings, increasing the frame rate or activating the continuous still shooting mode.  For those without a compatible smartphone there will also be an available remote, though no preview from our understanding.  Last, but not least, the camera’s angle will be adjustable by tightening and loosening a hidden screw in the frame of the mask.  Like previous Liquid Image masks, video and photos are recorded to a microSD card slot and can be uploaded via a USB connection to a computer at a later time.

The APEX HD will be available October, though another version, not designed for the slopes will arrive June.  Expect them to start at about $300.

While not the most well known of TV brands, the deal features from PC Connection Express is definitely not one to miss, as for a limited time you can grab this Westinghouse at 42-Inches for just $481 and some change. This TV features LED lighting within its LCD design and because of that you get superior saving of space and energy. It’s also housed in a slick black cabinet design and sports a full 1080p High Definition resolution for picture quality that more than matches its looks. It’s also designed to provide some excellent sound, and when coupled with its 16.7 million displayable colors and large 100,000: Dynamic Contrast ratio this TV can easily be used for everything from nightly movie watching to intense gaming. Toss in the fact it’s got several HD inputs ranging from 2 HDMI to Component HD and VGA connectivity for PCs and you have a great TV for connectivity all around.

Get this TV for just $481.64.  S&H should be free

PC Connection Express is offering a great deal for this Asus 23-Inch ML239H Widescreen LCD Monitor in Black!

It’s very like you have considered or of course even have graced your living room with an HDTV of some sort. So why not give your own PC the same attention? Thanks to this new discount offer that can be accomplished without setting you back too much and it’s in the form of this large 23-Inch Asus LCD display. This display features a full 1080p (1920 by 1080) High Definition resolution which gives you the ability to seamlessly view HD content while also providing plenty of space to multitask. IPS panel technology gives you the most realistic picture quality around and also boasts an impressive 178 degree viewing angle so you can even see it from across the room. It offers connectivity with VGA, DVI and HDMI.

After a $20 Rebate this monitor is only $162.99 With free shipping!

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T110 is a very powerful compact (3.5 by 2 by 0.6-inch) camera. I have not owned a point and shoot in some years and was impressed by the versatility of this nearly palm sized device. However, it also became apparent that the diminutive size might be better suited for people with much smaller hands than mine. I found myself fumbling with it while turning it over and trying to search through the menu. Regardless, the T110 comes packed with quality, including a 16.1MP CCD sensor, a 25-100mm wide-angle lens, a 3.0” touch screen panel and 720p HD videos. This feature rich camera is actually the less expensive of Sony’s point and shoot offerings.

A Sweet Design

This sleek Cyber-shot comes in silver, black, red, pink and violet. I reviewed the violet option, which would not be my color choice but was nonetheless an attractive look. Its curved corners and finely contoured design makes it a visually appealing and modern camera. Three of the four buttons along the top sit flush with the surface, with the zoom toggle only sticking up a bit from the curve of the camera. Aside from the zoom and shutter button there is also an on/off button and a forward arrow button that serves several purposes, including turning the camera on and switching from shooting mode to image review mode. Three-quarters of the front features a reflective casing that you can quickly and easily slide down to turn on the camera and reveal the lens. However, I wonder how long that panel will last with repeated up and down sliding.

Nearly the entire button-less back of the T110 is the 3.0” Clear Photo LCD touch screen. The screen sits behind a glass pane with a black border around it, creating a nifty display depth illusion. However, keep in mind that only 2.5” of the screen is used for the image capture space, which may not be large enough for some. The screen offers an average 230k-dot resolution with a different aspect ratio (16:9) than the Cyber-shot’s sensor (4:3). This reality coupled with the shrunken 2.5” display screen means the images are a tad squashed in viewing mode.

Build Quality

As previously mentioned, this camera is very small and at 4.3 ounces was barely noticeable in my pocket. It also seems to be built for compactness and style, not durability. Within three days of receiving the camera there was already a scratch on the touch screen. I would not be a happy paying customer, especially considering how vital the screen is to the camera’s functionality. I could not put the camera through drop testing but the outer casing does look sturdy enough to withstand at least a few drops. However, the touch screen’s durability is suspect. For instance, how would the screen handle being smacked against a hard surface or worse, which is bound to happen?

Menu UI

In comparison to the latest touch screen phones, the DSC-T110 is worlds apart, but in camera land it holds its own, and then some. The screen responded quickly to my touch, although there can be a split second delay when switching between screens. The UI is intuitive; with the big screen icons lined up along the right and left side of the screen. There is a detailed help section that outlines every feature of the camera and each screen has a question mark icon you can click on to reveal brief related descriptions. However, switching between shooting modes is not the most efficient, as it takes more time than I would like when needing to quickly shoot something.

Shooting Options and Features

There are five shooting modes: the default Intelligent Auto, Sweep Panorama, Movie Mode, Program Auto, which allows you to tinker with the settings during shooting and Scene Selection, which has 13 different scene options. The average user will likely stick with Auto mode for most still images, but may use some of the scene options for various situations, such as Soft Skin, Landscape, Twilight, Pet, Beach or Hi-Speed Shutter. The Sweep Panorama is a nice feature that does not require a perfectly steady hand to produce non-blurry images. This shooting mode has both standard and wide options up to 248 degrees. Choose the direction you want to take the panorama and then push and hold down the shutter button until you have swept the entire length of the shot, which is indicated with arrows on the screen.

If you need to take multiple pictures quickly then use the Burst feature, which allows up to three successive shots without the flash. There is also a useful Face Detection feature that when left to auto will find the face in the photo. This feature also has a child or adult priority option, or you can switch it to only happen when you touch the screen. In Auto shooting mode, you can always touch the screen to focus on a certain area of the shot.

Camera Lens

While the Carl Zeiss Vario-Tessar 4x optical zoom lens takes quality pictures, there are other point and shoot cameras on the market with a bit wider zooms. The f3.5-6.3 aperture lens is decent but not top of the line for a shooter. Low light conditions will not produce the highest quality shots with this camera either.

Battery Life and Memory Card Compatibility

The battery life hovered around two hours for continuous use. However, if you are going to be using the camera sporadically the battery will likely last days or weeks. A full battery charge took about four hours. Also, be careful not to force the battery into the slot or you might break the plastic latch that holds it in place. For still images the camera takes Memory Stick Duo, SD, SDHC and SDXC. The Memory Stick PRO Duo can be used for movies.

Performance

From power up to shooting a photo the T110 takes around 3 seconds, a tad too slow for my taste. Even worse, the time between each shot is a long 3 seconds plus, with the photo barely flashing on the screen and leaving no time to look at it. The shutter lag is a not so inspiring 0.6 seconds.

Photos are generally very crisp, even applying the 4x zoom. The built in image stabilization gyro sensor certainly helps to avoid blurry images as well. However, as mentioned before, low light, specifically indoors at night is not the best situation for producing good images. The flash does help in these situations but it is not powerful enough to light up more than what the camera is focusing on. See the sample images below shot in a variety of modes and situations.

The hi-def 720p30 video shot by the T110 looks amazing for such a small point-and-shoot camera. You can zoom in silently while recording, which is a rarity among these types of pocket cameras. Videos are .MOV files that can be easily posted online or edited in your favorite video editor.

Connectivity

Connectivity stinks for this Sony Cyber-shot due to its proprietary port and cable. There are no mini-USB or HDMI ports, which come standard on many of today’s digital cameras. However, you can put your chosen memory card into a card reader, or connect the USB end of the Sony cable into your computer for uploading.

Conclusion

There are few touch screen shooters that have as many features for such a low price. It’s the ideal camera for a family vacation, quick photos while on the go or even short videos. For aesthetics, simplicity, variety and day-to-day use you can’t beat this nifty point-and-shoot camera.

Bottom Line: Connectivity issues, low light situations and slower shooting times withstanding, this camera produces impressive images and will serve you well for years to come.

Editor’s Rating:

4 out of 5 stars

Great

Pros:

• Very stylish and compact with multiple camera color options
• Takes sharp images, even using the 4x zoom
• HD videos are impressive, especially using the zoom feature while recording
• Simple and functional user interface with receptive touch screen

Cons:

• Poor low light shooting
• Takes too much time between each photo
• Connectivity choices are dismal

Ready to take on the film industry? Then you’ll probably want one of these: the Canon C300 Cinema camera.  The price tag isn’t for the faint of heart as it costs about $20,000.  And keep dreaming if you think that includes a lens.  Nevertheless, it’s an ultrapowerful camera and all things relative it really is an affordable solution for any aspiring auteur who wants to produce a professional work of moving pictures.

Yes, it achieves full HD video, but that’s just for starters.  Behind the lens is a Super 35mm CMOS sensor that can deliver up to 4K resolution.  That means it won’t look all grainy when your feature film hits your local cinema or that overly large big screen.  A variety of lens mount options are at your disposable, but by default it will only include one.

In terms of size the Canon C300 measures 5.2 (w) x 7.0 (h) x 6.7 (d) inches, so it’s nimble, especially when positioned against other Hollywood cinema cameras.  Add Canon’s WFT-E6B wireless file transmitter  and the C300 can be controlled remotely using just an iPhone or tablet device.

Unfortunately, for adrenaline junkies the frame rate caps at 60fps.  So no ultra slow motion, but come on, at $20k did you expect much more?

The Canon C300 can be purchased March 2012.

A Star Is Born: Canon Launches New Digital Cinema Camera For High-Resolution Motion Picture Production

HOLLYWOOD, California, November 3, 2011/TOKYO, November 4, 2011 – Canon Inc. and Canon U.S.A., Inc. today raised the curtain on an all-new interchangeable-lens digital cinema camera that combines exceptional imaging performance with outstanding mobility and expandability to meet the demanding production needs of today’s motion picture industry. The camera, which features a newly developed Super 35 mm-equivalent approximately 8.29-megapixel CMOS sensor, will be available in two models: the EOS C300 Digital Cinema Camera*, equipped with an EF lens mount for compatibility with Canon’s current diverse lineup of interchangeable EF lenses for EOS single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras and new EF Cinema Lens lineup; and the EOS C300 PL Digital Cinema Camera*, with a PL lens mount for use with industry-standard PL lenses.

The introduction of the EOS C300/C300 PL coincides with the launch of the Cinema EOS System, marking Canon’s full-fledged entry into the digital high-resolution production industry. The new professional digital cinematography system spans the lens, digital cinema camera and digital SLR camera product categories.

Star-Studded Supporting Cast
Equipped with an EF lens mount, the EOS C300 is supported by an all-star cast of high-performance EF lenses, not only the wide array of interchangeable EF lenses for EOS SLR cameras that have earned the trust and respect of photographers around the world, but also the EF cinema lenses in the newly announced Cinema EOS System. When outfitted with a Canon EF lens, the C300′s peripheral illumination correction automatically corrects for vignetting in accordance with each lens’s optical characteristics, and enables iris control from the camera. Canon EF lenses also enable the recording of such metadata as the name of the lens used, aperture setting and shutter speed.i

Show-Stopping High-Resolution Full-HD Performance
The Canon EOS C300/C300 PL’s newly developed Super 35 mm-equivalent CMOS sensor incorporates approximately 8.29 million effective pixels and has a pixel size that is larger than that for conventional professional camcorders, enabling greater light-gathering capabilities for enhanced sensitivity and reduced noise. The sensor reads Full HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) video signals for each of the three RGB primary colors, decreasing the incidence of moiré while realizing high resolution with 1,000 horizontal TV lines.

Supported by a heightened signal read-out speed, the CMOS sensor reduces rolling shutter skews, a phenomenon prevalent with CMOS sensors in which fast-moving subjects may appear diagonally distorted. Additionally, the powerful combination of the sensor with Canon’s high-performance DIGIC DV III image processor facilitates high-precision gamma processing and smooth gradation expression.

In addition to MPEG-2 Full HD (MPEG2 422@HL compliant) compression, the EOS C300/C300 PL employs 4:2:2 color sampling for high-resolution performance that minimizes the appearance of “jaggies” at chroma edges. Additionally, with a maximum recording rate of 50 Mbps, the camera supports the recording of high-quality video.

The camera’s video and audio recording file format adopts the industry-standard MXF (Material eXchange Format), an open source file format ideally suited for non-linear editing systems. Recording to versatile, readily available CF cards, the EOS C300/C300 PL realizes high cost-performance and, equipped with two CF card slots, makes possible the simultaneous recording of video data to two CF cards.

Ready for Action
With a compact body design measuring 5.2 (w) x 7.0 (h) x 6.7 (d) inches, the Canon EOS C300/C300 PL delivers exceptional maneuverability, enabling shooting from vantage points all but inaccessible to large cinema cameras, such as close to the ground for high-impact low-angle shots, and alongside walls. In accordance with on-location shooting needs, the camera can be outfitted with a handle, grip, thumb rest and monitor unit, and offers an array of industry-standard terminals, including HD/SD-SDI video output for the external recording of high-quality video content. When using a WFT-E6B wireless file transmitter for EOS digital SLR cameras (sold separately), the EOS C300/C300 PL can be controlled remotely by means of such common devices as smartphones or tablet PCs.

The camera is equipped with four start/stop buttons positioned at various locations to satisfy any preferred camera-holding style, and can be outfitted with a variety of third-party accessories, including matte boxes, follow focuses and external video and audio recorders. The unit also achieves seamless integration with third-party editing systems and provides added peace of mind through its dust-proof, drip-proof construction and built-in cooling system.

The new camera allows users to adjust image quality to match that of professional camcorders and EOS-series digital SLR cameras, and offers Canon Log Gamma, enabling flat image quality with subdued contrast and sharpness for maximum freedom in post-production editing and processing. In addition to frame rates of 59.41i, 50.00i, 29.97P, 25.00P and 23.98P, the EOS C300/C300 PL features a 24.00p mode, matching the 24 frame-per-second frame rate of film cameras for high compatibility with common film-production workflows.

Other features include fast-motion shooting, achieved by capturing fewer frames per second to create action up to 60x normal speed, and slow-motion down to 1/2.5xii made possible by capturing more frames per second. Frame rates between 1 and 60 frames per second (fps)iii can be adjusted in increments of 1 fps. Additionally, a selection of Custom Pictures lets users freely adjust image quality for greater control over how content looks.

Pricing and availability
The Canon EOS C300 (EF mount) digital cinema camera is scheduled to be available in late January 2012 for an estimated list price of $20,000. The Canon EOS C300 PL (PL mount) digital cinema camera is scheduled to be available in late March 2012 for an estimated list price of $20,000.

For more information and to view online demonstration footage of the new products please visit: www.canoncinemaeos.com

About Canon Inc.
Canon Inc. (NYSE: CAJ), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a leader in the fields of professional and consumer imaging equipment and information systems. Canon’s extensive range of products includes copying machines, inkjet and laser printers, cameras, video equipment, medical equipment and semiconductor-manufacturing equipment. Originally established in 1937 as Precision Optical Industry, Co., Ltd., a camera manufacturer, Canon has successfully diversified and globalized to become a worldwide industry leader in professional and consumer imaging systems and solutions. With over 195,000 employees worldwide, Canon has manufacturing and marketing subsidiaries in Japan, the Americas, Europe, Asia and Oceania; and a global R&D network with companies based in the United States, Europe, Asia and Australia. Canon’s consolidated net sales for fiscal 2010 (ended December 31, 2010) totalled $45.8 billion (at an exchange rate of ¥81 = US$1). Visit the Canon Inc. website at: www.canon.com

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc., is a leading provider of consumer, business-to-business, and industrial digital imaging solutions. With more than $45 billion in global revenue, its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), ranks fourth overall in patent holdings in the U.S. in 2010†, and is one of Fortune Magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2011. Canon U.S.A. is committed to the highest levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty, providing 100 percent U.S.-based consumer service and support for all of the products it distributes. Canon U.S.A. is dedicated to its Kyosei philosophy of social and environmental responsibility. To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/rss.

Earlier this year Cisco killed the Flip.  After all, all it could do was record HD video, and not any better than a smartphone.  So it’s relatively safe to assume that category of device is all together extinct, right?  Wrong.  Today, 3M released the CP45.

This pocket friendly device combines an HD camcorder and a projector in one.  It can record up to 720p HD video, 5 megapixel still photos and includes an LED flash for night time shots.  Built-in memory caps at 2GB but that can be increased by adding a microSD card slot.  In addition to a 2.4-inch LCD screen, it can project an 800×600 image ranging from 10-inch to 65-inches in size on any surface with a brightness of 20 lumens. So it ain’t ultra bright, but should suffice for showing off pics or video, provided of course you’ve got a dark room.  Unfortunately, battery life (it’s rechargeable) is rather limited, allowing you to project images up to 100 minutes, which doesn’t account for video recording or photo capturing.

The 3M CP45 is available now for $299.  Of note, you can buy Nikon’s S1100 for about $200.

In addition to adding HBO Go to their list of channels, Roku today introduced the Roku LT. The LT might as well refers to light, as in a light price since it only costs $49.99, $10 cheaper than the model up. But all things relative (to other Roku players) you get what you pay for. This box caps streams at 720p, while their other higher end versions (XD and XS) can perform 1080p. However, they have still managed to squeeze in WiFi, an HDMI port and VGA connectivity for those still using a non-HD television.

The Roku LT will ship sometime this November and you’ll be able to grab it from Amazon and other major retailers.

On another note, we should point out that the LT can stream from sites such as Hulu, Netflix, Pandora, Rdio, Cnet, Flickr and whole bunch more – 320 channels to be exact. It’s $10 cheaper than the Roku 2 HD, and from where we sit the only difference seems to be that the LT can’t play games and has a purple finish.

Holy sweet camera!  The Fujifilm should be, if it isn’t already, on your holiday shopping short list.  Just before the weekend the camera maker said that it will ship sometime in early November and cost you $599.99.  A tad pricey if you’re in the market for a simple point and shot, but the X10 is much more than that.

This camera has a new larger 2/3″ 12 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor and a bright high-definition F2.0 wide-angle to F2.8 telephoto 4x manual zoom lens.  A 2.8-inch LCD sits on it’s back and the camera itself is crafted from die-cast magnesium alloy, making it strong enough to survive even the most heavy handed of users.  It can of course capture full HD video and produce professional like shots.  And, if you were wondering, there is a pop up flash.

In early September we wrote a semi lengthy piece detailing the X10′s abilities so head there for the full scoop.

FUJIFILM ANNOUNCES PRICING AND AVAILABILITY FOR THE NEW PREMIUM COMPACT FUJIFILM X10 DIGITAL CAMERA

Valhalla, N.Y., October 7, 2011 – FUJIFILM North America Corporation said today that the all new premium compact FUJIFILM X10 digital camera first announced on September 1, 2011, will have a retail price of $599.95 and will be available in early November.

Building on the tremendous success of the sophisticated FUJIFILM X100 digital camera, the new premium compact FUJIFILM X10 is the latest addition to the growing FUJIFILM X-series of advanced digital cameras.

The FUJIFILM X10 features a new larger 2/3″ 12 megapixel EXR CMOS sensor and a bright high-definition FUJINON1 F2.0 wide-angle to F2.8 telephoto 4x manual zoom lens (28-112mm)2 that produces superb image quality from edge to edge. The FUJIFILM X10 has a beautiful blackout and retro design that includes a traditional optical viewfinder with a wide 20° field of view for exceptional image composition. For more information, go to http://fujifilm-x.com/x10/en/.

The FUJIFILM X10 will be on display and available for all to see at the upcoming PhotoPlus Expo at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City on October 27 through Saturday October 29.

JVC’s newest camera, the GC-PX10 (here’s the older version, the GC-PX1), can capture 12 megapixel photos, full HD video and up to 60 shots per second.

The physical bulk of this camera is derived from its over sized lens – take a look at the backing and you’ll notice how slim it is.  Under the hood is the FALCONBRID high speed image sensor, which was first seen in the GS-TD1, JVC’s first full 3D HD camcorder.  On top of 12 megapixel photos at a 6400 ISO, it can capture 8.3 megapixel shots while recording full 1080 vide0, and snag slow-mo video at 300fps, provided you’re willing to deal with VGA resolution.

Other features include a 10x optical zoom, a Konica Minolta HD lens, a mode dial for automatic and manual settings, microphone output and a headphone input.  They’ve also packed in a tiltable 3-inch touchscreen LCD, HDMI output and 32GB of storage (expandable by SD card slot).

The JGV GC-PX10 will go on sales this month for $899.95.

These days, every point and shoot camera can capture half way decent video. However, nothing compares to a stand alone, prosumer level handycam such as Sony’s NEX-VG20. This camcorder is a powerhouse thanks a sensor on steroids and interchangeable lens mount system.

The NEX-VG20 can capture full HD video at up to 24mbps in the AVCHD 2.0 codec, which makes it instantly Blu-ray compatible right out of the camera.

Sony has used the same sensor found in their DSLRs.  It’s 19.5 times larger than most camcorders and will allow you to create professional looking videos.  But that’s just half the optic battle; you’ll need to invest in a decent piece of “glass”.  And by glass we mean lenses.

The NEX-VG20 is compatible with Sony’s E-mount series of smaller, lighter lenses which are optimized for video shooting with silent operation and AF as well as Sony/Minolta A-mount lenses (via optional LA-EA2 A-mount adapter).

Perched just above the lens is a Quad Capsule Spatial array stereo microphone.  It’s can create 5.1-channel surround sound, bring your home movies to a whole new level of realism.  Baby screams, the wife yelling at you and the BBQ sizzling in the background will now fire from all speakers.

Other features include a 3-inch touchscreen LCD with a 921k dot resolution, full manual control, dual accessory shoe (hot and cold), an auto HDR mode that capture high rez photos at 3 different exposure levels and produce one contrasty photo, 25-point auto focus, HDMI slot, SD card slot and optical steady shot.

The Sony NEX-VG20 interchangeable lens camcorders will be available this November.  The body only version, the NEX-VG20, will cost $1,599, where as the version that includes an SEL18200 F3.5-6.3 E-mount lens, the NEX-VG20H, will cost $2,199.

It’s probably understatement, but the pocket friendly DSLR camera landscape is heating up. Today, Nikon announced the Nikon J1 and V1, an interchangeable lens mount camera that boasts HD video capture and a super fast autofocus system that is currently unparalleled.

First, let’s get the core features out of the way. Behind the lens sits Nikon’s all new EXPEED 3 image processing engine. It can capture full HD video at 30fps or 10.1 megapixel images. For low light situations the J1 and V1 can increase their ISO to 3200, provided of course the built-in pop up flash doesn’t suffice.

So what makes the J1 and V1 unique? Aside from boasting and interchangeable lens system, they can snap up to 60 images a second if the focus is locked. That number drops to 10fps when full adaptive focus is activated, which uses up to 73-points to create a crisp image in not time flat, large in part thanks to the world’s fastest hybrid autofocus system.

There are of course your standard scene modes, and a feature called “Smart One” that snaps up to 5 images and then selects the best one based on exposure, face detection and focus.

By default the Nikon 1 series cameras can record HD movies at 30fps. However, they can also capture full motion video at 400 and 1200fps, though you’ll inevitably sacrifice picture quality.

Both cameras include a resolution 3-inch LCD, while the V1 sports an electronic viewfinder with 1.4 million dot resolution that automatically activates when the camera is raised to your face.

The Nikon J1 will go on sale on October 20th for $649.95 and will include a 10-30mm lens kit. Alternatively, for $899.95 you can pick up the Nikon V1 with a 10-30mm lens kit.

Crashing your jet ski might be a painful experience, but if you’ve got video of your mishap to show off, and perhaps make a few bucks in the process thanks to YouTube views, well, your pain might quickly subside.  Capturing all that goodness though, requires a rugged, waterproof HD camera.

The ContourROAM is Contour’s latest HD head mountable video camera.  It can capture 1080p, 960p, and 720p video at 30fps, and 5 megapixel still photos.  A 170-degree wide angle lens that can be rotated 270-degrees (think angle left, right, up, down) all but guarantees that you’ll catch your tom foolery at its best.

Inside the 5.1oz camera is a laser guide that fires a horizontal line, ensuring that you get the level shot your looking for, especially when you use the included tripod screw mount and the Contour Trail mounting system.

Chances are the ContourROAM will be mounted on your head, out of your field of view, so they’ve added an Instant On-Record Switch that powers on the camera and initiates recording.

When and if you take a dip into the drink, the ContourROAM can survive in up to 1 meter of water for 30 minutes as well as a variety of other environments thanks to the aluminum body.

The ContourROAM is available now from retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy and more for $199.99

The iPad 2 can record 720p video.  In other words hi-def.  Unlike the iPhone, though, it’s form factor doesn’t make it a practical shooter. On the other hand, editing footage on the iPad is far more suitable than the iPhone since it sports a much larger screen.  So what’s the answer?

Enter the Movie Mount for the iPad 2.  It’s a case that securely wraps the iPad 2, which supports not only 2 hot shoe mounts for adding lights, a view finder, and a shotgun microphone, but includes a mount for attaching a wide angle or telephoto lens and a tripod mount for achieving those professional shots.

The “slide on the fly” lens mechanism allows you to fast switch between lenses without having to remove them. It’s compatible with any lens that has a 37mm thread and you can purchase an adapter, though we’re not sure on compatibility.

The design of the case allows for the iPad 2 to be stood up in landscape mode without any support, though it doesn’t look like the most stable of incarnations we’ve seen.

If you plan on using an additional microphone you’ll need to invest in a y-cable, though those can be found at a Radio Shack on the cheap.  Initially, we weren’t convinced that an additional mic would be necessary, but after viewing the below product video our minds have been changed.

There are two hot shoes.  One sits on the side of the case, while the other just above the lens, allowing you to add an optical viewfinder – ideal in bright scenarios when the iPad 2′s glossy screen can’t be properly viewed.

Makayama also produces a free iPad App called Movie Mount. It adds a variety of features and options not found in Apple’s iOS camera app.  It includes a delay timer, lock exposure, lock white balance and a few other features.  It’s free in the app store.

The Movie Mount is available now for $69.95.

When it comes to Bluetooth headsets Jawbone is at the top of the game.  Their active noise cancellation tech is probably one of the best in the business and from a form factor standpoint they’re generally cutting edge.  So how does a company like that stay in the game without releasing a brand new product every year?  Simple.  You follow Apple’s model and release a slight iteration of a previous product.  We’re not complaining, though, because the ICON HD looks to be a justifiable update that gives the end user more bang for their buck.

First off, Jawbone has increased the size of the speaker by 25%, equating to better sound, though we’re not sure about volume.  They’ve also made the ICON HD compatible with PCs, allowing users to takes calls from VoIP or listen to music stored on their machine.  This is accomplished by including a mini-USB plug, something Jawbone is calling the NERD.  Thanks to multipoint technology it’s able to simultaneously pair with a smartphone and a computer, and can seamlessly switch between audio and calls.

And much like all of Jawbone’s latest headsets, the ICON HD includes their military-grade NoiseAssassin 2.5 technology to kill background noise.

Finally, they’ve included a set of controls on the headset to play and pause audio.  Jawbone’s example of this feature is pretty amusing.  It involves a barista and a podcast, but if you really want the full blown version head down below for the full press release.

The Jawbone ICON HD and NERD are available now for $139.

JAWBONE® INTRODUCES ICON HD + THE NERDTM AND COMPANION FOR ANDROID
− ICON HD + The NERD Lets You Listen to Hi-Def Audio Across Multiple Devices, Mobile & Computer, With One Headset, Wire-Free while Jawbone COMPANION for ANDROID Makes it Easy to Live Hands- Free and Stay on Top of Your Schedule, Battery Life, and Conference Calls −
SAN FRANCISCO – August 30, 2011 – Jawbone®, an innovator of products and services for the mobile lifestyle, today unveiled ICON HD + The NERD and Jawbone Companion for Android, a set of new products and updates to help people get the most out of a mobile & PC hands-free audio experience. Jawbone ICON HD is a headset that offers the richest HD audio and, with The NERD, it brings plug & play connectivity to any USB-equipped computer. Using them together, you can simultaneously connect with any two devices (laptop, phone, tablet) and seamlessly switch between audio (music, video, games, & more) and calls (mobile & VoIP). The ICON HD + The NERD bundle sells for $139. Jawbone Companion for Android is available now as a free download from the Android Market.

“Users want one headset to aggregate the music, movies, games, and other audio content found in the devices they use every day,” said Travis Bogard, vice president of product management and strategy. “Our goal at Jawbone is to design mobile products that give you ultimate wireless freedom, and thatʼs exactly what these new products deliver. ICON HD + The NERD lets you wirelessly listen to media from your Mac or PC and transition across multiple devices without skipping a beat. Jawbone Companion makes the idea of being truly hands-free a reality by automatically notifying and connecting you to meetings and calls throughout the day.”

One Headset for Everything
Jawbone ICON HD is based on the companyʼs previous award-winning ICON line, and updated with the rich HD- quality speakers that users love from the latest Jawbone ERA line of headsets. ICON HD boasts a 25% larger wideband speaker than the original ICON offering the richest, most life-like and clear sound in Hi-Definition audio as you talk on the phone, listen to music, watch movies and play games.

ICON HD also delivers on Jawboneʼs legacy of unparalleled noise-cancelling expertise with military-grade NoiseAssassin® 2.5 technology. For the first time, the headset lets you control your media playback with AVRCP play & pause, allowing you to listen to a podcast on your walk to work and pause it with the touch of a button when the barista is ready to take your morning coffee order.

“Multi-tasking is a part of everyday life,” continues Bogard. “Unfortunately, most mobile products arenʼt designed with this in mind, making transitioning from one device to the next cumbersome and a pain to manage. ICON HD + The NERD solves this problem by streamlining all of the audio from all of your devices into one wire-free headset.”

Wire-FreeTM USB Audio
The NERD is a Wire-Free USB audio adapter that makes connecting the ICON HD to any USB-equipped device as visceral as plugging in headphones, but without the mess of cords. As soon as you plug The NERD into any USB port, it will automatically register as a USB audio device and connect to your ICON HD headset so that you can listen to music, watch videos, play games or take VoIP calls – no software downloads required, no hassle of Bluetooth setup. It also allows you to adjust volume on both your headset and via the master volume control on your Mac or PC.

About half of the length of other USB adapters, The NERD has a modern design thatʼs smaller and more discreet, so it wonʼt interfere when plugged into a laptop. Itʼs compatible with both PC and Mac.

The ICON HD features the same sleek, elegant design as the original ICON headsets and is available in the Denim finish. Beginning today, the Jawbone ICON HD + The NERD bundle can be purchased on Jawbone.com for $139.00, with in-store availability coming soon.

Always Connected, Always Up to Date
As with all Jawbone products, ICON HD + The NERD can be updated via Jawboneʼs MyTALK platform, ensuring that it will become even richer over time. MyTALK offers original applications that make Jawbone ICON HD + The NERD even better, including the new Jawbone Companion application.

Jawbone Companion for Android is Jawboneʼs latest application for Android users to keep them connected to their mobile devices, completely hands-free, in situations that matter the most. The application allows Android users to view their headsetʼs remaining battery life on their phone, and dial-in to conference calls on their calendar, directly from their Jawbone headset. No more back and forth between emails to find your conference callʼs dial-in number and passcode – Jawbone Companion announces, with a whisper in your ear, when you have a scheduled call, and with the push of a button, enters all your dial-in information.

Previously, Jawbone Companion was in a limited phone Beta with interest and support from over 20,000 testers verifying phone compatibility and providing feedback. With this feedback, Jawbone has released a general available version that provides users with features they want while supporting several Android devices and more on the way. For a complete list of compatible Android devices, please go to Jawbone.com/Companion.

For more information, images and product demos on ICON HD + The NERD as well as Jawbone Companion for Android, please visit: www.Jawbone.com/Press, MyTALK.Jawbone.com, or follow @Jawbone on Twitter.

We’ve all got them: friends that destroy their consumer electronics.  Or perhaps it’s a close loved one or girlfriend.  Sorry ladies, but you have more of a tendency to destroy electronics, than guys.  Last week Nikon introduced their all new COOLPIX AW100, which they say is one of the slimmest, yet most rugged in its class.

From a ordinary standpoint the AW100 can capture 16 megapixel photos, has a 3200 ISO for semi-low light situations and can capture full HD video, as in 1080.  But what really makes the AW100 the powerhouse that it is, is its ability to withstand the elements, and by elements we mean anything you or your drunk friends can throw at it.  Okay, so throwing might not be the best idea, but it can survive a 5-foot drop, which should account for those of you about 6-feet or slightly taller.  It’s also built to withstand nature’s elements, which allows it to function in 14°F and be sumberged to a depth of 33 feet.  All of the connectors, including the SD card slot, battery compartment, HDMI mini connector and USB slot are all sealed to insure nothing seeps in or gets out.

And just because it can withstand this onslaught of, well, let’s just call it crap, it doesn’t mean that it’s a bloated pig.  The AW100 is no more than .9-inches thick and weighs 6.3oz.  Don’t get us wrong, this isn’t smartphone thin, but seeing as it’s tough as nails it’s a pretty acceptable size.

In addition to a 16 megapixel sensor complemented by Nikon’s EXPEED C2TM image processing engine for capturing high resolution photos, there is a 5x optical zoom (35mm equivalent of 28-140mm), optical image stabilization, a 3-inch LCD and a GPS function with compass to track the location of your photos.

Like most point and shoots of this ilk, there is an auto scene mode as well as a Smart Portrait System that automatically selects In-Camera Red-Eye Fix, Face-Priority AF, Face Priority AE, Smile Mode, Blink Warning, Skin Softening and Pet Portrait mode.  But that’s not all.  The AW100 has something called an Action Control, which lets you assign and select a scene mode simply by swinging the camera – great if you’re wearing gloves or in frigid weather.

You can expect Nikon’s COOLPIX AW100 to arrive early this September and costs $379.95.