MSI is trying to compete with high-end motherboards « ROG » from Asus and « FTW » EVGA presenting the Z77A-G45 Gaming. The Z77A-G45 GAMING allows MSI to redo makeover on a platform based on Intel compatible socket 1155 processors. This time, Inspiron 1526 swapped the black and blue to follow the trend: black and red.
To give them a little « pep », the « Gaming » versions borrow the virtues of dragon decorating so the chipset heatsink and borrowing aesthetics scales of the beast for those power levels.
The chipset used is the Intel Z77 perpetual support for SATA 6Gbps storage devices and USB 3.0 natively.
To complete this offer, the Z77A-G45 GAMING favors multi GPU solutions with Lucid Virtu MVP and CrossfireX or SLI. Sound like the Pavilion DV4 network are key elements for gamers and that is why we find the « Killer Ethernet » feature to limit the effects of downturns but also « Sound Blaster Cinema » to provide a more realistic sound.
To ensure a long and infallible reliability, MSI has once again components « Military Class III ».
Finally OC Genie II overclocking significantly simplifies the procedures and « Total Fan Control » allows precise control of fans dedicated to the cooling components. If offered such a comprehensive and attractive map as it is an excellent initiative that we welcome, she remains a good choice for players knowing that the release of the next generation of Compaq Presario CQ60 processors « Haswell » is imminent?
Introduction
MSI was able to offer many motherboards for Intel platforms with a very good value for money. For example, the Z77IA E53 mini-ITX had shown itself particularly convincing. Although Intel is expected soon to announce the availability of its new generation of processors « Haswell », MSI takes the risk of proposing yet another collection dedicated to families « Sandy Bridge » and « Ivy Bridge. » The Latitude E6500 manufacturer was indeed slightly behind the high-end segment usually reserved for overclockers as well as the only players represented by the « Power » collection. It therefore welcomes the efforts made by the manufacturer hoping that the result is convincing.
Thus the new motherboards « Gaming » MSI differ primarily on an aesthetic level, but also on-board equipment. It consists of four models, including three equipped with Intel Z77 chipset. Only B75A-G43 Gaming stands with B75 release. The Toshiba PA3465U-1BRS nuances between the various references are minimal.
They focus on cooling the floors of food, the type of components, the multi GPU and SATA interfaces support. It thus replaces the blue card by red more in tune with current trends and new features are introduced. But first the main features of the Z77A-G45 GAMING. We discover a map to shipping size ATX socket 1155 ccompanied by a famous last Z77.Ce chipset Intel warrants the media to the fastest SATA 6Gbps standard, USB 3.0 and various features such as Intel Smart Response Inspiron 1300 Technology, Rapid Start and Rapid Connect.
We also have 24 PCI Express lanes allowing the accumulation of several unlimited bandwidth with support for PCI Express 3.0 graphics cards. Getting closer now embedded on the Z77A-G45 GAMING it will stand out from the competition equipment. First Killer E2200 Ethernet Controller will reduce latency occurring in online games. A particularly complete application is proposed to make the most out of this tool. The audio is also another major concern of the players, the DV5 Battery GAMING enjoys « Sound Blaster Cinema », an application enhancing the sound carries in games.
Finally always to achieve the best scores, two USB ports are switchable in 500 or 1000Hz to increase the reactivity of mice and keyboards. The Z77A-G45 GAMING is compatible with CrossFire and SLI. We can therefore combine the graphics card and MSI adds Lucid Virtu MVP, well known to increase framerates for example by adding computing power of the VGP-BPS8 processor IGP integrated 3D graphics application. Last trump the Z77A-G45 GAMING which has certified « Military Class III » with better overclocking potential, an advanced level of reliability as well as improved stability selected components.
Layout
Purified, it evokes the Z77A-G45 GAMING at first contact. Its classic black PCB seems stripped of components as they seem few. It is clear qu’MSI employs more integrated circuits leading to such results altogether convincing. Failing foolishly copy its close competitors, the Inspiron 1525 manufacturer drops the bright red for a little more Asian and therefore closer to the purple alternative. These are the radiators chipset and the power stages involved. The first features a dragon that is largely prefer to rounds of ammunition have met on other competing models.
The second radiators have the right to a perfect finish and design evoke the scales of the animal. They are divided into two blocks and are responsible for six VRM cooling. The Z77A-G45 GAMING 1155 features a socket permanently placed in the first half while the four ports will DIMM RAM. Let’s get right to the bottom half of the Z77A-G45 GAMING on which there are three PCI Express x16 and four PCI Express x1 ports.
Below still on the edge, the deportees connectors show no originality like 99% of motherboards on the market.
Inspect the mismatched six SATA connectors. We would have preferred that those compatible with the third revision of the Pavilion DV6 standard differ only in color rather than their appearance. By cons MSI is well opting for remote USB 3.0 finally bent. Above the voltage measurement points are used to place a voltmeter. A mother « Overclocking » card is necessary, but on a « Gaming », the choice is debatable. Finally on the rear panel, the offer is complete with a PS / 2, four USB 2.0, two switchable in 500 or 1000Hz, a Clear CMOS switch, an obsolete digital coaxial output, S / PDIF, two USB 3.0, ethernet three video outputs VGA, DVI and HDMI, and finally six mini audio jack.
On the bundle, if efforts are made on those graphics cards with many games, some brands of motherboards MSI which part should shake a little more to offer than two SATA cables, a rear panel, a CD-ROM and various paper documents. When will real useful software (antivirus, ect) and not mere trial versions, groundwater quality and in sufficient numbers and adapters? Although the Dell Inspiron 6000 is not the more upscale but greatly help users to finalize their choice. In all cases, the Z77A-G45 GAMING offers an original and compelling successful aesthetic. It will delight those for whom the look is important.
BIOS
The BIOS of the Z77A-G45 GAMING being at exactly the same features than the Z77A-G45, we adapt dedicated to this new revision because only aesthetic change section. Evolved through backup features on USB key, it uses colors pleasing to the eye even if you wonder why the six menus arranged around the main window are also great. It would have been interesting to optimize the E6410 battery display by minimizing these huge buttons clickable. Moreover, if all the ingredients for a current BIOS options are present, we can hardly say that it is convenient to use and ergonomic.
Six sections therefore call on the Z77A-GD65 GAMING:
Settings
OC
ECO
Browser
Utility
Security
You should know that to use the alternative OS MSI, it is necessary first to make a removable storage medium that shipping system. The HP 484170-001 Settings menu contains the basic options such as embedded devices but also the unique technologies of the Intel Z77 chipset and Z77A-GD65 GAMING as LucidVirtu. The options are clear and legible and UEFI BIOS of the motherboard supports multi language. The integrated help supposed to explain the different options could be more comprehensive and clear.
Overclocking the menu will push its processor in the last corner because all parameters are present: adjustment ratio of PLL voltages, the BCLK and many others. The RAM can also benefit from custom parameters such as voltage, frequency or CAS. Each specific processor features are grouped into a second menu and caters to the most strenuous overclockers. They allow the intervention parameters of the more sharp the CPU power. Finally, the Latitude E6510 possibilities for updating are simple, practical and effective. It only takes a few seconds to receive the latest UEFI BIOS of the Z77A-GD65 GAMING.
Applications
In recent months, MSI has undertaken a real effort to provide modern applications facilitating the setting and monitoring of its products. On the Z77A-G45 GAMING three major software package stand included with the card: Control Center II, Click BIOS II and Killer Network Manager. Start with Control Center II has a makeover in good and due form for this specific range. We thus find the colors now associated with this category.
The HP Pavilion DV2000 options remain faithful to the « Performance » series from MSI. Menu are essential tools related to overclocking, the ventilation management or control via mobile device.
The « Overclocking » tab includes all the necessary options to increase the frequency of the CPU and RAM as even the IGP. Tensions and other factors can be adjusted without the need to use the BIOS. The second menu will be responsible for automating overclocking the Dell Latitude e6400 processor as quickly as possible. This will prevent such beginners to have absorb technology but also terms may be too technical. The biggest advantage of this solution is especially not to take any risk to the health of the equipment where every wrong setting can be fatal if not properly characterized. The third tab is dedicated to the management of the fans. The Z77A-G45 GAMING manage up to three profiles including that of the processor. We especially appreciate this tool as the beaches of thermoregulation are important.
Can benefit from a silent operation at rest but also to enjoy a cooling more efficient in operation. Of course it is imperative to use appropriate fans and assemble the PC correctly to exploit its full potential. The last tab to activate need map control via smartphone or tablet. An option beyond the scope of this test. Active LED tab or off at will the LED on the power stage. These are at the top of the Dell Vostro 1510 and this option will allow purists precisely control the lighting of their machine.
Click BIOS II is a very interesting application conceptually speaking, as it allows changing the BIOS settings directly from the operating system. But in practice, Click BIOS II is largely improvable for two reasons:
Click BIOS II suffers from a painfully slow and a discouraging response. Furthermore any changes will restart the Sony VGP-BPS12 machine. Last detail of lesser importance, MSI has not seen fit to harmonize aesthetically Click BIOS II with Control Center II. This leaves an impression of oddity marketing rushed. Unsurprisingly, Killer Network Manager is a simplified application management QoS (Quality of Service). It would merely eg prioritization between voice and data.
We also emphasize responsible for MSI Live Update automatically download and install the BIOS, drivers and applications automatically. Failing to integrate the latest drivers, it keeps the advantage of simplifying and accelerating this daunting task.
Performance games
3DMark Cloud Gate
Futuremark, the famous editor of the benchmark benchmark dedicated graphics cards: 3DMark 2011 offers a new version that includes three sets of tests: Ice Storm, Cloud Gate and Fire Strike. The first is reserved for DirectX 9, we do not include in our test. Cloud Gate is designed for platforms « performance » focusing on Post Processing effects and particle effects. A second sequence is for volumetric lighting but using a low level of geometry. The Dell Studio 1558 test of Cloud Gate simulates physical effects of rigid and deformable objects.
Virtu MVP saves a few hundred points with Lucid Virtu.
3DMark Fire Strike
Second test includes the new 3DMark Firestrike addresses the most powerful configurations. It offers too heavy tessellation effects and complex smoke effects. We execute Fire Strike in extreme version.
Same conclusion with Cloud Gate but with a much smaller gap. Far mode, we find the behavior of 3DMark 11 where the VGP-BPS14 boost is much more comfortable when testing heavy computing power. After his release, Metro 2033 has put many graphics cards on the knees partly due to effects requiring significant computing resources. We use the DirectX 11 API to benefit from the latest innovations in visual effects.
For each resolution used, we always use three distinct levels of details:
Low: quality « Low » anti aliasing « NOAA » and texture filtering to 4.
Intermediate: quality « Medium » anti aliasing « AAx4″ and texture filtering to 4.
High: quality « Very High » anti aliasing « AAX8″ and texture filtering on 16.
Under Metro, the Dell Studio 1555 motherboard fully exploit our graphics card.
Conclusion
Do we have to face facts, the motherboard MSI Z77A-G45 GAMING Z77A-G45 is a slightly improved. Besides aesthetic tidy, there are adding new features like Killer E2200 Ethernet for network and Sound Blaster Cinema for audio. But these few upgrades are far from essential and will be rare to find an uncompromising real Latitude d830 performance gain or comfort game players
While the MSI Z77A-G45 GAMING has undeniable quality finish and will be quick and powerful center of a PC. Even if the BIOS limits the maximum CPU voltage to 1.52V which thwart the fierce overclockers, it remains more than enough to make the most of the installed processor.
The graphical overhaul BIOS as the Control Center II in line with the design of the card brings a welcome revival. Click BIOS II damage that does not benefit. These Latitude d630 applications are still compelling, practical and effective. We also liked the strategy that MSI Gaming developing its collection enriches its product in a clear and relevant.
If the choice of the additional equipment used is still debatable, we remain positive because it is the first generation that has to mature to compete with the ASUS ROG series or Asrock Fatality. Ultimately, it is mainly the price of the MSI Z77A-G45 GAMING tainting its release. Proposed for about 150 euros, it will be a lot of trouble convincing facing the Dell Vostro 1520 gaming version not available for only one hundred dollars. In other words, Killer Ethernet, Sound Blaster Cinema and Lucid Virtu MVP increase the rate of one-third or more than 30%. The bill is so salty for even a dragon growth phase and we hope that the MSI Z77A-G65 GAMING more upscale will show a much better value for money.
Tags: Dell Vostro 1400, XPS M2010, Dell XPS M1530
After Sony and HTC, it was the turn of LG released in France’s new high-end smartphone. An efficient and well finished XPS M1210 product, but apparently sharing many similarities with the Nexus 4, for a higher price.
Output outside Europe in November, and at the same time as the Nexus 4, the LG Optimus G is only available from us since March in an oscillating between 500 and 550 € price. This price puts it directly into the « low » high-end smartphone range, where he met the Sony Xperia Z, HTC One and of course the Galaxy S4. At the reading of his characteristics, however, does not fail to note a number of commonalities rather disturbing with the Nexus 4: same size and resolution screen, same processor, same GPU, same amount of RAM … Until his shell glass, which immediately recalls the takeover of the smartphone Google. Nothing too surprising, however, since the Nexus 4 was also designed by LG. We can then ask the question of what really differentiates the two devices to share the prize.
First observation: the Optimus G is beautiful, just as it is simple and classic in design. We said, it shares the same back cover glass as the Nexus 4, but adopts a slightly more straight edges, for a result that is more reminiscent of the HP 484170-001. However, if the grip is very nice, it is a bit slippery due to the corners a little more rounded. That being said, and more generally, the finish of the Optimus G exudes quality and high-end: the buttons are perfectly placed, the metal strapping around the screen adds a touch of extra shine and only two screws visible in the lower part with a little swear all.
A perfect screen, a range in the average
The front screen of 4.7 » inch True HD IPS provides a definition of 1280×768, is reinforced by a Gorilla Glass 2, and seems excellent craftsmanship. In addition, it displays a very satisfactory brightness, accurate color (not too saturated or too dull) and a fine flawless display. Coupled with the Pavilion DV4 excellent responsiveness of the OS (we will), we obtain here a view of a very convincing quality.
Autonomy, meanwhile, is in the middle, slightly higher than what is usually found in this class of devices. The
DV5 Battery will probably not reach the peaks, but its life varies greatly depending on the use you make of the smartphone. Video playback, for example, the Optimus G is on a par with the Lumia 920, but is a notch below a Xperia Z. As part of a more conventional use (call, email, sms, surfing), can however count on a lifetime approaching the big day, plus night. A rather positive finding, then. A strange thing is however to note: sometimes the brightness crashes, especially when the unit heats up too much, and it is necessary to wait a few minutes before being again able to change this setting .
Correct APN, without
No real fault for the moment, the LG Optimus G manage to be as convincing as regards his camera? Equipped with a 13 megapixel sensor (a value that becomes the norm on smartphones in this category), the AFN has pictures of good quality, without reaching qualitative heights. Compared to the Nexus 4, the
HP Pavilion DV6 performance is more or less the same, despite the 8 megapixel camera of the latter. Outside, the record is pretty good, but with a little overexposure and this rendering sometimes dull colors.
In low light, the pictures are pretty convincing, despite a flash that tends to make the picture quite cold. Side finally capture video (up to 1080p), the camera betrays an update moderately responsive autofocus. Note the addition of a few widgets friendly (but already seen) as the SONY VGP-BPS8 deformation of real-time face or adding a decoration around a topic. Often unnecessary, but fun all the time …
Responsive and pleasant Android
Let us recall now the overall performance of this phone, and the quality of the proposed everyday experience. If you followed, you already understand that the technical specifications stick very closely to those of the Nexus 4 … Not surprisingly, therefore, the VGP-BPS9 performance is very good and the benchmark results are very close to those the Google phone, except on 3D Mark where Optimus is actually behind. All this leads to a reactivity without Android (version 4.1 here) fault, and impeccable fluidity, both when navigating the menus on the web.
Side overlay, customization, called Optimus UI 3.0 is generally good taste, with some cosmetic in here and there effects: zoom effect when you unlock the Toshiba PA3258U-1BAS screen is very successful, as the QSlide function which brings up an app ‘overlay another. Rather well thought out, this system allows for example to receive an SMS and then answer that one is on a web page or a video. Fortunately Tie (window size, transparency, etc..), However, shows QSLIDE is sometimes a little too invasive and some may prefer to quickly return to the Inspiron 1300 traditional system of notification in the top of the screen, clean Jelly Bean.
Anyway, the overlay Optimus UI 3.0 is a very good surprise, since it embodies good taste not to slow down the OS while providing a interface finally close enough to the original Android Jelly Bean. Overall, it is also all of this LG smartphone that is a nice surprise with a high-end hardware, excellent performance, flawless finish and a 4G compatibility, it is difficult to find fault.
Finally, the Dell studio 1558 biggest complaint that could oppose him would be his too much resemblance to the Nexus 4, for a higher price (April 16 GB Nexus is trading at € 349, the Optimus G 32 GB to 499 €) . The question is whether you prefer to wager on storage space (which is not expandable on both devices) and future 4G coverage in France (which is not forthcoming). Anyway, the LG Optimus G is undeniably one of high-end smartphones to be considered in a purchase decision.
Tags: studio 1555, Latitude E6500, XPS M1330
Fractal Design is not only Dell XPS M1530 PC cases. The Swedish company also provides power to put into it. With its new Newton R3 and 80Plus certification range, she hopes to make an impression. But these models are they really a good deal?
After Tesla Integra R2 and R2, Fractal Design is now offering a new range of power supplies called Newton R3. We were able to spend a few days with the 600W model, which, like its peers, has an 80Plus Platinum certification, the highest award in this power category. Around this block we begin with the PA3534U-1BAS cooling system of which 13,5 cm fan may operate in a semi-passive mode. More specifically, it does not take effect until the moment when the load exceeds 50%, or about 300W. Once started, it will continue to regulate its rotation in order to provide the minimum of noise, while meeting energy needs. A system that generally works wonders, since this block Newton R3 will be shown in an exemplary discretion, even more than 600W load.
Side wiring, Fractal CQ62 Battery Design offers everything you need in a bag that does not disown the hero of the series Dexter … Inside, a PCI-Express cable doubled with two 6 +2 pin connectors, three SATA cables to cover a total of 9 HDD cable for Molex devices and Floppy Molex adapter. Note that all this a platform. The missing? Yes! This Newton R3 is semi-modular effect and offers cables ATX 20 +4 pin, the EPS ATX PCI-Express socket for the CPU 4 +4 pin, and a second cable doubled 6 +2 pin directly. The Dell D630 Battery offer is so bloated, but not enough to hide a defect, however: some cables are too short, especially those intended for food or the graphics card. In fact, if you do not encounter problems on a small box, with a medium or large tower case, the case will be complicated, and the links will then be live, which singularly fail to aesthetics.
Since we are talking about dimensions, it should be noted that this block Fractal Design has not done in the standard. If the Inspiron 1525 height and width are fixed and data to 8.6 cm and 15 cm respectively, the length by 16.5 cm. These dimensions are all the more strange that the modular connectors on the block does not seem to require much space. In addition, the interior block provided by the Taiwanese company ATNG is not particularly greedy on this aspect. We can therefore assume that Fractal Design has simply erred on the side of the 600W model. Always side connector block, modular cables have a little trouble returning. At least, once you have a little forced on the holding mechanism, the HP Pavilion DV6 cable will not risk moving.
SLI and Crossfire
Like its sister version 800 and 1000 W, 600 W R3 that Newton will dsponible in black or white, and benefit from an 80Plus Platinum certification. A certification that will not fly, because the official figures place it in the top of the basket over the E5500 batteries competition. At 20% load, it gets 91.41% yield while at 50% load, it goes up to 92.37%. The value drops to 89.45% to 100% load.
And good news: these numbers are found on our test bench (see protocol). As expected, a little more than the 300W ventilation starts. But the cooling cycle under Fractal Design allows it to also turn off depending on the temperature inside the block. Another good point between each cycle, the Dell Vostro 1520 fan does not cause unpleasant noise as was the case on our Corsair GS800 power.
Good but could do better …
Fractal Design HP Pavilion DV7 signs here a new range of high potential. With the help of circuits ATNG, this Newton R3 delivers easily the power you need, even for a dual GPU configuration. However, we must not forget to check the size of your case before you buy! Issue price, if you look over our competition on price comparison, this block Newton R3 600W is 10 € cheaper than the equivalent of 660W Seasonic. In all cases, Fractal Design comes in a good position on this power range. I bet that the Swedish firm quickly fix this glitch cable length.
No doubt you will find our test Bioshock Infinite shorter than usual … At the same time, when a title also shows excellent, sometimes it does not need to make tons.
If you think a moment, and try to count the number of films that, in recent years, could boast of having a real emotion to arise in the small icy heart beating in your chest, probably count be limited a small handful of elected. In our case, we would quote some excerpts from epic Toshiba PA3534U-1BRS in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, probably … The conclusion of Shutter Island, perhaps … Or the legendary scene where Dictator Sacha Baron Cohen has crush on her naked sex the window of a New York building … Now, if you’re having fun to transpose this thinking to the field of video games, it is very simple: at best, you might find a title that you have made the story really upset, but more likely, you will lose the afternoon to haunt the pages of Wikipedia to find your happiness.
Again, with regard to our personal experience: the only way that we came to mind is Spec Ops: The Lines (and I mean emotionally, not fun game, although the title of Yager s’ also came out very well on this aspect). Well, coincidence or not: today is another shooting VGP-BPS14 game published by 2K Games to be able to repeat this feat in 2013, Bioshock Infinite.
Bring the girl, and we will erase debt
Bioshock Infinite is the kind of game that, when analyzed coldly, element by element, does not look like anything … For example, if one admits that the implementation is very to his advantage , the colorful and clean again, it is far from being Sony VGP-BPS11 technically flamboyant than a Farcry 3 or Crysis 3. Same thing about game mechanics: Irrational Games then uses revenue that has already seen many times in many modern FPS. The player has access to a nice range of weapons for him to enjoy the attacking style that best suits him. Appendices are also different powers at its disposal to enable it to expand its strategic options during a confrontation: back an opponent against his clan, immobilizer, push it away, etc …
And may improve the VGP-BPS8 Battery effectiveness of spells or its weapons buying various improvement options distributors who serve him also to replenish ammunition. As for our opponents, they will land in patterns that we learn very quickly to decipher: waves, which occasionally precede the arrival of a boss himself always chosen from among three or four recurring creatures.
God forgives all, but I’m not a prophet, nothing compels me
Very classic videogame attributes, therefore, not yet Bioshock Infinite will prevent you take your guts to throw down, and trample joyously … This is more than a game, the Pavilion DV6 FPS Irrational provides a real emotional experience. And you find yourself feeling compassion, and some form of attachment to the character of Elizabeth, which compensates its exterior by a very cartoon character particularly well built.
You fall in love with this city of Columbia, real living organism that always seems on the edge between the image of paradise on earth, and that a reduced that it has more to offer black humanity. Finally, thank you to completely a DV5 Battery storyline fly high, you can find, as we did, to get ahead, exploring every corner of the city, gathering every piece of information on Comstock, Elizabeth bribe or the two inseparable Robert and Rosalind Lutetia as if to gather these indices would help you solve the mystery of this adventure, beyond what the developers have imagined. In a word, Bioshock is an example of a successful immersion.
You fear God? No, but I fear you, you …
Again, let’s be clear: the game is not perfect. Beyond the fairly common aspects that we mentioned above, the notion of difficulty really appear at the most difficult level. Similarly, the whole is particularly linear, although it is recognized as part of the adventure, the city of Columbia, can not feel too constrained by this aspect. However, the atmosphere, the HP Pavilion DV4 strength and originality of the story that is told us (and ends in an incredible climax), crush everything in their path, leaving us with no other choice but to conseillerde you plunging as quickly, if not already done.
The new Windows 8 interface (Modern UI) is intended to be used with your fingers. Logitech proposes a revised version of its touchpad, optimized for this new version of the Dell XPS M1530 operating system. A good idea, of course. But it still had to pass the product. Then?
Windows 8 and its Modern UI interface is primarily designed for use tactile. More machines – they either portable or not – also offer this feature and it is not unusual to see computers with touchscreens in shops. However, some machines do not have yet. If the interface is controlled Modern UI pretty well with the mouse on laptop, providing a touchpad is often appreciated. And offered the same opportunities on Desktop with a touchpad accessory, it is a good idea. Yes but now, the previous Logitech Touchpad we had not packed. This review will she better?
Good news, we are no longer dealing with a rounded stone, but something much more « square » 13.4 cm 13 cm 9 mm thick. The coating is also undoubtedly a cut above. It is softer and more pleasant to use. For those who were able to manipulate the Latitude E5500 battery quivalent Apple, Magic Trackapd, we touched on a similar sensations and click like.
But the comparison stops there, since Logitech went further with its T650 Touchpad. Is entitled to a non-removable battery in the housing which is supposed to take several months, and a thickness scaled down compared to its counterpart hit an apple (see test MacWorld.fr). On the other hand, the supplied USB cable allows the touchpad to be recharged during operation, more. It added that the Swiss firm has also added a button off to save battery power during transport, while the use of a USB dongle « Unifying » will also control other branded peripheral (keyboard, mouse ).
One branch and it works …
After unpacking the beast, it’s time to install it on our test XPS M2010 machine. Windows 8 (of course), from the Unifying dongle connection, the system we propose to install the Logitech software partner. After a few clicks and validation, the system is ready to be used by the new T650 Touchpad, a child’s play. We put the switch to « ON » in green on the right side of the keypad and you can immediately start making some gestures above to test the grip.
In the configuration software Logitech reduced in the status bar, it is possible to modify, activate and deactivate many « gestures » that the Touchpad supports (13 in total to be exact). One to four fingers in the gesture, Logitech provides shortcuts to master Dell Vostro 1400 completely interesting Windows 8. By sliding your finger from the left edge of the touchpad for example, shows the bar « Charm » listing all open applications.
A word still for Windows users RT, the Windows operating system for ARM processors. By plugging the USB dongle, the system installs the drivers needed to operate the T650 touchpad. Then you can scroll through the pages, but point and click gestures of this version of the OS, or click by tapping the touchpad. It is imperative physically click on the left and bottom right of the touchpad. In addition, the Logitech support page for this product does not Windows compatible program RT. It will not be possible to benefit from this Dell Vostro 1520 product gestures on Windows tablets RT.
More surface worked but not very accurate …
Daily on a computer with a mouse, touchpad accelerates access to some of the most used applications from time to slide his finger on the left edge. Scrolling Web pages is really nice with two fingers and you can return to the office or in the main interface sliding three fingers up or down. Certainly, we must remember a few steps to fully exploit, but after a few days of use, one begins to play and forth / back and forth between applications. We understand a little better the Latitude d630 mechanism introduced by Microsoft with its Windows 8 along the way.
But then, the movements are not everything. And the touchpad does not always respond properly when you need it, to make a selection for example. After typing a few words in an e-mail, the recovery of activity on our T650 touchpad is not the most responsive. We must also draw a few rounds before it wakes up the mouse. However, the dongle is approximately 40 cm in our touchpad. As if automatically activates sleep mode to save battery power.
On a computer with Media Center software installed, it will by T650 touchpad against wonders. Unifying technology for coupling the device to a wireless Dell Studio 1555 brand, you can easily obtienir a very convenient that will find a place on the coffee table in the living room to control its Media Center from the sofa. As for the contribution of the pavement compared to a mouse, it is not necessarily easy to enjoy on the desktop, it is necessarily greater in Modern UI. And it is surprising to appreciate this aspect touch discovering such a new way to play Cut The Rope. The advantage of the device thus climbed a few rungs with Windows 8 and use many gestures in Modern UI while finishing accessory is infinitely better than the previous version. But as nothing is ever perfect, just a few small flaws taint a report which he did not lack much to be idyllic.
Tags: Dell Vostro 1510, Dell Latitude e6400, Pavilion DV2000
I am beautiful, young, I rather a big mouth but forgive me because I have the « swaaag » … Ah yes, I’m half angel, half demon, and I can make the devil himself weep … I? I?
Who knows why, so far, the Devil May Cry series has never led us in particular curiosity. Perhaps the lack of time, and the inability to try everything, test everything, are they to blame. Maybe we we also carried away by a kind of « PC gamer snobbery ‘that led us instinctively never to set foot in the mythology of a beat’em all so much emphasized on console our machines. Anyway, this time, there was no question of retreat! Fate had decided as follows: we would spend the next few days to unwind a macabre dance with the famous Dante.
Of course, like all first meetings, it was tinged with hesitation and perplexity all these colors, all glitz, all these scenes in slow motion, and all those sentences started to punch, like » This is what you’ve to give me big pile? « Or » Come here that j’t'explose, fat ass! « … Obviously, at the beginning, we said that Dante may be a good dancer, but his mouth first class arrogant as well as his IQ is closer to that of a whelk cooked than that of Einstein , will quickly get tired.
In the north, it was demons
And monsters and fantastic decors are linked, the lost souls to fall into our purse As our deadly combos … It is true that some concon, friend Dante, and he did not seem to know where it goes and why not … we, at the same time. But we must do it justice: when it comes to livening somewhere the boy laying there. It must also be said that the developers have offered our hero a whole arsenal to make us forget the inconsistencies and the flatness of his adventures. First, we include the Dell Studio 1558 playlist, which sends small timber tightly packed: Hovering between electro and metal though rough, you are immediately taken a sudden urge to kill the demon kilometer.
Same for the different weapons that our friend may fly: they are not only classes, many and varied, they also bring a real added value, leaving the player the choice of tempo with which he wishes to cut the fat: while that Osiris the false and Rebellion sword will cut their opponents with speed and fluidity, Arbiter ax and gloves Eryx steel will approach … well … most rude and necessarily slower. The use of the whip will be a pleasure, either by the travel options that will either give it the possibility to enter an enemy to get within striking distance.
The enemy would, in fact, talking about … They also contribute significantly to give the game a certain cachet. Admittedly, we probably would have liked them to give us a bit more variety, and they are a bit more, but they remain no less horrible as it should and entertainment offer effective, in the absence of be particularly tough. Note however that four difficulty modes to add three additional departure once the game loop. In addition, mini-boss fights will spice from time to time, asking specific tactics, or a little more savvy than usual, to be slain. On boss, true, however, nothing to say they are for the most gigantic and propose Inspiron 1545 Battery approaches from the following QTE, explanation virile handsome titan. So classic …
And you tapes, tapes, tapes, this demon that you like …
You’ll understand this DmC Devil May Cry is quite nice to go, even funny, so outrageous in the way he presented his hero as a kind of handsome in that nothing can resist. And suddenly, it comes almost to regret that the Dell E4300 Battery developers are satisfied with a « simple » port, rather than giving a true identity to the PC version.
Not that our Polish friends QLOC has messed up the job, on the contrary (Ah yes, for the record, this is not Ninja Theory who is responsible for the adaptation XPS M1330 PC, but a Polish studio, which had already brought Street Fighter X Tekken Capcom): This version is technically quite honest, proposing other options for HD textures, higher resolutions, and anti-aliasing.
Except that we deplore the lack of DirectX 11 support, and will be found still quite small finishing details haphazard, disjointed as textures, collision problems, or dialogues that have not taken same train as the lip movements of the characters. Finally, we observe here and there lags microphones, and despite the presence of a graphics card in our latest generation machine.
Nothing serious, we hear you say, and you are right, some technical details as these will not prevent him from enjoying a paw graphic is inspired to qualify. Environments seem immense, often go in all directions when our character sees himself projected into limbo, leaving a visual impression of openness, which manages to forget the relative linearity of the progression. In the end, the first trip in the company of Dante and his demonic friends will be revealed to be a fun experience, défoulante, nervous, if not particularly deep. At the same time, beat’em all forces, and as the friend Dante could emphasize: « You think j’me am moved to stringing beads, wholesale sucks? « .
the promise
We are on the eve of the commercialization of the Asus Eee Pad Transformer Prime, a tablet second version became a reference. The concept is the same: a 10.1-inch (1280 x 800 pixels) above a keyboard (XPS M1530 battery included) optional. Menu, nice improvements, including a major: the multi-core processor Nvidia Tegra 3. A very promising tablet that we have vetted. Update January 13th 2012:
While updating the operating system of the tablet has been announced at CES in Las Vegas, we already offer a test of the Asus Eee Pad Transformer Prime with Android 4.0 version called Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS ).
reality
Update January 13th 2012:
On December 14, we published the test of the Asus EEE Pad Transformer Prime running Android HonneyComb (3.0.3). There are only two days at room These Las Vegas, the Latitude E5500 manufacturer was making available the update to Android 4.0 (known as Ice Cream Sandwich, ICS). In fact, it does not change much for users, who will never see the Android version 3, the premium is only available pre (Fnac announces shipments this month, but details ), it will be delivered directly to ICS. We tested again to assess the improvements resulting from this update.
Tegra 3 is better exploited
Indicate that the first tests with different tools for Android are now not really suitable for testing the performance of Ice Cream Sandwich. Thus, the Dell XPS M2010 changes are not visible on all results (test GLBenchmark does even more). In our tests, we found that autonomy wins best ten minutes in video mode (8 hours and 54 minutes, against 8 hours and 45 min). Mode Wi-Fi Web browsing, the change is not significant (8 hours and 45 minutes, 8 hours and 40 against min).
In contrast, tests with the application GUIMark 2 CraftyMind (HTML 5 performance test) shows a significant gain. HTML 5 test passes Bitmap of 41.7 frames per second (f / s) to 57.4 i / s, the test vector display changes from 8.8 to 21.6 i / s. With Ice Cream Sandwich, Part GPU Tegra 3 is made contribution from the host interface. Nvidia ensures that the interface is more fluid. We already find it very well, but without the two products Dell Vostro 1400 at the same time (one on Android 3 and the other Android 4), it is difficult to confirm.
The new ICS approved
Among the innovations introduced by Ice Cream Sandwich, we have tested and approved the new animated interface and options of photo and video modes. Among these include the possibility of easily slide show. Pressing the shutter button and the tablet shows a progress bar if all goes well. Side of the video, like webcams on Latitude d630 PCs, it becomes possible to add effects such as « big nose », « big eyes », « large or small mouth », etc.. The rendering is very effective. It’s just fun.
There are also two other functions, very practical, related to Internet. Thus, the new browser provides the ability to pass on a mobile display mode or on a computer display standard. Another gadget, it is now possible to save an entire Web page to see the latest in « offline ». However, it is a kind of screenshot which removes all the interactivity of the site (nothing is clickable).
Initial release of 14 December 2011:
The print quality is immediate. Asus again an exceptional product, a finished copy. The cover is of circular brushed steel appearance is known about the new range of ultrabooks Taiwanese manufacturer, the Zenbook UX21E and UX31E. The keyboard also take this finish with brushed steel spiral appearance less. All, slightly tinged with purple, is the most beautiful effect.
Nothing to report on the Latitude d830 battery portability of the unit, which has been a little diet since the first Transformer name. Part tablet weighs 596 grams (5 grams lighter than the iPad 2 32GB) which must be added, if necessary, the 536 grams of the keyboard part, besides 100 grams of small charger.
A slab of excellent quality
The Transformer Prime and accessories weigh a little more than 1.2 kg, a reasonable weight for a small PC. Because it is a small PC in question. Installed on the tablet’s dock, ease of use is similar to a netbook. The chiclet keyboard is very pleasant slab stamped Super IPS excellent. Dare say, much better than the iPad 2. Furthermore a higher resolution, this panel is much brighter (567 cd / m²) and displays a much better contrast ratio (157:1 1) the model of Apple.
Note that our tests of independence we have found that the Dell Latitude d630 Transformer Prime was 8 hours and 45 minutes of video playback (720p MKV) and Internet browsing using Wi-Fi, after 5 hours of video playback when more it is plugged into the keyboard. All displays an excellent autonomy, but the tablet is only worse than the iPad 2.
The power of Tegra 3
The new platform Nvidia Tegra 3 opens the doors of gaming on a tablet, thanks to good graphics performance provided by the chip GeForce ULP. The fluidity is felt at all levels, even with some heavy models (motion, splashing water, management of shadows, rendering textures …). Everything is taken care of and it feels the pleasure of playing. 3D enthusiasts can play in relief by connecting the tablet to a 3D TV with a Micro HDMI cable 1.4. We tried Riptide, a jet-ski game optimized for 3D rendering is fun, nothing more.
To stay in gaming, Asus raises the possibility of connecting a controller to the USB port on the keyboard. Controllers of the PS3, the Wii or the Xbox 360 would be compatible. In our Dell Studio 1555 tests, we were able to operate the lever on the Xbox wired version. Software development would be expected to correct the situation and allow you to assign more keys, which is impossible for the time being.
Office and multimedia
It goes without saying that the operating system Honeycomb (Android version 3.2.1) running without any problems. Classic, there is everything you need to check e-mails, photos, surf the Internet, etc.. Asus adds the following Polaris Office to create, edit or view a Word document, Excel or PowerPoint. The Eee Pad Transformer Prime also happens to be a very good media player. The VGP-BPS14 tablet is suitable all our test files, including MKV 1080p. Given the autonomy of all, it is a joy.
Photos and videos in high definition
The Transformer Prime is equipped with two photo sensors. 1.2 Mpix front facing the user, which produce images in 1280 x 960 pixels or videos in 480p. In video mode, the sensor is good enough to discuss on the Internet with appropriate software such as Skype. At the rear, it is serious. 8 Megapixel sensor lets you take photos in 3264 x 2448 pixels or Full HD video. The Sony VGP-BPS12 quality of photos and videos is just ok indoors. Outside, it is naturally better. We will not be uncomfortable with the idea of sharing his photos or videos on the Web.
the verdict
For the second time, Asus tablet makes a very high level: a Tegra 3 platform full of resources, autonomy record, fluidity, and extra bright screen contrast. Transforming inaugurated the first concept, a tablet can be enriched by a very clever keyboard. The Transformer 2 takes the best, power bonus. Do not forget that it should automatically migrate to version 4 of Android (called Ice Cream Sandwich). The Eee Pad Transformer Prime will be available in early January to 599 euros, 32 GB and 64 GB 699 euros Initially, only versions with keyboard / dock will be sold.
Tags: Dell Vostro 1510, Pavilion DV2000 , Inspiron 6000
Introduction
Stalled in recent months, HTC does not continue under its merry way in the field of androphones as Windows Phone 8. The side of the Windows Phone 8X, the more upscale of the two latest models of Taiwanese, and found a HTC Windows Phone 8S in size as the smaller features. The natural adversary Nokia Lumia designer Lumia 920 and 820, here offers a compact attractive design.
A short tour through his sheet for you to recall the main features: this is a smartphone with 4-inch screen for a definition of 480 x 800 pixels, with a processor Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 associated with 512 MB of RAM, and has once will not hurt, internal memory expandable. A little less ambitious than Lumia 820, the Windows Phone 8S is he armed to take out of the game in the very private circle of Windows Phone? Here the object of our Dell XPS M1530 test.Design and Finishes
Found in the Windows Phone design 8S very consistent compared to 8X. Again, and in contrast to Nokia in which overweight is not a problem, HTC opts for simplicity and lightness. His case 120.5 x 63 x 10.28 mm is certainly not excessively late, but its edges rounded and refined largely give the illusion, and even more so that its weight does not exceed 113 grams . In the grip, the effect is pleasant, and even more so that his soft touch rear cover is nice.
When Windows Phone 8X appears as a terminal piece, it is possible to open the 8S to insert a micro SIM card, but also and especially a microSD card: here, the internal memory of the beast limited to 4 GB can be range, which is never negligible – do not forget that there is only 8X 16GB limit easily exceeded with a single memory card. If the smartphone opens, we must admit that HTC has made a good effort to make it almost invisible for the user to unlock the lower shell (colored part only in the back), insert the tool-clip into the small hole provided for this purpose. The difference between the two sides of the back shell is almost invisible and impossible to remove the removable part with a fingernail, a good sign of strength if dropped accidentally. Speaking of 8S back, we find a 5-megapixel photo sensor circled in black and associated with an LED flash, Beats Audio logo recalling the presence of the sound system in the new Windows Phone 8, and thinned wafer requires the high speaker even pierced the hull. Less vibration program, but a slightly muffled when the smartphone is set, screen upwards.
Speak of the screen, since we just return the 8S. Very flat, it overcomes traditional bar touch controls (Back, Home, Search). Surprise, it is topped by no front camera … A sigh comes when we think that Skype has just been integrated depth Windows Phone 8, and it will settle its instant messaging service writing. Side physical buttons, you can not change a winning team: on the right edge, a bar and a volume control trigger photo, and above, a power button, the trio showing fine enough to annoy the great Dell Vostro 1400 hands … For small hands (do not forget a smartphone as colorful as the 8X available in red, gray / yellow, black / white, blue), no problems. Overall, HTC has managed to combine the lightness of a small removable smartphone hull elegant finish to a terminal unibody. All very simple in format and more fun by its color, appears attractive and well finished.
General use
Screen
Generally similar to 8X, HTC Windows Phone 8S deviates from the viewpoint of its screen. Like the Lumia 820 at Nokia, the 8S does not benefit from HD support allowed by Windows Phone 8. Here again, on a smaller slab though – better pixel density in the program, so – definition WVGA, either 480 x 800 pixels on a diagonal of 4 inches. This is Super LCD (the One X Android rose to Super LCD 2) but with good viewing angles and vivid colors, although we regret black greyish. Forces to save money, HTC has opted for a lower cost with a screen a little more in 2011 than 2012, but provides good performance for an affordable smartphone. With a four-inch diagonal, use a hand is permitted, with a keyboard large enough to be comfortable.
Performance
The screen is not the only aspect of Windows Phone 8S to have been lowered in comparison to 8X. It is also equipped with a dual-core processor Qualcomm Snapdragon S4, it is clocked at 1 GHz with 512 MB of RAM … Side RAM, HTC provides the minimum and leaves the 1.5 GHz preferred by Nokia and its care at its other terminal. It is use to look for the difference: a bit slower on paper, 8S Windows Phone is also slightly less in fact. It suffers, however, rarely, small latencies, as well as the screen is sometimes slow to respond to clicks. It is not a smartphone for gamers, it does not have the makings of a champion and shows no hubris on this point. Nevertheless: the 8S ensures correct performance for everyday users who want a smartphone simply connected and customizable.
Autonomy
For a 4-inch smartphone, a 1700 mAh battery does not demerit on paper. Indeed, the HTC Windows Phone 8S is doing well. With the synchronization of multiple mailboxes, social networks, few calls, SMS and a little web surfing, the day of use is ensured, which is not bad.
Additional Options
Rather simple in terms of technical features, the HTC Windows Phone 8X not straighten the bar with additional options. Dropped in this area, if we characterize it, it is not equipped with an NFC chip, while all of its competitors in the Windows Phone 8 features Near Field Communication. The induction prerogative of Nokia – and again, this is an affordable option through a shell adapted to the Lumia 820 – is lacking. To load, it will have to go through a standard micro USB charger.
Windows Phone 8 and customizing HTC
Windows Phone 8, Windows Phone HTC 8S has the new integrated operating system by Microsoft. Resizable thumbnails to customize the home screen, dynamic tile notifications displaying live session for children (« Children’s Corner »), integration of Skype and many others are part of this smartphone. It can not be blamed a lack of applications still prégnant the Microsoft Store … But we find that the screen of 480 x 800 pixels is good: Applications that are not yet optimized for WP8 appear smoothly on this model.
Windows Phone is not deemed to allow manufacturers to bring their personal touch smartphones that integrate it. HTC, Nokia Unless however, offers few details home without going to the navigation, augmented reality and music added by its Finnish competitor. We know the weather widgets provided by HTC Sense overlay for Android devices. Windows Phone 8, there is a tile « date » indicating the current temperature, to which we must add an application « HTC » with a more accurate weather, news and views on the stock market. App « Freeing up more space » can view the status of the phone memory, and direct access to the most crowded to do a bit of cleaning, finally, HTC offers its small editing application Photo usual theme and a « blue » which is personal. Nothing too exciting in all this: Pavilion DV2000 provides minimum to optimize interface already full, without really stand out from the competition.
Memory, music
As noted earlier in this test, the 8S is one of the two Windows Phone 8 to offer expandable memory. The theoretical storage space of 4GB is approximately 3.6 GB available in practice. Fortunately, in addition to 7 GB of cloud storage offered by Microsoft Skydrive, hull removable smartphone lets appear a microSD slot useful for music lovers. On this side, nothing to report: the application has not changed since Windows Phone 7, although it can recognize an organization by sections (artists, albums, etc.). Convenient to use, and of course a link to the Microsoft Store welcome to those who wish to download music legally. It still remains puzzled by the mix of music and video in a single application « Music + Videos« , which no longer requires, however, go through the Zune software. HTC Windows Phone 8S does not shine unduly about the sound: it provides decent performance for a cheap smartphone with headphones basic change for music lovers on the move. Note that, as 8X, the 8S optimization system integrates Beats Audio music: a notification appears at the top of the screen when connecting headphones to inform the user. It is capable of decoding formats aac, amr, m4a, wav, asf, wma and of course mp3.Photo and video
Generally effective in all functions that one would expect of a smartphone, the HTC Windows Phone 8S account does not clearly among the best camera phones of the moment. Nevermind the lack of front sensor, to detail his camera back: there is a 5 megapixel sensor (against 8 minimum for other Windows Phone 
with autofocus, LED flash and f/2.8 aperture. The results are far from shine: overall, if the color rendering is correct, there is a lot of electronic noise when it comes to taking pictures indoors, flash tends to yellow slightly stereotypes, and a lack obvious details in general. That’s a general comment, but keep in mind that for a Dell Inspiron 6000 of this size, the results are broadly satisfactory.
The 8S, again unlike other Windows Phone 8, abandons video recording Full HD content to HD 720p. The smartphone has not fared too badly, although we can regret stabilization difficult and sound a little too far. Side reading, 8S Windows Phone also supports HD, with formats 3gp, 3g2, mp4, m4v, asf and wmv.
Results photo:
Conclusion
According to dealers, there are currently HTC Windows Phone 8S at rates turning around € 300. A rather moderate price in the Windows ecosystem Phone 8 where the average spreads rather in the range 500-600 €. For that amount, so do not expect exceptional characteristics. HTC focuses on a hardware okay with a Inspiron 1525 processoradequate for the tasks that we ask for this type of
VGP-BPS8
product, a suitable screen (its definition is identical to that of a Nokia Lumia 820 largest and most expensive after all), expandable memory and a camera correct. Rather discreet in that it does not shine a unique feature, the 8S is distinguished by good design, a very pleasant grip and solid materials combining lightness. In this HTC score points with those who appreciate the simplicity of Windows Phone 8 and do not require their smartphone to resemble a powerhouse.
Introduction
Announced at a press conference highly anticipated iPhone 5 is officially marketed since Friday, September 21, 2012. Apple Stores worldwide scroll saw thousands of customers and pre-orders were once again exceptional. However, the iPhone 5 is nothing exceptional property on paper. Innovations are non-existent and minor changes. Nevertheless, the launch of the iPhone 5 seems to be going well at the moment.
Mobiles in-Actus.com we melted into the ground last Friday and we stood in line at the Apple Store Opera, say it should be done at least once to understand the fans of the brand. Now we will try to test this new product innovation that Apple and the new iOS 6 that can be installed on many other brand products since 19 September.
Package Contents and Accessories
The iPhone 5 has a box still in the same spirit. The recipe has not changed except that the box is logically a little higher. Inside Apple book a compact power adapter that can also be purchased at 29 euros at the Apple Online Store. This is accompanied by the USB cable Lightning (new port owner) can also be purchased separately at 19 euros. There are always the little SIM card ejector. And finally, the iPhone 5 comes with new headphones EarsPod and storage case are also on sale at 29 euros. The box is white for the iPhone 5 white and black for black iPhone. By cons accessories always keep the white color so dear to Apple.
Side options, it is possible to buy an adapter to micro USB Lightning 19 euros a Lightning to 30-pin cable version (old port Apple) for 39 euros and a 30-pin Lightning to 29 euros. Apple has officially confirmed not to market its dock for iPhone 5.
Apple offers little new with the iPhone 5, more efficient headphones delivered in a small storage box. They are relatively easy to store, it is still necessary to take time. For the rest, it’s classic and VGP-BPS26A accessories are still sold in a price range similar to previous versions. One can not help but make a point about changing port remains owner unfortunately. As a result, many accessories are not compatible and that’s a shame. According to Apple, many props already working on new versions of their compatible produits.
iPhone 5 VS iPhone 4S
As you may know if you follow a regular mobile phone news, the announcement of the iPhone 5 has been marked by many critics. Many have criticized Apple is a great lack of innovation more or less moderate. We were the first to denounce a lack of risk-taking on the part of Apple to really surpass its competition. Apple has merely provide the bare minimum to provide a XPS M1530 hardware improved.
On the news, Apple has equipped its new smartphone processor A6 A5 house rather than present in the iPhone 4S. This performance are significantly improved without equal the most powerful smartphones on the market. We’ll come over a little later in this test.
The iPhone 5 now offers a 4-inch screen 3.5-inch against the iPhone 4S and its predecessors. It still retains its density Retina (326 dpi) with a resolution of 1136 x 640 pixels 960 x 640 pixels against the previous model. We are still far from what we can see on Android smartphones or Windows Phone 8. In fact, the Samsung Galaxy S III has for example a 4.8 inch screen and has a resolution of 720 x 1280 pixels which corresponds to a density of 306 dpi. Suddenly, the iPhone 5 grows a bit because now measures 123.8 x 58.6 x 7.6 mm against 115.2 x 58.6 x 9.3 mm. In addition to being thinner, the iPhone 5 is now much lighter with only 112 grams on the scale.
4G is now waiting for you on the iPhone 5! Well, not in France, where we’ll have to settle for Dual Carrier technology, or more commonly known DC-HSDPA or H +. Beware though, the iPhone 5 released in France still have a chip 4G/LTE, however, it is unsuitable for the technology used by our operators in the deployment of 4G French, sorry. Let’s say for the iPhone 5, it is not very serious for the moment since the network is far from ready in France.
Because Apple does not like to be everyone, the Dell Latitude E5500 company has developed its own SIM card technology. Precursor micro SIM, Apple now requires the use of nano SIM card type. Do not worry, operators have hundreds of these SIM cards in stock, and the replacement is free for most and only takes a few minutes in the shop or on the Internet.
Apple has also reworked its FaceTime video calling system. It is now possible, thanks to iOS 6, having conversations on the 3G network and not just WiFi. Better with the iPhone 5, the sensor front allows High Definition 720p while previous models were limited to VGA.
Design and finishing
Particularly criticized the design of the iPhone 5 iPhone remains in the mind, especially on the front. Since the first model, Apple has kept the spirit of its terminals. iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S, exactly the same design. iPhone 4S and iPhone 5, the front has been maintained but enlarged to the dimensions of the new Dell Vostro 1400 smartphone. The rear, meanwhile, has been completely redesigned. The glass has disappeared, giving way to a unibody metal shell which changes tone depending on the version. Bevelled corners of the iPhone 5 are very successful but are quite fragile. In two days of use, we already have a small scratch on our light white model. It is possible that daily, that iPhone 5 is unprotected to wear out very quickly. In addition, several items appear on the web regarding possible construction defects. We will not go so far as to use classic, we have not seen any abnormal wear. The iPhone 4 white metal offers more clear, it is brighter and a little gem, the iPhone 5 is unveiled in a completely dark look very classy. Our initial manipulations, the iPhone 5 seems more black mark fingerprints.
For overall finishes, there is no doubt, it’s Apple. The Latitude d630 materials are very good quality service of this design always beautiful (to our taste), even if little blame him for enough change compared to previous models. The buttons on the iPhone 5 are very strong, probably in part because they are still new on all the models we have taken in hand.
Interface and iOS 6
Apple renews little interface iOS some great misfortune and happiness of others. For our part, we would have liked more again for this new iOS 6. In our heads, the transition from iOS 5 to iOS 6 would have scored a certain break. iOS 6 corresponds rather to iOS 5.x. The iPhone 5 has a bigger screen, and Apple had to deal with this new format for applications. Now, the d830 Battery dashboard can display an extra row of icons. By cons, if an application is not suitable, a black band appears above and below the application. Probably a way to force developers to update their applications since it would also be possible for Apple to make the choice to use this space to display additional information. To cite only a few changes, is now available without Bluetooth submenu mode « do not disturb » appears and privacy settings are more accessible than ever before. In addition to Twitter, Facebook makes its appearance here and there in the menus of the smartphone. Note that despite a higher screen size, the keyboard has not changed much in size in horizontal mode, the keys are slightly wider and it retains its sensitivity.
Plans
The Maps application is a huge disappointment. On previous versions of iOS, the Maps application used Google data. Although the application was limited to basic functionality but it had the merit function properly. Today, Apple delivers a Maps application developed by him in partnership with major Dell Latitude brands such as TomTom.
We must recognize, the Maps application to a high quality, it is very fast compared to the previous version. Navigation on the map is much more fluid and practice, even in 3D mode (available on some cities, Paris is not yet available but yes Lyon, in France).
Beyond its side easy to use, defects accumulate to the point that micro-blog like Tumblr are created to identify the majority of errors of this application Apple Plans. I must say, the database of points of interest is significantly poorer than that offered by Google despite the use of very good service Yelp, unfortunately still common in France. Small detail, Yelp does not publish a notice directly, you can only write a draft and should go Yelp.fr to put online a big mistake! It is hoped that the service will benefit from this alliance with Apple to really evolve and upgrade. Note also that the points of interest are poorly positioned. Found small example, the UGC Les Halles in Paris was positioned on the wrong side of the Seine, problem?
Plans is not very flexible. If you are looking for an address or a point of interest, the slightest typo will not forgive. No suggestion will be made, the application will only display a nice « No ». Plans may also encounter some problems positioning your point tends to move around the map when you have not moved.
Now Plans integrates navigation turn-by-turn. The VGP-BPS13 application is very well made and practical. We tried it on a very short distance in the Paris region and the indications were sufficiently clear and understandable. We return to this point in the coming weeks if we encounter difficulties.
Siri
Siri is available from the iPhone 4S, the new iOS version 6 was much improved but failed to convince us completely. We still looking for real value even if opportunities are added to each new version. In any case, French comprehension has improved. You can now see the results of the Ligue 1 in France or visit the cinema, to find restaurants and points of interest around you. In addition to sending messages, you can simply update their Facebook status or post a message on Twitter.
Passbook
Passbook is a beautiful new Apple. This new application allows to combine in one place your boarding cards, discount cards and so on. For now, applications are very limited and it is difficult to give you a real opinion. In any case, if the airlines, travel sites, SNCF or other companies begin to follow this mode all Pavilion DV2000 digital Passbook has a very bright future ahead of him. For cons, the iPhone 5 does not have NFC and yet it would have been very interesting to exploit this type of use. For the moment, some supermarkets like Leclerc and Auchan are compatible passbook.
Mail and Safari
Side mail to begin the improvements are very minor. It is now possible to add photos directly into a message without having to go through the Photos application. In the same way, it is possible to embed images in a response or a transfer. Then, as on Mountain Lion, it is possible to highlight some contacts by placing contacts as VIPs. By cons, if you mark a message with a flag, synchronization is still not done with a Google Account and can not find the same promotion on the online version or any other email client.
Safari side, we found a faster display of web pages. This logical progression is not entirely due to iOS 6, but in large part to the Latitude E6510 performance delivered by the iPhone 5. Regarding new features, there is now a full screen landscape mode handy. It provides better readability for web pages. It is possible to view the open tabs on other Apple products and iCloud takes care of synchronizing your offline playlist.
Shared photo stream
Small private social network integrated flux shared photos to share photos with any of your contacts who has iCloud, a Mac with iPhoto or Apple device compatible. The HP 484170-001 principle is simple, the user creates a new album and includes pictures inside, then they find themselves directly to your selected contacts who accept the invitation to access the album. Then everyone can post comments, or simply « love » picture. Damage, for the moment the video is not supported.
App Store
The Apple App Store has been completely redesigned. This new version offers significantly improved ergonomics. When downloading an application, the App Store will no longer close. The password is not required when an updated application and submission of applications has been completely redesigned. This new App Store is what is expected for several versions.
Performance
The iPhone 4S was equipped with an A5 processor type and the iPhone 4 A4 processor. The iPhone 5 now includes a processor A6, more powerful, more efficient. Apple is guarded against revealing the precise characteristics of the processor during the E6410 Battery product announcement. Finally, the only thing that has been clarified is that this new component allows the iPhone 5 to be twice as fast both on the calculation on the graph. It is also 22% smaller than its predecessor and uses less energy.
If we compare this processor that is in the world of Android, for example, surprise! The iPhone 5 is satisfied with a dual processor 1.3 GHz heart. Its competition is already quad-core processor clocked at 1.5 GHz on average. And yet, the iPhone 5 is clearly not the slowest. If one refers to the benchmark tests, the Apple device is even in the top of the table.
Overall, according to several benchmark tests, the iPhone 5 would be about the same level as HTC One X or Samsung Galaxy S III in general. In terms of graphics, the iPhone 5 is announced clearly before. Regarding the display of Pavilion DV7 web pages, the iPhone 5 is once again the fastest run JavaScript. Of course, these conclusions are derived from figures more or less revealing. But one thing is certain, the A6 processor brings a real plus to the navigation on the iPhone. All actions are fast, the games are fluid and very aesthetic. Even without a quad-core Exynos, the iPhone 5 offers performance rather unusual.
Level calls, the iPhone 5 takes advantage of several microphones that allow it to transmit sound really clear to the caller. Regarding the H +, we have unfortunately not been able to verify the theoretical speeds advertised by Inspiron 6000 operators (Orange Sosh for us). Our test area was not covered properly not the technology.
Regarding autonomy, the iPhone 5 has been slightly improved. Processor power consumption has been reduced, which changes a lot the final result. In our case, intensive use of the iPhone 5 using all the possibilities the iPhone 5 has managed to hold twenty hours. To put you in a situation, we had 3 mailboxes push in permanent employment histories, many iMessage, surf the Internet and social networks, and we captured a lot of pictures in addition to taking advantage of other opportunities iPhone as application download and listen to music (about 3 hours).
Camera
No big news on the camera. Here, you can not blame Apple for not having made any effort to innovate because the manufacturer was already at the top of the market. Only a few smartphones hold the top of the chart image quality with occasional differences on the final resolution of the picture either Sony VGP-BPS8, Samsung and Nokia. Moreover, the iPhone 5 as the iPhone 4S uses a sensor from Sony.
The iSight iPhone 5 features an 8 megapixel sensor with backlight. This is coupled with a high quality lens elements in five glass which allows f2.4 aperture. Note that the competition is f2.0 or f2.2 rather, what is still better. The image quality is rather interesting, outside, the iPhone 5 delivers very nice photo. The flash LED interior load correctly expose the scene and not trigger stupidly at full power. Without flash indoors, the iPhone 5 will automatically mount in sensitivity but image quality is reasonable for a smartphone up to ISO 800 (value non-adjustable). I’ll let you make your own judgment on some pictures below. New, Apple now offers Sweep Panorama, also available on the iPhone 4S, the overall result is satisfactory even if it is not done with the same ease as a real camera. Too bad we can not take pictures in 16:9.
Multimedia
For those familiar with the iPhone will not be surprised. The interface has been redesigned and improved, but the Pavilion DV5 features are the same. In the same way, the restrictions Apple are still there. Always go through iTunes to sync music and audio formats supported like video did not move. Music lovers can still enjoy high fidelity formats.
The top screen of the iPhone becomes wider in landscape mode and it is much nicer to view videos. The color and brightness of the screen give really want to look beautiful images of the iPhone 5. Still regret the number of formats that require to go through an external application and transfer again to your iTunes media. Otherwise, it must go through a long and tedious coding.
New Apple headphones come EarsPod replace aging white earbuds that we know very well. These new headphones have been developed over three years by Apple and allow users to access their quality at low price (thirty euros only). It is based on the observation that the headphones are often uncomfortable. EarsPod the direct sound directly into the ear through a very particular form. The EarsPod offer a rather interesting with its low but not too strong present of what to listen to almost any style of music. For headphones supplied default, Apple offers an excellent solution.
Conclusion
The iPhone 5 is around to criticize its lack of innovation and originality. And yet, in all fairness, the iPhone 5 is positioned as a smartphone comprehensive, efficient (not to mention the most efficient), but no real change from the previous. Still further, louder for this iPhone 5 that offers a dual processor heart as powerful or even more powerful than its competitors while maintaining a iOS interface 6 always easy but unfortunately without much novelty / innovation. The camera has not moved since the iPhone 4S, the photo quality is always waiting for you. We regret the loss of Google Maps for the iPhone. A monumental loss when using much the Maps application which is well below what Google offers. To conclude, this iPhone 5 is very good and is very different uses. The wave of criticism from a certain frustrations passionate about mobility, not just Apple see this lack of risk-taking increasingly common in this brand.
Tags: Toshiba PA3465U-1BRS , Presario CQ60, battery
GETTING STARTED
Mini 210-4122ef: nothing to revolutionize netbooks
At HP, the netbook is not « dead. » Here is the test of a model exploiting the new platform Intel Atom N2800 clocked at 1.8 GHz and can play videos in full HD.
the promise
The family of HP Mini 210, these mini-laptops 10 inches, welcomes a newcomer, the Mini 210-4122ef. Yet another evolution models we have tested before (like the Mini 210-3022sf). Thus, HP Pavilion DV4 now operates the new platform Intel Atom N2800 (1.86 GHz). Original, the netbook also includes a stamped Beats Audio audio system, like other laptops brand. Let’s see what all this brings concrete.
reality
The first contact with the Mini 210-4122ef is always positive. If the profile, the netbook is quite thick (3.6 cm), it reinforces the feeling of strength it generates. The Compaq Presario CQ60 machine still has no weight problem (1.36 kg). And finishes, such as « Mini » above is good, with a nice little chicklet keyboard and touchpad responds well. We also appreciate the ability to easily disable it (double-click in the upper top of the touchpad). On the other hand, the flashy colors are always attractive. Turquoise blue model that we tested we liked.
Support Full HD …
One of the improvements brought by this new platform Atom N2800 support for Full HD video. We checked by reading a movie in 1080p and it is clear that it works well. In any case the picture! Because, for the management of audio tracks, it took us install a codec pack. Take the opportunity to discuss the quality of the integrated Beats Audio. The good thing is that this device does not lack stereo box for a netbook. The use of a helmet is no longer necessary to watch movies or listen to music.
… but why?
The concern is that the importance of this compatibility is quite debatable Full HD on a netbook with a small storage capacity – in this instance 320 GB – can not keep many HD movies. However, it could be useful for watching movies on a TV or monitor via the larger netbook. The big problem is that the Mini 210-4122ef does not have HDMI output (unlike the Pavilion DV6000 PC 1025C that we recently tested). In sum, we believe, support Ful HD video is really not an argument to be taken into account as an asset in a potential purchase in this case.
Low-light benefits the autonomy
The screen 10 inch Mini 210-4122ef has a glossy coating particularly unpleasant because it strongly reflects the environment in which it is located. Defect accentuated by a very average brightness (168 cd / m²) and a contrast ratio of 646:1 equally low. These are average values measured on five points. At any silver lining, the low light benefits of autonomy. Indeed, we measured 6 hours of video playback with the screen at 100% and the Wi-Fi enabled. A result which – without being bad – frankly leaves no dreamer. The battery Toshiba PA3465U-1BRS
mentioned earlier held an hour more battery …
No USB 3
Nothing new on the side of the connector. It always consists of three USB 2.0 ports, but no USB slot 3. Adding that the presence of a VGA port and an SD card reader is classic. Only the Dell Inspiron 1300 Bluetooth module is now compatible with the standard 4.0 (2.1 and 3.0 on older machines).
the verdict
This 4122ef HP joins the family Mini 210 without making waves. Admittedly, the new platform Intel Atom N2800 can play videos in full HD. But it is in this case not very unnecessary. Because neither the screen nor the connectors do to enjoy it in good conditions. The new Mini 210, however, has advantages: its price as well as the expertise of HP Pavilion DV5 for its quality of manufacture and design.