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    The Redfox Wizpad: Netbook with touch

    Gadgets Team
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    1
    The Redfox Wizpad: Netbook with touch

    Ever since the Apple entered the tablet market with the iPad, the entire category was completely revolutionized. It’s not merely an upgrade in technical specifications but an overhaul of user-experience delivered by an Operating System designed specifically for tablets. Meanwhile, here comes Redfox with their old-school Windows 7 powered tablet: the Wizpad.

    In terms of specs, the Redfox Wizpad is on par with similar tablets: the iPad and the Galaxy Tab in almost every category. It even has the fastest processor among the three. Let’s take a quick look on their entry model’s specs:

    Redfox Wizpad T1030IW

    • Windows 7 Starter
    • Intel Atom N455 1.66GHz 512kb L2 Cache
    • 1GB DDR3 RAM
    • 16GB SSD
    • Intel GMA x3150 Graphics
    • 10″ LED-backlit (1024×600) capacitive touch screen, G-sensor
    • Wi-Fi b/g/n, Bluetooth

    The Redfox Wizpad T1030IW starts at P31,999. There’s also a higher-model, The Wizpad T1034IW (P40,999), which has twice as much RAM, storage and has multi-touch. Now that’s a pretty steep price considering the prices of tablets these days. The specs can be manually upgraded; however, be reminded that the entry model T1030IW does NOT come with multi-touch display and has no internal modem.

    Here is the bottom view of the Redfox WizPad. Unlike its competitors, it features a full suite of ports similar to a netbook- an audio out, microphone jack, SD card reader, VGA output, and 2xUSB 2.0 ports. It even has a sim card slot for 3G connectivity.

    The Redfox WizPad feels quite heavy with all the computer parts built inside it. The back panel, which looks like its made with aluminum feels rather hot after prolonged use.  They claim that the battery lasts for about 6 hours. It natively runs on Windows 7 (although theoretically, it can support other OSes as well) which is kind of a double edged sword.

    Having a Windows 7 OS means that it can virtually run any app or program that you can run on your PC although with a bit of compromise in loading times, graphics quality and responsiveness. The problem, however, is that the OS is not fully optimized for a tablet unlike Android and iOS with almost-instant boot up and specialized apps.  At best, you would get a netbook-level experience but with touch.


    It’s more of a personal preference I guess. The WizPad really targets those who need a full productive office suite while on the go. It has an amazing library of apps that are readily available and users that are familiar with Windows 7 will surely like this. In this light, the Redfox Wizpad feels more like an ultra portable netbook rather than a tablet. Check out this WizPad setup by Redfox complete with a wireless mouse and keyboard. Now that’s a PC you can literally carry around. Neat-o!

    RIM officially unveils the BlackBerry Torch 9800

    Gadgets Team
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    0
    RIM officially unveils the BlackBerry Torch 9800

    RIM has just unveiled the BlackBerry Torch 9800 today in Encore (formerly Embassy) at the Fort Strip. The newest member of the BlackBerry family is touted by RIM as the world’s first smartphone to combine a BlackBerry keyboard with a full touch experience and the first to include the new BlackBerry 6 OS.

    Gregory Wade, Managing Director, Southeast Asia for RIM was present during the event, and he had a few things to say about RIM and BlackBerry’s standing in the Philippines. Seems like Filipinos are embracing the whole smartphone craze, as according to GFK, 1 in every 10 phones bought locally is a smartphone. He also added that the BlackBerry OS is the second largest mobile OS in the Philippines, according to IDC (2nd quarter of 2010).

    Here’s a quick rundown of the specs for the Torch:

    3.2-inch capacitive screen

    QWERTY Slide out keyboard

    A 5 megapixel camera, a first for BB, with 11 scene modes and image stabilization, among other features

    A 624 MHz processor

    5.8 hours of talk time

    Also on hand for the event was John Leung, RIM’s director for the Philippines. He mostly explained the new features of the new BlackBerry 6 OS that will ship with the Torch. One of the key features of the new OS would be an extremely user friendly UI that’ll old BB users will recognize and new users will pick up quickly. Additional features now include notification previews, unified social feed, a redesigned home screen, universal search and the ability to copy and paste into folders.

    The BlackBerry Torch will be available to both carriers and distributors by late November, sadly, there were no talk about prices, and it seems you’ll have to ask your carrier (either Globe, Smart or Sun) how much it is with your current plan.

    [album: https://gadgetsmagazine.com.ph/wp-content/plugins/dm-albums/dm-albums.php?currdir=/wp-content/uploads/dm-albums/[email protected]/Blackberry Torch/]

    SM Cinema launches hassle free online ticket reservation/purchase

    Gadgets Magazine
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    SM Cinema launches hassle free online ticket reservation/purchase

    SM Cinema, the largest local chain of movie theaters, unveiled yesterday their new website – www.smcinema.com, which aims to bring absolute convenience to their customers by offering online reservation and ticket purchasing. Their new website can be accessed anywhere using any device – computer or mobile phone, and can be used for all SM cinemas nationwide.

    All you need to do to get started is to register at their website – www.smcinema.com. Navigate through the different movies or cinemas easily by sorting it out by either category. Clicking on “More info” or “Buy tickets” will direct you to the same page – a full description of the movie and the option to buy tickets, so I find it quite redundant. Anyways, you can then select your desired branch, time and date then you’re good to go. You can even pick the seats you want yourself for reserved seating.

    Why no login button?

    I find it rather odd that there is no quick login option in the home page. Actually, there’s no login button at all. The only way I was able to login is when I clicked “Buy tickets” already. Not that there’s much to do there but while logged in, you will be able to see your reservations and transaction history.

    Can’t go without a date!

    I don’t think SM encourages watching movies alone. While I was trying it out, I couldn’t find an option to get a ticket for one. I’m not sure if it is working as intended (required minimum purchase) or if it’s something that will be fixed soon. Currently, the only available modes of payment are credit cards and GCash. You will be charged an additional P20 per ticket for “convenience fee”. Once the payment has been made, there is no way to refund or cancel it. Unlike Sureseats.com, SM doesn’t offer ticket reservations for pickup so you better have a credit card or a GCash account to take advantage of this feature.

    Mr.Edgar Tejerero SVP showing off the BCode technology

    Upon ticket purchase, an email verification with a unique code will be sent to you. There’s also a n option to have it sent to you via SMS.  To get your actual ticket, you just swipe your phone or a printed copy of the receipt to the BCode panel, which will print your ticket instantly. You don’t have to worry even if you’re using the same phone you were 10 years ago. It works on any device because it simply reads the text – no special apps needed.

    They also added Google Maps on the site but it’s rather useless because it’s not integrated with the pages you’ll normally navigate through. It is only viewable in the Cinema Search. I guess this could be useful when you’re travelling to different provinces and just can’t help but get your movie fix.

    Globe shows off LTE technology for a whopping 40 mb/s mobile surfing

    Gadgets Team
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    0
    Globe shows off LTE technology for a whopping 40 mb/s mobile surfing

    Doing the LTE simulation are (from left) Globe Head of Network Technologies Strategy Emmanuel Estrada, NEC Corporation Assistant Manager Hiroshi Miyai, and NEC Philippines EVP Leonardo Santos.

    Globe, together with Singapore Telecommunications (SingTel), conducted a live internet surfing demonstration using the yet-to-be-released Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology, the much awaited successor to the current 3G mobile internet protocol.

    LTE is a high-performance air interface for cellular mobile technology. It is the next frontier in radio technologies designed to increase the capacity and speed of mobile telephone networks. It addresses the demand for higher data rates and increased quality of service that enables users to experience the fastest mobile broadband service up to 100Mbps. Even if we all know that “up to” speeds are hardly attainable in real life browsing, it’s still a significant improvement over our current 3g/HSDPA connections.

    During the demo, the LTE speed test was conducted (via www.speedtest.net) which showed a whopping speed of 43Mbps. Based on my experience with current 3G networks using Globe UnliSurf, I get mobile browsing speeds of 2Mbps tops on lucky days; LTE would be as much as 20x faster than that. It’s mind-blowing. To put things into context, this kind of internet speed will let you download MP3 files within seconds and video downloads within minutes.

    Riding on the momentum of rising broadband users, LTE would prove to be a big step forward for Globe and its subscribers. As an internet buff myself, I surely can’t wait for this particular technology to progress.

    Direct from Singapore: Asus unveils next generation mobos

    Gadgets Team
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    0
    Direct from Singapore: Asus unveils next generation mobos

    We’ve been chomping at the bit to publish this particular story, unfortunately we had to sign numerous NDA (non-disclosure agreements) before we were even let in the event. But hey, guess what? The NDA expires today, and you’ll be seeing firsthand what Asus has in store for motherboards next year.

    Before Asus became known for their Eee PCs, the Taiwanese manufacturer was primarily known for its quality motherboards and videocards. So it came as no surprise to absolutely anyone that it already had a whole stable of motherboards for Intel’s next generation socket and chipset all lined up and ready to go, encompassing both entry, mainstream and enthusiast markets.

    The next generation of Asus motherboards has dual, intelligent processors, dubbed DIGI+ VRM: TPU and EPU that enhance the performance and power consumption of your setup. The TPU allows you to automatically tune your rig to get more performance out of it. EPU on the other hand, is a real time energy saving processor, which will allow you to potentially lower the overall power used by your rig.

    Of course, no Asus event will be complete without an appearance from their ROG (Republic of Gamers) line. The Maximus IV Extreme is billed as their next generation motherboard, and comes with all the goodies that Asus is known for: quality materials, gorgeous lines, design and overclocking features that make it easier to tweak its performance. ROG iDirect, for example, allows you to tweak the settings on your board via your iPhone or iPad.

    Another motherboard design that needs to be given kudos is the TUF Sabertooth P67. It’s equipped with what Asus calls a “TUF Tactical Vest” that, aside from protecting the surface of the board, redirects heat away from critical components.

    Speaking of components, the Sabertooth uses quality, military grade components like TUF alloy chokes, solid capacitors and MOSFETs, ensuring the durability of the board.

    Not content on releasing hot hardware, Asus has also seen fit to revise the BIOS screen of its motherboards into something easier to use. The EFI BIOS gives users a graphical interface and OS like operation for easier configuration. There’s even an EZ-Mode that allows you to choose whether to prioritize performance, power efficiency, or noise reduction. All Asus motherboards made from here on out will have this BIOS.

    Finally, all of Asus motherboards save select entry level models will have a Bluetooth module, which allows any Bluetooth device to connect with their boards. How’s that for value?

    From left to right Andrew Wu (MB Senior Product Manager), Darwin Wu (Regional Head) and Eason Lin (MB Senior Product Manager)

    Crocs and Collezione launch My Pilipinas Crocband

    Gadgets Team
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    Crocs and Collezione launch My Pilipinas Crocband

    Two of the biggest footwear and apparel names in the country, Crocs and Collezione C2, have teamed up to offer a unique design both distinctly Pinoy, and distinctly Crocs. My Pilipinas Crocband debuts this October as part of the Fall/Holiday 2010 Collection, a pair sure to make Filipinos loud and proud of their nation. Designed by acclaimed fashion designer, Rhett Eala, the limited edition My Pilipinas Crocband is designed to intensify national pride in each Filipino, with a dash of fun and loaded with functionality. The grand launch at the Trinoma Activity Center showcases key pieces from the Collezione-C2’s Holiday 2010 line, and the latest footwear from Crocs Fall/Holiday collection, featuring My Pilipinas Crocband.

    Check out our gallery to see how Crocs and Collezione C2 have collarborated to bring simplicity and comfort to Filipino apparel, with a dash of nationalism!

    Continue

    Blekko: The intuitive and creative way to search.

    Gadgets Team
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    4
    Blekko: The intuitive and creative way to search.

    Blekko is one of the newest search engines which a lot of tech sites refer to as “the Google killer”. Clearly, they’re not. But that doesn’t make them any less credible. As CEO Rich Skrenta said in his blog, and I quote: “I don’t believe to be successful in this business you need to be a Google-killer. In fact, trying to be a Google-killer is probably the one sure way not to succeed.”

    What is Blekko anyway? And how does it differ from Google or any other search engine there is?

    Blekko is concerned about one thing: best quality search results. To achieve this, they implemented an intuitive way to search called the slashtag. Trusted sites are linked to a slashtag so whenever you perform a search query, it prioritizes search results within the linked sites. There are spam icons on each search result which hides unwanted sites when clicked. This will also give a heads up to Blekko which sites are reliable and which are spam.

    For example, searching “smartphone /review /date” will show you smartphone reviews by date. Users can narrow down the “/review” slashtag to certain tech review sites such as Engadget, Gizmodo or even our very own Gadgets Magazine to keep results relevant. Sites that sell smarthphones can be tagged as spam so they are filtered out of the “/review” tag. There are also some third party slashtags such as “/youtube” or “/amazon “which lets you search within those sites.

    The power of Blekko lies on its crowd-sourced model, which keeps search results up to date and relevant. There are already some predefined slashtags, but users are free to create more themselves. You can share your slashtags to other Blekko users, or even invite them as editors to make your slashtags even better.

    There is also a readily available SEO component on your search results. Clicking this will show you host rank, inbound links, site pages, and other handy information about the site. To view Blekko’s site ranking for keywords, you can use the slashtag “/rank.”

    Sounds good right? Well true enough it garnered positive response as Wired reports that on their first week, Blekko had an average of 1 million queries a day, making it rank third after Google and Bing.

    Awesome, nearly unbreakable lenses and frames coming to an optical shop near you

    Gadgets Team
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    1
    Awesome, nearly unbreakable lenses and frames coming to an optical shop near you

    Alright so we usually feature gadgets of the electronic ilk here at Gadgets, but we just had to post this. We were recently invited to a seminar and mini trade show by the Alliance Optics Group Philippines, and aside from the usual things you’d see in an Optics seminar, we got to handle glasses made of Trivex, a lens material that’s dramatically stronger and clearer than standard plastic and polycarbonate material.

    It’s also ANSI Z87.1 rated, so if any ¼ steel pellets are shot in your face at a velocity of 150 feet per second, you’ll be sure that Trivex made lenses will stop em.

    All kidding aside though, the Trivex made samples during the event were pretty darn tough, and no amount of twisting, stomping and general hulkishness was able to even put a dent in them.

    We were also able to talk with Jose Ricardo Casas from Ottica Corporation and got to see the newest models of their Fury glasses. One of the most striking feature of one of their models was the flexible frame, and like the Trivex made glasses, no amount of twisting was able to make a dent in it.

    What’s nice about Fury glasses is the fact that the designers take modern design cues, quality materials and feedback from customers to create their products so potential users will be able to enjoy quality eyewear with great value.

    The Fury Revenant that was demoed also comes with four pairs of interchangeable lenses, so you have the option of mixing and matching the lenses any way you see fit.

    November issue is out now!

    Gadgets Team
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    2
    November issue is out now!

    This November, Gadgets Magazine brings you The Next Big Thing, an issue full of the latest innovations in technology and more! Cop an issue and peep the freshest devices! Still wondering what to get yourself (oh yeah, and others) for the holidays? You’ll have trouble keeping that list short after a look at the November issue.

    LG Optimus 7 spotted in the wild, made us drool in envy

    Gadgets Team
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    0
    LG Optimus 7 spotted in the wild, made us drool in envy

    One of the biggest surprises of the Office for Mac 2011 launch wasn’t directly connected to the launch. Alan Chou, Microsoft’s Senior Category Manager, SEA Emerging Market just happened to have a LG Optimus 7 that he literally just uncrated out of the box. It was so new it still didn’t have a SIM card yet , and being the tech lover that I am I just had to get my grubby mitts on the thing and fondle Microsoft’s latest and greatest for a few minutes.

    One of the most striking feature, or non feature, of Windows Phone 7 devices is the lack of custom skins. Alan says that while there’s not going to be manufacturer skins on top of the OS, manufacturers will be able to put custom tiles on the device.

    The minimalist design of the UI is nice and pleasant, and the transitions between screens are fast and zippy.

    The new OS has heavy XBOX Live integration, and while you won’t be able to play Gears of War on the thing, you’ll at least be able to see your achievements and avatar. There’s also games slated for Windows Phone 7 devices, so gamers on the go can have their fix wherever they are.

    Alan also demoed one of the features that the Optimus 7 had – the Panorama Shot. It’s essentially an easy to use panoramic shooting mode where the phone gives users visual cues where to point the 5 megapixel camera to for near perfect panoramic shots.

    So that’s it for the Optimus Phone 7. While we’re jonesing to get some real hands on time with Windows Phone 7 devices, realistically we won’t be seeing a lot of them this holiday season as they are still slowly trickling down to launch regions (Alan got his from Singapore).

    Microsoft Office for Mac 2011 launched

    Gadgets Team
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    As further proof that Microsoft’s spreading the love across all platforms, Office for Mac 2011 has just been officially released at the press event thrown by Microsoft’s local distributor, MSI-ECS at the M Café in Makati. The new version of Microsoft’s long running productivity suite brings over a ton of familiar elements from the Windows version to the Mac, including the ribbon interface. The new version is also completely compatible with old versions of Office, and has all the features of the Windows version to ensure cross compatibility.

    Mac users also have the distinction of being able to enjoy the dynamic reordering feature that’s present in PowerPoint, wherein instead of clicking on arrows to prioritize layers, users will get a Windows Aero-like UI and will be able to arrange the layers visually. Potential buyers of Office for Mac 2011 will also be able to enjoy relatively lower prices as there will be single user licenses available for purchase. Sadly, there was no retail pricing announced locally as of yet, but MSI-ECS assures us that there will be one soon.

    Asus outs new videocard and media players during tech seminar, makes us wish we were millionaires

    Gadgets Team
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    1
    Asus outs new videocard and media players during tech seminar, makes us wish we were millionaires
    If there’s one thing we hate about Asus, its the fact that they keep making awesome gadgets at a prodigious pace. The Taiwanese computer giant invited members of the media and selected Xtreme Power club members to the EDSA Shangri-la for a tech briefing of sorts. The briefing, conducted by Ellis Chua, Technical Marketing Specialist for Asus Philippines, gave further insight to the exclusive technologies that go into their boards, as well as unveil their newest videocard, the EAH6850 and their digital media player, the O!Play HD2.
    Asus has long been the top choice for computer enthusiasts for the innovative technologies that are present in their motherboards, and the current crop of products is no exception. Technologies like the Dual Intelligent processor that gives faster PC performance and energy savings up to 80% make Asus boards highly sought after by the enthusiast crowd.

    Also unveiled during the seminar was the EAH6850, the newest videocard from AMD. Like their motherboards, the newest card from Asus includes performance boosting features for overclockers like the Voltage Tweak technology that makes it the best choice for discerning gamers.

    Finally, the Asus O!Play HD 2 promises to deliver to the big screen regardless of the file format, as it supports a wide array of files including high definition MKV. It’s also the world’s first media device with USB 3.0 support, so it’s able to transfer gigantic files faster than a USB 2.0.

    LG Optimus One unboxing; Froyo for the masses

    Gadgets Team
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    0
    LG Optimus One unboxing; Froyo for the masses

    LG wants you to enjoy Android for less, and its newly released LG Optimus One running on Android 2.2 Froyo is a serious contender in the local smartphone arena. Retailing at only Php 12,900, the Optimus One delivers serious value for money, and it was only natural that we’d finally grab one for review. Big thanks go out to LG Philippines for supplying the demo unit, and providing fodder for today’s unboxing.

    The Optimus One arrived in an alarmingly unassuming and positively tiny box. Inside held the unit and the accessories that come with it.

    The design of the Optimus One is very minimalist, and as such there are only a few buttons littered at the bottom of the unit and to the side.

    There’s also a 3.5mm jack to plug your own headphones in if you don’t like the included ones.

    The back view of the unit. The camera is a 3.0 megapixel deal.

    Here’s a perspective on how the Optimus One looks while being held. I do admit that my hand is a bit on the large side (it’s slightly bigger than the average pinoy) but the Optimus One still feels fantastic to hold.

    And the most important bit of course, the Android version. The Optimus One runs on the latest build of Android, namely 2.2, so all the features and goodies that’s associated with it (WiFi tethering and the like) is good to go.

    The capacitive screen is easy to use and is very responsive. Texting and composing messages is easy, and the screen automatically switches from a keypad to a full QWERTY keyboard depending on the orientation of the device.

    The accessories that come with it.

    Alright that’s it for this unboxing. If you want to find out what grade the Optimus One gets, you’ll have to wait for the December issue of our mag as EA Danee Torres takes it for a spin. Or if you don’t want to wait and grab one right away, LG is discounting the price of this beautiful little smartphone during the blast off sale on Nov. 13 at their concept stores all over the country (SM North EDSA Annex, SM Megamall, SM Cebu and Gaisano Davao) at a massively discounted price of Php 6,495. You’ll have to be quick though, because you only have a 1 hour window before the sale ends, and once that hour is up, the price is back up to the regular, Php 12,900 tag. The sale happens on 2-3 PM only, so mark your calendars people.

    Gadgets Sunday: Samsung Shark 3, Toshiba 3D Notebook, Samsung galaxy 5

    Gadgets Team
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    0
    Gadgets Sunday: Samsung Shark 3, Toshiba 3D Notebook, Samsung galaxy 5

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    Review: 500GB WD My Passport Studio

    Gadgets Team
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    0
    Review: 500GB WD My Passport Studio

    The latest My Passport Studio is one gorgeous looking portable hard drive. This model is the successor to WD’s Studio line, which specifically targets Mac users. There are three variants for the My Passport Studio: 320Gb, 500GB, and 640GB. The one I have right now is the 500GB model.

    Unlike the My Passport Essential, the My Passport Studio only comes in one color. It couldn’t be more perfect as the metallic silver finish of the hard drive closely resembles the Aluminum Unibody of Apple MacBooks. One the bottom, there are 2 connection ports available: micro-USB 2.0 and FireWire 800. Included inside the box is an adapter which converts FireWire 800 to FireWire 400. Underneath the sleek exterior rests a 2.5-inch hard drive with 8MB cache and 5400-rpm.

    Probably the biggest upgrade from the previous generation of My Passport Studio is the e-Label panel located in front of the device. It displays a personalized label of up to 12 characters long, a bar which represents the remaining capacity, and a lock icon which indicates if the drive is password protected. The color of the display can be inverted from black-on-gray to gray-on-black. The e-label uses the e-ink technology so it stays on even though the drive is unplugged.

    All of these features can be accessed and modified using WD’s proprietary software: the WD SmartWare.  It comes pre-loaded into the device as an auto-loading Virtual CD. It’s an all-in-one software which lets you update the label, add a security password, or even diagnose your hard drive. There’s also a backup software included that neatly categorizes the contents of your computer, which could be synced to your hard drive. The backup software is limited such that you can’t exclude individual files/folders from the different categories. If it’s documents or movies, it’s ALL documents or movies. There’s also no option for automatic scheduled backup.

    If you’re like me and you don’t want any of the extra clutter from the SmartWare VCD, there is also an option to switch it off. You can only do this if you’re My Passport Studio is not password locked and you’re not using any of the features of SmartWare. This may be reverted back on anytime using the Virtual CD Manager.

    For benchmarking, I used the AJA System Test, one of the very few benchmarking programs available for Mac. With USB 2.0 (left), I got a very unimpressive write speed of 27.4 MB/s and a read speed of 35.8 MB/s. However, with FireWire 800 (right), the performance got boosted up to twice as fast with a write speed of 62.1 MB/s and a read speed of 73.6 MB/s.

    I also tried copying a bunch of files just to verify the benchmarking results with real life files that I store in My Passport Studio – my World of Warcraft installer, and seasons 1 to 4 of How I Met Your Mother. With small files, the difference is hardly noticeable but when transferring over 50GB of data, the FireWire 800 just blew USB 2.0 out of the competition. It was indeed almost twice as fast. Too bad not a lot of non-Apple devices has a built in FireWire 800 interface.

    Just keep in mind that using different computers may have varying results. For this particular test, I used a Mid-2009 MacBook Pro with 2.26Ghz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 2GB ram, and 160GB SATA HDD.

    You can follow Francis on Twitter.

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