Nikon’s D810 Updated DSLR

The world of photography is going to enjoy a new update this year with the upcoming release of Nikon D810. The previous dSLR models – Nikon D800 and D800 E – were introduced by the company two years ago. Therefore, it is high time for a tweaked up version.

Merged Qualities

Apart from bringing several feature enhancements, the new camera also possesses the qualities of its ancestors merged together. Previously, Nikon had split two important features of photography into two dSLR versions. For an anti-aliasing filter (OLFP), photographers had to use Nikon D800. On the other hand, for sharper photographs, Nikon D800 E was the choice. The D810 model combines both of these features and gives users to achieve their preferred photography results.

Salient Design Features

Nikon D810 has been designed with the following salient features.

• Some of the control buttons have been moved to new locations. For instance, the bracketing button has been placed above the flash at the front side of the device. The metering button is now at the top of the release mode dial which is where the bracketing button previously existed in the predecessors.


• The LCD now features RGBW display. This enhances the brightness of photographs. Users will also be allowed to adjust the color balance.


• A split-screen zoom feature has been added for Live View. It enables users to check the focus as well as the level.


• The prism’s new coating has improved the viewfinder. There is also an OLED overlay for the settings options.

Improved Image Processing

The new dSLR comes with improved image processing owing to an upgraded sensor. The Expeed 4 processor, which was introduced through D5300 for the first time, is going to produce good quality snaps for the users of D810. It performs the following important functions among several others.

• A small raw format with 12-bit resolution.


• Creating high contrast results with highlight-weighted metering feature.

Faster Speed

Nikon’s new dSLR is going to perform thirty percent faster than both of its predecessors. A hundred JPEG photographs can be shot by the cam within four seconds. This has been made possible due to an improved burst capability as well as an enhanced frame-per second speed. The latter has been tweaked up from 1 frame-per second to 5 frames-per second.

High Quality Photography and Video Results

The dSLR is capable of taking stills as well shooting videos just like its predecessors. However, the results for both are much improved owing to the following tweaks.

• A new balancer unit controls vibrations in order to ensure your photos are not blurred due to a shaky hand or any other movements. In addition, users will also have a better grip on the cam owing to its improved design.


• An electronic front shutter reduces lag during still photography.


• The power aperture comes with a button to control the aperture’s size. It can be opened wider or made narrower according to requirements.


• Videos will be better not only with regard to the visual quality, but also with improved audio quality. The latter is achieved owing to better voice frequencies as well as wind-noise reduction.

Links
Model Name:	Nikon D810
Check Prices:
Photo Gallery URL:
Device Forum URL:
Manufacturer URL:	Mfr. Website
General
Model Number:	D810
Camera Format:	Pro SLR
Currently Manufactured:	Yes
Retail Price:	$3299.95
Street Price:
Date Available:	2014-07-31
Tripod Mount:	Yes (Metal)
Weight:	34.9 oz (988 g) includes batteries
Weight With Batteries?	Yes
Weight Includes Kit Lens?	No
Size:	5.7 x 4.8 x 3.2 in. (146 x 123 x 82 mm)
Waterproof:	No
Image Sensor
Sensor Type:	CMOS
Sensor Manufacturer:
Total Megapixels:	37.1
Effective Megapixels:	36.3
Sensor Format:	35mm
Sensor Size (dia.):	1.70"
Focal Length Multiplier:	1.0
Color Filter Type:	RGBG
Self-Cleaning:	Yes
Sensor-shift Stabilized:	No
Image Capture
Image Resolution:	7360 x 4912 (36.2 MP, Other), 5520 x 3680 (20.3 MP, 3:2), 3680 x 2456 (9.0 MP, Other), 6114 x 4080 (24.9 MP, Other), 4608 x 3056 (14.1 MP, 3:2), 3072 x 2040 (6.3 MP, 3:2), 4800 x 3200 (15.4 MP, 3:2), 3600 x 2400 (8.6 MP, 3:2), 2400 x 1600 (3.8 MP, 3:2), 6144 x 4912 (30.2 MP, 5:4), 4608 x 3680 (17.0 MP, 5:4), 3072 x 2456 (7.5 MP, 5:4)
Image File Format:	JPEG (EXIF 2.3), RAW (NEF), 14 or 12-bit; SRAW; TIFF
Video Capture
Movie Mode:	Yes
Movie Resolution:	1920x1080, 1280x720
Movie Frame Rate:	60p/50p/30p/25p/24p, 60p/50p
Movie Audio:	Yes
Movie File Format:	MOV (H.265/MPEG-4 AVC, Linear PCM stereo audio)
Optics
Lens Mount:	Nikon F mount
Kit Lens:	n/a
Focal Length (35mm equivalent):
Zoom Ratio:
Aperture Range:
Normal Focus Range:
Macro Focus Range:
Optical Image Stablization:	No
Digital Zoom:	Yes
Digital Zoom Values:	1.2x, 1.5x (DX), 5:4 crop modes
Filter Thread:	n/a
Auto Focus
Auto Focus:	Yes
Auto Focus Type:	51-point TTL phase detection via Nikon Advanced Multi-CAM 3500FX including 15 cross-type sensors; f/8 supported by 11 central sensors; Contrast detection AF in Live View mode
Face Detection:	Yes
Auto Focus Assist Light?	Yes
Manual Focus:	Yes
Viewfinder
Viewfinder:	Optical
Viewfinder Type:	SLR; eye-level pentaprism, 100% coverage, 0.7x magnification, 17mm eyepoint, -3 to +1 diopter
Display
LCD Viewfinder:	Yes
LCD Size (inches):	3.2
LCD Resolution:	1,229,000 dots (307,250 px)
Touchscreen:	No
Articulating LCD:	No
Max Playback Zoom:
Exposure
ISO Settings:	Auto, 64 - 12800 in 1/3, 1/2 or 1EV steps, plus down to 32 in Lo-1, up to 51,200 in Hi-2
Auto ISO Mode:	Yes
White Balance Settings:	Auto (2), Incandescent, Fluorescent (7), Direct Sunlight, Flash, Cloudy, Shade, Preset Manual (6; Spot WB available in Live View), Color Temperature (2,500K-10,000K); Fine-tuning available for all options.
Shutter Speed Range:	30 - 1/8000
Bulb Mode:	Yes
Exposure Compensation:	+/- 5.0EV in 0.3EV steps
Metering Modes:	91K-pixel 3D Color Matrix Metering III, Center-weighted (weight of 75% given to 12-mm circle in center of frame; diameter of circle can be changed to 8, 15 or 20 mm, or weighting can be based on average of entire frame), Spot (4mm circle or about 1.5% frame, centered on selected focus area)
Program AE:	Yes
Aperture Priority:	Yes
Shutter Priority:	Yes
Full Manual Exposure:	Yes
Creative Exposure Modes:	None
Self Timer:	2/5/10/20 seconds
Time Lapse:	Yes
Flash
Built-in Flash:	Yes
Flash Modes:	Front-curtain sync, Slow sync, Rear-curtain sync, Red-eye reduction, Red-eye reduction with slow sync; supports Advanced Wireless Lighting system
Flash Guide Number (ISO 100):	12.0 m / 39.4 ft.
Flash Range Description:	Lens aperture dependent; GN = 12m or 39 ft (ISO 100)
Max Flash Sync:	1/250 (up to 1/320s with lower flash range)
Flash Exp Compensation:	-3 to +1 EV in 0.3EV steps
Ext Flash Connection:	ISO-type hot-shoe, PC Sync terminal
Image Storage
Usable Memory Types:	CF1 / SD / SDHC / SDXC
Memory Included (MB):
File System:
DCF Compliant:	Yes
Connectivity
Composite Video Out:	No
NTSC/PAL Switchable:	n/a
Video Usable as Viewfinder:	n/a
HD Video Out:	Yes
HD Video Connection:	HDMI
Built-In Wi-fi:
Computer/Printer:	USB 3.0 Super Speed
PictBridge Compliant:	Yes
DPOF Compliant:	Yes
Remote Control:	Yes
Remote Control Type:	Optional wired
Other Connection:	Mini HDMI (Type C), 10-pin Expansion Terminal (GP-1 GPS compatible), Stereo Mic Mini Jack (3.5mm), Stereo Audio Out (3.5mm)
Power
Battery Form Factor:	Proprietary EN-EL15
Usable Battery Types:	Lithium-ion rechargeable or MB-D12 battery grip
Batteries Included:	1 x Proprietary EN-EL15 Lithium-ion rechargeable
Battery Charger Included:	Yes
CIPA Rating:	1,200
Software
Included Software:	Nikon Software Suite CD-ROM
OS Compatibility:
Miscellaneous
Notes & Features:	Brand-new, 36.3-megapixel FX-format (full-frame) AA-filterless CMOS sensor, expanded sensitivity range (ISO 32-51200), EXPEED 4 processor, Group-area AF mode, 5fps full-res burst mode, electronic front curtain shutter option, Full HD 60p video, Small RAW option, USB 3.0, dual CF/SD slot.

Amazing Color Picker Pen – The Scribble

One of our childhood fantasies have always been to have colored markers in millions of shades. That fantasy has now been turned into a reality in the form of Scribble: a color picker pen. It makes use of amazing technology which enables the pen to detect any color through its sensor. In fact, Scribble can reproduce sixteen million colors. Users can then sketch, doodle or write with the pen in their preferred colors.

How it Works

The Scribble pen consists of the following important components.

• A 16 bit Red-Green-Blue color sensor


• ARM 9 microprocessor


• 1 GB onboard memory


• A micro USB port


• Bluetooth 4.0

The RGB sensor can detect the exact color of an object when users bring both in close proximity. The microprocessor then analyses and stores the color in the pen’s 1 GB memory which can accommodate around a hundred thousand colors.

The pen can also be connected to your smartphone or computer through its micro USP port or Bluetooth connectivity. The colors detected and analyzed by the pen can then also be used in different sketching or doodling apps in your phone or on your computer.

Functionality

Scribble can be used on paper as well as with your gadgets. It offers the functionality of a stylus pen with your smartphone or tablet. The color picker pen is, therefore, a useful and fun device for those who are into sketching or like to doodle. Indeed, the pen is an innovative and exciting to the world of technology.

MIPOW PLAYBULB – Cool New Technology

Having speakers incorporated in a light bulb is definitely something the world hasn’t seen before. This innovative concept has been named MIPOW PLAYBULB. It is actually a Bluetooth enabled LED speaker. It functions both as a light bulb and speakers for your music. Both the functions of MIPOW PLAYBULB can be controlled through your smartphone by means of an app. Users can opt of different colors for their LED light bulb. This creative gadget has been developed by Clove Technology.

Working Mechanism

As mentioned before, the device is controlled through your smartphone. The bulb can be at the other end of the room or connected to a socket at your ceiling. You can easily control it from a distance by having a dedicated application for the MIPOW PLAYBULB installed on your phone. The app allows you to turn the LED light on or off. The light can even be dimmed down. In addition, you can use the speakers to listen to music and enjoy the sound effect.

The devices which offer compatibility with MIPOW PLAYBULB are Apple’s latest iOS supported gadgets as well as Android phones with version 4.3 or newer upgrades.

The following specifications reveal further information about MIPOW PLAYBULB.

• The bulb works at a voltage range of 100 to 240 V.


• MIPOW PLAYBULB can be fixed in any E26 or E27 screw base socket.


• The devices which can be used to control the LED light bulb include Apples’s iPhone 4S, iPhone 5S, iPhone 5C, the fifth generation iPod, fourth generation iPad, iPad Mini as well as iPad Air. In addition, Android smartphones and tablets running the OS version 4.3 or greater also support the new technology.


• The LED bulb is controlled through Bluetooth. The version of Bluetooth technology in MIPOW PLAYBULB is 4.0.


• Applications related to controlling the LED bulb can be downloaded from the Play Store or Apple’s iTunes.

Functionality and Usability

The cool MIPOW PLAYBULB is actually quite handy. Since users can have a remote control over the light, it proves to be very useful as a source of light at night. Particularly, students living in dorms can make use of the light and enjoy the ease of turning it off or on from a distance.

There are different settings options offered by the bulb to users. Different modes include energy saving, sleep mode, wake up and night mode. Users can also use the bulb as an alarm to wake up in the morning. The settings allow users to play music at a specific time in the morning and turn the light off.

In addition, the experience with music is also great. You can adjust the volume and control the playback quality through your phone. This is a really fun way of listening to your favorite tracks.

The Bottom Line

MIPOW PLAYBULB is indeed one the most innovative gadgets you will see in 2014. It makes life easier by giving users a wireless control over its functions. Its functionality is impressive and it delivers really well what it has been developed for

Introduction to 3D Pen : A Doodler

A 3D pen, also known as 3D Doodler, is a unique gadget designed for fun art projects. It combines the functionality of a 3D printer and a hot glue gun. In other words, it accomplishes what a 3D printer can by melting plastic like a hot glue gun. It is loaded with plastic filaments which are melted to form any shape you like. Unlike 3D printers, a 3D pen is much more portable, affordable and easy to use. It can be used for fun activities or for creating plastic objects for business purpose.

The Main Components

In order to understand how a 3D doodler pen works, it is important to know what its main components are. These are mentioned below.

• Built-in Cooling Fan


• Electrical plug


• Pen Tip


• Rubber Protector


• Speed Controllers


• Mount

The Working Mechanism

The working mechanism of a 3D pen is very simple. Unlike a 3D printer, you are not required to use any software program. Simply use the pen to create the object you like – plastic action figures, hair accessories for kids or any plastic object just for fun.

The portion at the back of the pen is where you load the plastic filaments. These filaments are available in different colors to give you options. You can create objects in different colors. The tip at the front is where the plastic filaments come out melted. The tip gets very hot like a glue gun. In order to avoid overheating, a fan has been incorporated.

Plug in the gadget in a power socket. There is a 6 feet cord for convenience. Turn on the power switch in order to heat up the gadget to melt the plastic filaments. Simply draw in the air. The plastic will start flowing out of the tip and will form the shape you are drawing.

Pros of 3D Pen

Is it worth buying a 3D pen? Mentioned below are some positive points about the gadget which make it worthy of your money.

• It is a cool and innovative gadget with none other of its kind out there in the market.


• A 3D pen is more affordable as compared to a 3D printer.


• The gadget is very simple to use.


• Unlike 3D printers, a 3D pen is portable.

Cons of 3D Pens

Those who are amazed by this fun gadget should know that there are also certain shortcomings associated with it. Have a look at the following cons of a 3D pen before buying it.

• Although the pen is portable, it needs to be plugged in to a power socket. This limits the use of the gadget.


• A 3D printer gives you various options with regard to the material used for the creation of objects. Plastic, glass, ceramic and even chocolate and cheese can be used. However, with 3D pens, you can only create plastic objects.


• The pen’s tip can get very hot. It is not safe to be used by kids.

Manufacturers are expected to come up with improvements in the gadget in future. For now, despite its shortcomings, it is still an innovative device which attracts art lovers for their fun projects.

Google Glass – an Overview, Available for US Consumers

As wearable mobile technology thrills the world, tech geeks flock around Samsung’s Galaxy Gear as well as the much more exciting Google Glass. The latter is a portable Android-based smartphone device which operates in a hands-free format. After Google Glass Explorer Edition, the gadget finally hit the market in May 2014. Sold like hot cakes, Google Glass stock was completely swept off the shelves during its limited 24-hours sale in the United States.

The Basics

This tiny computer – housed in a titanium frame – is worn like spectacles and controlled through natural voice commands as well as touch gestures. The display is right in front of the user’s eyes with a touchpad at the side. The interface displays features in a timeline-like format. Swiping back and forth lets you view the weather, photos, the calls log and so on.

Design

Google Glass comes in the form of a light-weight, lens-less frame. This frame can be bent in order to make adjustments for better fit as preferred by different individuals. The right arm of the frame holds a tiny screen which is displayed above the user’s right eye. The thick portion at the back is where the battery, touchpad, speaker and various buttons reside. For giving more frame options to users, Google developed a partnership with popular eye wear legends, such as Ray Ban.

Voice Commands

The most interesting feature of this revolutionary device is its ability to follow voice commands. This feature is activated by tapping the touchpad and saying “OK Glass”. From this point on, users can ask their wearable smartphone to perform any action from making a call to taking pictures. Google Glass can also be asked for directions, for loading a certain app or for browsing the internet – all through natural voice commands.

Camera

Google Glass houses a 5 MP camera. Apart from stills, ten seconds long 720p videos can also be recorded. Although these specs offers no competition to the much more superior cameras of smartphone giants like Apple, Samsung, LG and HTC, the ability to click pictures and shoot videos through voice commands gives Google Glass an edge.

Screen Sharing

Users can share what they are currently viewing on their Google Glass with their Hangout contacts. In addition, live video sharing is also possible. Through this live stream option, users are able to share precious moments in real-time.

App Collection

Google Glass brings a collection of top-notch apps which contribute towards the impressive functionality of this device. Among others, Follow My Glass is an extremely useful application which helps you keep track of your device in case you misplace it. Similarly, Glossaic can be your new social network for sharing photos and videos while Google Now provides regular weather updates and useful directions when you are travelling. In addition, a plethora of other apps, including Circles, Google Maps, social network integration and language translating apps can also be enjoyed.

The Bottom-line

Google Glass is a groundbreaking device which promises to make your life effortless by letting you communicate with your contacts, search for information, take pictures and browse the internet in the most convenient way possible. However, Glass also comes with a set of drawbacks. Firstly, it is pricey with limited availability at the moment. Secondly, it leads to other issues such as privacy concerns as well as personal safety. Immersed in your Google Glass display, you would be more prone to accidents while walking down the road or driving. Potential buyers should, therefore, take these concerns into account before going ahead with the purchase of their own Google Glass.