MATRIX

Archive for the ‘new technology’ Category

New technology is now making it possible for viewers to record and store high definition programming onto DVDs. Blu-ray Disc is one method of recording HD content onto an optical disc. A blue-laser optical disc (MPEG-2 or MPEG-4) is used. Systems that use this technology will be able to play traditional DVDs, but the goal of Blu-ray is to create an image that’s as close to the HD format as possible. The name Blu-ray comes from the blue laser that decodes and copies information to each disk. Blu-ray technology may very well revolutionize the world of high definition programming. The Blu-ray disc format offers greater potential for storage, usually 25 gigabytes, which exceeds that of a standard DVD (15 gigabytes). One single-layer Blu-ray disk can hold about four hours of high definition content. A two-layer disk can contain eight hours of HD content. Four- and eight-layer disks are now in the works. These disks would have storage capabilities of 100 and 200 gigabytes. The Blu-ray recording system utilizes a shorter wavelength for recording information than traditional CDs and DVDs, and this is part of what allows it to hold more content on a single disk.

Blu-ray has also influenced the computer industry, specifically in terms of data storage capability. A number of major companies have come out in support of Blu-ray, including Apple, Dell, Hitachi, Pioneer, and Sony. Hewlett Packard plans to market desktop computers and laptops that utilize Blu-ray technology. Sony has announced that it will introduce a Blu-ray component in PlayStation 3, which is expected to appear in November of this year. Microsoft has also said that it may add a Blu-ray component to its Xbox 360. Currently, Blu-ray is only available in Japan, but it will appear in the United States in May, in video games and a DVD system that recreates a high definition effect on a viewer’s TV.

Many movie studios have Blu-ray films planned for future release. In 2005, Sony Pictures cornered the market on the first Blu-ray feature-length movie disk, which was none other than Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle. Studios that support the technology include Walt Disney and Twentieth Century Fox.

Competing with Blu-ray in the area of HD storage is HD DVD. HD DVD disks have less storage capability, but they’re cheaper to produce. Other big-name companies are showing their support for this option, including Microsoft, Intel and Toshiba, as well as Universal Studios. In what may be the smartest move, some companies are backing both types of technology, ensuring that their products support both Blu-ray and HD DVD. These companies include Samsung, Paramount and Warner Brothers.

If you have a job that requires as much traveling as mine does, or if you want to ensure your personal well-being wherever you go, you should look at your options for installing a GPS tracking system in your car. Nowadays, the tracking system is being included in more and more cars directly from the manufacturer. If your car was made before the wave of GPS standards, there are many outlets on the internet through which you can locate a GPS system that will fit your needs.

One of the best things about GPS technology is its ability to always find out what road you are on in the event that you get lost. If you ever need to use map out a course for traveling, the GPS has course-planning functionality as well.

Another benefit of GPS is that you will be more protected from vehicle theft. Your GPS system will be able to assist the police in tracking down your car with practically no problem. It’s exact location can be pinpointed every moment it’s on.

Many insurance companies offer reduced rates for those of us who purchase cars with GPS systems built in, or spend the money to get it installed. Having the system installed will pretty much pay for itself in the long run.

As I said before, many automobile producers now install GPS systems right off the bat. Usually the added feature doesn’t increase the total cost by a substantial amount. So if you’re looking to buy a new car, it’s a good idea to look for one with GPS pre-installed.

If you look online for GPS systems, you should be able to find them with no trouble. You can also look for systems in electronic stores and car specialty stores. They usually carry tracking systems to their customers, and most stores will also offer installation services for a miniscule fee.

As I have demonstrated, there are countless benefits to having a GPS system installed in your car. So if you are considering buying a new car, I encourage you to look for a car including a GPS tracking system. If you already have a car, you might consider installing a system to your current vehicle for the benefits I have shown.