Newer Technology, Inc. (NewerTech), developer of PC, Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, and iPad performance upgrades and accessories, today announced the miniStack MAX, is now available in DVD/CD only read/write optical drive models for those computer users that don't require the Blu-ray functionality other miniStack MAX models provide. As the only four-in-one external drive, optical drive, SD card reader and USB powered hub solution on the market, the miniStack MAX supports multiple interfaces for Plug and Play storage of entire music, photo and video libraries, as well as burning backups via the internal optical drive, with new and legacy Macs or PCs.

Loaded with an Ultra High Speed boost, KINGMAX PRO Extreme Series memory cards offer serious memory solutions with ultra fast read and write functions for a range of devices. As the fastest category of memory card available today, PRO Extreme cards enable lightning fast read and write speeds. Featured exclusively with SDXC and SDHC products, PRO Extreme cards increase shot-to-shot speed for HD recording (even in 3D), in addition to improving traditional data recording functions.

KINGMAX PRO Extreme Series memory cards reach maximum read speeds of 90 MB/s and maximum write speeds of 60MB/s*, saving users' time and enabling enhanced storage and transfer of large files. When paired with SDHC/SDXC technology that professional photographers use, PRO Extreme cards can improve storage and transmission of large, high-resolution image files. Get better photo and video performance and faster response with PRO Extreme cards.

ADATA Technology, a leading manufacturer of high-performance DRAM modules and NAND Flash storage application products, today introduced its Premier series SDHC, SDXC and microSDHC ,microSDXC memory cards, all of which implement the UHS-I U1 (compatible with SDA 2.0 speed Class 10) specification. The new cards are designed especially to economically meet the performance needs of the most commonly used portable electronics.

With the increasing expectations for smart phones and tablet computers to handle high definition media recording and playback, the memory cards used with these devices require higher read and write speeds than ever before. The Premier series targets those who are looking for a cost-effective entry solution to extend their device's capacity and speed.

Silicon Power, the world's leading provider of memory storage solutions today announces a powerful new series of professional flash cards - the Superior UHS-1 series. Built-in a powerful performance solution, this Superior UHS-1 series brings out remarkable transmission rate reaching at 90 MB per second, which allows you to capture more pictures with less lag time.

The Superior UHS-1 series offers a versatile usage, ranging from SDHC, SDXC to microSDHC, ready for all types of devices such as DSLR, Smartphones, tablets and camcorders. With the combination of the large capacity up to 64 GB, the Superior UHS-1 series is the ideal gadget for high-speed consecutive picture taking, extended length of Full-HD videos and images, as well as massive storage for all your cherish memories.

Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory products, today announced the 256 GB Lexar Professional 600x SDXC UHS-I card. The Class 10 card offers a 90 MB per second minimum guaranteed read transfer speed to give photographers and videographers the ability to capture extended lengths of 1080p HD and 3D video and high-quality images. When paired with a compatible card reader, such as the Lexar Professional USB 3.0 Dual-Slot Reader, the Professional 600x SDXC card helps photographers zip through post-production with high-speed card-to-computer file transfer, improving workflow and enabling them to shoot longer.

"With the growing demands of HD and 3D video capabilities, today's professional photographers and videographers need to be equipped with a high-performance and high-capacity memory card to meet the needs of their clients," said Manisha Sharma, director of product marketing, Lexar. "By using the 256 GB Lexar Professional SDXC UHS-I card, professionals can leverage all the latest camera features available for capturing high-quality video and images, without having to worry about time spent changing cards or transferring content to the computer. We want our customers to make the most of their time out on the field."

Japanese company Green House has today introduced a new, high-capacity memory card, the GH-SDXCUA128G SDXC which offers 128 GB worth of storage space. This card makes use of MLC NAND, it has a UHS-I rating, it comes with a three-year warranty, and delivers read and write speeds of up to 60 MB/s and 40 MB/s, respectively.

Green House's 128 GB SDXC card costs 19,800 yen (~ $225).

Toshiba joined industry-wide efforts to bring the Ultrabook down to mainstream prices, by launching the Satellite U845t. The 14-incher features a lean feature-set to achieve its $799 price-point. It features 1366 x 768 pixels resolution, a Core i3 dual-core processor, up to 6 GB of RAM, 500 GB HDD-based storage with a 32 GB cache-SSD to speed things up, and connectivity that includes USB 3.0, HDMI, and SDXC. The Satellite U845t will be released to market on March 10th.Source: C|Net

Exactly a month after rolling out the 3.5-inch optimized PF-213CR3 multi-functionality front-panel, Japanese peripherals vendor Ainex rolled out its larger sibling for your empty 5.25-inch bays, the PF-107CR3. Featuring a matte black bezel, the device provides a lot more connectivity than its 3.5-inch sibling, featuring three USB 3.0 SuperSpeed ports (two by standard headers, one by cable), five USB 2.0/1.1 ports, of which one features a high-power (850 mA) output, for charging your gadgets; and a multi-format card reader that supports standard SDHC/SDXC, micro SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Pro/Duo/Pro Duo, and CompactFlash Type I/II. In addition to the three USB 3.0 inputs, its back-panel features a 2-port USB 2.0/1.1 header, and a SATA power input. The PF-107CR3 is expected to ship later this month.Source: Hermitage Akihabara

NEC Japan rolled out the world's thinnest Ultrabook, the 15.6-inch LaVie X (model: LX850/JS). It is just 12.8 mm thick (375 x 255 x 12.8 mm), weighing 1.59 kg. NEC achieved its thickness thanks to innovations in cooling that spreads cooling components apart. It features an LED backlit IPS LCD screen featuring 1920 x 1080 pixels resolution, Intel Core i7-3517U processor, 4 GB of RAM, 256 GB SSD storage, and Windows 8. Connectivity includes two USB 3.0 ports, 802.11 b/g/n WLAN, Bluetooth 4.0 +HS, HDMI display-output, SDHC/SDXC card slot, and a 2-megapixel web-camera. It is slated for market availability on December 27.Source: PC Watch

Ratoc thinks it solved the problem of left/right plane's misalignment found with amateur 3D video recordings, caused by filming equipment that write each plane's video onto a separate memory card. The misalignment issue, according to Rotac, is usually caused during production, when each plane's memory card is separately loaded. Its answer: a card reader two two independent SDXC bays.

The MR08 line of readers, from Ratoc, available in internal 5.25" form-factor and an external one measuring 192 x 274 x 60 mm, feature dual SDXC bays, a variety of other single bays (such as MS, CF, 2.5-inch SATA), and USB 3.0 SuperSpeed interface to make sure bandwidth is never an issue. The production software can access both memory cards simultaneously, cutting down production time, and potential latency issues. The two will be launched soon, in markets around the world.Source: Hermitage Akihabara

SP/Silicon Power, the world's leading provider of memory storage solutions today announces a brand new series of flash cards - the Elite UHS-1 series. The Elite UHS-1 series contains a complete product roadmap ranging from SDHC, SDXC to microSDHC and microSDXC, ready for all types of devices such as DSLR, Smartphones, tablets and camcorders. With the combination of the large capacity up to 64 GB and the remarkable transmission rate reaching at 50 MB per second in reading, the Elite UHS-1 series is the ideal gadget for high-speed consecutive picture taking, extended length of Full-HD videos and images, as well as massive storage for all your cherish memories.

Japanese peripherals maker RatocSystems announced a new wireless multi-format card reader built on a similar principle to wireless hard-drives, where the drive is tossed out, to make room for the reader. The REX-WIFISD1 from Ratoc features an SDIO slot that supports micro/mini/standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, and a USB 2.0 port, to which any mass-storage device can be plugged in. Contents of the two are then made accessible wirelessly over 802.11 b/g/n WLAN, as network shares. The card reader packs in its own power source, a rechargeable 3,000 mAh battery, which can keep it connected for approximately 9 hours on a full charge. Ratoc also introduced file-manager apps for Android and iOS. Measuring 79 x 118 x 14 mm, it weighs about 120 g. Prices vary store to store.Source: Hermitage Akihabara

I-O Data Japan introduced a thoughtful new device for road-warriors, called NUBES, an SDHC/SDXC card reader that is completely wireless. The device is packs a 1,350 mAh battery that can keep it going for 4 hours on full charge. Supporting 802.11 b/g/n (up to 150 Mbps), the card reader has just enough bandwidth to stream 720p HD video. The reader works as a short-range WLAN router, supporting all modern router security features, including WPA-PSK (TKIP / AES), WPA2-PSK (AES). It supports up to three simultaneous connections. Along with the reader, I-O Data released an iOS app that allows you to manage files, and stream media from an inserted SD card. Measuring 83.5 x 12.3 x 5.8 mm (WxDxH), the reader weighs about 57 g. It is priced at 4,180¥ (US $50).Source: Hermitage Akihabara

Lexar unveiled the Platinum II series SDXC cards. The cards are packaged in Amazon clear (frustration-free packaging), and are compliant with UHS-I, SD Class-10 standards, with a minimum transfer speed of 10 MB/s, and 30 MB/s maximum. The cards are available in 16 GB, 32 GB, and 64 GB capacities. The three capacities (in the above order) are priced at the equivalent of US $11.4, $21.4, and $49.7, respectively.Source: Hermitage Akihabara

Fujitsu unveiled its FMV series Windows 8 PC family, which includes tablets, convertibles, notebooks, and all-in-one PCs, all of which are touch-enabled to take advantage of the new operating system. To begin with, Fujitsu unveiled the 10.1-inch QH55 tablet. Based on the x86 platform, the QH55 is driven by Intel Atom Z2760 (dual-core, 1.50 GHz) processor, 2 GB memory, 64 GB SSD, Windows 8 32-bit, with Office Home and Business 2010 pre-installed. Its 10.1-inch screen packs 1366 x 768 pixels resolution. Measuring 264.4 x 169.4 x 9.9 mm (width × depth × height), it weighs 574 g. Connectivity features include 8 MP back and 2 MP front-facing cameras, micro USB, micro SDXC, 10/100 Ethernet, 802.11 b/g/n WLAN, Bluetooth 4.0, GPS, accelerometer, gyrometer, and stereo audio. It is slated for October 26.Source: PC Watch

Transcend announced the RDF5 multi-format card reader, which takes advantage of USB 3.0 SuperSpeed interface. At roughly the size (measures 56 x 24 x 9 mm) and shape of a capped USB flash drive, the RDF5 supports SDHC, SDHC, and micro-SDHC/SDXC. The reader sports a piano-black top with gold lettering, and graphite body. A power/activity LED is located on its top. It is priced at €12.50.Source: Hardware.info

Panasonic announced the new Let's Note AX2, 11.6-inch notebook that converts to a tablet. The AX2 is designed for the Windows 8 era, and features a new start key on its screen bezel. The AX2 is updated with a 1366 x 768 pixel 11.6-inch capacitive touchscreen, a DoCoMo module that gives it LTE and WiMAX support.

Under the hood is an Intel Core i5-3427U (1.80 GHz with 2.80 GHz Turbo, 3 MB cache) or Core i5-3317U (1.70 GHz, 2.60 GHz Turbo, 3 MB cache) "Ivy Bridge" dual-core processor options, 4 GB of dual-channel DDR3 memory, 128 GB SSD, and connectivity that include WiMAX/LTE, 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.0, SDXC, HDMI, and USB 3.0. The screen bezel embeds a 720p HD web-camera. The AX2 comes with Windows 8 Pro pre-installed. Prices range from 160,000 JPY (US $2,057) to 250,000 ($3,214).Source: Akihabara News

Kingston, the independent world leader in memory products, today announced a new SDXC Class 10 memory card that is ideal for price-conscious consumers. The card captures full HD videos and high-resolution photos at an affordable price that will not break the budget.

Fully compliant with the latest SD Association specification, Kingston's Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) Class 10 card operates on the exFAT file system, which is designed to handle extremely large volumes of data, such as files bigger than 4 GB. Available in 64 GB and 128 GB, these cards are an excellent choice to meet the storage demands of high-quality digital still and video cameras as well as other personal electronic devices that are SDXC compatible. Additionally, SDXC cards offer a speed "class" rating known as Class 101 that delivers a 10 MB/s minimum sustained transfer rate for optimum performance with SDXC-compatible devices.

VIA Technologies, Inc, a leading innovator of power efficient computing platforms, today announced the VIA EPIA-M920 Mini-ITX board, the first VIA Mini-ITX board to feature the latest VIA VX11H media system processor (MSP) enabling DirectX 11 and 3D stereoscopic display capabilities for immersive environments. Providing superior performance with the latest in connectivity technology in a low power envelope, the VIA EPIA-M920 Mini-ITX provides the ideal platform for a wide array of next-generation compact devices for applications in healthcare, gaming, digital signage, and other vertical market segments.

With the choice of a 1.2GHz VIA QuadCore-E processor for high-end performance or a 1.0GHz VIA Eden X2 dual core processor for fanless system design, the VIA EPIA-M920 is a highly flexible platform for compact, low power systems with today’s latest connectivity options including HDMI and USB 3.0. In combination with the VIA VX11H MSP, the VIA EPIA-M920 Mini-ITX provides the latest in graphic capabilities, for richer textures and more life-like images in even the most demanding multi-display environments.

Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory products, today introduced the Lexar High-Performance microSDHC UHS-I and microSDXC UHS-I memory cards for smartphones, tablets, and sports camcorders. The UHS-I cards carry a Class 10 speed classification, and deliver read transfer speeds up to 300x (45MB per second), allowing users to quickly capture, store, play back, and transfer their favorite media files, including 1080p full-HD and 3D video.

Designed for adventure seekers and adrenaline junkies, these cards enable outdoor enthusiasts to capture up to eight hours of their greatest moments in HD and share it with friends faster. Users can also store up to 24,800 photos or 14,200 songs, and when paired with the included USB 3.0 reader, get fast transfer rates from their memory card to their PC or Mac computer.

Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory products, today announced the new Lexar Multi-Card 25-in-1 USB 3.0 Reader, a versatile, all-in-one solution for quick and reliable file transfers from 25 of the most popular memory card formats.

The reader provides five slots compatible with popular card formats such as CompactFlash, Secure Digital, including newly added support for Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) cards, Mobile, Memory Stick and xD-Picture cards. The reader is also backwards compatible with USB 2.0 ports, can read multiple cards simultaneously, and provides card-to-card file transfer. For additional information about the Lexar Multi-Card 25-in-1 USB 3.0 Reader, visit www.lexar.com.

Lexar, a leading global brand of flash memory products, today introduced the industry's first 256 GB Secure Digital Extended Capacity (SDXC) UHS-I memory card, the Lexar Professional 400x SDXC UHS-I card. The Class 10 card leverages the SD 3.0 specification to dramatically accelerate workflow and allows photographers to capture, store, and transfer a large number of high-quality photos and extended lengths of 1080p full-HD and 3D video with a minimum guaranteed sustained read transfer speed of 60 MB per second.

When paired with a compatible card reader, such as the Lexar Professional USB 3.0 Dual-Slot Reader, the Professional 400x SDXC card quickly and reliably transfers images and video from the memory card to the computer.

Transcend Information, Inc. (Transcend ), a worldwide leader in storage and multimedia products, today announced the company's first 128 GB SDXC memory card. Perfect for consumers who need vast storage space and high-speed performance, Transcend's new 128 GB Ultimate Series Class 10 SDXC cards boast an incredible amount of storage capacity for extended Full HD video recording, and help improve camera response with ultra fast transfer rates up to 22 MB/s.

To meet the increasing capacity demands of professional-quality photos and videos, Transcend's SDXC cards provide an enormous 128 GB of storage space. Each 128 GB SDXC card can store a full 32 hours of 1080p High-Definition footage (based on 1920 x 1080 9Mbps H.264 AVC compression) or over eight thousand high-megapixel RAW images (based on 14 MB total size), eliminating the need to pause and switch memory cards during recording sessions or photo shoots. Additionally, with the use of the exFAT file system that supports files larger than 4 GB, today's professional photographers and videographers can enjoy prolonged periods of burst-mode shooting and nonstop 1080p HD or even 3D video recording.

Sharkoon is expanding their portfolio of USB3.0 devices: New products now available are an internal card reader, an external card reader and an external 4-Port USB3.0 hub for a SuperSpeed interface.

The Sharkoon Internal USB3.0 Card Reader can be mounted in either a 3.5 inch bay or with the illuminated adapter frame in a 5.25 inch bay to the PC case. To connect the external USB3.0 mainboard a 100 cm long USB3.0 cable with matching compatible bracket is attached. The unit supports SD (HC), SDXC, MMC, MS and CF, the most common card formats. In particular: SDXC (capacity up to 2 TB), SD(HC), microSD(HC), mini SD; CompactFlash: v4.1 with PIO mode 6 and Ultra-DMA mode 6, v5.0 with LBA48 (capacity up to 144 PB); MultiMediaCard (MMC): MMC specification v3.x, v4.0, v4.1 and v4.2, Databus x1, x4 and x8 Bit; Memory Stick, Memory Stick PRO, Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick Micro, Memory Stick PRO-HG and Memory Stick XC (capacity up to 32 GB), the card reader is compatible with the "Memory Stick Series" specifications MS v1.43, MS PRO v1.05, MS Micro v1.04 (MS HG Micro v1.00), MS PRO-HG Duo 1.03, MS XC Duo v1.00, MS XC-HG Duo v1.00, MS XC Micro v1.00 and MS XC-HG Micro v1.00.

Panasonic announced its newest line of SDHC and SDXC cards that are built to last against the elements, and then some. The new SDAB and SDUB series cards are built to be waterproof, shockproof, freeze proof, X-ray proof, and anti-magnetic. The Panasonic SDAB series consists of 8 GB, 16 GB, and 32 GB SDHC cards, offering up to 95 MB/s reads, and up to 80 MB/s writes; while the Panasonic SDUB series comes in 8, 16, 32 GB SDHC and 64 GB SDXC variants, offering up to 90 MB/s reads, with up to 45 MB/s writes. The two new lines of sturdy SD cards are slated for September market-release.Source: Akihabara News