External hard drives go green, too

I never thought tech devices that consume relatively little energy, such as external hard drives, can actually be optimized to consume even less energy. Apparently, I was wrong. Case in point: the Guardian MAXimus external hard drive enclosure from Newer Technology.

The device is the company's first effort into "Green" storage. It features triple interfaces: FireWire 800, FireWire 400, and USB 2.0, and supports up to 1TB of storage space in RAID 1 (mirrored) configuration. Utilizing the latest technology in energy efficiency, the Guardian MAXimus provides a 15 percent power savings and consumes up to 50 percent less power than traditionally powered 1TB external hard drives.

It's a little disappointing that the eSATA interface is left out, as the device is designed to house high-speed 3.5-inch SATA desktop hard drives. However, the Guardian MAXimus makes up for this by offering a relatively compact size and a sturdy, shock resistant casing. And it's probably the first external drive on the market that's certified by RoHS (an EU directive that sets standard for Restriction of Hazardous Substances) to be one of its kind that delivers maximum data protection and backup performance while using less energy.

You can get the Guardain MAXimus now for US$150 without the hard drive. The enclosure comes with a good bundle of software including: Intech Hard Disk SpeedTools, ProSoft Engineering Data Backup (For Mac), and NovaStor NovaBackup (for Windows). It works with both PC (Windows 2000 or later) and Mac (OS 8.6 or later) platforms.

Via CNET Crave

LG claims world's greenest LCD

If eco-friendly features replace the endless stream of thinnest, smallest, and lightest "in the world" claims on the technology market, we'll be very happy campers. And for that reason alone it's worth mentioning the latest boast from LG about its new computer monitor.

The Korean company says its "Flatron W2252TE" is "the world's most energy-efficient monitor", according to our cousins across the pond at SmartPlanet. The 22-inch widescreen LCD, which is headed for the UK market, supposedly uses 40 fewer watts to operate than do comparable monitors--an energy saving of 45 percent.

The move follows similar products by other manufacturers anxious to jump on the green marketing trend, many of which made announcements coinciding with Earth Day in April. And don't forget: For the exterior, there's always bamboo.

Via CNET Crave

Enlighten PC: Dharma wheel for the desktop?

We're not quite sure what's going on with Suissa Computers. Their PC gear seemed unusual enough when we saw their "Shadow" hard drive, which looked something like a cross between drum and hatbox.

But now the Canadian company is taking yet another strange turn with its "Enlighten PC," a limited-edition contraption that adds yet another layer of oddity with metal and glass adornments joining its trademark round wood casing. Inside, however, it's a full-scale computer with 4GB of memory, a 1TB hard drive, and a choice of an Intel Quad Core or AMD X2 processor, according to SlashGear.

By the way, this limited run will produce only 10 of these machines, yet somehow we don't think they'll be a problem meeting demand. It would make a natural companion to the Enlightenment Lamp, though.

Via CNET Crave

I-O Data keyboard is too small for its own good

The quest for the perfect portable keyboard has seen all manner of designs, whether they fold, roll up, or even glow in the dark. But no one seems to have found the killer solution just yet--and we doubt the latest attempt by I-O Data is the exception.

There's no disputing that this Bluetooth keyboard, which is designed for use with a mobile phone or PDA, is portable enough at 6 x 3.6 inches and only 0.5-inch thick. Those petite dimensions, however, could well be what limits its success. Just look at the picture accompanying this item: Unless the hand model has a dangeously overactive pituitary gland, this is one tiny keyboard.

Making matters worse is its US$150 price tag on the Japanese market, far more expensive than many other portable versions. And so far as we can tell, it doesn't even light up.

Via CNET Crave

Where earbuds and engagement rings intersect

Zirconia isn't just for ring-shopping fiances on a budget anymore. The diamond imposter is now being used to make earphones, of all things.

Panasonic's latest buds have been made with the material because it's apparently good at reducing distortion, according to Akihabara News. Another unusual feature of the RP-HJE900 earphones--one that will undoubtedly be more noticeable--is their removable cables. It's not entirely clear why one might want those, unless you habitually bury your buds deep into the aural canal and want a breakaway safety feature.

Via CNET Crave

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