iPad – Apple’s Latest Technology at UNH

by Katherine Derby

The UNH Computer Store is currently taking orders for the iPad, scheduled to arrive in stores in early April, 2010 with the 3G versions arriving sometime later in April.

Apple describes the iPad as “a magical and revolutionary product at an unbelievable price.” The iPad comes in two models; iPad Wi-Fi and iPad 3G. Each model is available with 16, 32, or 64 GB flash drives. Prices start at $499.

The iPad is lightweight and easily portable at 1.5 pounds and .5 inch thin. The 9.7-inch, backlit, multi-touch screen makes surfing the web, reading iBooks, composing e-mails, taking notes, or watching movies easy and enjoyable. Both access the Internet through built-in Wi-Fi and include Bluetooth. The 3G iPad has the ability to use cellular data plans through AT&T.

Learn more about the iPad at apple.com/ipad. To order an iPad, visit the UNH Computer Store in the MUB (Level 2, East). Demo available soon, stay tuned to it.unh.edu for more information.

Test Drive: Dell Micro Projector

by Katherine Derby

This month, I tested the Dell M109S Micro Projector. This compact projector is an option worth exploring if you’re in the market for an ultra-portable projector.

Out of the gate, I’ll start by saying this is not a replacement for a classroom or large lecture hall projector. This projector is designed for people on-the-go who need a small screen for small groups. It works well in a dark, or a dimly lit, small room (for example, the study group rooms at the Dimond Library).

A few weeks ago, I took the M109S to a conference. UNH IT was chosen to give a booth presentation for our Signals Web site; I used the M109S to project Signals onto a white poster board in a large room, with lots of natural sunlight. While dim, the image was viewable and allowed others to see the site without the expense of printing a poster. However, as with most projectors, when the sun was directly over the setup, the image was no longer viewable.

The M109S is very compact and weighs .8 pounds. At 3 5/8 x 4 1/8 inches, it easily fits in your hand. You realize how small it is when placed next to the AC adapter, which is the same size as the projector. The M109S comes with a case that accommodates the projector and multi-input cable. The projector uses a standard 65W Dell AC adapter; if you use the same adapter for your laptop, you can save room in your bag by carrying only one AC adapter.

The Dell projector doesn’t use a standard bulb; it uses LED technology and pushes out 50 ANSI lumens at a resolution of 858 x 600. The result is a crisp, clear image for movies, videos, or stills. The image is not as bright as a full sized projector; darkening the room will produce the best image.

The M109S is well designed for its intended use as an inexpensive, travel-friendly, micro projector. At press time, the projector was $349. Contact the UNH Computer Store for additional information at 862-1328.

MacAlly’s Ecofan Now Available at the UNH Computer Store

by Katherine Derby

Overheating is a common problem for many laptops. Cooling stands, which lift the laptop and allow for better air circulation, are an inexpensive solution to extending the life of your computer. If your laptop overheats, consider a cooling pad with built-in fans such as MacAlly’s Ecofan, which is currently available at the UNH Computer Store.

This organic, eco-friendly bamboo stand can accommodate up to a 17” laptop and has two quiet, USB-powered cooling fans. The stand holds the laptop at a comfortable angle and folds flat.

This is just one of several green products the UNH Computer Store currently carries. At press time, the Ecofan was priced at $32.95.

Visit the UNH Computer Store in the MUB (Level 2 East), call 862-1328, or visit their website at computerstore.unh.edu.