Archive for January 7, 2020

Dell Technologies Unveils PCs with AI, 5G, Premium Design and Virtually Edgeless Displays for Work and Play

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 7, 2020 by itnerd

Dell Technologies today unveiled new products and software across its premium Latitude, XPS and displays portfolios to help people innovate, collaborate and accomplish more in the next decade. Featuring artificial intelligence (AI), 5G and innovative design, the latest Dell Technologies’ PCs and displays make work and play more seamless, intelligent and enjoyable.

Professionals can use their precious time on the work that matters most with the Latitude 9510, the most intelligent 15-inch business PC featuring built-in AI

Dell today introduced the Latitude 9000 series, designed with the finest details in mind to be smaller and thinner than ever before, with a larger display and a superior experience. The new Latitude 9510 delivers what business users seek: the longest battery life of any 15-inch business PC with a target of up to 30 hours, 5G-ready design, powerful audio features and intelligent solutions that increase productivity.

The Latitude 9510 is the world’s smallest and lightest commercial 15-inch PC, easily fitting into a small work bag. Starting at only 3.2 pounds, professionals can travel light without carrying the extra weight of battery chargers, adapters or speakerphone pucks needed for a work day. The large screen size, along with Intel® Wi-Fi 6 (Gig+) and 5G mobile broadband capabilities, allow executives to be more productive wherever they need. The design incorporates 5G antennas into the speakers to retain the InfinityEdge display, while carbon blade fans and dual heat pipes offer a quiet and cool-to-the-touch experience. Launching with up to the latest 10th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processors, the vPro ready Latitude 9510 features a machined-aluminum finish with diamond cut edges for professionals that want performance with style.

As the world’s most intelligent 15-inch business PC with built-in AI, the Latitude 9510 leads the commercial PC industry with the first built-in and automated AI-based optimization technology. The new Dell Optimizer software works behind the scenes to help reduce lags, delays and frustration:

  • Get to work faster with ExpressResponse: Based on user preferences and machine learning with Intel® Adaptix Technology, it launches frequently used applications faster, switches quickly between applications and improves overall application performance to boost productivity.
  • Improve battery life utilization with ExpressCharge: AI and machine learning improves battery life utilization based on an employee’s battery charge patterns and typical power usage. When critically low on battery, the Latitude 9510 will subtly adjust settings to preserve resources, like dimming the screen. It will also choose the best charging policy, like ExpressCharge Boost, which provides up to a 35% charge in 20 minutes to get running in a crunch.
  • Log in simply and securely with ExpressSign-in: This senses a user’s presence, enabling faster log-in and enhanced security with Dell’s PC proximity sensor enabled by Intel® Context Sensing Technology and Windows Hello.
  • Ditch the speakerphone with Intelligent Audio: The top-firing speakers, powerful amp and four noise-cancelling microphones provide life-like immersive collaboration, while Intelligent Audio allows users to hear and be heard better on conference calls, helping eliminate echoes and background noise, wherever they are.

Latitudes, like all Dell trusted devices, are the industry’s most secure commercial PC , so companies can be confident their endpoints are secure both below and above the operating system

With Dell Technologies Unified Workspace, new Latitude owners are productive on day-one. This approach for end-user computing gives workers a frustration-free, ready-to-work experience while empowering IT with automated, open and intelligent management solutions that helps them easily deploy, secure, manage and support all devices within their organization.

XPS 13: First-ever four sided, virtually borderless InfinityEdge display

Dell today introduced the new XPS 13, redesigned to achieve the most premium and superior computing experience with the finest materials, smaller and thinner profile and a larger display. Elegantly crafted with machined aluminum, carbon fiber, woven glass fiber and hardened Corning® Gorilla® Glass, the XPS 13 has a flawless finish in a durable, lightweight design.

For users that want maximum screen space, Dell is delivering its latest engineering feat — narrow bezels on every side, reducing the XPS 13’s InfinityEdge borders and creating a smaller and thinner form factor than all other XPS predecessors. With a larger 16:10 display that spans from all four edges, the new 25% brighter XPS InfinityEdge display offers more screen space to multitask throughout the day and catch all the details of the latest binge-worthy show. And holding true to what XPS fans love most, this new design delivers a 13.4-inch display in an 11-inch form factor — fitting neatly on an airplane tray.

The XPS 13 offers 10th Gen Intel® Core™ processors and long battery life for the travelers, small business owners and creatives that need power and performance on the go. A larger display and touchpad, edge-to-edge keyboard, and one-handed opening strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. The new XPS packaging includes more sustainable materials and eliminates foam, making it easier for customers to recycle. Available options include the traditional XPS 13 with Windows 10 or the Developer Edition featuring Ubuntu 18.04LTS.

Stay connected and entertained with Dell Cinema Guide and Dell Mobile Connect

For binge-watchers, Dell Technologies today launched Dell Cinema Guide, a one-stop-shop for searching streaming entertainment. Windows users can download the app; quickly and easily find television shows and movies across more than 200 streaming services within one simple content guide; and enjoy it all with the amazing color, sound and streaming of Dell Cinema.

Since its 2018 launch, Dell Mobile Connect has helped more than one million users avoid splitting attention between their PC and smartphone. This spring Dell Mobile Connect will expand its wireless transfer and app mirroring capabilities beyond Android phones and bring these functions to iOS phone users. XPS, Inspiron, Vostro, Alienware and G Series users with iOS phones will be able to directly access their favorite mobile apps, from rideshare to social media, and take advantage of drag-and-drop file transfer and content mirroring straight from their Dell PC.

Dell’s top-of-the-line monitors: See everything and do anything

Dell monitors have been No. 1 worldwide for the past six years meeting the varying needs of business users to gaming enthusiasts. Users can collaborate effectively with the new Dell 86 4K Interactive Touch Monitor that is digitizing yesterday’s whiteboard. The UltraSharp 43 4K USB-C Monitor allows users to view content from up to four connected PCs simultaneously to maximize productivity. The new UltraSharp 27 4K USB-C Monitor with VESA DisplayHDRTM 400 offers wide color coverage for accurate color reproduction. Built for speed with incredible 99% sRGB color coverage, the new Alienware 25 Gaming Monitor features fast IPS technology that offers rich colors, a 240Hz refresh rate and a blazingly fast 1 millisecond gray-to-gray response time, all in native FHD resolution. It also features AMD Radeon FreeSync™ technology and is NVIDIA G-SYNC® Compatible. Read more about the new Dell displays here.

Join Dell at CES 2020

CES badge holders are invited to visit the #DellExperience at SUGARCANE restaurant at The Venetian to see Dell’s latest products and speak with product representatives.

Not attending CES? Tune into the Dell Experience LIVE webstream on Tues., Jan. 7 at 10 a.m. PT. Read about Dell’s four CES 2020 Innovation Honorees; spanning its Alienware, OptiPlex and Displays portfolios.

Pricing and availability

Available on Dell.com:

  • XPS 13, starting at US $999.99, available in the U.S., Canada, Sweden, UK, Germany and France Jan. 7 and available globally in February.
  • XPS 13 Developer Edition, starting at US $1,199.99, available in the U.S., Canada and select European countries in February17.
  • Dell Cinema Guide, available to download now on any Windows 10 PC for free via the Microsoft store.
  • Dell Mobile Connect with iOS data transfer and screen mirroring will be available to download for free from the Microsoft Store and come pre-installed on all Dell consumer systems this spring.
  • Latitude 9510, starting at US $1,799.00, available globally March 26.
  • Dell 86 4K Interactive Touch Monitor (C8621QT) available globally April 10. Pricing to be shared near availability date.
  • Dell UltraSharp 43 4K USB-C (U4320Q), starting at US $1,049.99, available globally Jan. 30.
  • Dell UltraSharp 27 4K USB-C Monitor (U2720Q), starting at US $709.99, available globally Jan 30.
  • Alienware 25 Gaming Monitor (AW2521HF), starting at US $499.99, available globally March 11.

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Hisense Introduces the Next Evolution of Television at CES 2020

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 7, 2020 by itnerd

Home entertainment is taking its next step with the 2020 lineup of Hisense televisions, introduced at CES 2020 in Las Vegas this week.

Hisense, provider of high-performance TVs and appliances, unveiled a lineup that combines new technologies — such as dual cell panels — with multiple platforms and smart home connectivity in a sleek and stylish package with a competitive price point.

New from Hisense being showcased at CES 2020 this year:

  • L5 4K Ultra Short Throw Laser TV — Creating a true cinematic experience at an unbelievable price, the L5 series brings the big-screen TV into almost any room of your house. An ultra short throw projector, the L5 provides a theatre-like setting in the comfort of your home. It offers a far more affordable and efficient alternative to large LCD screens, and delivers true-to-life images that exceed the standard 4K colour range.
    The L5’s blue laser light source produces razor-sharp, precise images with stunning detail, all while avoiding unwanted light dispersion and offering a more natural viewing experience. Fast-moving images appear smooth and precise, making it the ideal source for watching sports, enjoying fast-action movies and gaming. Embedded speakers featuring dbx-tv® provide a superior audio experience, and Android TVTM brings plenty of content options with more than 5,000 apps and games from the Google Play® store to the 100-inch screen.
  • Hisense Q9G Quantum — A series favourite delivers even more options and features in 2020. Featuring Hisense’s patented ULED technology for enhanced picture quality, the Q9G Quantum Dot Series adds Dolby Vision® and Dolby Atmos® image and sound technologies to provide enhanced colour and immersive audio. Additional local dimming zones paired with Quantum Dot results in a true-to-life watching experience. Android TVTM brings more than 500,000 movies and shows, plus video streaming from Netflix®, Disney+, Hulu®, YouTubeTM and others, making it easy to find your favourite content. In bezel microphones and far-field voice control makes Q9G a true smart home hub.
    With the built-in Google AssistantTM, Q9G users can do more on the TV with just their voice. Ask the Assistant to search for the latest blockbuster or stream shows. You can also ask it questions and see the answers on the TV. Have it dim the lights by connecting smart home devices. Or manage tasks and see calendars without needing to grab another device. And with screenless mode, you can access the Assistant on the TV, even when it’s tuned off. It acts like a Google Assistant speaker. When you want to see a response to a question or command, the Assistant will know to turn on the TV.
  • Q8G Quantum — The most popular Hisense TV gets Quantum Dot technology, giving it a huge boost in colour, and a better cinematic experience. Featuring Hisense’s patented ULED technology, Hi-View Engine, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos, the Q8 G Series provides an exceptional viewing experience at an affordable price. Now with screen sizes up to 75 inches, viewers can enjoy richer colours and greater detail with the addition of more local dimming zones — all on a user-friendly platform. With integrated Android technology, users can easily stream thousands of movies and shows from a variety of platforms, such as Disney+, Netflix, CraveTV, and YouTube. The Hisense Android TV features a voice remote for easy browsing, and the built-in Google Assistant allows users to quickly search and access entertainment, get answers from Google, control smart home devices and more.
  • H78G Series — Hisense brings even more Android TV options in 2020 with the H78G Series, a 4K ultra high definition TV featuring Dolby Vision, DTS Virtual: XTM, Motion Rate Technology, Bluetooth® audio and has a built-in Chromecast. The TV is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, letting users control the TV via Alexa-enabled and Google Home devices.
  • H56G Series — Enjoy multi-dimensional sound in any room with the H56G Series HD Smart TV. It’s a must-have that features the Google Assistant built-in in the Android TV to give users the power to control the TV from the comfort of their couch. The H56G provides a full HD 2K viewing experience, DTS Studio SoundTM for a crisp sound, Bluetooth audio to stream music with the fuss of wires and a voice remote. The screen size makes it ideal for smaller rooms — and budgets.
  • XD9G Series — Featuring Hisense’s proprietary ULED XD technology, the XDG9 integrates Quantum Dot technology, Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. The fusion of Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision transforms the entertainment experience through ultra-vivid picture quality — incredible brightness, contrast, colour and detail — and immersive moving audio that flows all around a listener. In-bezel microphones and smart features, such as far-field voice control and integrated Google Assistant, make the TV a smart home hub.
  • R6G Series — Roku is the No. 1 TV streaming platform, and Hisense’s Roku TV models offers consumers a customizable home screen, thousands of free and paid streaming channels and advanced features like fast and easy search across top channels with results ranked by price search. The Roku home screen puts a customer’s favourite entertainment in one place so it’s easier than ever to watch what they love, including live TV, sports, news, hit movies, popular shows and more. Plus, consumers will always get the latest features with automatic updates. They also get access to the free Roku mobile app, with even more features like Roku Voice and private listening.
  • H4G Series — The Hisense Rou TV H4G Series is ideal for binge watchers on a budget. Equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and faster search, users can activate and find their favourite shows, sit back and enjoy the rich 2K picture.

Pricing & Availability

Hisense is showcasing its entire 2020 product lineup, including the brand new L5 laser TV and XD9G, the first dual cell technology TV on the market, January 7-10 at CES in the LVCC, Centre Hall Booth #10039.

The 2020 Hisense TV lineup will be available in Canada:

  • Q9G Series — April 2020
  • Q8G Series — April 2020
  • H78G Series — Q2 2020
  • H56G Series — Q2 2020
  • R6G Series — April 2020
  • H4G Series — April 2020

Availability of the L5 and XD9G TVs in Canada is still to be announced.

For more information, please visit hisense-canada.com.

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EnGenius Launches Next-Generation Outdoor Wi-Fi 6 Access Point

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 7, 2020 by itnerd

EnGenius has announced a high-capacity Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) outdoor access point. The new weatherproof access point takes advantage of the latest Wi-Fi 6 technology needed to support the ever-growing bandwidth demands of densely congested outdoor environments such as stadiums, airports, smart cities, and parks.

Backed by EnGenius’ decades-long expertise in outdoor wireless networking, the new EWS850AP paves the way for outdoor use of Wi-Fi 6’s top features.  Armored by IP67-rated dust and water-resistant enclosure, the EWS850AP is fully capable of withstanding harsh weather environments, including prolonged exposure to sunlight, extreme cold, frost, snow, rainfall, hail, and humidity. The Qualcomm® Networking Pro 400 Platform helps ensure the EWS850AP takes advantage of key Wi-Fi 6 features needed to support the growing demands of crowded wireless environments. Key benefits include:

  • Superior Connectivity: With up to 4 spatial streams across both 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz bands, the EWS850 encompasses downlink and uplink MU-MIMO and OFDMA to simultaneously manage and transmit data between AP and client devices.
  • Powerful Computing: Dynamic data processing and management to boost data throughput up to 25% with 1024QAM and expand connectivity capabilities.
  • Advanced Data Management: Cut through densely congested outdoor environments with better data management and extend wireless coverage through longer OFDM signals and reduce channel interference through BSS coloring, offering less latency and improved transmit signals.
  • Powerful Networking Acceleration: The exquisitely designed architecture can successfully associate and maintain connectivity for complex and secure data transfer. Enabled with WPA3 security, the EWS850AP supports higher encryption for sensitive data transfers for hundreds of simultaneously connected devices.

The EWS850AP delivers optimal wireless performance through stronger, steadier, and more efficient wireless connections. It is EnGenius’ latest solution for serving densely congested infrastructure applications able to satisfy the needs of network engineers wanting to future proof outdoor networks.

The EWS850AP will start shipping worldwide in the first quarter of 2020. For more information visit https://www.engeniustech.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/ews850ap-datasheet.pdf.

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Nikon Canada Announces Cutting-Edge Z Mount, F Mount & COOLPIX Products

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 7, 2020 by itnerd

Nikon Canada Inc. has announced three new innovative products that proves the imaging brand’s commitment to bringing optical excellence to all levels of customers. First, the new NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S is the latest in the ever-expanding Z mount lens line, giving users of Nikon Z series mirrorless cameras an indispensable workhorse lens for capturing action and portraits. For professional sports and wildlife photographers, the new AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is an enticing high-performance, professional super telephoto F mount NIKKOR lens. Finally, the COOLPIX 950 is a powerful new addition to Nikon’s superzoom bridge camera lineup, offering creators a spectacular 83x optical zoom and a myriad of innovative features to take their creativity to new heights.

 

The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S – Astonishing Details, Uncompromising Zoom

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An essential pro-level telephoto zoom lens re-imagined to take advantage of the optical potential of the Z series, the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S is the latest addition to Nikon’s rapidly growing lineup of mirrorless lenses. The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 represents a pivotal lens for the Z series and a must-have for those shooting action, weddings, events, news, wildlife and portraits. Equipped with a versatile focal range, fast f/2.8 aperture, and an impressive 5 stops of built-in optical VR image stabilization1, the 70-200mm f/2.8 gives mirrorless shooters the flexibility to capture astoundingly sharp images and videos in a variety of scenarios. Additionally, multimedia and content creators using the lens will appreciate the stepping motor (STM) for extremely quiet autofocus operation and reduced focus breathing.

The NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S demonstrates the technological benefits of the Nikon Z mount to reinvent a classic lens, while including new features to make this photographer favorite even more superior for Z series users. Parfocal support maintains focus when zooming, while a reduced minimum focus distance (0.5m wide, 1.0m telephoto) vastly increases versatility for photos and video. When used in combination with the in-body stabilization of the Nikon Z 6 and Z 7, the 70-200mm f/2.8 promises unparalleled stability with additional optical stabilization. Like other S line lenses, the 70-200mm f/2.8 boasts a premium optical design complete with a 9-blade diaphragm as well as Anti-Reflective Nano Crystal and ARNEO coatings for maximum image quality in any light, with a Fluorine coating that resists dirt and smudges. In addition to a rugged weather sealed design the lens is ready to tackle any assignment with a dedicated Info Panel, two customizable Function buttons and an additional custom control ring.

The new NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S and AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8 E FL ED SR VR are the first Nikon lenses to feature the newly developed SR (Short-Wavelength Refractive) lens element, a high- and specialized-dispersion glass lens featuring characteristics that greatly refract light with wavelengths shorter than that of blue. By controlling short-wavelength light that is difficult to compensate, the lens can more effectively collect light of various specific wavelengths and achieve highly precise chromatic aberration compensation.

 

AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR Lens: Impressive Reach, Incredible Speed, Absolute Versatility

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The all-new AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is a versatile, professional lens for the Nikon F mount with a large focal range and fast constant aperture. It’s ideal for sports, wildlife and portrait photographers seeking a bright and fast telephoto lens that offers sharp image quality across a wide range of focal lengths. Thanks to its extensive 120-300mm focal range, the AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm provides users with a pro-level single lens solution, replacing the need to carry multiple lenses. With Nikon’s reliable, weather-sealed construction, the NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8 is equipped to handle any shooting scenario whether on the sidelines or in the wilderness.

Users will appreciate the constant f/2.8 aperture which offers incredible low-light capability and depth of field that draws emphasis to a subject. The impeccably sharp image quality, beautiful bokeh and enhanced AF performance of the NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8 offers speed and sharpness reminiscent of a prime. Engineered with Nikon’s cutting-edge technologies, the AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8E FL ED SR VR is the first NIKKOR F mount lens to adopt Nikon’s new SR lens element as well as Nikon’s anti-reflective ARNEO coat to deliver superior chromatic aberration compensation and effectively reduce ghost and flare. The built-in VR function provides an effect equivalent to a shutter speed 4.0 stops and includes a Sport VR mode for rapidly moving subjects.

Ready for professional use, the lens is sealed to resist the elements and is engineered for maximum usability, even when handheld. The zoom ring, focus function buttons, tripod collar ring and controls are all designed to ensure superior operability for more comfortable shooting.

 

COOLPIX 950: 2,000mm Zoom Power, 4K UHD Video & More

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With an unbelievable 83x optical zoom NIKKOR lens, the 16-megapixel COOLPIX 950 is a powerful new addition to Nikon’s superzoom bridge camera lineup, which delivers unprecedented image quality from extreme distances. Beyond the staggering 24-2000mm lens, the COOLPIX 950 packs an advanced feature-set complete with Nikon’s renowned NIKKOR optics and advanced stabilization technology with 5.5 stops of VR image stabilization, allowing stargazers and birdwatchers to capture high-quality photos or 4K UHD videos at extreme distances with ease. Plus, by using the COOLPIX 950’s 166x** Dynamic Fine Zoom for far-away subjects and Macro Shooting capabilities to get as close as 0.4 inches, adventure-seekers can bring the unimaginable closer than ever.

Users can rely on the COOLPIX 950 to photograph life’s most unique subjects with incredible accuracy and focus thanks to its Target Finding AF capabilities, 7 fps continuous shooting and ISO sensitivity up to 6400. A great option for photographers of all skill levels, the COOLPIX 950 features user-friendly controls alongside an intuitive menu system and a 2359k-dot EVF, making it easier to review and capture one-of-a-kind shots. With dedicated Bird-Watching and Moon Modes photographers can effortlessly snap photos of their world and beyond. The new COOLPIX 950 also adds RAW (NRW) photo recording, an enhanced high-resolution electronic viewfinder and Nikon SnapBridge to seamlessly share images or remotely control the camera.

The COOLPIX 950 is also equipped with an accessory shoe to enable compatibility with a variety of useful accessories, including the optional DF-M1 Dot Sight, which helps users locate subjects and compose shots from far-away distances.

 

Pricing and Availability

The new NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S and COOLPIX 950 will be available in February for manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP) of $3,599.95 and $1,099.95, respectively. The AF-S NIKKOR 120-300mm f/2.8 E FL ED SR VR will be available in February for a manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of $12,899.95. For more information about Nikon and their latest products, please visit www.nikon.ca.

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Guest Post: NordVPN Discusses New Year’s Cybersecurity Resolutions That You Might Want To Adopt

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 7, 2020 by itnerd

“New Year, New Me” – everyone is familiar with the desire to change for the better as the New Year comes. And although about 80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by mid-February, some are worth keeping. In the digital age, those are the ones related to cybersecurity and online lives.

2019 saw a massive increase in cyberattacks; in fact, 4 billion records have been breached so far. “Even the biggest corporations are vulnerable, and we never know when our data is going to end up in the wrong hands,” says Daniel Markuson, the digital privacy expert at NordVPN. “We have no control over when the next company or even government institution is hacked. But even if we can’t prevent all cyber threats, there are things we can do to make our digital life safer.”

Promise to stay safe during 2020 and make some resolutions that will stick:

  1. ‘I will use stronger passwords.’

According to recent findings, most people still make the same mistake and use unimaginative passwords. To make it worse, a lot of people recycle their passwords. While recycling is an excellent initiative for the environment, reusing your passwords is a terrible cyber hygiene practice. This means that if one of your accounts gets hacked, others will too. Security experts advise using password managers, such as NordPass, to create a complex password. It is also a good idea to use two-factor authentication for extra protection.

  1. ‘I will stop oversharing on social media’

Of course, we all love to boast about our exotic vacations and weekend city breaks. However, whenever you announce you are leaving for a trip on social media, you practically invite a burglar to your house. A good idea is to post those pictures afterward, when you are there to protect your home.

  1. ‘I will be careful with public Wi-Fi.’

We all love something free, and in this digital age, free Wi-Fi is something we assume every public place will provide. However, public Wi-Fi is a real gold mine for cybercriminals. They have their methods to intercept your internet connection and collect your sensitive information: credit card details, passwords, phone numbers, addresses, and so on. So be vigilant when using public Wi-Fi, use a firewall, and install a VPN, like NordVPN, which encrypts your online data.

  1. ‘I won’t click on every link.’

Clicking on a malicious link is the easiest way to catch a virus. How do you know which link is malicious and which one is not? Hover over the link or banner and check if the destination site looks legitimate. Also, always check the sender’s details.

  1. ‘I will stop postponing software updates.’

We’ve all done it – we’re doing something so important and don’t have time to stop for 10 mins to install that software or app update. However, these updates usually contain essential security patches that protect your system from threats. Skipping these updates means that you are leaving your device open to vulnerabilities. Also, make sure you download all updates from verified legitimate sources.

  1. ‘I will shop on secure websites only.’

Before even thinking about making a transaction, you should check whether your e-shop is secure or not. All you need to do is pay attention to the beginning of your website URL and see if it starts with ‘http’ or ‘https.’ The letter ‘s’ means that the connection is made through a secure protocol, and you can trust the site with your payment. Also, be vigilant and pay attention to how much information the website requires. If it’s asking for more details than usual, it might be a fraudulent site.

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Nikon Canada Announces D780 DSLR

Posted in Commentary with tags on January 7, 2020 by itnerd

Nikon Canada Inc. has unveiled the D780, an exciting new FX-format DSLR that makes vast improvements to the highly-revered D750, Nikon’s most popular full-frame DSLR ever, while inheriting pro-level features from the powerful D850 and flagship D5. The much-anticipated D780 delivers the most sought-after features to give enthusiasts and professionals an agile camera for capturing high-resolution photos and 4K UHD video with the added benefit of fast, accurate phase detect autofocusing. While the D780 retains the rugged reliability of its predecessor, the camera has been turbocharged with Nikon’s latest EXPEED 6 processor, touch operability, advanced autofocus capabilities, extensive video features, a valuable assortment of in-camera creative options and so much more. The new D780 is more than a worthy successor to the beloved D750, it’s a proven performer that transcends any creative endeavor.

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Nikon cameras and lenses are world-renowned for their usability, reliability, performance and impressive image quality. With the addition of the innovative new Z mirrorless system, together with a robust and proven lineup of DSLR’s and decades of the finest NIKKOR lenses, Nikon is uniquely positioned to fulfill customer’s needs no matter how they want to capture still images or video.

 

Perform Beyond Expectations
The Nikon D780 sets a new benchmark in DSLR performance, vastly improving upon the capabilities of the D750 by incorporating the newest technology and some of the popular features seen in the Z series, making it powerful and versatile enough to capture anything from fast-action sports to beautifully detailed night sky. The D780 is a seriously capable camera and offers the distinct advantage of being comfortable in the hands of a photo enthusiast, as well as being a popular pro-grade tool choice for weddings, wildlife, and production environments.

  • High Resolution Image Quality: Offering the optimal balance between resolution and file size, the D780 is equipped with a 24.5-megapixel backside-illuminated (BSI) FX-Format CMOS sensor to deliver superb image quality, fantastic dynamic range, beautiful color reproduction, stellar low-light ability and sharp clarity to excel in a wide array of shooting scenarios.
  • EXPEED 6 Processing Power: Designed with Nikon’s most advanced EXPEED 6 image processor, the D780 is packed with the same powerful processing engine as the Nikon Z 6 and Z 7, allowing for noticeable increases in speed. In addition to greater energy efficiency, EXPEED 6 delivers improved low-light performance, 4K UHD full-frame video with full pixel readout, and enhanced image clarity.
  • Wide ISO Range: The D780 retains the low-light ability that made it a photographer’s favorite for wedding receptions and nighttime photography, producing clean files with minimal noise effortlessly. Whether capturing a dimly lit dance floor, a stage performance or an astounding astro-landscape, users can rely on the D780 to retain ultimate clarity in even the most challenging lighting scenarios. The camera offers improved ISO performance across the entire range, which now goes up to 51,200 and is expandable to 204,800.
  • Blazing-fast speeds: The D780 keeps pace with the fastest action, offering shooting speeds of up to 7 fps1 at full resolution and shutter speeds as fast as 1/8000 or as long as 900 seconds2. Whether shooting the split-second action of motocross, or a bride’s walk down the aisle, the D780 lets you capture content with confidence when you only get one chance.
  • Two Powerful AF Systems Optimized for Any Shooting Style:
    1. When shooting through the optical viewfinder (OVF): Nikon’s proven 51-point AF system is paired with an enhanced AF algorithm inherited from the flagship Nikon D5. 15 cross-type AF sensors maximize accuracy, and the camera uses an upgraded 180K-pixel Advanced Scene Recognition System, which analyzes the scene to ensure balanced exposures and accurate color reproduction. The AF system can reliably track rapidly moving subjects such as wildlife, yet also improves on its surreal ability to nail focus like no other in challenging light, to -4EV in this mode.
    2. In Live View: For the first time in a Nikon DSLR, the D780 is infused with mirrorless technology, featuring the same 2733 point focal plane Hybrid AF system employed in the Nikon Z 6, enabling broad coverage of approximately 90% of the frame. The system offers extremely fast, smooth and accurate AF in Live View and when recording video, a huge benefit for multimedia production. This is also Nikon’s first DSLR to feature Eye-Detection AF4, enabling a real-time tracking of multiple eyes in a scene to help ensure tack-sharp focus for portraits and candid shots.
    • Silent Shooting: When operating the electronic shutter in Live View, the D780 can shoot continuously without shutter noise at up to 12 fps. Silent shooting is ideal for documenting sensitive moments like a live performance, a wedding ceremony or discrete street photography.
    • NIKKOR Lenses: When combined with an extensive catalog of world renowned NIKKOR lenses, the versatile D780 knows no boundaries in taking on any artistic challenge.

 

Video Features for Creators
The D780 delivers the best video capabilities of any Nikon DSLR, incorporating technology found in the Nikon Z 6 mirrorless camera.

  • Full-Frame 4K video at 30 fps: Incorporating an FX-format BSI sensor and on-sensor phase detect AF, the D780 is capable of similar video capture functions of the Nikon Z 6, capturing full-frame 4K UHD video at 30 fps with full-pixel readout for absolute quality. A variety of other frame rates and resolutions is also selectable, including Full HD/120p for ultra-smooth motion in videos and epic slow-motion capture.
    • Flexible workflow: The D780 offers 10-bit output with N-Log5 or HDR (Hybrid Log-Gamma) support, raising the bar for video functionality and flexibility in post-production.
    • Advanced Cinematic Functions: Users can enjoy more creative freedom when capturing video with the D780 thanks to its host of advanced shooting modes, including focus peaking highlight display (zebra stripes), interval timer and in-camera time-lapse movie file recording.

 

Advanced Creative Features
The D780 sports an innovative and useful feature-set that empowers professionals to explore their creative potential by affording a more efficient workflow coupled with unique effects.

  • In-Camera Creative Filters: With a wide-array of in-camera Creative Picture Controls and a Special Effects Mode, the D780 enables users to effortlessly add elements of personal flare to their photos and videos. Additionally, many of these popular special effects can be captured as a JPEG while simultaneously shooting an unaffected RAW image for more editing freedom.
    • Focus Stacking: Like the D850, the D780’s Focus Shift feature will appeal to macro, product and landscape photographers seeking extreme depth-of-field, by enabling the user to capture a series of shots at different focus distances and use third party software to generate a highly-defined image consisting of only the areas in focus.
    • More Flexibility with Multiple Exposures: New to the D780 is the ability to create a multiple exposure with non-consecutively shot images, giving photographers the capacity to superimpose images in-camera, even when captured from two entirely different locations and times.
    • Easy Wi-Fi6 and Bluetooth7 Connectivity: The D780 offers seamless image-sharing to a smartphone or tablet when connected to the Nikon Snapbridge8 app using the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. With the latest SnapBridge app, it’s easy to download videos, RAW files or remotely control a camera from your phone or tablet.

 

Built Like a Nikon
• New Touch Operability: Like the Nikon D850, the new D780 features a bright tilting 3.2-inch LCD enhanced with touch operability to provide a more optimal user-experience.
• Robust Design: Sporting a durable build with extensive weather-sealing, the D780 retains its role as a reliable tool to handle unpredictable conditions when working in the field.
• Energy-Saving Performance: The D780 can capture 2,260 shots on single charge which is a significant increase in battery life compared to the D750, making it the ideal companion for photographers embarking on a day-long outing.
• On-The-Go Charging: With versatile USB Type C compatibility users can charge in-camera and transfer files more conveniently than ever.
• Dual Card Slots: Featuring two UHS-II SD card slots, the D780 provides professionals with a safety net and the ability to record multiple file formats simultaneously.

 

Price and Availability
The Nikon D780 will be available in late January for a manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) of $3,199.95 for the body-only configuration, and $3,899.95 for single-lens kit configuration with the AF-S NIKKOR 24-120mm f/4G ED VR lens. For more information on the latest Nikon products, please visit www.nikon.ca.

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