
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Happy Halloween!

Saturday, October 30, 2010
Bye-bye Palm Pre... Hello Samsung Epic

Friday, October 29, 2010

- Description
Build, play and customize with this fully featured LEGO remote for Wii!
Use your own official LEGO pieces (not included) to build a custom display stand using the Buildable Battery Cover. The remote features internal accelerometers, an internal speaker, rumble effects and larger buttons for enhanced control during game play. Works with most Wii chargers and attachments (using included Standard Battery Cover). Includes Remote, Wrist Strap, 2 Battery Covers, and 31 Mini LEGO tiles with LEGO Tile Separator. Compatible with Wii MotionPlus.
Compatible with Wii MotionPlus.- Build, play and customize with this fully featured LEGO remote for Wii!
- The remote features internal accelerometers, an internal speaker, rumble effects and larger buttons for enhanced control during game play.
- Works with most Wii chargers and attachments (using included Standard Battery Cover) and is compatible with Wii MotionPlus.
- Includes Remote, Wrist Strap, 2 Battery Covers, and 31 Mini LEGO tiles with LEGO Tile Separator.
- Officially licensed LEGO product, developed by POWER A.
- HOW TO GET IT
- This item can be shipped to the entire United States including Alaska, Hawaii, and all U.S. territories including Puerto Rico
- This item can also be shipped to APO/FPO addresses and to P.O. Boxes in all 50 states
- This item may be shipped via Standard Shipping, Expedited Shipping or Express Shipping
- Please Note: Some addresses are eligible for Standard Shipping only (APO/FPO, P.O. Boxes, U.S. Territories and Puerto Rico)
(learn more):- Store Pickup is not offered for this item, but the item is sold in our stores
- Orders placed for Store Pickup will receive online pricing and promotions
- In stock status is approximate and may not reflect recent store sales
- Not all items are carried at all stores. Please click the ''Select a store'' link to check product availability
This item may be shipped in the manufacturer's original packaging, which could reveal the contents of the box
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Moogle Robot Allows Home Owners to do Inspections in Tight Spaces
Whether it happens to be needed in your home or dental office, sometimes you need to be able to see in places where you just can't get a human being to fit.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Evaluating Exorvision's Newest Monitor
For the last several years, I've been a big fan of Exorvision monitors. The company specializes in monitor technology that is specifically made for the dental environment.
All of their monitors are glass sealed and water resistant so they can be disinfected by wiping them down... including the screen! From their website: Per the National Electrical Code, the dental office is classified as a "Patient Care Area," and since liquid is present, it is also classified as a "Wet Location." The electrical code is stricter for these special conditions. Hygiene is also an OSHA concern in these areas. A regular PC monitor is designed for the office environment where the code requirements are less stringent. The ExorVision LCD monitor, on the other hand, has been designed specifically for the dental office where patient safety and operatory hygiene are central issues.
Their latest model is now sitting on my desk as I type this. It is the ET19Hm. This beauty is a 19 inch monitor with inputs for composite video, S-video, VGA, and...DVI!!! That's right, the DVI port on my Mac is connected directly to the ET19HM with no adapter. Needless to say, the image is amazing.
The monitor is also designed for use in health care with serious thought given to the fact that theses will be used to view radiographs and clinical images. The 19 inch monitor has an active matrix TFT LCD panel, .294 (H) and .294(V) pixel pitch, a maximum resolution of 1280 x 1024, and a contrast ration of 1000:1
Overall, this thing is impressive. It's been in use now for about 24 hours and I'm still getting used to the sharpness of the images. If you need a monitor, make sure you check out Exorvision. I'm confident you'll be as amazed as I am.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Seeing Things Up Close & Personal with Zeiss
OK, I'll admit it. I'm a magnification junkie. No matter how well I see, I've got to try to see better.
Monday, October 25, 2010
Sony Annoumces the End of the Cassette Walkman
A big thanks to my buddy Paul Feuerstein for this one.
I still remember being in college and a couple of gals I knew worked at a local department store in the electronics Dept. They invited severals of us over to see this brand new gizmo from Sony. It was called the Walkman and had the most amazing sound we had ever heard.
Of course then only constant is change, and now Sony has announced the end of the cassette Walkman line. The name will continue, but once the current inventory of cassette devices is sold, that's all there will be.
It's sad, but really, how many cassettes do you own? Me neither.
For a translation of the press release, click here
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Sunday, October 24, 2010
HP Releases Slate
HP has finally released its Slate. The device is an 8.9 inch capacitive touch screen that runs Windows 7.
The tech market haze been anxiously awaiting this, especially since Microsoft's Steve Balmer touted it as a serious threat to the iPad.
However, the gang at Wired (one of my favorite tech magazines) has posted a review that shows they are less than impressed.
Read here for Wired Magazine's take on this new device.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Genius Presents New Stick-n-Go Traveling Mini Mouse
For those of you who are fellow road warriors, you may be looking for a mouse that not only suits your needs, but also is easy to transport. Look no further than this new mouse from Genius. The folks at Genius continue to bring products to the market that are affordable while being durable as well. That's a rare combination!
Miniature mouse equipped with handy mount and retractable cord for easy transport
MIAMI (October 21, 2010) – Genius (www.geniusnetusa.com), a brand division of KYE Systems Corp., today announced a new addition to the company’s extensive line of notebook mice, the Navigator 305 mouse with retractable cord and Stick-N-Go mount for easy transportation.
The Navigator 305 uses a 1200 dpi optical engine for accurate cursor tracking and speed. The 85mm mini-sized mouse is comfortable to grip for either hand and has a 70cm retractable cable for easy storage. The Navigator 305 also includes a Stick-N-Go mount that allows the user to attach the mouse to a notebook or laptop, creating an ultra portable mouse perfect for traveling around home, office or anywhere! Compatible with Windows 7, Vista, XP, Mac OS X 10.4 or later, Navigator 305 mouse is available in royal blue or black and attractively priced at MSRP USD $12.90.
Features:
Stick-N-Go mount
85mm mini size
70cm retractable cord
Sales/Purchase:
The new Navigator 305 mouse starts shipping in October 2010. Interested shoppers can go to New Egg.com, Amazon.com, www.geniuseshop.com, Tiger Direct, Buy.com or for more information on the entire line of Genius products and other retailers and distributors please visit: http://www.geniusnetusa.com/.
ABOUT KYE SYSTEMS CORP.
Genius is an international leading company in computer peripherals. Genius was established in 1985, product portfolio includes computer mice, keyboards, web and security cameras, speakers, gaming peripherals, remote controls, headphones, digital cameras, digital camcorders and digital photo frames. It also holds the U.S. patent for mouse scroll-wheel technology. Genius expanded from computer peripherals into consumer electronic products that include mobile phone accessories, Bluetooth headsets, digital cameras, digital photo frames, iPod speakers and EeePC mice.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Sirona’s CEREC® CAD/CAM and CEREC® AC CAD/CAM Systems Both Honored with Prestigious Pride Institute “Best of Class” Technology Awards
Thursday, October 21, 2010
OraPharma Rolls Out MyARESTIN.com® Mobile After Successful Debut at ADA Annual Session
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
iPad is Eating into the Traditional Computer Chip Market

Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Oral health America’s Gala Announces Return to the Field Museum
Chicago, Il: October 4, 2010 Reservations are now being accepted for the 21st Annual Oral Health America (OHA) Gala & Benefit Dinner, to be held Wednesday, February 23, 2011. The event is returning to the spectacular Field Museum and debuting a new theme, “Celebrating YOU and YOUR Commitment to Oral Health.”
“The OHA Gala is frequently referred to as the dental industry’s premier networking event”, said Genevieve Bauer, Strategic Relationship Manager, Taylor Corporation & Gala Chair. “We believe our new theme will shine a light on how the industry supports OHA’s programs that are bringing healthy mouths to life.”
Held each year during the Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting, the OHA Gala is a highly anticipated networking event that has become so popular it regularly sells out. The black tie optional evening features a cocktail reception, four course dinner and dancing with live music. Oral Health America is also seeking event sponsors at the Gold ($3,000), Platinum ($5,000), and Diamond ($10,000) levels.
Tickets are $300 each ($325 after January 15, if still available); a table for 10 can be purchased for $2,750 ($3,000 after January 15, if still available). To purchase tickets, sponsorships, or additional information please contact Joe Donohue at OHA by calling 312-836-9900 or email him at joe@oralhealthamerica.org.
Oral Health America is dedicated to connecting communities with resources to increase access to care, education and advocacy for all Americans, especially those most vulnerable. Find out more at www.oralhealthamerica.org.
Monday, October 18, 2010
3D TV's are Not Catching On

In the last year, have you seen the commercials on TV for 3D televisions? Me too. Have you purchased one? Me neither.
It turns out that very few of the expensive devices have been sold. It seems that only 3.2 million 3D TVs will be shipped worldwide this year and the number of those sets that will be in the continent of North America is expected to be 1.6 million.
Speculation as to why they haven't caught on is rampant. Ideas range from a lack of content, to nausea for some viewers, to eyestrain. Manufacturers were hoping that with the success of 3D movies seen at major cinema complexes, consumers would be ready for these in their homes.
How about this for a reason? I don't want to have to wear the stupid glasses every time I watch TV. I can't even find the remote about half the time so why would I want to add to the frustration. Do these manufacturers have kids? Have they ever seen the havoc that a toddler can wreak on a highly organized home? Oh, and they want me to pay more for these sets as well.
Seriously though, I think that with the idea of the home theater in full swing, lots of individuals have probably spent a good sum of money on a great television already and just can't justify another expenditure. When you bring the economy into the equation, it makes even more sense to me. Plus, while I think it's cool to see a movie in 3D at the local movie house, I don't really want that in my home... at least at this point.
Further, I've had a chance to play with some pretty cool 3D technology that doesn't require glasses! I've had some alpha prototypes in my office this year and the technology is definitely promising.
When it comes to TV that forces me to wear glasses? That's a solution looking for a problem, if you ask me.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
A Salute to Oakley for Helping the Trapped Miners
I've got to give a big round of kudos to Oakley. Over the years I've been a big fan of their products & the it company attitude. My office shoes (only worn when I'm seeing patients) are Oakley. Anyway, this week as each of the trapped miners was lifted to freedom, they wore sunglasses to protect their eyes after being underground all that time.
It turns out the glasses were donated by Oakley. I've got to say I'm impressed with that.
Here's a post from the company website that was put online before the rescue was completed:
Chilean Miner Rescue Operation
The rescue team in Chile is relying on Oakley eyewear to protect the miners’ eyes when they are brought back to the surface.
A few weeks ago, Oakley was contacted by Jonathan Franklin, a journalist who works for Addict Village, a boutique media agency in Santiago, Chile. Mr. Franklin was covering the rescue efforts and had recommended Oakley to the Chilean private health insurer, known as ACHS “Association Chilena de Seguridad,” for eyewear protection for the miners once they surfaced.
Based on their requirements and full product specifications, Oakley donated 35 pairs of Oakley Radar® with Black Iridium® lenses in Path™ and Range® lens shapes for the miners who will need the protection of Oakley sunglasses as their eyes return to normal. Minister of Mining Laurence Golborne (who is leading the rescue) has asked to wear one of the extra pairs to show solidarity.
About the product:
Oakley Radar sunglasses feature a single-lens shield that wraps around the eyes. This will give the miners optimal protection from sunlight — not just straight ahead but at the sides of their eyes.
The Radar frames will be matched with Oakley’s darkest lens. A Dark Grey base is combined with Black Iridium lens coating that balances light and reduces glare. The miners’ color perception may be reduced after the long period in dim light, and this lens is designed to maintain accurate color perception.
Two lens shapes (“Path” and “Range”) will be included with the interchangeable lens design. Both shapes provide excellent coverage, and the difference in shape will allow for variances in facial anatomy to give each miner the best possible sun blockage.
The miners’ eyes will be dilated, and this brings the risk of added UV exposure to delicate structures within the eye. Oakley Plutonite® lens material filters out 100% of all UVA, UVB, UVC and harmful blue light up to 400nm.
Radar lenses are enhanced with a hydrophobic/oleophobic coating that prevents water from leaving sheens that can obstruct vision. It also sheds mud and repels oils and dust. This will help keep the miners’ vision clear during rescue operations.
It will take extended time for the miners’ eyes to return to normal, and ordinary activities will come with added risk. For high-velocity and high-mass impact resistance, Radar sunglasses meet the uncompromising standards of the American National Standards Institute’s Z87.1 testing series.
Radar exceeds the Z87.1 standards for visual clarity and fidelity, so the miners will have the best possible vision as their eyes return to normal.
Our hearts are with the rescue team and the miners as we hope for a joyous end to the crisis.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Scottevest Carry On Coat
I've been a huge fan of Scottevest products over the years. I own at least 8 pieces of their gear and have even given their stuff as gifts. Their products are high quality and don't disappoint. The idea of clothing with tons of pockets is a life saver when you spend as much time on planes as I do.
For all their amazing gear, click here.
Their newest product (available in November) is a trench coat design. I'll let the press release tell the story:
SeV Carry-On Coat:
The Jacket the Airlines Don't Want People to Know About, and the Man Behind It
Dear SeV Fans,
Every great story involves some twists and turns, and I wanted to update you on some interesting turns in the ongoing SCOTTEVEST vs. Delta Controversy, in which Delta Sky Magazine censored and rejected an advertisement from SCOTTEVEST Travel Clothing over the use of the phrases "Beat the System" and "Avoid Baggage Fees." Delta proved their willingness to censor an advertiser to protect their bottom line at the clear expense of their passengers (The New York Times recently noted the $769 million in baggage fees that airlines raked in during Q1 2010, all of it non-taxable).
So perhaps in light of the money at stake, the censorship isn't quite surprising, but the reactions have been nothing short of sensational. Scott Jordan, CEO & Founder of SCOTTEVEST, made a fairly innocuous video blog post and tweet about the situation, and the story exploded on the social web with over 284K websites referring to the story on Google and approximately 5 million people exposed to it via Twitter within several days. Major media immediately picked up on the first part of the story, including ABC News, WSJ online, AOL's Wallet Pop, CrunchGear, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Travel + Leisure online, The LA Times, Huffington Post and the travel blog Gadling. Scott's official statement on this matter can be found here.
Now, Scott is on a mission to tell the rest of the story. While the developments continue to make waves every day around the world via social media, Delta has tried to explain their way out of this PR fiasco by offering inaccurate - and changing - statements to the press via travel writer Chris Elliott and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution about "why the ad was rejected." They've gone so far as to claim that the ad was misleading and that Scott's multi-pocketed travel clothing cannot save on baggage fees... despite Jordan's proof in the form of testimonials from thousands of customers and articles in the New York Times and USA Today, an appearance by Peter Greenberg on the Today Show, and a well-documented six-week around-the-world "No Baggage Challenge" performed using only SCOTTEVEST clothing and no baggage (see here for even more proof). GearDiary.com also published an article debunking some of Delta's claims.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Friday, October 15, 2010
Iomega to Release USB 3.0 SSD drives

Thursday, October 14, 2010
Pogoplug Pro Now in Black, Oh and with Wifi too!
Here's a nifty little item that just got a whole lot better. The Pogoplug is a device that allows you to plug in USB external drives and then it makes them available over the net without being attached to a computer. How cool is that? Imaging being able to access important files stored in the safety of your home or office, anywhere on the planet? Even better is that the new Pogoplug Pro is wireless meaning that if you have WiFi setup already, you can plug the device in anywhere that can reach your WiFi network and you still have access to your files and drives without even connecting the device to your router. Sweet!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Discus Now Owned by Phillips - The Scoop Can Now be Told
Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Los Angeles, USA – Royal Philips Electronics (AEX: PHI, NYSE: PHG) announced today that it has agreed to acquire Discus Holdings Inc., the leading manufacturer of professional tooth whitening products. Through this acquisition Philips expands its oral healthcare portfolio, adding to Philips’ globally leading Sonicare electric toothbrush business. Upon closing of the transaction, pending regulatory approvals and expected in the fourth quarter of 2010, Discus will become part of Philips’ Consumer Lifestyle sector’s Health and Wellness business. Financial details of the agreement were not disclosed.
“Oral healthcare is an important part of our strategy to enhance consumer health and well-being, and an important growth driver of our portfolio. Discus’ professional tooth whitening business provides a strong foundation for growth in the cosmetic dentistry space and will strengthen Philips’ position as a leading oral healthcare brand amongst dental professionals and consumers,” said Philips Consumer Lifestyle CEO Pieter Nota. “Moreover, Discus’ oral care products complement our existing Sonicare portfolio, further building our relationship with dental professionals.”
Professional tooth whitening involves the use of special compounds designed to penetrate the surface of the tooth and remove stains in both dentin and enamel. Discus’ portfolio includes products such as Zoom and BriteSmile, two widely recognized light-activated whitening systems used by dental professionals worldwide, as well as a range of take-home whiteners that are sold under dental supervision. In addition, Discus’ oral care portfolio provides dental professionals and their patients a wide range of treatment options for sensitivity relief, caries prevention, gingivitis, breath management, oral ulcer relief and other dental care.
“Over two decades, Discus built a global dental products company while introducing some of the most recognized brands in dentistry. Millions of consumers have benefited from the whiter, brighter smiles created by our products,” said Steve Semmelmayer, CEO of Discus Holdings, Inc. “Merging with Philips will bring significant growth opportunities for Discus products with unprecedented reach and scope. We are excited about becoming part of the Philips global organization,” said Dr. William Dorfman, Discus’ founder.
Founded in California in 1989 and headquartered in Los Angeles, USA, Discus is a privately held company that employs approximately 400 people and has a distribution presence in over 100 countries. Discus has annual sales of around EUR 100 million of which approximately one-third is generated outside of North America.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Align Technology Introduces Invisalign® G3
New Innovations Represent Significant Leap Forward in Clear Aligner Therapy
SAN JOSE, Calif., August 16, 2010 -- Align Technology, Inc. (Nasdaq: ALGN) today announced the
launch of Invisalign® G3, the most significant collection of new features and innovations in the company’s
history. Invisalign G3 is engineered to deliver even better clinical results, with new aligner and software
features that make it easier to use Invisalign with Class II and Class III patients, new SmartForceTM
features designed for increased predictability of certain tooth movements, and simpler, more intuitive
software to streamline treatment planning and review.
Invisalign G3 builds on a new and improved feature set introduced to the Invisalign product line last fall.
“The innovations in Invisalign G3 really get at the heart of what doctors have been asking for from
Invisalign treatment,” said Sheila Tan, Align vice president, marketing and chief marketing officer. “With
technology and tools that are designed to expand the clinical scope of Invisalign, deliver greater
predictability across most clinical situations, and make treatment planning more efficient – Invisalign G3
represents a tremendous leap forward in Invisalign innovation and demonstrates how we leverage our
technology to deliver the clinical outcomes doctors expect.”
Features that make it easier to use Invisalign to treat Class II and Class III patients
The treatment of Class II/III malocclusion often requires the use of interarch elastics to provide anchorage
control. Previously, doctors had to manually cut the aligners to accommodate the use of elastics, which
may have discouraged the use of Invisalign in these cases. Invisalign G3 addresses this barrier with new
Precision Cuts, which are doctor-prescribed pre-cuts in the aligners that accommodate the use of elastics.
Using a new drag-and-drop interface in ClinCheck 3.0 software, doctors have the flexibility to specify the
placement and the type of Precision Cuts on the aligners, making it easier for doctors to use Invisalign.
“I am very excited about the new features and innovations in Invisalign G3, particularly Precision Cuts,”
said Dr. Sam Daher, an orthodontist practicing in Vancouver, BC. “It’s a significant enhancement to what
I do in the office every day and will make it even easier to use Invisalign on complex cases.”
SmartForceTM features for greater predictability of tooth movements
SmartForce features, such as the Optimized Attachments introduced last fall, are attachments and
aligner features that are engineered to deliver the forces needed to achieve predictable tooth
movements. Based on biomechanical principles, SmartForce features are customized to each tooth
using advanced virtual modeling, and are positioned precisely to deliver the proper forces.
New SmartForce features in Invisalign G3 include an Optimized Rotation Attachment for bicuspids
(previously available only for cuspids), a new Power RidgeTM feature for lower anteriors (previously
available only for the upper arch), and a Lingual Power Ridge feature for upper anteriors. A new variation
of the Optimized Rotation Attachment is also being introduced to address clinical situations where
placement of the attachment may have previously been difficult.
Intuitive features and drag-and-drop interfaces in ClinCheck 3.0 and the Invisalign Doctor Site
streamline treatment planning
In addition to clinical tools and enhancements, Invisalign G3 streamlines the overall treatment planning
process. Specifically, a significant evolution of the ClinCheck software makes it easier and more intuitive
for doctors to create and modify Invisalign treatment plans. One of the most exciting improvements is the
addition of drag-and-drop interfaces for ordering Precision Cuts and attachments, providing doctors with
new tools designed to make it easier and more efficient for them to develop and review their treatment
plans.
The Invisalign Doctor Site (formerly Virtual Invisalign Practice or “VIP”) is a secure web site where
doctors access Invisalign patient records, review and approve ClinCheck treatment plans, view patient
account status, order treatment supplies, and more. A significant redesign of the site not only makes it
simpler and more intuitive to use, but also consolidates all of a patient’s Invisalign records and treatment
tasks together in one location for easy access. The Invisalign Doctor Site also introduces a new online
prescription form that is integrated with the doctor’s clinical preferences.
The improvements and innovations in Invisalign G3 also include new clinical preferences, improved
staging for interproximal reduction (IPR), and the addition of Compliance Indicators to Invisalign Assist.
Invisalign G3 features will be available at no additional cost to Invisalign-trained doctors in North America
in October, with international availability in 2011
Monday, October 11, 2010
Dentlight Announces DOE - Dental Oral Exam System
Here's a pretty cool new product with an inviting price tag. If you are looking for an intraoral cancer screening system, give this one a look.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DentLight, Inc. Introduces DOE Dental Oral Exam System
Richardson, Texas ‐ September 27, 2010
DenLight Inc., innovators of the award winning FUSIONTM Curing Light, NanoTM Loupe Light and high technology LED optics lighting systems, is pleased to announce the launch of DOETM ‐ a rechargeable battery powered cordless dental oral health examination system. It is designed for visualization of mucosal abnormalities and oral lesions including oral cancer based on proven and patent‐pending magnified fluorescence imaging technology.
DOE full system consists of a cordless wand with an interchangeable light head (White and Violet) that illuminates high power collimated LED beam, high contrast magnified fluorescence filters, charging stand, power adapter, and patient protective eyewear goggle. DOE is offered for the general dentists and oral surgeons at an affordably price of under $2,000 for the full kit and under $1,000 for current FUSION curing light users with an upgrade starter kit.
DentLight, Inc has been innovating advanced LED optics technology based dental lighting products for many years and the DOE system proves that “from bright minds come bright products”.
For more information, call 800‐763‐6901 or email sales@dentlight.com
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Orascoptic Announces Freedom LED - Entirely Contained on your Glasses
As regular readers know, I'm very passionate about magnification and what it can do to improve the quality of care we provide our patients. When I start my day, I slip on my Orascoptic 4.8 TTL surgical telescopes and I don't take them from around my neck until the last patient is gone.
Of course, if you wear magnification you also have to have good illumination. There are lots of good LED lights on the market, I've blogged about several of them. However, yesterday at the ADA I got a chance to see the "next generation" of where auxiliary lighting is headed. It's called the Freedom LED from Orascoptic and it has no cords. The entire system attaches to the frame of your glasses. I got a chance to wear it for a couple of minutes and it is well weighted and easy to use. Here is what Orascoptic has to say about it:
Cordless Design
The revolutionary Freedom light is powered by small rechargeable battery pods that attach directly to the loupe frame. There are no cumbersome cables or heavy belt-packs!
Constant Current Technology
The lightweight headlight delivers 4,000 foot candles. Constant current technology ensures that the illumination will maintain its intensity over the full run-time of the batteries.
Capacitive Touch Controls
Innovative capacitive touch technology allows the practitioner to control the light while holding instruments, and also eliminates bacteria traps associated with traditional buttons, knobs, or switches. The Freedom system includes a battery charging station and 4 fast-charging hot swappable batteries that deliver 6 hours of illumination.
Universal Mount
The compact pods and lightweight headlight attach to virtually anyTTL loupe model on the market.
Counter-balance Design
The pioneering design features a weight-neutralizing counter-balance between the battery pods and the headlight. Weight disbursement can be customized to relieve the forward pressure on the nose.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Genius Announces Wireless Mouse with Energy Saving Design
Friday, October 8, 2010
Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700
We all spend a lot of time around our computers nowadays. In fact, the laptop seems to be replacing the desktop computer for a lot of people. I know that certainly applies to me.
Of course, one of the problems with the laptop, especially the high powered ones we use today, is the amount of heat they put off. They can be called "laptops" but they are more like "lap cookers" with the amount of heat they put off.
There's also the aspect of their speakers. Many of us are consuming a Tom of media and those tinny speakers just don't cut it.
That's where the Logitech Speaker Lapdesk N700 comes in. This cool item has a USB powered fan to keep you and the laptop cool and also comes with integrated speakers for much better sound. It's a win-win.
For all the details click here to go to the website.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Stop by the Gendex Booth at the ADA Meeting!
If you are planning on being at the American Dental Association Meeting this weekend (and really... if you're in dentistry, why wouldn't you be there?) then stop by the Gendex booth and say hello!
I'll be in the booth, #2903, on Saturday and Sunday talking about cone beam 3D imaging as well as my personal favorite cone beam device, the GXCB-500HD. Feel free to stop by to discuss the latest in imaging technology, other cool geeky stuff, or just to say "hi".
The Orlando weather looks to be spectacular (surprise!) so come on down to Florida! I'm hoping to see lots of you there!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Chest-Compression-Only CPR Saves More Lives
As I love to say, the only constant is change. As a health care office, we review and are re-tested on CPR every year. While you can get by with every 2 year certification, we always feel better with the one year plan.
WebMD Health News
Oct. 5, 2010 -- Bystanders who perform chest-compression-only CPR instead of traditional CPR with mouth-to-mouth resuscitation (rescue breathing) save more lives, a study shows.
Researchers found that adults who experienced cardiac arrest in a non-hospital setting, such as a restaurant or mall, were 60% more likely to survive if they received compression-only CPR than if they received traditional CPR or no CPR until an emergency medical services (EMS) crew arrived at the scene.
The findings are published in the Oct. 6 issue of The Journal of the American Medical Association.
Benefits of Chest-Compression-Only CPR
The researchers say chest-compression-only CPR may be easier to learn and remember than traditional CPR, which alternates between chest compressions and mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Non-medical personnel may be more willing to perform chest-compression-only CPR, as they may not want to do mouth-to-mouth resuscitation -- especially on strangers.
There may be additional benefits to this method as well. The survival edge may occur because interrupting chest compressions --- even just for rescue breathing-- may further hamper blood flow, and it takes longer to get that blood flow back when it is time for more chest compressions, explains study researcher Bentley J. Bobrow, MD, of the Arizona Department of Health Services in Phoenix.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Evernote can now Link to Searches if you use Google Chrome
I love Evernote and have been using it for a couple of years now. It's a great way to keep track of things and keep them where you can easily get to them.
The Evernote idea is an easy one. You create notebooks, say Travel, that hold notes. Each note in the Travel notebook could be all the info for upcoming trips. You can access this info over the Net, store it locally on your PC or Mac & sync it to the web, access it on your phone, iPad, iPod Touch, etc. All your miscellaneous info can be found in one place... The Cloud.
Now you can install a Google Chrome extension that eve searches Evernote when you search via Chrome. Slick!
For all the details on Evernote & how to get it working with Chrome, take a look at this Evernote blog entry.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Monday, October 4, 2010
XOS2 Suit from Raytheon - The First Step Toward a REAL Iron Man

OK, every once in a while I just have to geek out on something, and you, dear readers are along for the ride...
This is one of those moments. I stumbled across this video from Raytheon showing a prototype "exoskeleton" type device that allows the human wearing it to lift amazing weights, break things, and move said weights without tiring. This truly the beginning of an Iron Man type of device. Well, not exactly the beginning as this is the XOS 2 which is the next step up from the first prototype dubbed XOS 1.
The really cool part, at least for me, is the idea that the device could be deployed in 5 years. That's pretty cool. But... enough of the lead in. Check out the video:
Sunday, October 3, 2010
The Reason You Fill Out Surveys
About a month ago I received an email asking me to fill out an online survey about my experiences as a season ticket holder for my beloved Kansas City Royals.
Since we also send out online surveys to patients via Lighthouseplz , I was happy to respond & give my opinions.
Last week I received word from the Royals that I was the winner of the Season Ticket Survey contest. My prize? A pass onto the field to watch batting practice, a special 'behind the scenes' tour of Kauffman Stadium, and 2 tickets to the Royals Crown Club with seats in the 3rd row directly behind home plate.
Not a bad return for the few minutes I spent providing my opinions.
Oh, and the Royals lost to the Rays 4-0... bummer.
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Saturday, October 2, 2010
TiVo Slide Remote
As a Tivo owner, I perked right up when I saw this. The Tivo Slide is a Tivo remote that also has a cool slide out keyboard. If you're also a Tivo owner, you know what a big plus that can be.
If you are interested, you can order one from e-bay here.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Friday, October 1, 2010
Blockbuster Reaches Agreement on Plan to Recapitalize Balance Sheet and Substantially Reduce its Indebtedness
The only thing we can be sure of is change. In the 80's I can remember buying my first VHS player with stereo sound! I managed to afford cable and recorded all my favorite movies. Then came the idea of "Video Rental Stores" and you could eventually watch almost anything ever filmed. Then the market changed and we went to DVD rentals, then Blue Ray rentals. Then the market changed again and there was the renting of truly digital media that you could download.
Along the way, the big horse of Blockbuster somehow lost their way. They were the largest video rental company and they failed to really embrace the digital download age at an early opportunity. Now they are struggling to stay alive. You can learn some lessons from this. Here is the press release:
To Implement Recapitalization, Company Initiates "Pre-Arranged" Chapter 11 Proceedings
Blockbuster Stores and Operations Conducting Business in the Ordinary Course
Secures $125 Million DIP Financing Commitment
DALLAS, Sept. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Blockbuster Inc. (Pink Sheets: BLOKA, BLOKB), a leading global provider of rental and retail movie and game entertainment, today announced that it has reached agreement with a group of bondholders holding approximately 80.1 percent principal amount of the Company's 11 3/4 percent senior secured notes (the "Senior Noteholders") on the material terms of a plan to recapitalize its balance sheet and put the Company in a stronger financial position as it continues to pursue its strategic plan and transform its business model. The recapitalization plan would substantially reduce the Company's indebtedness -- from nearly $1 billion currently to an estimated $100 million or less when implemented.
To implement this "pre-arranged" recapitalization, the Company and its domestic subsidiaries have filed voluntary Chapter 11 petitions with the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. Blockbuster's non-U.S. operations and its domestic and international franchisees, all of which are legally separate entities, were not included in the filings and are not parties to the Chapter 11 proceedings.
All of Blockbuster's U.S. operations, including its stores, DVD vending kiosks, by-mail and digital businesses, are open and serving customers in the normal course. Blockbuster is fulfilling all orders as usual, including continuing to provide access to new releases the first day they become available. Blockbuster intends to continue honoring its Rewards program, valid coupons, gift cards and other customer programs.
Blockbuster franchise locations in both the U.S. and abroad are independently owned, operated and funded, and are also continuing normal business operations. In addition, BLOCKBUSTER Express vending kiosks, owned and operated through a relationship with NCR, continue their operations in retail locations around the U.S. The Company's international operations in Canada, Denmark, Italy, Mexico, and the United Kingdom are also conducting business as usual. However, Blockbuster will no longer provide funding to support its operations in Argentina, which have experienced continued shortfalls in operating cash flow.
Jim Keyes, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, commented, "After a careful and thorough analysis, we determined that the process announced today provides the optimal path for recapitalizing our balance sheet and positioning Blockbuster for the future as we continue to transform our business model to meet the evolving preferences of our customers. The recapitalized Blockbuster will move forward better able to leverage its strong strategic position, including a well-established brand name, an exceptional library of more than 125,000 titles, and our position as the only operator that provides access across multiple delivery channels – stores, kiosks, by-mail and digital. This variety of delivery channels provides unrivaled convenience, service, and value for our customers."
The Company has secured a commitment of $125 million in new "debtor-in-possession" (DIP) financing from the Senior Noteholders to help meet its obligations to customers, suppliers and employees in the ordinary course during the recapitalization process.
As part of the recapitalization process, the Company will evaluate its U.S. store portfolio with a view towards enhancing the overall profitability of its store operations. Currently, all 3,000 of the Company's stores in the U.S. will remain open.
Under the terms of the proposed plan of reorganization, the Company's 11 3/4 percent senior secured notes will be exchanged for the equity of a reorganized Blockbuster. The only debt expected to remain on the Company's balance sheet upon its emergence from Chapter 11 under the proposed plan will be the amounts drawn under Blockbuster's $125 million DIP financing, which will convert to an exit loan facility upon consummation of the plan, and a new exit revolving credit facility of up to $50 million. Under the proposed plan, there would be no recovery by the holders of the Company's outstanding subordinated debt, preferred stock or common stock.
Keyes said, "We are pleased to enter this process with the support of the Senior Noteholders. Their willingness to provide the DIP financing and to support a plan to eliminate a substantial amount of the Company's debt in exchange for new equity is an important vote of confidence in Blockbuster."
Additional information about the recapitalization is available at www.Blockbuster.com/recapitalization or by telephone at 877-660-6684 or 732-645-4110. General information for Blockbuster customers is available at www.Blockbuster.com or by calling 1-866-692-2789.
The Company's legal advisor is Weil, Gotshal & Manges, its financial advisor is Rothschild Inc., and its restructuring advisor is Alvarez & Marsal.
About Blockbuster Inc.
Blockbuster Inc. is a leading global provider of rental and retail movie and game entertainment. The Company provides customers with convenient access to media entertainment anywhere, any way they want it - whether in-store, by-mail, through vending kiosks or digitally to their homes and mobile devices. With a highly recognized brand and a library of more than 125,000 movie and game titles, Blockbuster leverages its multichannel presence to serve nearly 47 million global customers annually. The Company may be accessed worldwide at www.blockbuster.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Forward-looking statements may also be included from time to time in our other public filings, press releases, our website and oral and written presentations by management. Specific forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts and include, without limitation, words such as "may," "will," "expects," "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "estimates," "projects," "predicts," "targets," "seeks," "could," "intends," "foresees" or the negative of such terms or other variations on such terms or comparable terminology. Similarly, statements that describe our strategies, initiatives, objectives, plans or goals are forward-looking. These forward-looking statements are based on management's current intent, belief, expectations, estimates and projections. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual results may vary materially from what is expressed in or indicated by the forward-looking statements. The risk factors set forth under "Item 1A. Risk Factors" in our Annual Reports on Form 10-K and other matters discussed from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the "Disclosure Regarding Forward-Looking Information" and "Risk Factors" sections of our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, among others, could affect future results, causing these results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements. Currently, the risks and uncertainties that may most directly impact our future results include (i) the ability of the Company to continue as a going concern; (ii) the Company's ability to obtain Bankruptcy Court approval with respect to motions in the chapter 11 cases; (iii) the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to prosecute, develop and consummate one or more plans of reorganization with respect to the chapter 11 cases; (iv) the effects of the Company's Bankruptcy Filing on the Company and the interests of various creditors, equity holders and other constituents; (v) Bankruptcy Court rulings in the chapter 11 cases and the outcome of the cases in general; (vi) the length of time the Company will operate under the chapter 11 cases; (vii) risks associated with third party motions in the chapter 11 cases, which may interfere with the Company's ability to develop and consummate one or more plans of reorganization once such plans are developed, including the currently proposed plan; (viii) the potential adverse effects of the chapter 11 proceedings on the Company's liquidity or results of operations; (ix) the ability to execute the Company's business and restructuring plan; (x) increased legal costs related to the Bankruptcy Filing and other litigation; (xi) the Company's ability to maintain contracts that are critical to its operation, to obtain and maintain normal terms with customers, suppliers and service providers and to retain key executives, managers and employees. In the event that the risks disclosed in our public filings and those discussed above cause results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements, our business, financial condition, results of operations or liquidity could be materially adversely affected and investors in our securities could lose part or all of their investments. Accordingly, our investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements because, while we believe the assumptions on which the forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, there can be no assurance that these forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Further, the forward-looking statements included in this release and those included from time to time in our other public filings, press releases, our website and oral and written presentations by management are only made as of the respective dates thereof. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statement in this release or in other documents, our website or oral statements for any reason, even if new information becomes available or other events occur in the future.
SOURCE Blockbuster Inc.