Category Archives: Computers

AGIGA is tackling electronic component shortages and excess @ CES 2024

February 21, 2024CES 2024, Computers, Gadgetsces2024, component, gadgets, internet, marketplacePLUGHITZ Live

AGIGA electronic component marketplace AGIGA is a unique marketplace designed to address the issue of excess electronic inventories. The platform serves as a conduit between industrial electronic companies, enabling them to sell their surplus inventories and purchase necessary electronic components.

AGIGA is a marketplace for excess electronic inventories

The concept of AGIGA was conceived from the founder’s extensive experience of 25 to 30 years in the electronic industry. He identified the significant challenges faced by electronic companies, particularly the substantial size of their excess inventories. These surplus inventories often lead to a revenue loss of 1%, which directly translates to a 1% decrease in profit.

The operation of the AGIGA platform is straightforward. Companies with surplus electronic components send their inventory files to the marketplace. The platform then handles the pricing, considering the fluctuating value of electronic components. The proposed pricing is shared with the companies, and upon agreement, the inventory is listed online. Other electronic companies can then search for and purchase the required components through the platform. Once an order is completed, AGIGA coordinates the shipping of the parts from the seller to their warehouse, thoroughly inspecting the parts to ensure their quality before shipping them to the buyer.

Hard to find becomes easier

The marketplace is significant for individuals and companies seeking hard-to-find electronic components. With the rapid pace of technological advancements, certain parts often become obsolete or difficult to obtain. AGIGA serves as an alternative and additional channel, providing access to a wide range of components from various distributors, saving time and effort.

For designers and purchasers, AGIGA offers a centralized location to find specific electronic parts. This simplifies the process of sourcing components, especially when dealing with hard-to-find parts. Instead of searching through multiple suppliers or spending time and resources on finding the right components, designers can turn to the platform for a wide selection of options.

Connecting companies to reduce costs and waste

AGIGA stands out for its ability to connect vendors and buyers in a challenging market. The platform has established a network of independent distributors, referred to as brokers, to facilitate this process. However, they differentiate themselves from standard brokers by aiming to sell all types of electronic components, not just those in high demand or shortage.

They also provide transparent pricing, allowing customers to see the prices for different quantities of the components they are interested in. AGIGA operates on a margin model, with a relatively smaller 15 point margin compared to traditional markups, ensuring competitive prices while covering their costs.

Beyond profit, AGIGA recognizes the environmental impact of excess stock being discarded after a certain period, typically around five to six years. By facilitating the sale of these surplus components, AGIGA aims to reduce waste and minimize the negative environmental consequences, aligning with the growing importance of sustainability and responsible consumption.

AGIGA is reducing waste and helping users buy components

In conclusion, AGIGA’s marketplace for excess electronic inventories addresses the challenges faced by industrial electronic companies with surplus stock. The platform connects vendors and buyers, allowing them to sell and purchase electronic components. Their transparent pricing, margin model, and commitment to reducing waste make it a unique and valuable resource in the electronic industry. By providing a centralized location for hard-to-find components, AGIGA simplifies the process for designers, product testers, and other professionals in need of specific electronic parts.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Snyper: Empowering communities through social shopping @ CES 2024

February 11, 2024CES 2024, Computers, Mobileaffiliate, ces2024, gadgets, internet, mobile, shopping, social, social mediaPLUGHITZ Live

A groundbreaking social shopping application is transforming the landscape of affiliate marketing by establishing an equitable and inclusive platform for individuals to monetize product endorsements. The creators of this application, known as Snyper, identified the prevailing influence of major influencers in the existing market and sought to extend opportunities to all, encompassing friends, family, and community members, to engage in affiliate marketing.

Social shopping app revolutionizes affiliate marketing

The application showcases a feed where users can peruse and observe products that their connections have purchased. This engenders a sense of trust and familiarity, as users can depend on the endorsements of individuals they know and trust. For instance, a user is more likely to trust a five-star review from a well-known acquaintance who frequently travels and stays at resorts, and consider booking the same resort.

In addition to this, the application furnishes supplementary information about the product, such as product specifics, related products, and amenities. This empowers users to make informed decisions before making a purchase. Upon deciding to book a product, users have the option to pay using a variety of payment methods, including credit cards and cryptocurrency. The application monitors the user’s journey and the sources that influenced them to make the purchase.

Affiliate marketing for all

A key innovation of Snyper is the affiliate fee system. Vendors can designate a percentage as an affiliate fee for each product they offer. When a user makes a purchase through the application, this fee is divided between the individual who directly influenced the purchase and others who indirectly contributed to the user’s decision. For example, if a user clicked on a link shared by a friend and made a purchase, the friend would receive a larger portion of the affiliate fee, while others who also shared the product would receive smaller portions.

This social shopping application is revolutionizing affiliate marketing by democratizing the process. It eradicates the necessity for individuals to own a website or a substantial following on major platforms to participate in affiliate marketing. Instead, it emphasizes the power of personal connections and word-of-mouth endorsements. By providing everyone the opportunity to earn money through product endorsements, Snyper is fostering a more inclusive and equitable affiliate marketing ecosystem.

Passive income through everyday activities

Snyper allows users to monetize their lifestyle by simply doing what they already do on a daily basis. Whether it’s ordering a burger, buying new shoes online, or shopping for everyday items, users can earn passive income by doing these activities on the Snyper platform. The app acts as a middleman, connecting users with businesses and brands that are looking for product recommendations and reviews.

The slogan of Snyper, “monetize your lifestyle, influence to earn,” encapsulates the essence of the platform. It emphasizes the idea that users can continue to live their lives as they normally would, but by using the Snyper app, they can turn their everyday activities into a source of passive income. The app taps into the power of personal influence and word-of-mouth recommendations, recognizing that everyone has the potential to inspire others through their actions.

When can I use Snyper?

In terms of release, Snyper plans to launch on both the App Store and Google Play. The initial focus will be on Argentina, with plans to expand throughout South America. The founders acknowledge that building a successful platform will require hard work, dedication, and effort. They are aware that they are not a large conglomerate with massive resources, but they are committed to making Snyper a success through growth hacking strategies.

Conclusion: A new approach to affiliate marketing

In conclusion, Snyper is a social shopping app that enables users to earn passive income through their everyday activities. By leveraging personal influence and word-of-mouth recommendations, users can monetize their lifestyle and become affiliate marketers without the need for a website. With its upcoming launch in South America, Snyper aims to empower individuals to earn passive income and create meaningful connections between users and businesses.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Veeo: Bringing back eye-to-eye communication online @ CES 2024

February 9, 2024Cameras, CES 2024, Computersces2024, gadgets, monitors, presentation, webcamPLUGHITZ Live

Veeo transparent screen for meetings Veeo, a display product company, has introduced a transparent OLED display designed to enhance the experience of remote online meetings. The company’s primary goal is to enable eye-to-eye contact during these meetings, replicating the trust-building experience of face-to-face interactions.

Transparent OLED display for online meetings

The product utilizes a camera positioned behind the transparent OLED display. This setup creates the effect of a clear glass, aligning all participants along the center axis and allowing them to view each other through the screen. The camera is strategically placed at eye level behind the display, ensuring participants do not have to look down. The height of the display can be adjusted, but the camera is located at the center point of the screen.

The camera can achieve 1080p resolution, with 4K also possible but not necessary. Its specialty lies in its ability to see through the transparent display and eliminate distortion, reflection, and interference. The monitor has a pixel density that limits the resolution. The 30-inch display is currently 720p, as some real estate needs to remain transparent. The transparency of the display is around 40%.

Veeo offers two screen sizes – 30-inch and 55-inch – which are currently only prototypes. The company showcased the product at a media event and plans to start shipping in the summer. The camera has a field of view of approximately 80 degrees, capturing a reasonable angle for meetings.

Software to improve the experience

The product includes software that works with various online video meeting platforms, including Zoom. Veeo also offers special software that allows participants to use a transparent shared whiteboard, where each person has their own section of the screen, but the text orientation is correct for each individual.

In addition, users can import content, such as videos and PowerPoint presentations, to the cloud server. This content can then be accessed and displayed dynamically during the presentation. This feature can be compared to a video switcher, where the next video or PowerPoint slide is queued up and can be easily accessed and displayed with a push of a button.

One notable feature of Veeo’s product is its versatility in sharing content. Users can choose whether to share the content with the audience or keep it for themselves, using it as a teleprompter. This flexibility allows presenters to tailor their presentations to their specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion: An easy way to maintain eye contact online

In terms of pricing, Veeo offers a fully enclosed version of the 30-inch display for $2,500, while the see-through version, suitable for open office environments, costs around $3,000. The 55-inch display is primarily targeted for conference rooms and comes with collaborative software to enable participants to work together and view shared digital content. The pricing for the 55-inch display is not mentioned.

In conclusion, Veeo’s transparent OLED display for online meetings aims to enhance the remote meeting experience by enabling eye-to-eye contact and providing collaborative features. While the pricing and availability of the product are mentioned, more details about its capabilities and potential impact on online meetings would be beneficial.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

BrainChip’s neuromorphic technology: The next wave of AI @ CES 2024

February 7, 2024AI, CES 2024, Computersai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgets, generative ai, processorPLUGHITZ Live

BrainChip AI neural network accelerators A transformative shift in the way devices are perceived and interacted with is being brought about by AI neural network accelerators. BrainChip Inc. is a leading developer of such an accelerator, a technology that enables AI to be embedded into various devices, thereby facilitating intelligent functions.

AI neural network accelerators: A technological revolution

BrainChip’s neural network accelerator is compared to other AI technologies in the market, such as those developed by NVIDIA. The distinguishing factor for BrainChip is its architecture, which is based on neuromorphic principles, akin to the human brain. This implies that the accelerator is capable of multitasking and processing multiple events simultaneously, much like the human brain. Furthermore, the accelerator is noted for its minimal energy consumption, contributing to its high efficiency.

The end product for consumers is a device that requires less frequent charging, thanks to its neuromorphic architecture. This technology enables devices to perform multiple functions concurrently, similar to the human brain. Take, for example, a smart cabin in a vehicle, where the accelerator can recognize the driver, gestures, and voice. This level of recognition and interaction is made possible by BrainChip’s technology.

AI still has room to grow

However, it is important to note that the adoption of this technology is still underway. The development and refinement of AI technologies require time, as they need to achieve a level of accuracy that can be utilized by consumers on a daily basis. It is the combination of inputting correct data and understanding it that facilitates the development of AI-based applications.

Excitement about the future of AI and the demand for more intelligent devices from consumers is a constant. At CES 2024, AI has been a prevalent theme, with numerous companies and individuals focusing on delivering intelligent solutions. Whether it is through software, hardware, or embedded intelligence, AI is transforming various industries and products.

Rob Telson, the Vice President of Ecosystem and Partnerships at BrainChip Inc., acknowledges that AI has only been around for a relatively short period of time, with significant advancements occurring in the past three years. He specifically mentions GPT, or Generative Pre-trained Transformer, which is a language model that has gained attention for its ability to generate human-like text. Despite these advancements, Linsdell emphasizes that truly intelligent devices that can think at the same level as a human are still three to seven years away.

Of course, the big question in AI whether AI will ever surpass the human brain in intelligence. Linsdell firmly states that AI will not be able to achieve the same level of thinking as the human brain. He acknowledges that AI may be able to think ahead of humans in certain areas, but it still lacks the efficiency, rationality, and logic that the human brain possesses.

However, Linsdell also believes that AI has the potential to bring about significant benefits if used correctly. He mentions the importance of playing the game right and ensuring that AI is used in a way that aligns with human thinking. While AI may make decisions that are not in line with human thinking currently, Linsdell suggests that with further tinkering and advancements, AI may eventually reach a point where it can match human thinking.

Conclusion: BrainChip is on the bleeding edge of AI processing

In conclusion, AI neural network accelerators, such as the one developed by BrainChip Inc., are revolutionizing the capabilities of devices. By embedding AI into devices, they can perform multiple functions simultaneously, akin to the human brain. This technology holds the potential to enhance various industries and create more intelligent and interactive devices for consumers.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Chat3D.ai: Making 3D modeling accessible to everyone @ CES 2024

February 7, 2024AI, CES 2024, Computers, Entertainment3D, 3d modeling, 3d printing, ai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgetsPLUGHITZ Live

Chat3D.ai AI-powered 3D modeling Generative AI, also known as generative adversarial networks (GANs), is a revolutionary technology that has the ability to create 3D models from simple prompts or descriptions. This cutting-edge technology is being utilized by a company called Chat3D.ai, which aims to provide efficient and user-friendly solutions for various industries, including gaming, virtual reality, e-commerce, and engineering.

Generative AI creates 3D models

The concept behind generative AI is to use artificial intelligence algorithms to generate new content based on existing data. In the case of Chat3D, the AI is trained to understand and interpret prompts or descriptions provided by users, and then it generates 3D models accordingly. This eliminates the need for complex and time-consuming manual 3D modeling processes, making it a game-changer for industries that heavily rely on 3D models.

Traditionally, creating 3D models has been a time-consuming and complex process. Designers had to manually create every aspect of the model, which could take up to 60-70% of the time to market when developing a game or other virtual scenes. However, with the introduction of generative AI, this process is being revolutionized.

The development of Chat3D and its implementation of generative AI has been a relatively quick process. The company was founded in France less than a year ago and has already made its debut at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). This rapid progress is a testament to the dedication and innovative mindset of the team behind Chat3D.

Who is Chat3D intended for?

Chat3D’s target audience primarily consists of clients in the gaming industry who are constantly seeking ways to improve efficiency. By using generative AI, these clients can save hours of work by simply prompting the software and letting the AI create 3D models in a matter of seconds to minutes. This not only saves time but also allows for greater creativity and flexibility in designing virtual environments and characters.

Although Chat3D is currently focused on the gaming industry, its applications are not limited to just gaming. Customers can also use the software for 3D printing purposes. For individuals who own a 3D printer but lack expertise in 3D modeling, Chat3D offers a simple and efficient solution. Users can describe what they want or even upload an image, and the software will generate a 3D model that can be printed.

What sets Chat3D apart is its accessibility. It is not limited to experts or professionals in 3D modeling. Anyone, regardless of their level of expertise, can use Chat3D to express their creativity. Whether it’s a child, a grandparent, or someone with no prior knowledge of 3D modeling, they can easily describe what they want or even upload an image, and the AI will transform it into a 3D model.

Conclusion: Chat3D.ai speeds up development of games and more

The pricing model for Chat3D is designed to be affordable and flexible for customers. Users are given credits based on their consumption, and they can spend these credits according to their needs on the website. This ensures that customers only pay for the services they use, making it a cost-effective solution for individuals and businesses alike.

In conclusion, generative AI has revolutionized the way 3D models are created, and Chat3D is at the forefront of this technological advancement. By utilizing AI algorithms, Chat3D allows users to easily generate 3D models by simply describing what they want or uploading an image. This accessibility and efficiency make Chat3D a valuable tool for various industries, including gaming, virtual reality, e-commerce, and engineering. With its affordable pricing model and user-friendly interface, Chat3D.ai is democratizing the world of 3D modeling and empowering individuals to express their creativity.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Wacom’s range of tablets for every artist, beginner to pro @ CES 2024

February 3, 2024CES 2024, Computers, Gadgetsart, ces2024, gadgets, tablet, wacomPLUGHITZ Live

Wacom drawing tablets Wacom, a leading provider of digital drawing tablets and styluses, always has something new and exciting to show off during CES. This year, the company showed off products for beginners and professionals. Sarajean Chung, a professional artist who works with the company, demonstrated the products through her artwork.

Sarajean’s artwork on Wacom

Before diving into Wacom’s offerings, Sarajean discusses her artwork displayed in the background. She confirms that the artwork is indeed hers and praises the software called Rebell, which she uses to create vibrant and realistic digital art. She also mentions the compatibility of Rebelle with Wacom tablet screens, which enhances the overall experience for artists.

Scott shares his personal experience using a Surface tablet with a Wacom pen and expresses his enjoyment of the halfway point between digital and traditional art. Sarajean agrees and emphasizes the beauty of the blend between the two mediums. She explains that the company strives to create an authentic feeling for artists, bridging the gap between traditional and digital art.

Wacom’s tablet technology

The Wacom Cintiq Pro 22, a 4K display with a 120Hz refresh rate, is the new kid on the block. It is the first product line from Wacom to feature a 120Hz refresh rate, providing a smoother experience for artists, animators, and filmmakers. The improved color depth and true color support of the display, making it ideal for professionals in various creative industries.

The texture of Wacom pens, which provide a tactile experience similar to using traditional art tools, is the next focus of their technology. This feature is popular with artists and the nib of the stylus is an added bonus as it has an interesting texture. The surface of the tablet is matte, which adds a natural scratchiness that resembles drawing on paper.

A new type of pen that offers customization options was on display. The pen comes with weights that can be placed at the front or back, depending on the user’s preferences. Additionally, the pen can be fitted with different grips and buttons, allowing for a more user-friendly experience tailored to individual habits.

The pen is confirmed to be completely passive, meaning it does not have a battery inside. Instead, it relies on the tablet for power and communication. Different Wacom product lines may have different pen technologies, but some are compatible with each other. The company also offers a slim solution for those accustomed to thinner pens, as well as a grip for those who prefer a larger size. This versatility ensures that artists can find a comfortable and familiar drawing experience.

The benefits of Wacom technology

One of the key advantages of these devices is their smaller size, which enhances the overall sharpness and precision of the pen strokes. This is particularly important for artists who require fine details in their work. Additionally, the devices are super lightweight, making them easy to carry and use on the go.

Another notable feature of these devices is their touch functionality. This allows users to interact with the screen directly, providing a more intuitive and natural drawing experience. The touch sensitivity is very smooth, further enhancing the user’s ability to create precise and fluid strokes.

Conclusion: Wacom adds to an artist’s toolset

In conclusion, Wacom’s new pen technology offers artists and designers a range of customizable options for a more authentic and user-friendly drawing experience. With their latest products, such as the Cintiq Pro 22 and Wacom One, the company aims to cater to the needs of professionals and beginners alike. By combining traditional and digital art elements, the company continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression in the digital age. Interested individuals can find more information about these products through the company’s blog and community sites. These platforms serve as excellent resources for communication and provide users with all the necessary information they need to make informed decisions.

Both the Cintiq Pro 22 and Wacom One are readily accessible to consumers. The Cintiq Pro 22 is available for $3000 and the Wacom One retails around $100. To purchase one for yourself, you can head to the Wacom website, the company’s Amazon store, or one of several other retailers.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Skyted: The Solution for Secure and Private Conversations @ CES 2024

January 24, 2024Audio, CES 2024, Computers, Entertainment, Gadgets, Travelces2024, gadgets, gaming, mask, mobile, phone, smartphonePLUGHITZ Live

Skyted security mask During CES 2024, we got to take a look at the latest version of the Skyted mask, which is a sound-absorbing mask that allows users to make completely silent and confidential calls anywhere at any time. The mask has been developed to solve the problem of people talking loudly in public places, such as trains and airplanes, and disturbing those around them.

Silent, secure mask for confidential calls

The mask features resonators developed by The French Aerospace Lab that absorb all frequencies of the user’s voice, preventing any sound from escaping the mask.

The purpose of the mask goes beyond simply preventing disturbance to others. It also addresses concerns about espionage and the need for secure and confidential calls. All data and voice emitted from the mask are encrypted, ensuring that no information is leaked. The encryption process starts from the microphone and continues through third-party carriers, providing a high level of security.

The mask not only provides a solution for confidential calls but also ensures that the user’s location and surroundings are not revealed during the conversation. This feature is particularly useful for individuals who want to maintain privacy while making calls, such as those on vacation or conducting business in different locations.

In terms of connectivity, the mask can be used with either wired or Bluetooth connections. It offers both a jack and USB-C port for different user preferences. This flexibility allows users to connect the mask to their devices easily.

The Skyted mask is described as a travel-friendly device that can easily be carried in bags. It is noted that the mask is not just another ordinary face mask, but a specialized product with a specific purpose. The hosts highlight the importance of understanding the purpose of the mask and its potential benefits.

The target market for the Skyted mask includes frequent travelers, such as business people who spend a lot of time on airplanes and trains. It is also suitable for commuters who want to make calls during their daily travels, saving them time by starting their calls earlier. Additionally, the mask is useful for individuals who want to have private conversations in their vehicles, as it cancels out both their voice and external noise.
In terms of cost and availability, the podcast does not provide specific information. However, it suggests that the mask is targeted at a range of customers, including frequent travelers and commuters. The availability and pricing details would need to be obtained separately.

An upgraded model

This is not the first time we have seen the Skyted mask at CES. In 2023, we were first introduced to Skyted, but the device we saw never made it to market. Since then, the company has redesigned the mask to address feedback from those who saw it in action.

The design of the mask has been slimmed down and the weight has been reduced, making it more comfortable to wear. The technology has also been upgraded to cancel out even low frequencies, which are harder to eliminate.

Conclusion

Overall, the Skyted mask offers a unique solution for individuals who require silent and secure communication. With its sound-absorbing technology and encryption capabilities, it provides a way to have confidential conversations without disturbing others or compromising data security. This innovative product has the potential to revolutionize the way people make calls in public spaces and ensure their privacy and security.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Dolphin Design: Better IoT with ultra-low power AI chips @ CES 2024

January 24, 2024AI, CES 2024, Computers, Mobileai, artificial intelligence, ces2024, gadgets, powerPLUGHITZ Live

Dolphin Design low power chips Ultra-low-power AI chips can revolutionize the way companies build IoT smart devices and power artificial intelligence capabilities. In this conversation, Vincent Huard, the CTO of Dolphin Design, discusses the company’s focus on developing ultra-low power chips for various applications, including power management, audio, and AI.

The challenge of power consumption

One of the main challenges in implementing cutting-edge AI is power consumption. High power requirements raise costs and limit the scalability of innovative devices. Dolphin Design’s ultra-low-power AI chips address this issue by significantly reducing power consumption, making it more feasible to deploy AI-enabled devices in real-life scenarios.

These revolutionary plug-and-play chips provide energy-efficient solutions that can run on battery power for extended periods and can even operate without a battery at all, a key factor in their adoption. Dolphin Design aims to attract customers in the imaging, microcontroller, and MPU industries who want to incorporate AI into their devices in a cost-effective manner.

Low-power chip applications

There are a lot of practical use cases for these chips. In smart buildings, they can be used to count the number of people in a room and adjust heating or cooling accordingly. In retail, the chips can track customer movement and analyze their interests, helping businesses optimize product placement. The chips can also be used in urban planning to monitor bike paths or count the number of bicycles passing through a specific area.

The chips have potential applications in safety and disaster management, as well. For instance, they can replace manual car clickers used to count traffic on roads, providing more accurate and reliable data. They can also be deployed in isolated areas to detect wildfires and send alerts, enabling faster response times and potentially saving lives.

Low-cost, scalable IoT solutions

One area where low-cost, scalable IoT solutions can have a significant impact is in the management of sensors and data transfer in smart city applications. The scalability issues associated with sending sensor information over the network can be costly in terms of data transfer and data center expenses. However, these scalability issues can be effectively managed with ultra-low power chips.

Low-power consumption IoT solutions are beneficial when it’s hard to provide power, as the battery-powered chips offer a cost-effective alternative to running cables over long distances. These chips can also incorporate renewable energy sources, making these solutions even more efficient and sustainable.

Conclusion: Low-power smart chips are a win for afforidable IoT

Dolphin Design sees two main prospects for their smart chip: chip manufacturers and system makers. Chip manufacturers can license the AI chips’ intellectual property (IP) to incorporate into their own chips, while system makers can collaborate with the company to develop specialized chips.

Dolphin Design’s low-cost, scalable IoT solutions offer a transformative, energy efficient, cost-effective approach to implementing AI at a larger scale. With their wide range of applications and integration possibilities, these solutions have the potential to revolutionize industries and contribute to the development of smart cities and other IoT applications.

For those interested in learning more about low-cost, scalable IoT solutions, Dolphin Design is ready to help. They offer both IP licensing and design services, making it possible for companies without chip design teams to still benefit from these solutions. Dolphin Design’s website provides more information about their offerings and capabilities.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

Dynavisual’s innovative displays can be worn and synced @ CES 2024

January 23, 2024CES 2024, Computers, Sportces2024, cloud, gadgets, led, screen, sportsPLUGHITZ Live

Dynavisual synchronized displays LED technology for wearable displays is a groundbreaking innovation that is revolutionizing visual communication. Flexible, bright, animated LED displays are a revolutionary technology that is transforming the way we think about visual communication. These displays, developed by Dynavisual, offer a flexible and expandable solution for integrating LED screens into various textiles, such as clothing, hats, vests, and coats.

How do Dynavisual displays work?

The CEO of Dynavisual, Maria Fernandez, explains that their IoT platform consists of both software and hardware components. The hardware is a bendable and very flexible LED display that can be easily integrated into different textiles. This means that almost anything can be visualized on these displays, making them incredibly versatile.

One of the key features of Dynavisual’s LED technology is its brightness and power. The LED screens are three times more powerful than a handy screen, making them highly visible even in bright environments. To support this power, the screens require two lithium batteries, similar to those found in mobile phones. These batteries can be charged using USB-C, making the screens rechargeable and sustainable. With four batteries inside, the screens can last for an impressive eight to ten hours, even when operating at maximum power. This extended battery life makes the screens ideal for use at events, sports stadiums, and other venues where continuous display is required.

The display screens can be made in any size, with one focus being on integrating them into clothing. This allows for a unique and eye-catching visual experience, especially in a stadium where the hats of the audience members can be the main focus. The aspect ratio of the screens can also be customized, allowing users to decide the size and shape of their display.

Dynavisual’s LED technology also offers the ability to integrate data and connect to the cloud. This opens up possibilities for gathering information from users and analyzing data for insights. The company envisions partnering with sports garment companies like Nike and Adidas to integrate their LED technology into clothing items. This would not only provide a unique visual experience for spectators but also allow for data collection and analysis.

The potential applications of Dynavisual’s LED technology extend beyond the sports industry. The podcast mentioned the music industry as another field where the technology could be utilized. For example, spectators at a concert could wear LED screens that display visuals synchronized with the music, creating an immersive and dynamic experience.

Syncing screens for a unique experience

One of the most impressive features of these displays is their ability to connect thousands of individual screens together to create a mega screen. Fernandez gives the example of a stadium, where 100,000 people can each have a small section of the screen. When they stand together, the entire message or image is revealed. This creates a truly immersive and engaging visual experience for the audience.

In terms of video quality, Dynavisual displays at 40 frames per second, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience. The CEO mentions that if these displays were used in a stadium with TV cameras broadcasting, the viewers would have a perfect view of the content.

Testing and release plans

Dynavisual has already tested this technology on a smaller scale and is now seeking partners to help scale it up. They are looking for investments, collaborations with manufacturers to create products using their technology, and partnerships with advertising agencies, football clubs, sport clubs, and event agencies.

While the technology is not yet available for individual purchase, it is primarily targeted towards corporations and organizations. The software platform that accompanies the displays is flexible and can easily be adapted to meet different needs. It is cloud-based, allowing users to upload videos and schedule them to play at specific times, similar to a digital sign.

Conclusion

Overall, flexible, bright, animated LED displays are an exciting innovation in visual communication. Dynavisual’s technology offers endless possibilities for showcasing messages, images, and videos in creative and engaging ways. With the ability to connect multiple screens together to create a mega screen, these displays have the potential to transform the visual experience at events, stadiums, and other large-scale venues.

Interview by Don Baine, The Gadget Professor.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More

YubiKey keeps your online data safe in an easy way @ CES 2023

February 24, 2023CES 2023, Computers, Mobile, Security2fa, ces2023, gadgets, mfa, multi-factor authentication, securityPLUGHITZ Live

YubiKey multi0factor authentication As time goes on, the internet gets to be a more dangerous place. It seems like every day we read another story about another data breach or ransomware attack because simple safety precautions were not taken by users or network administrators. And while you may never be able to change someone else’s behaviors to make yourself safer, you can make changes to your own security to help prevent others from putting you in harm’s way. Our favorite tactic to protect ourselves is by using a YubiKey by Yubico.

What is multi-factor authentication?

Before we can discuss the YubiKey itself, we need to discuss what multi-factor authentication is. Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is a method of confirming someone’s identity by using two or more independent pieces of evidence. The most common type of MFA is something you know and something you have. Something you know would be a password or PIN number, while something you have can be your phone, biometric identifiers like fingerprints, or the YubiKey itself.

The benefit of MFA is that it makes it much harder for someone to gain access to your accounts and information, as they now need two pieces of evidence, rather than just one. This significantly reduces the chance of someone being able to access your accounts and data without your consent.

What is a YubiKey?

A YubiKey is a physical key fob or USB device that serves as a second factor of authentication. It contains an embedded secure element that generates and stores cryptographic secrets used to generate one-time passwords (OTPs). When inserted into the computer or scanned using near-field communication (NFC), it sends the OTPs to the authentication backend. It is designed to be a very quick, easy, and secure way of authenticating yourself on your accounts or accessing data.

When combined with traditional username and password login credentials, a YubiKey provides an additional layer of security that makes it much harder for unauthorized individuals to gain access to your accounts and data. This highly secure form of two-factor authentication is becoming more popular due to its convenience and effectiveness in protecting user accounts. By adding a YubiKey to your security arsenal, you can be sure that the data stored on your online accounts are safe and secure from malicious actors. It’s an easy and effective way to protect yourself and your data.

How YubiKey is protecting the web

In addition to personal uses for a YubiKey, there are a lot of other places where the device can be used. For example, a lot of the corporate hacks we see could have been prevented by a secure MFA system. Even if a company uses text-based MFA, a SIM can be cloned by a determined hacker and access can still be granted. In addition, it prevents the terrible new trend of “zero trust” in corporate IT where they always assume that you’ve died unless you verify otherwise, destroying computers simply because you forgot to log into the VPN or some other process.

The company also puts a focus on global concerns. For example, they have provided devices to the Ukrainian government to help secure their governmental infrastructure. There was no requirement for them to do this, but they felt it was important enough to the country and the world to do what they could to help out.

Summary

YubiKey devices are available now for various uses, including USB-A, USB-C, NFC, and more. To learn more about the product line, check out the company’s website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

Podcast: Play in new window | Download

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS | More