Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Innovative notebook is in scanner mode




Ever there was a need to scan an image from paper to the computer? Why not just invented people in this area over the last decade. It seemed that the mobile scanners should be the limit of possibilities, but no – the technical potential of humanity could not even stop it, and again revived the inventors that, it would seem, would be to have to sink into oblivion.


The paper was on paper – ie, paper – will be. Under the slogan was released innovative notebook Moleskine Livescribe, whose name may have a lot to say to those who are familiar with such thing as Livescribe SmartPen. However, for those who do this title yet says nothing, let us explain.


Innovative notebook is in scanner mode


Handles Livescribe SmartPen – a “smart” pen-sensors. Without them, notebook Moleskine Livescribe – this is the most common notebook, with the most ordinary sheets of paper. However, these sheets are “ordinary” only to the naked eye or to the ignorant person. The whole point is that each leaf is covered with a special material, which is almost not noticeable to the touch. This material allows the handles Livescribe SmartPen work as a sensor on the paper. As a result, when you connect two devices to a computer or smartphone, Moleskine Livescribe can instantly transfer the scanned text and graphics on an electronic device. Simply put, Moleskine Livescribe – this notebook scanner, recording in which the user scans the same time all that he writes and draws on the computer. It all happens in real time.


The important point is also the fact that on every page Moleskine Livescribe are control buttons by clicking on the image sensor which handle the user to stop or start the scan. Scanning occurs only in real time, so if it does not want, you can disable it and use the Moleskine Livescribe as the most common paper pad. The cost of one such miracle paper industry – $ 30.



Appeared on the market a new generation of touring caravan ADAK




In the United States went on sale a new motor home. In the coming months it is expected that nearly descended from the conveyor ADAK camping trailer starts to flow to other countries of the world. At first glance ADAK little different from most other trailers, but it is not so. Even allowing for the fact that to invent something new in the “genre” is becoming more difficult, trailer ADAK still able to bring a few nice innovations.


Start, perhaps, is with the fact that the trailer is equipped with the “elite” class. Inside there are two sofas, a full mobile kitchen, closet and lots of shelves. Under the ceiling, there are two freight offices likeness of those they do in the cabin of passenger aircraft over the seats. One of the existing sofa converts into a double bed, on the wall there is a wide-screen TV.


Appeared on the market a new generation of touring caravan ADAK


All lights inside ADAK works for LED luminaires. In the trailer there and own shower. To maintain all domestic human needs in the trailer has a supply of water is 170 liters. All electronics are powered by a 120-volt outlets, which are powered by two batteries and a generator.


Earlier, it was noted that ADAK camping trailer designed specifically for hunters and fishermen – this is true. After you install a trailer from its owners an opportunity to set around a few tents that stretched straight from the trailer – which increases the living area of ​​the house on wheels. Also, each of the windows provided with the lowering insect screen. Finally, there are special compartments for fishing accessories, as well as case-safe hunting weapons and ammunition. Under the floor of the residential part of the mobile home has a refrigerator compartment, which can be folded caught fish, or any other production. Refrigeration department organized on the principle of a thermos, and therefore consumes very little power, however, they can always be turned off.



Tuesday, August 26, 2014

What to do in Bermuda





Infinite lying on the beach can bother anyone, and then will want to diversify your vacation. We’ll show you how to have fun in Bermuda is not quite standard methods.


Start at the top in Bermuda


To truly feel that you are in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, go to Gibb’s Hill Lighthouse. This is where the best views of the entire archipelago of 55 square kilometers. The world’s oldest cast iron lighthouse began working in 1846 to reduce the number of wrecks scattered along the bottom of the ocean near Bermuda.


Dive to the bottom of the ocean in Bermuda


What to do in Bermuda


This clean blue underwater world full of colorful fish and beautiful coral reefs that are so often the cause of shipwrecks. Among divers is very popular diving to sunken ships (about 300), but it’s fun more appropriate professionals. However, you do not need to be an experienced diver to enjoy this spectacle – some of them sank in shallow water, so swimming with snorkel and mask, you can not get less pleasure. In addition, to the reefs and fish swarms can easily get close to the shore Tobacco Bay.


Watch the whales and fireflies in Bermuda


Although whales and fireflies may well be seen from the shore, a boat excursion will provide you with a much more vivid impression. March and April – the best months to observe the humpback whales (at the time they make an annual migration from the warm southern waters), whereas the mating ritual of fireflies flickering lasts from May to October.


Take a walk on the seabed in Bermuda


What to do in Bermuda


“Hartley Marine Walk” – a unique and unforgettable cruise that will impress an experienced diver and cynical teenager. Have you ever seen a wild angel fish swims through a hoop? Then Greg Hartley will introduce you to the fish Diana, who knows how to do it. You can also find hogfish Charles, redfish Jack and many others. All this is possible with the help of a specially designed helmet that allows you to walk on the seabed without oxygen tank and other equipment for diving.


Visit entertaining history lesson in Bermuda


What to do in Bermuda


Nowhere lessons are never so exciting as the historic town of St. George, which, together with its fortifications, was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the Royal Plaza from May to September arrange historical setting. Funny representation headed by the herald tells the story of how, in the eighteenth century girls (there is a bit of sexism) punished for constant gossip and grumbling at her husband: they dipped into the cold waters of the harbor.


Pay attention to the Church of St. Peter in Bermuda


What to do in Bermuda


Several broad steps – and you are in the oldest Anglican church in the Western Hemisphere with a refreshing pine interior. Pays homage to, because this church here for 400 years, and remember that you are likely to step on the bones of people long dead, once buried under the foundation. Herself Queen Elizabeth II visited this place on the day of its sixtieth anniversary and awarded the title of the temple, “Her Majesty the Church.”


Witness the traditional dance events in Bermuda


You hear them before you see the. Drumbeat, shrill whistles, and finally, an outburst of colorful rags, feathers and intricate gestures. These masquerades with folk dance ensembles are a tradition, passed on from generation to generation since the dark days of slavery.


Visit the night markets in Bermuda


Market night – seasonal entertainment in St. George, Hamilton and Dokyarde for tourists and locals alike. Counters loaded products of local artisans and creations by local artists inspired by the beauty surrounding them in these places. Everywhere the music plays, the children run with their faces painted, and very often there are local dancers Gombe (their appearance, dance and music is a mixture of African, Indian, Caribbean and British cultures).


Go down into the underground cave in Bermuda


What to do in Bermuda


Fantastic Crystal Caves were discovered more than half a century ago, two boys, who were searching for a lost cricket ball. Stalactites, stalagmites and underground lakes make these places are especially intriguing and exciting.


Look at the remains of the past at the Maritime Museum in Bermuda


What to do in Bermuda


The Royal Naval Dockyard provides offers many attractions, including the Maritime Museum. Exhibition “House of Bondage” is part of the UNESCO Special Project, and other exhibitions and marine artifacts offer a glimpse into the history of this place.


Go to the pub in Bermuda


What to do in Bermuda


Founded in 1932 by a roadside eatery «Swizzle Inn» decorated with graffiti and a fun bunch of random business cards. House unofficial national cocktail «Rum Swizzle» also serves the best nachos (mexican hot spicy snack) on the islands.


Finally, relax on the beach in Bermuda


What to do in Bermuda


Of course, no visit to Bermuda would not be complete without a stay at the beach, especially after a tiring visit all the above proposed measures.Soft sandy beaches – the main attraction of these places. Horseshoe Bay (Bay horseshoe-shaped) with lifeguards and all the beach facilities – the best choice for swimming and great entertainment.




 



Saturday, August 23, 2014

SPACEX ROCKET EXPLODED DURING A TEST FLIGHT




Rocket company SpaceX has exploded in the air during a test flight, reports Phys.org referring to representatives of the company. Although no one was injured, the event drew a wide response in the media, because SpaceX is developing a spacecraft that can be used repeatedly.


The rocket was a pilot version of transport F9R with three engines, which is a follower of the prototype Grasshopper .


“During the flight, transport anomaly was detected, and the system automatically self-destruct mission completed – so said in a statement the company SpaceX. - Throughout the test, and the subsequent termination of the flight vehicles remained in the designated area of ​​the flight. “


SpaceX is also noted that the representative of the Federal Aviation Administration was present during the test. He, in turn, said that the test was “particularly difficult as pushing the limits of the vehicle more than during any other test.”


The company plans to explore the recordings made during the flight in order to understand what caused the problem before the next test. Recall that SpaceX competes with other companies - including Boeing, Sierra Nevada and Blue Origin – to become the first commercial company that will take astronauts into space, perhaps as early as 2017.


Until then, the astronauts around the world will rely on Russian spacecraft “Soyuz”, the cost of the flight which is $ 70 million per seat. Once the details of the explosion will be known, we will write about them.


10 reasons to visit Italy




Italy needs no introduction. One of the most beautiful countries in the world.Country Museum of Europe. Italy has given us a lot of great artists, architects, engineers and inventors. For example, Leonardo da Vinci. Italy is known in every corner of our planet. Why is certainly worth a visit to Italy, read on in the article. 


1 Leaning Tower of Pisa


This 56-meter tower is the most striking evidence that the error can be successful.After all, if not a bug Pisano, this tower would not have been popular throughout the world. This tower fell from 1178, when she had not even been completed. And stopped falling in 2008 alone. You should definitely make the original photo with the tower.


2 Pizza


Go to Naples to taste delicious pizza in the world. Here it really know how to cook. It is in Naples pizza was cooked first in the world.


3 Venice


The famous city on the water. He really is very beautiful. The Carnival of Venice, an excellent promenade and, of course, the gondola, ride tourists through multiple channels. You should hurry up to see this city. By 2028, Venice will become uninhabitable, and in 2100 will go completely under water. Just do not go there by car. With parking there real trouble.


4 Colosseum


Flavian Amphitheater, better known as the Colosseum. One of the most impressive buildings of the ancient world. The symbol of Rome and one of the seven new wonders of the world. This amphitheater has witnessed many massacres of gladiators. Unfortunately, to this day, he lived not in perfect condition.


5 Florence


It is the only city that I really liked during my stay in the north of Italy. He is extraordinarily beautiful. It was born here Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo, Dante, and Amerigo Vespucci. If you are going to get there by car, look for the sign at Fiorentina.


6 Italian cheese


Italy lags behind a little in this respect from Switzerland. Yet mozzarella and parmesan – this Italian cheeses. But not only because of these cheeses should go to Italy. Homemade cheeses are also very tasty. Delicious coffee, cheese, spread on hot toast and Italian landscapes. What could be better?


7 The Vatican


Yes, I’m not quite right when I attribute to the Vatican in Italy. It’s a separate state.Though dwarf. But it is impossible to get to the Vatican without visiting Italy. St. Peter’s, the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Library. This is not the only attraction, because of which is worth visiting the Vatican.


8 Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii


Active volcano Mount Vesuvius in 79 completely destroyed the growing city of Pompeii. 2000 people were buried under the ashes. In the Garden of the prisoners, you can see that evokes fear and dread. 13 petrified victims of the volcano. Under the ashes of the city is preserved exactly in the form in which it was before the last day of Pompeii.


9 Ferrari Museum


Who has not froze at the sound of the engine Ferrari, he just did not hear him.Every boy and not only wants to ride behind the wheel of the Italian car of this brand. In the town of Maranello, you can visit the museum of Ferrari, which shows the racing cars and sports cars, as well as details. Directly in front of the museum for € 80 (for 30 minutes) can be rented Ferrari California.


10 Milan


The world capital of fashion and shopping. And also the birthplace of two steep football clubs: “Milan” and “Inter”. The city’s famous La Scala Opera House. Also you can see many beautiful cathedrals and churches.



10 tips that will forever change your life




Imagine that you have access to the experience of hundreds or even thousands of people. And these people are eager to share their knowledge and experiences with others. Talk about their methods of struggle with laziness, interesting chips and boards, the knowledge of which can really affect your life.


Fortunately, there is such a place, and this is a topic on Quora , where people share tips on how to change their lives for the better. We chose the best of them and hope that they will help you as well.


Rule 20 minutes


Every time I come home after work, I do not want to do anything. The only thing I want to – it is to be filled up on the sofa or a chair, turn on the show or browse the tape Facebook. That’s what I did for many years.


But a few years ago I decided to replace this horrible ritual rule 20 minutes. Now, when I come home, I make myself for 20 minutes to do something from this list:


  • read a book or an interesting article;

  • exercise at chess;

  • go to Duolingo;

  • play the guitar;

  • meditate;

  • do programming.

Try to edit this list for themselves and their interests, but remember that it should not include soap operas, movies and useless occupation. Once you have overcome the barrier of 20 minutes, you will notice that you want to do next. If you feel that you can not even sit through 20 minutes – go to sleep.


To summarize: feel the strength after work? Go do something useful for at least 20 minutes. Not even have enough energy for 20 minutes? Go to bed! The tv and social networking there is no advantage to more than an hour of sleep.


Simple tips to be followed


Rots Karen shared her tips that she says could change her life for the better:


  1. Stop drinking soda.

  2. Running 10 minutes 4 times a week.

  3. Smile more.

  4. Each week to meet with the new man.

  5. Sleep schedule.

  6. Wake up half an hour earlier than necessary.

  7. Always have on hand a bottle of water.

  8. Come to the store with a list of purchases and not to go hungry.

  9. Thank people.

Simple advice, but do not you think that it is they contain more truth and good than in a variety of huge articles?


Layfhak for men


Pull out your wallet from the back pocket of your trousers or jeans and put it in his jacket pocket, jacket, or in any other place.


After reading this board, I first thought it was in my back pocket it much easier to steal, but all proved to be harder! Long sitting on the purse damages the nerves in the lower back and pelvis. Entrapment of the sciatic nerve is fraught with many problems, and all you have to do – is to shift his wallet from his back pocket.


Layfhak for women


Hold high-heeled shoes for special occasions, and in everyday life, give preference to low heels.


Numerous studies have shown that prolonged wearing of high heels causes diseases knees, Spurs and various pains in the back and legs.


For today’s teens, this risk becomes more realistic, as they begin to wear high heels at a very early age, when the body is not yet fully formed. It is important to remember this advice when you are pregnant. During this period, the body weight increases and the center of gravity, making the load on the lower part of the body more. Heels at this time is not exactly the wisest decision!


Turn off the mobile Internet


This experiment was conducted over a one reader Quora.


I like to communicate with people. I love to receive messages from them and be able to immediately respond to them. Apparently, I’m not much different from millions of other such people. But I understood that the mobile Internet takes me a long time and this need to do something.


I started small: deleted WhatsApp. At first it was hard not to hear the usual updates, but I soon got used to. After that I decided to remove and Facebook.Then I went further, and when my phone is dead, I did not charge it the whole day!Not the most pleasant day in my life, but I was able to survive them. And I was able to understand that life is possible without a smartphone. Did it affect my life? Yes!


I began to spend more time with your loved ones and enjoy these moments. I still read the interesting sites, RSS feeds and cool article, but I do it in the evening at home via Wi-Fi.


Automate your life


Each of us has a limited amount of energy every day, and you should not spend it on unnecessary decision making. It is better to do them on the machine. Here are a few examples.


Fill the bed. This is the first job that you do every day. It will give you a little motivation in the same way and perform other tasks. I often crumple sheet with a pillow and a blanket and throw them in the closet. Perhaps it’s time to change something.


Eat breakfast the same. For several years I have breakfast every morning oatmeal with fruit, honey and nuts. And it does not bother me. This is a useful and healthy breakfast that will make you feel better.


Warm up in the morning. If you can afford, then do a full workout in the morning.If not, it is small enough five minutes of stretching and warm-up.


Less materialism


Recently, when I moved, it, like many other people, packed all my stuff in a pile of boxes, ordered a truck to transport furniture, and thought about how to fuck me things. And many of them lie on the shelves waiting to be starry hours. The hour when I finally had them take it.


This experience is something taught me, and here are some of the changes that I made:


  1. I used to have on the bed lay five pillows, now only one.

  2. 23-inch monitor … Why? Despite the fact that my profession (I – photographer) implies the existence of multiple monitors, I have learned to cope with the 11-inch MacBook Air. On the rare occasions when I need a second monitor, I go to work and connect it there.

  3. I stopped using plastic utensils and always have handy reusable sudochek and fork.

  4. I got rid of the white clothing. Too many problems with the laundry.

Settle for less. Do not buy things if you have no need of them right now. Live now!


How to improve your health in a few days


No matter what you ate for breakfast, replace it with oatmeal. Also figure out how much water you drink, and if this number is less than 2.5 - 3 liters, then you know what to do.


Always keep a notebook with a pen and write down any thought that you seemed important or interesting. It is unknown to what they can bring you.


Replace the bad good


This advice is suitable for those who want to start eating right and afraid to do it dramatically. Take two harmful product. that you eat every day, and replace them with two helpful. White bread and cookies for buckwheat and mushrooms.Chocolate and fatty meats fruits and chicken. Small steps you can still come to the finish line!


Type A and Type B


I wanted to be rich, successful. Wanted people to look at me and see me as an example. I wanted to be one of those people who fly private jets. I wanted it all until, until I realized the truth about the economy.


Economy consists of two types of people: Type A and Type B. Whether we are talking about the economy of the country, the city, shop, business or even your work – everything remains unchanged.


Type A – a person who is willing to pay money for something than has type B. And as long as the person B will be something for that person A would pay money B will be successful.


Be the person B.


Be the person who creates something. what other people are willing to pay money.All successful people in this world – this person B. Jobs, Gates, Musk, Gandhi, Jesus. All of them are created for people values ​​for which they were willing to pay any price. Apple, computers, cars, freedom of religion.


Create value. It is difficult, but it will pay off.


Conclusion


While I was looking for material for this article, I had the feeling that I really can change your life with these tips. Some of them I already stuck, and others for its simplicity and efficiency just asking in my life.


I hope that for you, they will trigger a big change, it’s not always for the big changes need to put a lot of effort. Sometimes it is enough just to read the article and take a few minutes to apply it in their lives. The only question is, do you find those few minutes?



In Iraq, 20 people killed in two suicide attacks




At least five security officers and six civilian employees were killed and 24 people were injured in a car bomb attack, rammed the gate and exploded next to the Intelligence Ministry of the Interior of Iraq in central Baghdad. Another attack occurred in Tikrit: there in the crowd of soldiers and militia of Shiite entered mined Humvee, according to Reuters , killing nine people.


Terrorist attacks occurred a day after militants attacked a Shiite on Sunni mosque in western Iraq, which killed 68 people, reminds RIA “Novosti” .According to some data, Shiite militants broke into a Sunni mosque in the village Imam Wais, 70 kilometers away from the administrative center of the governorate of Diyala – the city Baquba, which opened fire on the crowd to pray for people.


Since the beginning of June in Iraq intensified group “Islamic state.” The militants, who fought to the last time in Syria, led offensive on the northern and western regions of Iraq. In late June, the IG announced the establishment of an “Islamic caliphate” on the territories under its control in Iraq and Syria. Iraqi authorities have appealed to the international community for help in combating the IG. Particularly tense situation in the north, where militants threaten genocide, ethnic religious minorities Yezidi Kurds.



British Home Office has prepared a plan to combat the jihadists




Among the measures outlined minister – approval of new legislation, which should limit the activity in the UK radical Muslim preachers. Until now, their performances, including extremist rhetoric, were not considered crimes.


Illegal and should be involved in the groups that advocate violence, even if they are not directly involved in terrorist activities. At the moment, for the prohibition of membership in such organizations is necessary to prove that the grouping directly participate in acts of terrorism, indicates to ITAR-TASS.


Relevant initiatives related to, inter alia, with the activation of the militants group “Islamic state” in Iraq and Syria. “We were in the midst of covering the (integer) generation combat deadly extremist ideology – Mei noted in an article in the journal Daily Telegraph . – We’ll have to deal with it for years, and perhaps even decades. We must bring all the legal authority to to win. “


The new rules, according to May, the kingdom will be obliged to budgetary organizations, such as municipal councils and schools to deal with the radicalization of the population. To the attention of government agencies and political organizations get the Islamists and other Muslim groups secretly supporting extremism.


Initiatives of the Ministry of Internal Affairs investigated by the British government, and accept or reject them to be the country’s parliament. Now MPs on summer vacation, and terms of “package Mae” is not specified.


Estimated security forces of the kingdom, at least 500 British Muslims are in Iraq and Syria, fighting on the side of the extremists against the government forces of these republics. Many of them joined the ranks of the militants of the “Islamic state.” London fears that they will try to return to their homeland and to arrange terrorist attacks.


British newspaper The Sun claims that the intelligence services of the kingdom identified the militants who beheaded American journalist James Foley.According to the publication, it is a Beatle John – “young Britons to convert to Islam, who with a group of radical Islamists from the London district of Tower Hamlets has gone some time ago in Syria.”



Iceland announced "red" danger code for the volcano Bardarbunga threatening flights of




Iceland announced “red” danger code for aviation in connection with the possible eruption of the volcano Bardarbunga , reports the BBC .


The nearest settlement to the volcano were evacuated on Wednesday, after which he was declared an “orange” level of anxiety. Authorities also blocked several roads in the area of ​​the volcano.


Edition Visir reports that “red” danger code was after was recorded subglacial eruption under Vatnajökull glacier (Vatnajökull), which covers the volcano.


It is unclear, “breaks” if an eruption or ice cap will remain deep. It is reported that the Coast service is constantly monitoring the situation, and while evidence of cracking cover is not fixed.


The last major eruption was recorded Bardarbunga in 1477, the last minor eruption occurred in 1910.


In 2010, a volcanic eruption under an Icelandic glacier Eyjafjallajökull many days paralyzed air traffic in the skies over most of Europe and turned into huge losses for airlines.



Europe may refuse to Russian missiles because of the loss of two Galileo satellites




Russia may lose Europe as a client using Russian carrier rockets to launch their satellites, the last straw was a bad launch two satellites navigation system Galileo. The possible consequences of “Interfax” said a source in the space industry.


Russian carrier rocket “Soyuz-ST-B” with the upper stage “Fregat-MT” and two European satellites launched from the Guiana Space Centre (French Guiana, South America) at 16:27 MSK. On 22 August. Initially, Russia announced the successful launch, and the European Commissioner for Industry and Entrepreneurship, Ferdinando Nelli Feroci with emotion, said: “The launch of these two devices marks the beginning of a full operating performance of the constellation” Galileo “.


In the end, however, it appears that the upper stage “Fregat” has fulfilled its part of the trajectory is not until the end. Companions went not into orbit with a height of more than 23 thousand km, and an elliptical with a range of heights from 13 to 25 thousand kilometers. The Russian side has acknowledged that it was a blunder “Frigate”. According to sources, the fuel on board the satellite will not be enough to stabilize the orbit. On the website of the European Space Agency reported only about fixed at startup “anomalies”.


According to the source, “Interfax” in the space industry, the spacecraft can be found lost, because their use is not possible at the present orbit. However, a more serious consequence may be the refusal of Europe from the use of Russian rockets “Soyuz-ST” to remove the navigation satellite Galileo. Satellites can run European Arian-5 rocket, although start-up and is much more expensive.


Executive Director of the manufacturer of rocket Arian-5 Arianespace Stefan Israel said that on Monday the company “, together with the European Space Agency and the European Commission began an independent investigation to determine the exact cause of a problem and to develop corrective actions that will allow us to resume launches “Unions” from the Guiana Space Centre in complete safety and as fast as possible. “ From this statement it can be concluded that the launches of Russian rockets “Soyuz-ST” from the European Kourou in South America suspended.


Previously, “Interfax” in Lavochkin, which developed and manufactured the upper stage, reported that “there was an error in deriving the upper stage” Fregat “.


Galileo – the European satellite navigation system project. The European system is designed to solve navigation problems for any moving objects with an accuracy of less than one meter.


Air Force recalled that before Russia successfully put into orbit four European navigation satellites. The project is to create your own navigation system has already cost Europe € 6 billion. Budget for the program until 2020, when the orbit should be withdrawn 30 satellites, is still 7 billion euros.


The “Union” at the Guiana Space Centre “is based on an intergovernmental agreement between Russia and France, signed in November 2003.



In Sierra Leone, for patients harboring the Ebola virus will be jailed




Sierra Leone Parliament approved a new amendment to the law on health care, according to which every person sheltering at home sick with suspected Ebola may receive a prison sentence.


The government was forced to take such a measure, as many families are trying to hide their ill relatives, bringing the number of people infected continues to grow. Henceforth, the term for concealment may be two years.


Minister of Health of Sierra Leone in June, said that anyone who is trying to hide a patient with Ebola virus, commits a serious crime.


According to the WHO on Friday evening, from Ebola in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea and Nigeria have killed 1,427 people , infected more than 2,600 people.


According to the WHO, the most serious situation in Liberia and Sierra Leone.As a risk factor noted lack of awareness and distrust of the public health system.


Many patients prefer to be treated at home rather than go to the hospital because they believe that all power will be lost because of the Ebola virus has no cure. Left for dead in the family circle, they infect their relatives, and the epidemic is spreading rapidly.


Other people who do not feel very healthy, do not want to go to the hospital for fear that there they will pick up exactly dangerous disease. Many people do not inform the authorities of the deaths of their relatives and loved ones from the virus, preferring to quickly bring the body of the earth, following the traditions.



Review of the smartphone Samsung Galaxy Alpha SM-G850F

Ranking


If this phone was metal, then I would buy it – the phrase I have not heard a million times, but so often that even stopped at her answer.Halo that surrounds the metal as the material of which the device in the consumer’s mind puts them on a completely different level.Unfortunately, words and deeds in life are often at odds, and the company used to be judged by deeds and not declarative statements.The Samsung has always tried to listen to what customers want, and if possible, provide it to them, it has always been. 


Package Includes:


  • Phone

  • Battery Li-Ion 1860 mAh

  • Charger

  • Wired stereo headset

  • Instructions

The reaction rate of the change in demand for some of the functions, materials, housing has always been almost instantaneous, and for a company of this size and does rapid. But repeated attempts to see how will be sold to metal devices, turn around their failure -prognozy did not come true, the model proved unsuccessful noticeable on the background of their plastic counterparts. You can find many explanations for this phenomenon, but using Occam’s razor, we understand that the metal itself is not a necessary component of the success or failure of the device. All flagships from Samsung sold millions of copies, are in demand in the world, and apart from iPhone, no one can compete with them, with Samsung and Apple get all the profit from the smartphone market, they have no competitors at the same level. But it is often said that the flagships from Samsung – is a “plastic rattles,” although anyone who has tried such devices, knows that they do not rattle as baby rattles, and derogatory epithet does not reflect reality. Plastic does not bad and it is functional, this is proved by several billions of phones, which are successfully used around the world. Metal is not only a sign of luxury vehicles, it is often used in low-cost devices, an example of the last time – this tablet MegaFon Login 3 in a metal case.


Review of the smartphone Samsung Galaxy Alpha SM-G850F


But in the premium segment of the plastic is not perceived as routine, but rather as a negative, the consumer wants to see what he pays for. In the mind of the buyer metal – a more expensive material, although it is not so in most cases. Some producers had to come up with a “special” plastic – so, Nokia began to move as polycarbonate, in fact, a trademark. Due to this, in the minds of people, it built up a device from their “normal” plastic. Opposed polycarbonate metal and other materials. In fact, it is, by and large, a marketing and PR move, a real difference in the quality of the material is not.


But for Samsung absence of metal – it’s an irritant for another reason: in all Apple products it is present for a long time and has become the standard. Any internal or external investigation, comparing the flagships of the two companies shows that people are talking about the iPhone wins that he metal housing. That is, in the segment of premium goods play a role, and it was important for Samsung to create something similar. One might have expected that the company orient on his flagship, will not produce a separate model, but it turned out otherwise. And here lies the mystery of the first Alpha. This product is positioned as a designer, but it is used for running several ideas, each of which is interesting.


Firstly, for the first time Samsung has decided to expand the competition to the current versions of the iPhone by providing the most similar form-factor device. So it was that in the market of Android-smartphone flagships from all companies without exception exceed the current version of the iPhone in their characteristics – screen resolution and diagonal processing power, battery, and the like. If there is something you can reverse the software, for example, the speed of the interface that the iPhone is different, many things can not be changed, as they are physical limitation – for example, the size of the screen. Therefore, actual competitors for the iPhone on formal grounds are a mini version of the flagship, for Samsung’s Galaxy S5 Mini, for HTC – One Mini and so on. But the problem lies in the fact that the perception of these devices lose their older counterparts as they are positioned on the third cheaper sort of cheap substitute flagship. From the perspective of the premium segment like mini devices are not very interesting, but rather the mass market (although Apple iPhone – it’s a massive market, although it plays in the top segment, if we talk about the new models). In the gap between the Galaxy S5 and S5 Mini and gets such a device as Alpha, it has a premium component, it is closer to the leaders, and is positioned as a fashion solution and is not considered as a mass product. The Samsung is a lack of willingness to sell it to the widest possible audience, as well as other companies, called pretentious – designer product. So when I found the argument that Galaxy Alpha  will never be sold millions of copies and it is the failure of the product, I smile. Initially, no one ever planned to sell Galaxy Alpha million units, this is not possible, and the Samsung is well aware from my own positioning device.


Secondly, the product class Galaxy Alpha – it’s an interesting opportunity to break in new technologies in production. Take for example the metal frame – this is the first Samsung product with the hull structure, the company does not have much experience of the operation of such devices are no reviews from real users, only laboratory tests. As a consequence, run a series of such cases for more mass products is to take on more risk. Easier to test the product on your phone, which originally should not become a mass, and then to move on to other devices. Currently there are at least a few designs of several top models from Samsung, which uses a similar frame. I am confident that we will see in the near future, at least one more device with such a design, which is quite successful.


Another example of technology running – is to use the new chipset Exynos, which is designed for 20 nm technology and as a result, provides energy efficiency by 25 per cent higher than that of the chipset on 28 nm technology. This allows you to use a smaller battery.Now imagine that you can run a top flagship same chipset without changing the battery capacity compared to the previous version – 3200 mAh battery will run a quarter longer, there will be a real increase in operating time. It is also running in front of a massive technology products. Such an approach can be safe and confident that Samsung will use it in the future.


Review of the smartphone Samsung Galaxy Alpha SM-G850F


From a consumer perspective, Galaxy Alpha – a compact model that works well for calls, SMS, social networks – that is, the device is relatively small on the background of the flagships, which is comparable to the same iPhone. Funny situation lies in the fact that for these functions, as a rule, choose exactly the iPhone, it is becoming the preferred choice. The Samsung decided to give his own version of the device for these consumers. Typically, this women and to a lesser extent men. Nevertheless, we can safely assume Galaxy Alpha niche device that does not make significant sales amid Galaxy S5, it is one of the choices expensive smartphone that accurately plays the iPhone in consumer priorities. But Galaxy Alpha has the right to exist, and offers a number of interesting features, let’s try to understand what her strengths.Design, size, controls


When we talk about designer smartphone, you expect to see something unusual – in Galaxy Alpha appearance typical of the latest generation of devices from Samsung, there is no difference! That is, look at the front panel and see that it is the usual Samsung, differs only in size.Distinguish a few meters from this device to other models of the company will be extremely difficult. Therefore, in terms of appearance to talk about the fact that it is something extraordinary, you can not – ordinary and quite pall on other devices.


The phone – 132h65h6.7 mm, weight – 114 grams. For comparison, the size of Galaxy S5 – 142h72.5h8.1 mm, weight – 145 grams. Let me remind you that these parameters were S4 136.6h69.8h7.9 mm, 130 grams.


Quite similar in size to the S4, so take very petite Galaxy Alpha machine, you probably should not. But he’s a little on the background of the current champions or, especially, fabletov, for example, Note 3.


I like the Galaxy Alpha in the hand, he comes to children, men and women – obviously comfortable size, just the palm. Here there is no compromise, and this device recalls iPhone.


Another similarity that is worth mentioning is the processing of the side faces, bevel exactly the same as on the iPhone or on external bumpers for different phones. Feels like Galaxy Alpha is very similar in hand on the iPhone 5 / 5s, the difference is imperceptible, the line felt that way. At one time I clocked bumper Draco on Galaxy S3, in the “Spillikins” shared kunshtyukov his consciousness – taking your phone out of your pocket on the machine looking for buttons where they were at the iPhone. That is to say, my mind automatically capture what metal body – is iPhone. Of course, this only works for those who have used both devices, and for quite a long time.


Body colors from Galaxy Alpha diverse – in Russia it will be white, gold and black. Metal frame in white only in two colors, it is made of gold and gold-plated.


By the way, it seems to me, after the Olympic Games in Sochi, many companies began to use slogans, broken down into three words, so for Galaxy Alpha is “stylish. Thin. Steel. “


Of subjective and unpleasant moments I want to note the material back cover is plastic with a velvet finish, points are small and not very noticeable on the background of the picture look different from the Galaxy S5. But the problem is that the surface is not smooth when took out his phone, hand literally sticks to the lid, non-slip. An unpleasant feeling arises – a Samsung, I think, change the quality of the cover, as it was done for the Galaxy S5 a few months after the start of production, it is not so difficult. To this rather quickly get used to, but annoying point is, it is formed initially.


On the left side – a metal key, it is paired to adjust the volume. On / off button – on the right side, but the microUSB connector is located at the bottom right there in microphone and speaker. At the top end – 3.5 mm jack, which is made visually very thin that makes many think that it is 2.5 mm audio jack, but it is not.


Review of the smartphone Samsung Galaxy Alpha SM-G850F


On the front surface of the screen is a 2-megapixel front camera, light sensor and proximity, as well as the indicator light. Under the screen – the mechanical key, as well as two touch of a button. I do not like the fact that unlike other devices, the key labels are hidden under a decorative pattern, ie shine through him. Feeling of carelessness is, I think it also has to fix the first installment of the machine.


On the back you can see the surface of the 12-megapixel camera from Samsung, immediately – LED flash, as well as sensor heartbeat.Open the lid and see what’s inside. Find the memory card slot, which up to this point were present in all the models of Samsung, there can not be. Refusal on the memory card – it’s also an attempt to get as close to the iPhone, including its weak points. This is an opportunity to rebuild this unit to their own line of Galaxy S5, S5 Mini. Questionable decision, but from the point of view of the producer is quite justified.


Another questionable stroke – is the use of SIM-card nano-size. That is, it is the same card as in the iPhone, until recently, the Samsung are not used. No point in saving on the amount is not here, it is conscious decision and explicitly designed to compete with the iPhone. As well as facilitating the potential transition from it.


In general, in terms of design Galaxy Alpha turned calm, this is a typical Samsung Galaxy, with a metal frame, which pleasantly cools hand.Workmanship is traditionally at a high level, there can be no complaints. This unit is very, very good in general, although boring design, it can become a major concern to him.


Display


When I say that the screen of the iPhone is inferior to the current flagships on Android, I was not at all wrong – even a comparison of the characteristics of the forehead shows the vast gulf between these devices. On the iPhone screen size to 4 inches and a resolution 640h1136 points, this is technically 3.5 inch screen, as it increased in length compared to the previous iPhone, to show that he is a 4-inch.This year, the only “revolution” from the iPhone, which is needed, is to increase the diagonal screen iPhone, rumors speak of two models with a diagonal 4.7 and 5.5 inches. This will make the current flagship iPhone competitor to Android, while the screen is far behind, and this is the weak spot in the device Apple.


At the same time, Samsung is a technology leader in the production of screens, developing direction SuperAMOLED, the company has achieved very good results, in particular, the screen in the Galaxy S5 is recognized as one of the best on the market, both in color reproduction, and in settings. But Galaxy Alpha is somewhat simpler, so the screen is different – in particular, it does not automatically adjust certain areas of the screen depending on the ambient lighting. There is adjustment, as in most devices on the market to measure the ambient light sensor. But Exynos chipset used has two co-processor responsible for processing images, as a result, engineers, Samsung has managed to achieve the same result – the quality of pictures you will not see the difference.


Review of the smartphone Samsung Galaxy Alpha SM-G850F


The only difference that can be noticeable, will be shooting in the camera – the colors are not as bright, noticeably dimmer on the screen.Affects the use of another module, but not the quality of the screen.


Screen size – 4.7 inches, resolution – 720h1280 points (HD SuperAMOLED Plus). The sun picture is still visible, but the diagonal and lower resolution than the S5, make this device less convenient. On the other hand, it clearly outperforms the iPhone, as well as the majority of similar products. High quality, good display, which has a lot of settings to suit every taste – you can adjust the screen as a bright, and the soothing colors. The choice is yours, as the number of such options not offered by any other manufacturer in the market.


Memory, memory cards, performance chipset


This is the first device that uses its own chipset Samsung, made on 20 nm technology, the previous chipsets manufactured on 28 nm process technology. Exynos 5430 chipset – this eight-decision made on BIG.little technology from ARM, ie 4 cores running at speeds up to 1.8 GHz (Cortex A15), 4 cores – at frequencies up to 1.3 GHz (Cortex A7). Given that the same chipset, but at 28 nm (Octa 5 Exynos 5422) is used in the Galaxy S5, it was possible to compare their performance and operation. I recall that for fast nuclei maximum clock frequency in S5 – 1.9 GHz.


Formally, all synthetic tests the performance was similar, slightly higher rates associated with the Galaxy Alpha version of Android 4.4.4 (the latest at the time of writing), as well as the fact that the graphics coprocessor MALI T628MP6 does not work at 533 MHz and 600 MHz .


From the point of view of optimizing the architecture of the chipset, we see quite a lot of work – so core Cortex A15 updated version r2p3 to r3p3, which reduces power consumption and heat generation, they are less heated. Memory Dual Channel remained, but the bandwidth has increased up to 17 Gbit / s (1066).


RAM in the machine to 2 GB, that’s enough for any task. Internal memory 32 GB, of which the system takes about 6 GB, all the rest goes to you. As already mentioned, the memory card in this phone is not.


It is interesting that during the Galaxy S4 version of the phone on the Qualcomm Snapdragon and Samsung Exynos different as the camera quality and stability of these devices were markedly different. Problems Exynos then formed a negative perception of this chipset. Today there are no differences, we see it as an example Galaxy S5, although the predominant version still becomes an option on Snapdragon.


Many may think that a set of changes that are made in the Exynos 5430, allow us to call it the flagship solution, but it is far from the truth.This is a good restyling existing eight-processor Samsung, but it is not fundamentally new solution. In Note 4 will be used an older version of this decision, with higher clock speeds, memory bandwidth, as well as new graphics accelerator, which should provide a fundamentally new level of both graphics and performance.


From the point of view of the ordinary with the phone there is no slowing down, it works quite quickly and well. I note that, as in other cases, there are a number of people who believe TouchWiz interface is very slow, they always believe that by definition is slow and it does not fix it. You can create an entire sect – nelyubiteley pluck eye AMOLED, witnesses pentayla, slow TouchWiz and plastic casings. In practice, the vast majority of ordinary people are quite satisfied with the speed of the top models of Samsung, as well as TouchWiz, this problem does not exist.


Review of the smartphone Samsung Galaxy Alpha SM-G850F


Battery


The magic number is always running smoothly – ask any man what kind of battery is better, 3000 mAh or 2000 mAh battery, and you’ll get the obvious answer, the first is much better, he works longer. Direct analogy between the battery capacity and operating time, unfortunately, no longer works. For example, most Chinese flagships established large batteries, take the same Philips i928, it battery 3000 mAh. But when playing video – about 4 hours, while in the Galaxy Galaxy Alpha with almost half the battery – about 10.5 hours at maximum brightness. What is the reason? It is not only the optimization of the software, the use of more cost-AMOLED-display, but also the contribution of the chipset. Estimate the change in process technology and the transition from 28 to 20 nm is very easy enough to compare to the Exynos Galaxy S5 with Galaxy Alpha.


The result was very interesting – so, in S5 worth battery 2800 mAh, and Galaxy Alpha – only 1860 mAh. The difference in capacity by one-third, that is known to play Galaxy Alpha should work in time, even though the smaller screen size. The Samsung claim that the new chipset is able to save up to 25 percent of the energy due to 20 nm technology. I checked this statement into practice.


The same video was launched on the Galaxy S5 and Alpha. Playing time at the maximum luminance in the first case – 10.7 hours in the second – 10.6 hours. You can consider it the same parameters, ie, there is no difference. Music playback time in S5 – 45 hours, Galaxy Alpha  - about 41 hours. I think that the difference is due to the fact that the screen is not working, and the fore here comes the real capacity of the battery, the work of the sound processor. That is, here we do not define the difference.


In the “heavy” three-dimensional games Galaxy Alpha lasted about 3 hours against 3.45 minutes S5 – that is, when using fast cores difference in battery capacity is still noticeable, but not striking.


In general, I can say that the time of the Galaxy Alpha  roughly equivalent in everyday life S5, that is, until the evening apparatus survives with moderate use. But if you use it only for calls and SMS, turn off all unnecessary features, then it will last 1.5-2 days, it is quite achievable.Full charging time – a little less than 2 hours.


Therefore, the argument that the capacity of the battery affects the time, should not be taken on the forehead, a lot depends on what kind of hardware inside your machine, and what software is worth it. In the same iPhone rather weak batteries, but optimization of the system allows you to get the most out of it – Galaxy Alpha in this regard is very similar to the iPhone 5s (1560 mAh). But I think that you just do not remember, and did not know the capacity of the battery in the iPhone, because the manufacturer does not emphasize this characteristic, apart from defining it, and in this he is right.


As well as in the S5, this phone has a power-saving mode, which is 10 percent of the charge allows the unit to operate up to 24 hours.Including switching to a gray scale screen, which may not be as aggressive, but will extend the full operation for a long time – no direct analogue of this technology from other companies do not, because it involves the use of AMOLED-display, and also changes in the controllers of these screens made Samsung.


Communication features


All pretty typical, USB version 2, which is not so nice, but from the point of view of this device is quite typical. There is support for NFC, Ant +, Wi-Fi 802.11 a / b / g / n / ac (VHT80) operates in two bands, Bluetooth 4.0 LE.


Built-in modem supports LTE-LTE Advanced Cat.6, that is, in theory, is the first device in Russia with the support of high-speed mobile Internet. Unfortunately, within the Garden Ring, where the Internet is such MegaFon, failed to get the appropriate speed, and that the matter is not clear. I think that the problem is still in a software phone as a router at these points worked and gave up to 300 Mbps. By the time the models on the market it can be corrected.


Luggage


In this apparatus, a 12-megapixel autofocus camera that can shoot 4K video that most probably do not need (it can also Note 3 in Exynos version, as well as all versions of S5). In terms of image quality, this device is a little above average, but it is clearly inferior to the characteristics of the S5, the pictures are worse, and in low light conditions – much worse. However, you can compare yourself these pictures and see what you like more. For a fairly small thickness, this device camera module was a compromise, and it supports all the options that are typical for the phones from Samsung, the interface is typical.


Review of the smartphone Samsung Galaxy Alpha SM-G850F


Software


The phone is worth the latest version of Android 4.4.4, with a shell TouchWiz, it is also the latest version as the flagship of the company.Differences from the same S5 almost there, so I refer you to the relevant part of the review.


Impressions


In terms of voice quality, no complaints to the unit no. The signal is loud, well distinguishable, vibration is also noticeable.


In the sale of Galaxy Alpha arrive September 18 to a price of 24 990 rubles. Inside the Samsung lineup in terms of functionality, this unit gives Galaxy S5 (29,990 rubles, the gray market is much cheaper), but higher than the same S5 Mini (19,990 rubles). I would not call this device design, it is interesting as a compact device for calls and SMS, other social activity, a sort of replacement iPhone with a better screen, next to the chips in energy saving and very good music player. On the last point, there is little people pay attention, but the latest flagship and popular device from Samsung sounds very good, thanks to a separate sound chip, then it is updated to the latest version. The same applies to support different video codecs out of the box, this unit of the maximum number possible.


Fears that the “small” battery effect on working time, have been in vain, that did not happen, all identical Galaxy S5.


All in all, the Samsung turned out pretty good Galaxy, another unit of the family, which has a metal frame, good performance, excellent screen and compact size. The price is high, but it should be out of position against the iPhone. In my opinion, this approach is wrong, as imposes a number of restrictions. For example, the lack of a memory card – is the lack of, and visible for many, but not all. The model is very nice, but it is precisely the mass will not, this is a niche offer and, as I said at the beginning, is the breaking technologies. In principle, in terms of form factor is a direct replacement for the iPhone to those who, for whatever reason, does not want this device, and looks toward Android. And love is a size number. It will be interesting to see how Galaxy Alpha will begin to compete with older versions of iPhone, which will fall in price when new. And can create a competition.



Islamists took the airport of the capital of Libya and deposed the elected parliament

Groups of radical Islamists took today an international airport in Tripoli, ITAR-TASS reported with reference to the channel Al-Arabiya.


Fighting for the main air harbor Libya, located 30 km from the capital, from July 13, conducted between controlling it “Zintanskoy brigade”, speaking for the disgraced general Khalifa Haftorah, and Islamist militias in the so-called Central panel, at the forefront of which are groupings of Misrata .


It is with the onset of the airport, in fact, launched a military operation “Dawn Libya,” which is carried out Islamists led by the “Muslim Brotherhood” against the allies Haftorah. Last in May announced his determination to force people to eradicate terrorism and extremism in the country.


Last night, already the third time this week combat aircraft bombed the positions of the Islamists in Tripoli. As confirmed today by representatives of the military campaign, as a result of these attacks were killed 10 of their soldiers.


Responsibility for the attacks before taking on haftarovtsy. Meanwhile, today the Islamists accused of involvement in the bombing of Egypt and the UAE. “These countries are involved in this cowardly aggression, which also involved the new parliament and the interim government,” – they said.


Previously, many local analysts questioned the ability of the Air Force Haftorah, the rate of which is located within walking distance from Benghazi (1000 km east of Tripoli), to carry out night raids on such a considerable distance from the base sites. Prior to that, he combat aircraft, obsolete and finding not in the best condition, struck only in the vicinity of Benghazi and nearby Derna, and to the capital, according to haftarovtsy themselves, were able to reach only this week. In this regard, in the local press and on television, a host of speculations about the possible involvement in the bombing of a third party, including the Air Force, NATO or the United States, which has categorically denied all the arguments in this regard. Claim innocence and non-participation in the conflict in the neighboring country had been and the Egyptians, the Air Force which theoretically have the means to carry out such operations.


Islamists said about the transition of the elected parliament back the Universal National Congress


Representatives of the radical Islamist groups in Libya said on Saturday about the transition of authority from elected by popular vote in late June, the House of Representatives (the new parliament) back to the Universal National Congress (INC – Former interim parliament) informs television channel Al-Arabiya.


No details are omitted. In an urgent message indicates only that the leaders proislamistskoy military campaign “Dawn Libya” issued a decree for the return of the legislature BHK.


This operation was launched by Islamists led by the “Muslim Brotherhood” in mid-July against the allies of the disgraced Major General Khalifa Haftorah, which is within the running to them in May campaign “Dignity Libya” promised to eradicate terrorism and extremism in the country. More than a month ago, radical militias has been tasked to the maximum to take control of the capital and “play it safe” in the event of unforeseen developments on the inauguration of the House of Deputies and the loss of BHK legislative initiative. Following this, already fighting broke out periodically in Tripoli and the second largest city of Benghazi – the “cradle” of the revolution – has become even more fierce.


A statement of the transition of authority from the time constant of the Parliament followed immediately after the Islamists announced the capture of Tripoli International Airport. Fighting for the main air harbor of the country that held since the fall of the regime of Muammar Gaddafi “Zintanskaya Brigade”, lasted for about six weeks. They were killed or injured hundreds of people.


If BHK dominated Islamist forces under the leadership of the “brothers” in the new legislature them seriously pushed supporters of liberal and patriotic circles.Its first meeting because of ongoing fighting in Tripoli and Benghazi were spent in a quiet yet Tobruk (about 140 km from the border with Egypt), which was chosen as a place of constant residence legislators.


At the same time loyal Islamists Speaker of Congress Nouri Abu Sahmeyn still a couple of days before the first meeting of his successors in Tobruk, where strong position haftarovtsev, called the meeting illegal and unconstitutional. He made it clear that the meeting, which was supposed to officially pass the legislative initiative the House of Representatives, to be held in Tripoli. In this regard, some 20 parliamentarians held in her Islamists boycotted the oath, declaring solidarity with Abu Sahmeynom.


Earlier proislamistskie formation and supported their policies formally recognize the new elected legislature. However, in April, they emphasized that the transfer procedure is considered failed him authority from OWC and illegitimate all meetings in Tobruk and solutions adopted there.


A similar situation of dual power in the country was formed in late May – early July, when there were in Libya at the same time the interim government led by Prime Minister Abdullah Abdurrahman al-Thani (effective date) and the designated BHK cabinet misuratskogo businessman Ahmed Maytyga.


Then failed to resolve the dispute with the help of the Supreme Constitutional Court, which declared unconstitutional the appointment Maytyga.



Friday, August 22, 2014

Review smartphone Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro (K920)

Introduction


Starting the smartphones in 2011, Lenovo has just three years managed to climb to third in the world in terms of sales. If you look at the global smartphone sales in the fourth quarter of 2011 (4Q2011), then Lenovo takes up only 1.1 percent of the market in the next year, 4Q2012 – share rose to 3.8 percent is already the market, and in the fourth quarter of 2013, 4Q2013 – was 4.6 percent. According to preliminary data, the first quarter of 2014 the share of Lenovo in the global smartphone sales rose to 7.5 percent. Of course, now here to take the devices Motorola, but sales growth and market share for the company can be seen in any way, and now, in fact, Lenovo shares third place with Huawei.


Company for three years, did what Microsoft and Nokia have not been able to carry out over a longer period with the project «Lumia / Windows Phone», while Lenovo started almost from scratch, whereas MS and Nokia were in the hands of thousands of patents and designs, ready platform and solutions. However, do not let the bad news, and will return to the Chinese manufacturer.


According to one version, Lenovo smartphones engaged in the moment when an aggressive offensive Samsung to all markets has become quite clear. Chinese manufacturers one by one prefer to intervene in the fight at least for the local market, instead of just watching and give it to the Koreans. Lenovo were the last of the large corporations, to intervene in this fight, the more interesting to observe the existing line of smartphones the company.


Review smartphone Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro (K920)


Producer still experimenting with formats, model lineup, their positioning and other things, but the main principle – a year masthead unit – the company has already learned. In 2013, it was a model of Lenovo K900 – ambiguous smartphone. By quality huge display and thin, though a large body of metal were attached unfinished at the time for the Android platform Intel Atom, not the best on the battery capacity, no memory card slot, and high model from unknown brand value. To its credit, Lenovo should be noted that very fast rates substantially reduced, thus being able to create a buzz around the device and even make him publicity in some markets, in Russia – exactly.Yes, the device is sold without profit, but on the Lenovo K900 learned a lot, but the company began to speak. I do not want to say that K900 was a major element in the development of the brand, but in some markets it is this model that is sold at a knockdown price for such characteristics, has made a significant contribution to the promotion of the brand.


In this review, I want to tell you in the development of the line smartphone Lenovo K920. The official name of the device – Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro, but in my opinion, K920 sounds better. The new model is an evolution of the ideas embodied in the K900 is a series of devices – the flagship company. In the first part we will talk about all the features of a smartphone, except the camera about it in a separate article.Here we go.


Design, materials, housing


Like the Lenovo K900, the new smartphone is made of metal (aluminum) and has the same strict, angular form. The use of polished metal texture on the “back” of other smartphone releases – it looks unusual. Words to describe the material is difficult, I suggest just look at the image


Shape of the body can be called a classic and a reference, no curves and bevels, except neat transition side, left and right sides of the rear surface of the device. This bevel allows a little more comfortable to hold the device in their hands.


The face of the smartphone looks: protective glass covers the entire surface, and marking keys are not visible until you turn on the screen, so off it’s just a black canvas.


Review smartphone Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro (K920)


Impression of rigor and conciseness front panel ports only “chetyrezhe” in the upper right corner (4G), which, fortunately, in the final version of the device will not. On the back, by the way, large inscription VIBE in the vehicle, which goes on sale, too, will not.


Main feature of design in Lenovo K920 – the area around the main camera. Firstly, the very eye of the camera is bordered by a square frame made of red plastic, secondly, around the camera – insertion of glossy plastic “under the metal.” The decision is not so much decorative as necessary to accommodate the antennas. It must be admitted that, in general, this looks quite harmoniously insert, the more added to it as a four screw mounts. I can not say that I like such additional detail in the smartphone, but to call this decision also can not be tasteless. In this case, the task was to bring the antenna to the body, bypassing the metal regions, and designers together with the engineers decided it.


Plastic insert antennas also have a backrest in the lower region of the device. Here, incidentally, is the two screws located at the end.


Metal folding texture makes the smartphone practical – marks on the surface even if remain completely invisible, I’m a very long time trying to slap the back of the unit and remove it in the photo, but nothing happened. Obverse spoiled, of course, much more noticeable, but thanks to the oleophobic coating prints and stains from your fingers can be quickly removed, in general, it is a problem of any device with a large touch screen.


Assembling


To build quality smartphone no complaints – all very solidly and reliably, in addition, the monolithic body of the removable parts are only the tray under the SIM-card. It so happened that in the course of using the machine, I accidentally dropped it on the ground on the street, at the same time before the fall of the device hit the small stone and bounced. As a result – a few small scratches on the “back” and barely noticeable dent on the frame near the screen. Of course, this is not an indicator of strength and indestructibility K920, but still.


Dimensions


I do not know how to call Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro – smartphone or fabletom, I can only say that the device is huge. In size the new model is between about Sony Xperia Z Ultra and smartphones with 5.5 ‘screen. Even the previous flagship Lenovo, K900, more compact new items.Take a look at the size of it:


  • Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro (6 ‘) – 156 x 81 x 7.7 mm, 179 grams

  • Apple iPhone 5S - 123.8 x 58.6 x 7.6 mm, 112 grams

  • HTC One (M8) (5 ”) – 146.4 x 70.6 x 9.4 mm, 160 grams

  • LG G3 (5.5 ”) – 146.3 x 74.6 x 8.9 mm, 149 grams

  • Nokia Lumia 930 (5 ‘) – 137 x 71 x 9.8 mm, 167 grams

  • Samsung Galaxy S5 (5.1 ”) – 142 x 72.5 x 8.1 mm, 145 grams

  • Sony Xperia Z Ultra (6.44 ”) – 179 x 92 x 6.5 mm, 212 grams

  • OnePlus One (5.5 ”) – 153 x 76 x 9 mm, 162 grams

If we put K920 near some large, it seemed to me not so long ago, HTC One (M8) or even LG G3, once you understand how compact the past (it was a joke, but only half)


Compact Meizu MX2 can not just drown in the screen Lenovo K920, but also a place to stay.


How is the device in your hand? Personally, in my case – with difficulty, to put it mildly. Once again, the definition of “shovel” is displayed by manufacturers, in this case, Lenovo, to a new level. Yes, Sony Xperia Z Ultra was before, but then the Japanese immediately made it clear that they do not find your device smartphone, here more and more vague, and, if desired, Lenovo K920 is quite possible to put into this category.


With due diligence and skill to adapt to the dimensions of the model is possible, but for me the size of K920 were beyond acceptable, that is, hold it with one hand and I can not control.


Review smartphone Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro (K920)


Controls


Controls in a smartphone at least – short volume key on the left side, the power button on the right and power of touch buttons below the screen illuminated.


Hardware volume buttons and the power is quite comfortable with a hard short-stroke depression. Unfortunately, the version of the firmware for the Lenovo K920 in August not implemented the ability to unlock the device by double-tapping on the screen, as is done in many other smartphones. Personally, I’ve managed to get used to this option on the LG G3 and HTC One (M8), and here I miss her. But, as noted in Lenovo, in future firmware for the K920, this option can be, so most likely it is only a matter of time.


On the right edge, except the power button is a slot for two microSIM-cards, located on the common tray. To remove it, you must use the complete clip.


At the top end – 3.5 mm mini jack for headphones, at the bottom – the lattice, which is hidden behind the speaker, as well as microUSB-socket and a microphone.


Keys below the display are illuminated white backlight, from left to right here are the key “Menu”, “Home” and “Back”. You can set the backlight to time for 3 seconds, permanently or just turn it off. Remap the buttons specified action can not be a minus.


But there is a plus – many advanced settings and options related to the management. In Lenovo wisely approached the problem of the large dimensions of the device and tried to do everything so that the users for which the size of K920 are great, but the big screen and lures have been able to make friends with your smartphone. Let’s look at what the manufacturer suggests.


Microscreen for one hand. Strange, but still useful in some situations, an option that perfectly characterizes the world of modern smartphones spade, when you want a big screen, and the length of the fingers is not enough. In this option, you can scale the screen, reducing its size to those that control the device was comfortable with one hand. That is, it is possible to make the working area 4 inches in diagonal, instead of the six basic example.


Yes, it will look strange, but it is convenient to use.


Live keyboard. In this option, you get a shift key on the numeric keypad dialer in the direction you tilt the device. Controversial, in my opinion, an option, but perhaps someone will be useful.


You can also specify the inclusion of screen smartphone volume by pressing any key, disable the “Home” in the horizontal orientation of the device and to block the smartphone quick short shake the device. And there are already familiar to many other smartphones settings – modes “in the pocket” (Prints data volume when the unit is placed in a pocket) and “In the hands” (the volume is automatically reduced when you take a smartphone in hand).


Review smartphone Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro (K920)


Let’s go back to the location of the elements. On the front side of the screen are the earpiece, light and proximity sensors, as well as a 5-megapixel front-facing camera (autofocus is not) and the light.


Screen


In the Lenovo K920 uses IPS LCD screen, 6 diagonal ‘, resolution 2560×1440 pixels, density of 490 ppi. The screen is covered with a protective glass Gorilla Glass 3. record smartphone solution here, as in the case of the LG G3, in my opinion, is not justified. Personally, I with difficulty and only under a magnifying glass discern picture clarity on this display and the display HTC One M8, for example. On the other hand – all the characteristics of a great screen with K920 and carp just do not need it. There is a very high margin of brightness (special mode, high-brightness), holding that, you get a smartphone with the brightest of IPS-matrix screen smartphones, the maximum viewing angles and color reproduction, natural.


If the default color profile you’re not satisfied, you can configure it manually by changing the position of the slider hue, saturation, and contrast. The screen can be colder or warmer color temperature, so as you see fit.


Luggage


The main camera in Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro – 16-megapixel sensor is used Samsung ISOCELL, six lenses have optical stabilization which work when shooting remarkably visible to the naked eye. Located near the camera dual LED flash, which can be used as a flashlight.


There are two camera mode: Smart mode and pros. In the first system automatically selects the optimal settings for a particular scene and exposes, in the second you do it yourself.


Review smartphone Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro (K920)


The camera interface in smart mode is as simple – shoot button, a button to switch between the main and the front camera, and the arrow keys to select or videos.


In the pro-mode, all interesting. You can not only set the level of exposure and the value of ISO, but also to choose the shutter speed and manual focus at a certain distance. In the settings you can turn on in this mode level to “horizon was not overwhelmed.”


Unfortunately, the engineering samples, which was in my review, the camera does not always work correctly: in certain conditions exhibited incorrect automatic white balance or could not focus properly. However, even taking into account the shortcomings of this time to see the great potential of the camera in Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro, if it will bring to mind in future firmware.


The following is a unit of comparative photographs taken on smartphones Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro and LG G3:


The camera allows you to take great pictures close-up (macro), front 5-megapixel camera with no autofocus, but the image quality is acceptable.


Review smartphone Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro (K920)


Shooting in a “pro” provides many new features, for example, may be photographed at ISO 200-400 with a significant exposure to get in low light conditions without a frame noise. Due to optical stabilization, even when placing long exposure does not necessarily have a hand-stands, to get a sharp picture.


AutonomyYou can record video in resolutions up to 3840×2160 (as specified in the settings 4k), the standard is FullHD, used codec H.264, write speed – 30 frames per second. There express recording and two windows when the video words parallel to the main chamber, and also at the front. Provides a fixed focus (you can change the tap of the screen), and servo AF mode.


The smartphone is set Li-Pol battery capacity of 4000 mAh, for the most efficient use of the battery can also be included in a special energy-saving mode utility Lenovo Power Manager.


With my usage scenarios Lenovo K920 easily runs the entire working day, in fact, it is one of the first smartphones, which I kept in a typical operational scenarios not just until the night of the day, but about one and a half days.


Scenario similar to the following: 1 hour of calls, 10-20 text messages, Gmail, 3-4 hours of music playback, 1-2 hours of active use of the mobile internet (Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Chrome), constant throughout the day correspondence in WhatsApp and Facebook messenger (a total of not less than one hour), photographing.


In playback mode the video as 1080p, 5000 kbps (volume and brightness exhibited by three-quarters, or about 70 percent, the battery mode “normal», Wi-Fi and GPS off) smartphone is about 8-10 hours. For devices on a powerful platform with a huge screen display is very good.


Platform, memory


The smartphone is based on the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon platform 801 (MSM8974AC) with a quad-core 2.5 GHz, the graphics subsystem (GPU) – Adreno 330 processor with a frequency of 578 MHz. The unit 3 GB of RAM and 32 GB of internal memory. A slot for a microSD card is not included.


Performance tests


As synthetic tests (Antutu), and daily use Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro shows excellent results in speed. The interface works smoothly and without lag, switching between programs is fast, clear and without jerks. The unit without any problems “cool» FullHD video in high quality and can comfortably play all available games for the Android platform.


At normal load (phone calls, mail, internet via 3G / 4G) smartphone barely heats at constant active Wi-Fi connection (watching a movie through a web service, for example) or in the course of a long game device heats up considerably. According to the application Stability Test, the approximate temperature of the unit (data from the battery temperature) during normal operation – about 35 degrees. Under load, after 15 minutes of the test run, the temperature rises to 50 degrees.


Also cite the results of testing the smartphone in the benchmark Antutu (X)


Interfaces


The smartphone works in networks GSM, HSDPA and LTE (4G) and is equipped with two slots for microSIM-cards. The first slot supports LTE FDD (bands 1, 3, 7, 20), so the Russian device works without problems with the 4G-networks. Data transfer rate with 4G (LTE), of course, depends on the place where you are, I have Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro gave a very good performance in areas with sufficient signal «4G».



Speed ​​data transmission using LTE on Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro




The speed of data transmission using LTE on LG G3, was used to measure the same place



The second slot is designed primarily for SIM-card on which you plan to call, but the data it can also be used. However, only using 2G (Edge).


USB. To synchronize with your PC and transfer data using the supplied cable microUSB. Interface USB 2.0. Supported USB-OTG – to your phone can be connected via an adapter flash drives and other storage devices with file systems FAT / FAT32.


Bluetooth. Built-in Bluetooth 4.0 with support profile A2DP.


Wi-Fi (802.11 a / ​​b / g / n). The smartphone is a dual-band Wi-Fi module, it works flawlessly. Like any other modern Android-device, Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro supports “rassharivaniya” mobile Internet on Wi-Fi (Wi-Fi-router).


NFC. Standard interface for all flagship based on Android, from 2013 onwards there and Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro. How to use each invents itself, can come up with scenarios with special NFC-tags, you can check the number of trips to the metro card.


Telephone features / Implementation of the two SIM-cards


Both slots for SIM-card format microSIM, they are located in one tray, next to each other. In the settings of your smartphone, you can set a name for each “Sims”. In one radio device, so if you’re on a SIM-card, calling for a second, people will hear the message answering machine operator or “subscriber is temporarily unavailable.”


When dialing a number or sending a text message anywhere there are two keys for every action of the first or second SIM-card.


In the case of using two SIM-cards Megaphone with activated “Living Balance” shows the balance for the first SIM-card.


For each “Sims” separately exhibited ringing tone and sound to text messages, notification sound overall.


Review smartphone Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro (K920)


Here, I note that the smartphone is able to write the sound from the line, the call can be configured to enable automatic recording of conversations. Accordingly, in a perfectly audible recording of you and your companion.


In the settings, there are options like call auto-answer a call when you hold the device to your ear, triggering a short vibration when a successful connection with the caller, and so on. In short, all common in other smartphones (Samsung, HTC) opportunities there.


Navigation / Auto mode


The smartphone has support for GPS / A-GPS and GLONASS satellites to find out the minimum amount of time. The device pre-installed software Google Maps and Google Navigation.


In Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro includes a special “auto mode” to work with your smartphone when you are moving or just set the device into the cradle on the windshield and use as a navigator or DVR.


In this mode only the necessary applications, and the interface is optimized for convenient finger control without “aiming” at will.


In this mode, you can use your smartphone as a DVR, for this there is a built-in utility that records video on the main camera in moderate quality


Software features and software


The smartphone runs Android 4.4.2, as the interface uses a proprietary VIBE UI (Lenovo Launcher), is similar in its basic idea with MIUI. The same location of all the shortcuts on the desktop screen without a separate application menu Remove Programs holding a finger on the icon and pressing the cross over him after.


On the lock screen, you can quickly switch from calls, messages or start the camera. If you listen to music through the music player (Google Music, for example) on the lock screen displays album art and music control buttons.


It is interesting to make a “blind” notifications. There is no separation of the tabs, and the control buttons and interface settings are shown, not all but only a small area. If necessary, you can pull the tab inside the curtain and pull out all the shortcuts.


In the settings you can change the set of labels displayed here and their position within the “blind”.


For Lenovo Launcher is the skin, with the basic idea of ​​how to MIUI: you can change the theme as a whole, or you can use the individual components of different topics, from somewhere icons, somewhere a picture, and in the third theme ringtones.


A set of applications in Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro includes all the software you may need for a comfortable work with the device “out of the box”, including file manager application from the “Yandex», Skype and so on


Interesting feature Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro – an opportunity to switch to the standard interface of Android 4.4. To do this, you need to activate the menu “For Developers” by going to Settings> About phone> Version Information and poked the line “Build Number”. On the menu for developers there is a line switching system interface where you can choose the basic interface Google Android 4.4.


Conclusion


Reception quality for both SIM-cards is good for one and a half weeks of use Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro as the primary smartphone I have no problems in this regard. Volume ring dynamics above average, you can hear the call even in a noisy environment, the only drawback – only one speaker located, in addition, at the end, so if you carry the device in your pocket, it will sound muffled. Vibrating alert is average in power, taking into account the weight of the smartphone is acceptable.


In Russia, the official cost of Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro has not been determined, but is likely to be about 30 000, the start of sales is scheduled for the second half of September. On the one hand, a significant amount of money, on the other – do not forget that this is a flagship of the company, even if Lenovo does not release it into the usual time, a kind of off-season, when all the manufacturers have shown popular device in 2014.


Direct competitors Vibe Z2 Pro yet, and it is perhaps one of the most powerful of its sides. The pros I’ll take as a quality aluminum housing, good camera (especially if the “finished” firmware), an excellent display with a huge stock of brightness and possibility of fine tuning the color, excellent performance and good performance of the battery life. Deficiencies in the smartphone is really small – no slot for memory card (if available 32 GB of internal memory – this drawback is not for everyone, but still) and the huge dimensions of the large six-inch screen. Soon Samsung will introduce a new Galaxy Note, and the device is likely to become a major competitor for the Lenovo K920.However, we can already say that Lenovo has managed to make a decent product, and if you decide to choose a smartphone with a large display as much as possible at the end of the year, you should pay close attention to the Lenovo Vibe Z2 Pro.


Features:


  • Operating System: Android 4.4 (VIBE UI)

  • Network: GSM, HSDPA +, LTE, support for two SIM-cards (microSIM), one radio

  • Processor: Quad 2.5 GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon platform at 801

  • Graphic subsystem: Adreno 330

  • Memory: 3 GB

  • Data Memory: 32 GB

  • Card Slot: no

  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi (a / ac / b / g / n /) Dual-Band, Bluetooth 4.0 (A2DP), microUSB (USB 2.0, MHL, OTG) for charging / synchronization, 3.5 mm headset jack

  • Screen: IPS LCD, diagonal 6 “resolution 2560×1440 pixels, density 490 ppi, it automatically adjusts the level of illumination

  • Main Camera: 16 MP with autofocus and optical stabilization, dual LED flash, video is recorded in 4k, 1080p,

  • Front camera: 5 megapixel with fixed focal length

  • Navigation: GPS (support A-GPS), Glonass

  • Extras: accelerometer, light sensor, proximity sensor

  • Battery: Li-Pol 4000 mAh capacity

  • Dimensions: 156 x 81 x 7.7 mm

  • Weight: 179 grams