The Federal Communications Commission has ordered retailers to label analog televisions so consumers know they'll be unable to get free, over-the-air TV in early 2009 when broadcasters switch to digital signals. The order is part of an effort to make sure that U.S. consumers aren't left pictureless when broadcasters' switch from analog to digital takes place Feb. 17, 2009. Owners of analog televisions will still be able to see pictures if they get a digital-analog converter box, subscribe to satellite or digital cable, or replace their TVs with digital sets by the deadline.
SOURCE: REUTERS
FASTER ROUTERS
The fastest wireless routers available feature the “n” standard, likely to be approved next year. Belkin's newest product, the F5D8231-4 802.11N draft wireless router, offers easy setup, increased range and almost triple the speed of the popular “g” wireless standard. The extra-large pipe can improve the quality of VoIP phone calls, provide stutter-free HD video and hasten file transfers. This router's three antennas provide a steady 150 megabits of throughput at a distance of up to 1,500 feet. It works with Macs and PCs.
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SPEAKERS TO GO
Logitech's V-20 Notebook Speakers ($69.99) come in a handy, high-impact case, which can fit easily into your notebook bag, and deliver much better sound than those built into your computer. Just plug them into your notebook's USB port and you're ready to listen to music, watch a movie or play games with rich, high-quality sound. Also, buttons on top of the right speaker give you access to all of your multimedia controls, including play, stop, forward/back, mute and volume. There are even flip-out stands built into the backs of the speakers.
MIKE BERMAN: SCRIPPS HOWARD NEWS SERVICE
