More information about the unconventional SSD used in Apple’s new MacBook Air. As I discussed in my previous coverage of this new flash form factor, it resembles a PCI Express Mini Card but is much smaller. Toshiba has now proved my speculation that the device uses SATA signals rather than the PCI Express lane used by the similar AirPort card. We also know that the lauded performance of the device is due to its chips and controller rather than skipping SATA in favor of PCIe as some had speculated.
Archives for 2010
My Stance on Embargoes
Embargoes help us all. I love that I can get inside information ahead of announcements, giving me time to consider the implications of new technology releases. I’m not scoop driven (though I’ve sometimes gotten the scoop) so I’m less interested in timeliness than I am in the depth of insight I can get from a briefing.
$50 Off The Excellent Sony NEX-3 Camera
I’ve really enjoyed my Sony NEX-5 mirrorless camera. Since I wrote up my review in September, I’ve used it frequently. Sony recently posted a major firmware update which addressed many of the usability concerns I (and many others) had as well. My only concern is that the NEX-5 is somewhat expensive, starting at $649 with the “pancake” lens and $699 with the telephoto zoom. Now there’s some relief on the price: Amazon is offering the “little brother” NEX-3 for just $499 or $549, a $50 discount from list price!
Back From the Pile: Interesting Links, November 5, 2010
Interesting Links from the week of November 5, 2010, including vBlocks, networking, Microsoft, and 4G wireless
LaCie Releases USB 3.0 Driver For Mac OS X (But It Only Works With LaCie Drives)
Steve Jobs isn’t too keen on USB 3.0, apparently, but other vendors are stepping in to fill the void. CalDigit was first with a USB 3.o driver, but it was tied to the pricey PCI Express and Mini-PCIe cards they sell. Now LaCie is out with a free driver for just about any USB 3.0 card, but it’s locked to LaCie’s storage products. Let’s hope we get an unlocked driver soon!
