WirelessRemote
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Eugene Polley, co-creator of the wireless TV remote, passes away aged 96
Eugene Polley, inventor of the wireless remote control has passed away aged 96. Working for Zenith Electronics, he developed the FlashMatic control in 1955, using beams of light directed at photo-sensors in a television to change channel or volume. Like all pioneering technology it had some quirks -- it couldn't distinguish between the light from the remote and direct sunlight, causing inadvertent channel changes during summer days. Dr. Robert Adler (1913 - 2007) superseded the technology with his ultrasonic "clicker," but Polley's system would be reborn with the advent of infra-red remotes. He subsequently went on to work on the push-button radio and helped to develop the video disc -- the predecessor of DVD. Both men were honored with Emmy Awards in 1997 and countless other plaudits for their engineering achievement, as well as knowing that a sizable proportion of the planet use their work on a daily, nay hourly basis. Our thoughts are with his family.
Sony's Digital Link Sound System brings all-in-one iOS integration to your dashboard
Is your car yearning for more iOS integration? Sony's got you covered, with its new Digital Link Sound System. The company's new audio package is available in two models: the all-in-one XDP-PK1000 and the more compact XDP-MU110. The former consists of five components, including an iPhone / iPod Touch cradle (pictured above), wireless remote control, customizable digital sound processor, 12-inch box subwoofer and 300 watt Class D mono block amp. The XDP-MU110, on the other hand, is geared toward drivers who are already content with their amp / subwoofer setup, but simply want to outfit their ride with a fresh audio system, with the help of Sony's cradle, processor and remote. If you're interested in getting one, however, you'll have to wait a little longer; the XDP-PK1000 is expected to start shipping in September, for about $800, with the XDP-MU110 slated to ship in November, for $400. Cruise past the break for more information, in the full PR.
microRemote DSLR focus controller uses iPhone for visual readouts (video)
Got a first-gen iPhone with nothing to do and nothing to hope for? Don't throw it out just yet, you might be able to recycle it as an extremely fancy readout display for the Redrock Micro "focus control system." The microRemote is, fundamentally, a focus ring detached from the DSLR it controls. It can operate all by its lonesome, but the big attraction here is adding an iPhone or iPod touch to provide visual clues to the aspiring focus master. You get aperture, zoom, and some focusing assists on the display, and then make your selection using some familiar twirling action on the knob to the side. Starting at around $1,000 this summer, this setup can hardly be considered an impulse buy, but we're sure somebody somewhere has a usage scenario that would justify the cash layout. Check out the microRemote on video after the break.
Keyspan ships revamped TuneView iTunes remote
It's taken over a year, but Keyspan has finally got around to updating its somewhat restrictive TuneView remote. The new flavor (which oddly keeps the exact same name) now works with Apple's AirPort Express, Xitel's Hi-Fi Link, and "other products that connect audio output from a PC-based music server to the audio inputs on an AV receiver or multi-room audio system." The black remote sports a color LCD to pass along iTunes information, a 10-button keypad, RF connectivity, a 150-foot range, and speaks in four different languages. As expected, the unit claims to be plug 'n play with both Macs and PCs, comes bundled in with a USB transceiver, and will set you back a stiff $149. Click on through for another look.
Philips SJM3151 universal remote mirrors your iPod screen
While Philips' latest universal remote lacks the genius design seen in the prototype book iteration, it's tough to deny the utility here. This universal remote may not sport the most luxurious button layout, but it does manage to control up to six devices and play nice with your iPod; moreover, the SJM3151's built-in LCD screen touts the ability to mimic your player's screen, so you can sneak a peek at what's on deck without squinting to see the faraway dock. Interestingly, this remote not only packs the infrared abilities we've come to expect, but it also speaks ZigBee in order to transmit signals "up to 300 feet." Of course, this multifaceted device won't run you cheap, as interested buyers will be asked to cough up $180 to procure one when it lands this fall.
Video: Zune Remote works with 360
Video: Zune Wireless Remote Works with Xbox 360 Zune Insider has a video showing how the Zune's remote works with your Xbox 360, and we bet you couldn't guess that from the title. Seems pretty simple, and the remote is definitely less clunky than the Media Remote (Shorty or Universal). In any case, if any of you made the decision to get yourself a Zune to join the "3 days/3 plays" revolution, at least you can use the peripherals with your Xbox 360. Seriously, do any of you have Zunes?[Via GamerscoreBlog]
Monster's iEZClick wireless RF remote for iPod
It started with prodigiously overpriced cabling, recently branched into network media / automation devices, and now Monster Cable is dabbling in that oh-so-profitable iPod accessory market with the iEZClick. The RF-enabled wireless remote system works essentially like Scosche's rendition, and boasts controls for your 'Pod's volume level, track / playlist skipping, hold switch, and on / off functions. A smallish receiver plugs directly into the dock connector, and the oversized black remote can beam commands "up to 30 feet away" while your reportedly coveted PMP resides safe in the confines of a knapsack, handbag, purse, or questionably fashionable jean pocket; the liaison can also be rocked on a belt, handlebars or your wrist thanks to the thoughtfully included elastic strap. While we're too scratching our heads wondering why "high-end" interconnect firms are apparently the top dogs when it comes to dishing out the most decorous iPod remotes, Monster's iEZClick can be had for a (presumably inflated) $69.95.[Via iLounge]
