Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Lian-Li designs a moving train PC case, makes plugging in a challenge (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/lian-li-designs-a-moving-train-pc-case/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/lian-li-designs-a-moving-train-pc-case/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/29/lian-li-designs-a-moving-train-pc-case/#comments Image

Lian-Li is a fan of odd-looking PC cases, but the boxes have usually had a tendency to remain stationary. The CK-101 takes away that one certainty: the design stuffs a fully functioning PC case with hard drive bays, a slim optical drive and USB 3.0 ports into an on-the-move model of a steam engine train. There's more than a few questions about how it works -- including whether or not it needs a battery to stay rolling, and just what's generating the 'steam' -- but it's already apparent from the video (below) that wired peripherals won't be much fun if you're chasing your computer down the tracks. There's a chance that Lian-Li will be selling a considerably more fixed-in-place version; we'll know more when the CK-101 is shown off at Computex in early June, where there will also be a show-specific, SUV-like Q15 case to sate your appetite for very literal car computers.

Continue reading Lian-Li designs a moving train PC case, makes plugging in a challenge (video)

Lian-Li designs a moving train PC case, makes plugging in a challenge (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 May 2012 20:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casecomputercomputersdesktopdesktopslian liLian-LiLianLilocomotivepcpc casePcCasesteam enginesteam trainSteamEngineSteamTraintrackstraintrain tracksTrainTracksvideoTue, 29 May 2012 20:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Amtrak readies conductors to trade in their hole punchers for iPhones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/amtrak-iphone-scanners/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/amtrak-iphone-scanners/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/07/amtrak-iphone-scanners/#comments Amtrak readies conductors to trade in their hole punchers for iPhones

Pilots aren't the only ones updating their workflows with modern technology. Amtrak conductors have been getting schooled on how to use iPhones to scan passenger tickets on select routes since November -- forcing hole punches to collect dust on a lonely shelf at the station. By the latter part of this summer, 1,700 conductors will be using the aforementioned smartphones on the outfit's trains throughout the US which allows them to track passengers with more ease than manual ticketing. The $7.5 million system affords passengers the choice of printing the tickets or loading a bar code on their smartphone of choice before getting the iPhone's scan. Inside the dedicated app, riders can book and modify reservations easily without having to worry with a refund from an agent first. There's only one small hiccup: currently Amtrak's app is only available for iPhones. But, the government-owned corporation says that an Android release is in the hopper and should see daylight this fall. For now, non-iOS users must load their tickets though a mobile site in order to save a tree or two.

Amtrak readies conductors to trade in their hole punchers for iPhones originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 May 2012 13:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amtrakApplebar codeBarCodee-tickete-ticketingiPhonemobilepostcrosssmartphonesticket scannerticketingticketsTicketScannertraintrainstransportationMon, 07 May 2012 13:25:00 EST<![CDATA[MBTA and Masabi team up for first smartphone rail ticketing system in the US, launching in Boston this fall]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/mbta-masabi-smartphone-ticketing/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/mbta-masabi-smartphone-ticketing/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/mbta-masabi-smartphone-ticketing/#comments MBTA and Masabi team up for first smartphone rail ticketing system in the US, launching in Boston this fall

In Boston this fall, you won't need to keep up with your train ticket anymore -- as long as you don't leave your smartphone at home. The Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MBTA) and Masabi have joined forces to bring a rail ticketing to handheld devices via iPhone, Android and BlackBerry apps. Headquartered in London, Masabi has launched similar tech for transit companies in the UK, eliminating ticket lines for many smartphone-wielding passengers. Software will allow riders to purchase tickets and passes that are validated with a barcode scan by conductors equipped with mobile devices of their own. MBTA is looking to cut costs and provide added convenience with the new system instead of adding more ticketing kiosks to its stations. The aforementioned apps will be developed alongside focus groups and a small pilot group this summer with a full rollout to all MBTA customers expected to happen this fall. Looking for a bit more info? Hit the coverage and source links below to read on.

[Image credit: Masabi on Flickr]

Continue reading MBTA and Masabi team up for first smartphone rail ticketing system in the US, launching in Boston this fall

MBTA and Masabi team up for first smartphone rail ticketing system in the US, launching in Boston this fall originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 13:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bostoncellphonesmasabimbtamobile paymentsmobile ticketingMobilePaymentsMobileTicketingpublic transportationPublicTransportationrailsmartphonesticketingtraintransportationMon, 23 Apr 2012 13:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Visualized: giant 'metal moles' ready to chew through London's underground]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/16/visualized-giant-metal-moles-ready-to-chew-through-londons-u/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/16/visualized-giant-metal-moles-ready-to-chew-through-londons-u/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/16/visualized-giant-metal-moles-ready-to-chew-through-londons-u/#comments diggersThe city of London will soon have a new underground train to climb aboard, dubbed the Crossrail. But, before anyone can ride the line, tunnels will have to be dug. That means its time to break out the TBM beasts. Over 490 feet long and topping 1,000 metric tons, these giant metal moles will slowly carve new tunnels under the city at about 330 feet per week. At that rate the Crossrail won't open until 2018 but, until then, we can all sleep soundly knowing that machines -- more than thrice as tall as a man -- are slowly eating away at the largest city in the British Isles from underneath. For more images of London's mayor, Boris Johnson, standing next to the German-made monstrosities, dressed in his daddy's suit hit up the source link.

Visualized: giant 'metal moles' ready to chew through London's underground originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 06:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>britaincrossrailenglandlondonsubwayTBMtraintunneltunnel boring machinesTunnelBoringMachinesvisualizedFri, 16 Mar 2012 06:49:00 EST<![CDATA[Hacker builds allegedly pointless data network out of Lego train set]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/hacker-builds-allegedly-pointless-data-network-out-of-lego-train/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/hacker-builds-allegedly-pointless-data-network-out-of-lego-train/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/hacker-builds-allegedly-pointless-data-network-out-of-lego-train/#comments How can we appreciate bullet-quick SSDs and fiber networks without pausing -- at the year's end -- to appreciate where it all came from? We should think back to before the birth of modern computing, even before the telegraph, to a time when bits of data were forced to travel everywhere by train. A hacker named Maximilien has now recreated that locomotive golden era using Lego, Arduino and Linux, and what his system lacks in bandwidth it more than makes up for in historical relevance. A USB flash key is borne by miniature railway carriage from station to station, stopping at each one to unload or pickup information and thus creating its own barebones networking protocol. Click the source link to appreciate the full museum piece.

Hacker builds allegedly pointless data network out of Lego train set originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 09:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduinohackhackadayHackerhackingIPIP over Avian CarrierIpOverAvianCarrierlegolinuxMaximilienmodmoddermoddingnetworknetworkingnetworking protocolNetworkingProtocolrailrailroadrailwaytraintrain setTrainSetTue, 27 Dec 2011 09:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple just arrived at Grand Central Terminal, we hop aboard (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/apple-just-arrived-at-grand-central-station-we-hop-aboard-vide/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/apple-just-arrived-at-grand-central-station-we-hop-aboard-vide/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/09/apple-just-arrived-at-grand-central-station-we-hop-aboard-vide/#comments For many New Yorkers, Grand Central Station Terminal is where you go to escape the island -- not to leisurely browse aisles of iPhone accessories, or pop in for a Genius Bar appointment. But apparently Apple has a slightly different vision for the city's transportation hub, opening its fifth NYC store along the main hall's 23,000 square foot east balcony. We dropped by for the grand opening this morning, which came complete with the standard Apple Store t-shirt giveaway and what seemed like hundreds of red shirt-clad retail employees.

As NYC's gateway to Connecticut, Grand Central is typically incredibly crowded during rush hour, but the enormous sunlight-filled main hall was packed to the brim today with spectators -- eager customers queued up in a hallway out of view, beginning early this morning. The store itself is huge, occupying the entire east balcony and several side rooms, with a large genius bar, training area and accessory alcove at either side. Eager to pop in for a visit? Thumb through the gallery below to step inside, and jump past the break to experience the cacophonous chaos at Grand Central.

Gallery: Apple Store Grand Central

Continue reading Apple just arrived at Grand Central Terminal, we hop aboard (video)

Apple just arrived at Grand Central Terminal, we hop aboard (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 11:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple retailapple storeapple store openingAppleRetailAppleStoreAppleStoreOpeninggrand centralgrand central apple storeGrand Central Stationgrand openingGrandCentralGrandCentralAppleStoreGrandCentralStationGrandOpeninghands-onmanhattanmobilepostcrossnew yorknew york cityNewYorkNewYorkCitynycopeningretailretail storeRetailStorestorestore openingStoreOpeningtraintrain stationtrainsTrainStationvideoFri, 09 Dec 2011 11:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Amtrak begins testing e-ticketing system, other futuristic things]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/amtrak-begins-testing-e-ticketing-system-other-futuristic-thing/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/amtrak-begins-testing-e-ticketing-system-other-futuristic-thing/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/29/amtrak-begins-testing-e-ticketing-system-other-futuristic-thing/#commentsIt's been a long time coming, but it looks like Amtrak is finally ready to get with the times. This month, the human-carrier began testing a new e-ticketing system for passengers traveling along its Downeaster line, which extends from Maine to Boston. Under the trial, travelers can either print their tickets at home, or have them e-mailed as a barcode-laced PDF file for conductors to scan. Customers can also change their reservations at the last minute, without having to wait in line at the ticket counter and interact with other people. It's not exactly cutting-edge technology, but Amtrak attributes the delay to the unique nature of the railway, where conductors check tickets in transit and have to deal with a steady stream of passengers getting on and hopping off. As a result, the company had to find a scanning device reliable enough to handle this constant flow of organisms, though it looks as if it's nearing a solution. Amtrak plans to expand the trial to California in February, and if that goes well, the system could roll out on a nationwide basis as early as this summer.

Continue reading Amtrak begins testing e-ticketing system, other futuristic things

Amtrak begins testing e-ticketing system, other futuristic things originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 29 Nov 2011 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amtrakbostonconductorDowneastere-ticketelectronic ticketElectronicTicketmaineminipostpassengerpdfsmartphonetesttickettraintransporttraveltrialTue, 29 Nov 2011 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Auckland amps up free WiFi for Rugby World Cup]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/auckland-amps-up-free-wifi-for-rugby-world-cup/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/auckland-amps-up-free-wifi-for-rugby-world-cup/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/09/auckland-amps-up-free-wifi-for-rugby-world-cup/#comments Just in time for play-by-play tweets about the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand, Auckand has instituted a fully-integrated WiFi network across its Link public transit system. According to officials, buses and some trains will get the free internet treatment, giving passengers up to three 30 minute sessions a day between September 1 and October 31st. Powered by Tomizone and sponsored by Localist, the network promises 2 - 6Mbps downloads and is based on point-to-point links around town using fiber assets for backhaul. If that wasn't enough connectivity, CallPlus and Slingshot are dishing out some gratis WiFi of their own with an additional thousand hotspots sprinkled throughout the city. Hopefully, the added infrastructure will mean WiFi access par excellence year round for maximum non-Rugby related tweetage. Check out the full PR after the break.

[Thanks, Scott]

Continue reading Auckland amps up free WiFi for Rugby World Cup

Auckland amps up free WiFi for Rugby World Cup originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 01:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3G4Gaucklandbackhaulbuscallplusfree wififree wifi accessFreeWifiFreeWifiAccessLinkLocalistnetworknew zealandNewZealandpublic transportationPublicTransportationrugby world cup 2011RugbyWorldCup2011slingshottomizonetrainwifiFri, 09 Sep 2011 01:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Japan speeding ahead with 500km/h Maglev train]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/japan-speeding-ahead-with-500km-h-maglev-train/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/japan-speeding-ahead-with-500km-h-maglev-train/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/japan-speeding-ahead-with-500km-h-maglev-train/#comments
Traveling the 515 km (320 miles) from Tokyo to Osaka by Shinkansen bullet train currently requires 2 hours and 25 minutes (and costs a small fortune, too). Come 2045, travel between Japan's two largest metro areas will take just over one hour, following the launch of the country's longest maglev track, which just received construction approval from Tokyo. The nine trillion yen project (approximately $112 billion) was first proposed in the 1970s, but was tabled indefinitely due to its astronomical costs, most of which stem from an extensive network of tunnels that will represent 60 percent of the route. You'll be able to get your Japanese Maglev fix beginning in 2027, when the Central Japan Railway launches its high-speed route between Tokyo and Nagoya. One notable neighbor to the west is already operating its own maglev train. China's Shanghai Transrapid has been blasting riders to Pudong airport since 2004, and once achieved a top speed of 501km/h (311 mph). The country is also constructing a 1000km/h vacuum-based train that it plans to launch within the next few years.

Japan speeding ahead with 500km/h Maglev train originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 21:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Central Japan RailwayCentralJapanRailwaychinaJapanjrmaglevnagoyaosakaShanghaitokyotraintrainsMon, 20 Jun 2011 21:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar train tunnels, refillable battery goop, and the world's first 3D-printed bikini]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/12/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-train-tunnels-refillable-batte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/12/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-train-tunnels-refillable-batte/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/12/inhabitats-week-in-green-solar-train-tunnels-refillable-batte/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.


This week green transportation left fossil fuels in the dust as Inhabitat reported that a record-breaking electric VW Bug rocketed from 0-60 in 1.6 seconds and Team Steam unveiled a space age vehicle that is vying for the title of "fastest steam car on earth." We also spotted the world's first natural gas-powered supercar, while a team of Cambridge students unveiled a sleek solar racer that will attempt to travel 1,800 miles in the World Solar Challenge. Oil fuels also lost more luster as GM's CEO called for a $1 gas tax increase in the US, while MIT unveiled a new type of liquid flow battery that could refuel electric vehicles in a snap.

As the summer sun hits its stride groundbreaking solar power projects are lighting up left and right - this week Google unveiled a new solar patent that could make solar energy cheaper than coal, while QSolar rolled out an array of rainbow-hued Kristal panels that can replace windows and walls. Photovoltaic gadgets also had their moment in the sun as Pixel Qi pulled back the curtain on a cheap, efficient solar-powered tablet and a wave and sun-powered seafaring robot received $22 million in funding.

Speaking of solar power, this week we applauded the opening of a two-mile-long photovoltaic train tunnel that will provide power to the Paris-Amsterdam high-speed rail line. We were also wowed by Steve Jobs' vision for Apple's new spaceship-shaped clean energy campus, and our Bright Ideas Lighting Design Competition is really heating up, so be sure to vote for your favorite green lamp before the contest ends next week. Finally, we shared 6 great green Father's Day gifts for tech-savvy dads, and as summer gets set to begin we brought you exclusive photos of the recently opened section 2 of New York's High Line park, a beautiful suspended swimmer's oasis in Denmark, and the world's first 3D-printed bikini.

Inhabitat's Week in Green: solar train tunnels, refillable battery goop, and the world's first 3D-printed bikini originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 12 Jun 2011 21:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteriesbatterybikiniGMInhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenKristalliquid flowliquid flow batteryLiquidFlowLiquidFlowBatteryMITnatural gasNaturalGasPixel QiPixelQiQSolarsolarsolar powerSolarPowersteamtaxtraintrainsWeek in GreenWeekInGreenworld solar challengeWorldSolarChallengeSun, 12 Jun 2011 21:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Europe's first solar powered train tunnel goes live on Belgian high-speed line (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/europes-first-solar-powered-train-tunnel-goes-live-on-belgian-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/europes-first-solar-powered-train-tunnel-goes-live-on-belgian-h/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/07/europes-first-solar-powered-train-tunnel-goes-live-on-belgian-h/#comments The train ride from Paris to Amsterdam may not be the most scenic of European railway routes, but it's the only one capable of harnessing the awesome power of the Sun -- for two miles, at least. Yesterday, engineers in Belgium officially switched on Europe's first solar-powered train tunnel, spanning a 2.1-mile stretch of the rail line connecting the City of Lights to Mokum. The installation's 16,000 solar panels will be used to provide 50 percent of the energy needed to power nearby Antwerp Central Station and to provide extra juice for both high-speed and traditional trains. Originally developed to help protect travelers from falling trees in an ancient forest, the project is expected to produce up to 3.3MWh 3,300 megawatts hours per year, while decreasing annual CO2 emissions by about 2,400 tons. Speed past the break for some aerial footage of the artery, along with a brief PR from Enfinity -- the Belgian renewable energy company that helped bring it to life.

Update: According to the AFP, the tunnel will produce 3,300 megawatts hours per year.

Continue reading Europe's first solar powered train tunnel goes live on Belgian high-speed line (video)

Europe's first solar powered train tunnel goes live on Belgian high-speed line (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Jun 2011 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amsterdamantwerpbelgiumCO2co2 emissionsCo2EmissionsenergyenfinityenvironmentEnvironmentallyFriendlyeuropefrancegreennetherlandsparisprojectrailwayrenewablerenewable energyRenewableEnergysolarsolar panelsolar powerSolarPanelSolarPowersuntraintransporttravelvideoTue, 07 Jun 2011 17:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: trains speed up, paint improves planes, and the CO2-scrubbing artificial trees]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/20/inhabitats-week-in-green-trains-speed-up-paint-improves-plane/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/20/inhabitats-week-in-green-trains-speed-up-paint-improves-plane/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/20/inhabitats-week-in-green-trains-speed-up-paint-improves-plane/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

This week Inhabitat saw high-speed railways pick up steam around the globe as China announced plans to build a trans-continental railroad in South America and Japan began developing the world's fastest high-speed train. We also saw eco transportation reach new heights as a kite-powered car completed an epic 5,000km journey across Australia and researchers developed a nanotech paint that will increase the fuel efficiency of airplanes. The automotive world is also gearing up for the Geneva car show as Toyota is getting set to roll out an all-electric IQ and Porsche pulled back the curtain on its Panamera S Hybrid and Boxster EV.

In other news, this week we brought you an exclusive video interview where celebrated environmentalist Stewart Brand argues that nuclear power could save the world. We also explored several other alternative energy sources that are decidedly less controversial - PurposeEnergy is transforming beer brewing waste into a source of clean-burning biofuel, and a design duo has proposed a series of beautiful solar-powered artificial trees that scrub CO2 from the air.

Roughly one in every six people do not have access to safe drinking water, so we were excited to learn about a pedal-powered water purification system based on the bicycle that holds great promise for the developing world. Speaking of cleaning up dirty water, this week Stephen Baldwin sued Kevin Costner over the oil-separating technology that cleaned up the BP oil spill. And last but not least, we were wowed by this hydrofloor system, which can save space and energy by concealing a swimming pool beneath your living room floor!

Inhabitat's Week in Green: trains speed up, paint improves planes, and the CO2-scrubbing artificial trees originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CO2hydrofloorinhabitatKevin CostnerKevinCostnerkitekite powerKitePowerpaintpedal powerPedalPowerpoolPurposeEnergyrailroadscrubbersolar powerSolarPowerStephen BaldwinStephenBaldwinStewart BrandStewartBrandswimming poolSwimmingPooltraintreetreesweek in greenWeekInGreenSun, 20 Feb 2011 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[PSP-playing boy falls onto train tracks, saved by a real life hero (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/psp-playing-boy-falls-onto-train-tracks-saved-by-a-real-life-he/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/psp-playing-boy-falls-onto-train-tracks-saved-by-a-real-life-he/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/psp-playing-boy-falls-onto-train-tracks-saved-by-a-real-life-he/#comments Not the best news for Sony execs to be waking up to this morning, as the company's PSP has played a starring role in an unfortunate, though thankfully innocuous, incident. A 10-year old Milanese boy was recently so absorbed by his portable's make.believe world that he forgot the real one around him had boundaries with bright lines painted around them. A moment later the young gamer found himself next to the train tracks a few feet below the platform designed for human occupation, though he wasn't there long as an off-duty policeman by the name of Alessandro Micalizzi quickly leapt down and lifted him to safety. See it on video below and feel free to draw your own conclusions about your gaming habits.

Continue reading PSP-playing boy falls onto train tracks, saved by a real life hero (video)

PSP-playing boy falls onto train tracks, saved by a real life hero (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 04 Feb 2011 02:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boycarabiniericopdangerousdistractedengrossedheroitalianitalymilanplatformpolicemanpsprescuesubwaytracktrackstrainundergroundvideoFri, 04 Feb 2011 02:33:00 EST<![CDATA[New York subway schedule turned into a beautiful, musical visualization (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/31/new-york-subway-train-schedule-turned-into-a-beautiful-musical/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/31/new-york-subway-train-schedule-turned-into-a-beautiful-musical/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/31/new-york-subway-train-schedule-turned-into-a-beautiful-musical/#comments
HTML5, JavaScript and a tiny pinch of Flash. Those are your ingredients for building one of the neatest, simplest websites we've come across in a long time. Conductor, as its maker Alexander Chen dubs it, is a visualization built on New York's publicly available subway schedule API. It shows the progress of the Big Apple's underground carriers throughout the day and garnishes the experience with a delightful musical trick every time two lines cross. You can see it on video after the break or just hit the source link and experience it for yourself.

Continue reading New York subway schedule turned into a beautiful, musical visualization (video)

New York subway schedule turned into a beautiful, musical visualization (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Jan 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alexander chenAlexanderChenaudioconductorhtmlhtml5instrumentinternetjavascriptmapmappingmtamusicnew yorkNewYorknycschedulesoundstringstringssubwaytraintrainsundergroundvideovisualizationvisualizedwebwebsiteMon, 31 Jan 2011 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Chinese passenger train reaches 302mph, claims speed record for unmodified trains]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/03/chinese-passenger-train-reaches-302mph-claims-speed-record-for/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/03/chinese-passenger-train-reaches-302mph-claims-speed-record-for/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/03/chinese-passenger-train-reaches-302mph-claims-speed-record-for/#comments Did you find the 262mph record that China scooped up only two months ago impressive? Well, add another 40mph to that number as today Xinhua News has revealed China's claim to the new speed record for unmodified commercial trains. The new line presently being tested between Beijing and Shanghai has delivered a mind-warping 302mph (486kph) top speed, which is projected to help cut down travel times between the two cities in half, down to a mere five hours. As with the Shanghai-Hangzhou connection that held the record previously, speeds with actual passengers on board will probably be limited to more moderate levels when this connections opens up in 2012, but the Chinese government's goal is still that magical 312mph (500kph) mark -- at this pace, they should be there by Tuesday.

Continue reading Chinese passenger train reaches 302mph, claims speed record for unmodified trains

Chinese passenger train reaches 302mph, claims speed record for unmodified trains originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Dec 2010 06:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>300mphbeijingchinachinesefastfastesthigh speed railHighSpeedRailrailrecordshanghaispeedtraintrainsworld recordWorldRecordworlds fastestWorldsFastestFri, 03 Dec 2010 06:04:00 EST<![CDATA[High-speed camera in motion can stop a commuter's heart]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/02/high-speed-camera-in-motion-can-stop-a-commuters-heart/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/02/high-speed-camera-in-motion-can-stop-a-commuters-heart/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/02/high-speed-camera-in-motion-can-stop-a-commuters-heart/#comments By now, you're certainly familiar with the magic that a consumer-branded Casio super-slow-mo camera can do with motion, right? But what happens when you use a two-year old Casio Exilim FH20 to shoot 210fps footage (played back at 30fps) from a moving train? Nothing, at least until the train slows down.

High-speed camera in motion can stop a commuter's heart originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 04:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casiofh20slow motionslow motion videoSlowMotionSlowMotionVideostop motionStopMotionsuper slow motionSuperSlowMotiontrainvideoThu, 02 Dec 2010 04:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Hidepon Works turbine train: small enough to be adorable, big enough to ride]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/01/hidepon-works-turbine-train-small-enough-to-be-adorable-big-en/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/01/hidepon-works-turbine-train-small-enough-to-be-adorable-big-en/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/01/hidepon-works-turbine-train-small-enough-to-be-adorable-big-en/#comments Well, don't ever knock Japan for not considering absolutely everything. The home to some of the world's biggest, cleanest and fastest trains is also home to one of the most minuscule, but unlike those toys you'll unwrap during the holiday season, this bad boy actually serves a bona fide purpose. Designed and showcased by Hidepon Works, the contraption you see above is actually a gas turbine-powered model train, and while it's small enough to bring a smile to your infant's face, it's large / powerful enough to actually get a conductor from one location to the next. Only problem? Paying for the railway infrastructure.

Continue reading Hidepon Works turbine train: small enough to be adorable, big enough to ride

Hidepon Works turbine train: small enough to be adorable, big enough to ride originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Dec 2010 14:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gasjapanmodel trainModelTraintrainturbinevideoWed, 01 Dec 2010 14:21:00 EST<![CDATA[China's Shanghai-Hangzhou rail line opens, hits record breaking speed of 262mph]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/chinas-shanghai-hangzhou-rail-line-opens-hits-record-breaking/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/chinas-shanghai-hangzhou-rail-line-opens-hits-record-breaking/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/chinas-shanghai-hangzhou-rail-line-opens-hits-record-breaking/#commentsHigh speed railways, particularly in Asia, have been soaring at around 200 miles per hour for quite some time now, but given just how much pride the Chinese have in their own rail system, it's no shock to hear the entire nation gloating about a new speed record. Of course, we're pretty partial to records ourselves, so we'll happily open up a round of applause when a bullet train hits 262 miles per hour without imploding. The newfangled Shanghai-Hangzhou connection (which connects Hongqiao and Hangzhou) has gone into service today, with most riders treated to a top speed of only 220 miles per hour. Officials have already stated that they're hoping to improve speeds to over 312 miles per hour, with other nations reportedly anxious to get ahold of their technology. Oh, and if you're curious about details, the CRH380 train covers 126 miles in just 45 minutes, with seats starting as low as $12.

Update: We've learned that a maglev train in China has been known to hit around 268 miles per hour as recently as two months ago -- we're sure semantics are to blame here.

China's Shanghai-Hangzhou rail line opens, hits record breaking speed of 262mph originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 13:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bullet trainBulletTrainchinachineseCRH380Hangzhouhigh speedhigh speed railHighSpeedHighSpeedRailtraintransportationtraveltravelingTue, 26 Oct 2010 13:08:00 EST<![CDATA[World's longest railway tunnel sees completion, should be zipping beneath the Alps in 2017]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/15/worlds-longest-railway-tunnel-sees-completion-should-be-zippin/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/15/worlds-longest-railway-tunnel-sees-completion-should-be-zippin/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/15/worlds-longest-railway-tunnel-sees-completion-should-be-zippin/#comments While a few nations in Asia battle it out for the world's fastest maglev train, some cool cats in Switzerland are cutting up the Alps in order to make North America's railway system look even more inadequate. According to AlpTransit, the longest railway tunnel in the world has just been completed, with the final drilling of the Gotthard wrapping up today. Miners drilled 30km from the north and 27km from the south, with the breakthrough point being just over 6km south of Sedrum. Granted, these miners aren't getting nearly the attention of a crew in Chile, but transport officials in Europe are still pretty stoked about this here accomplishment. In fact, it's also being described as the most deeply set rail tunnel in the world (there's a rock overburden of up to 2500 meters), with the Gotthard base tunnel aiming to provide a level track through the Alps that should become operational by 2017. When it's humming along, it'll shorten the Zurich-Milan journey time from 3 hours 40 minutes to 2 hours 50 minutes, not to mention make every rider feel as if they've truly traversed the ultimate Bat Cave. And that, friends, is worth the seven year wait.

[Thanks, Fabrice]

World's longest railway tunnel sees completion, should be zipping beneath the Alps in 2017 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Oct 2010 19:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alpsGotthardinternationalrailrailwayswitzerlandtraintransportationtunnelworld recordWorldRecordFri, 15 Oct 2010 19:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Inhabitat's Week in Green: speed demon saws, emergency bras, and the pedal-powered monorail]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/03/inhabitats-week-in-green-speed-demon-saws-emergency-bras-and/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/03/inhabitats-week-in-green-speed-demon-saws-emergency-bras-and/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/03/inhabitats-week-in-green-speed-demon-saws-emergency-bras-and/#commentsEach week our friends at Inhabitat recap the week's most interesting green developments and clean tech news for us -- it's the Week in Green.

This week China blazed a trail for green transportation as their newest train smashed the world record for high-speed rail travel. We also showcased a cutting edge vehicle powered by six circular saws and saw Google invest 1 million dollars in Shweeb's bicycle powered monorail - we can't wait to give it a spin!

We also saw big things brewing for alternative energy as wave power lit up the US energy grid for the first time and Stanford scientists unveiled a new type of nanotech solar cells that can produce ten times more electricity than standard PV's yet are thinner than a wavelength of light. Adobe also kept step with the latest in energy tech by upgrading its campus with a dozen Bloom Box fuel cells, and Volvo unveiled plans to create a new type of car body that doubles as a battery!

In other news, this week we spotted a great crop of green gadgets including an "emergency bra" that doubles as a gas mask, a flexible new type of electronic skin, and a stunning collection of recycled speaker art, fit to mount on your wall. We also rounded up our five favorite eco gadgets for guys and we ooh'd and aww'd at these incredibly detailed scooters made out of paper!

Inhabitat's Week in Green: speed demon saws, emergency bras, and the pedal-powered monorail originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 03 Oct 2010 21:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteryBloom BoxBloomBoxbraChinacircular sawCircularSawFuel Cellfuel cellsFuelCellFuelCellshigh-speed railHigh-speedRailinhabitatinhabitats week in greenInhabitatsWeekInGreenmonorailnanotechpapercraftrailroadrecycled artRecycledArtsawsolar powerSolarPowertrainSun, 03 Oct 2010 21:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Overheating iPod delays rush-hour train in Tokyo]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/overheating-ipod-delays-rush-hour-train-in-tokyo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/overheating-ipod-delays-rush-hour-train-in-tokyo/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/overheating-ipod-delays-rush-hour-train-in-tokyo/#comments Poor Apple. The company just can't catch a break these days. On Wednesday, Apple Japan began offering customers iPod nano replacements, giving in to local government demands to better address an overheating battery issue affecting Apple's first generation iPod nano players. Then Friday morning (making the English-language press only now) a busy rush-hour commuter train was stopped in Tokyo to investigate a smell. According to a spokesman, "When a member of staff went to investigate inside the train, a passenger came over showing him that the iPod she was listening to had burst apart." No injuries were reported and the exact iPod model is still unknown. However, we can be certain that the eight minute delay on Japan's notoriously timely railway system caused many commuters to question their ability to go on.

[Image courtesy of Maruhachi-kotsu]

Overheating iPod delays rush-hour train in Tokyo originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 06:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>batteryburstipodipod nanoIpodNanojapannanooverheatrailwaysmellswellingswollen batterySwollenBatterytokyotrainMon, 16 Aug 2010 06:58:00 EST<![CDATA[New Exilim golf-friendly digicam hitting Japan; the Pro from Dazaifu never had it so good]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/new-exilim-golf-friendly-digicam-hitting-japan-the-pro-from-daz/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/new-exilim-golf-friendly-digicam-hitting-japan-the-pro-from-daz/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/16/new-exilim-golf-friendly-digicam-hitting-japan-the-pro-from-daz/#comments
Golf fanatics will stop at nothing in pursuit of upping their game, and as you know, all sorts of gadgets have been modified to suit their purposes, from PNDs to digicams. Apparently Casio's Exilim line has been a favorite, and now its golf-centric camera is getting something of a spec bump. The Exilim EX-FC160S sports a 10 megapixel backside illuminated sensor, 5x optical zoom at 37mm, and support for 240fps video with an optional 30fps slow-motion playback. Available in Japan come August 27, in a limited production run of 5,000 units.

New Exilim golf-friendly digicam hitting Japan; the Pro from Dazaifu never had it so good originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Aug 2010 02:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casioEX FC160SEX-FC160SExFc160sexilimgolfgolfergolfingsportingsportstraintrainertrainingMon, 16 Aug 2010 02:20:00 EST<![CDATA[China's maglev trains to hit 1,000km/h in three years, Doc Brown to finally get 1985 squared away]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/04/chinas-maglev-trains-to-hit-1-000kph-in-three-years-doc-brown/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/04/chinas-maglev-trains-to-hit-1-000kph-in-three-years-doc-brown/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/04/chinas-maglev-trains-to-hit-1-000kph-in-three-years-doc-brown/#commentsLook out Japan -- your neighbor to the west might just steal your thunder. Years after the Land of the Rising Sun proudly boasted plans to create a maglev train that could soar along at 500km/h, China is now claiming that they'll have similar ones ready in just three years. Oh, but they'll travel at twice the aforesaid speed. According to the laboratory at Southwest Jiaotong University, a prototype is currently being worked on that'll average 500km/h to 600km/h, with a far smaller train to hit upwards of 1,000km/h in "two or three years." The trick? Tossing the maglev train inside of a vacuum tube, enabling greater velocity due to decreased friction. If you're scoffing at the mere thought of how much such a setup would cost, you're probably not alone -- it's bruited that the tunnel would cost "10 to 20 million yuan ($2.95 million) more than the current high speed railway for each kilometer." Pony up, taxpayers!

China's maglev trains to hit 1,000km/h in three years, Doc Brown to finally get 1985 squared away originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Aug 2010 23:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chinachinesefastfastestmaglevmaglev trainMaglevTrainmass transitMassTransittraintransportationworld recordWorldRecordWed, 04 Aug 2010 23:22:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz Hexawheel concept is the 4x4 you never knew you needed]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/23/mercedes-benz-hexawheel-concept-is-the-4x4-you-never-knew-you-ne/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/23/mercedes-benz-hexawheel-concept-is-the-4x4-you-never-knew-you-ne/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/23/mercedes-benz-hexawheel-concept-is-the-4x4-you-never-knew-you-ne/#comments It ain't the first Mercedes-Benz concept to dazzle us, and we get the feeling it's far from being the last. Dreamed up by designer Siyamak Rouhi Dehkordi, the Hexawheel is doing its darnedest to bring the gas guzzler back, and while we'd never turn down a solid deal on our own G-Wagon, there's something mighty novel about this ride. Boasting an iconic M-B design, this here creature deviates drastically from the typical road warrior, utilizing six wheels on an articulated chassis with a flexible drivetrain. All told, it'd measure some 16 feet if ushered into production, and it's quite possibly the best beach vehicle next to the dune buggy. There's no word on what kind of powerplant this thing would support, but we're guessing something involving fuel cells would be appropriate. Give those links below a visit if you're in the mood for more images.

Mercedes-Benz Hexawheel concept is the 4x4 you never knew you needed originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 23 May 2010 03:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artautomobilebenzcarconceptdesignexpensiveHexawheelluxurym bm-bMBMercedesMercedes-benztrainSun, 23 May 2010 03:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New Mexico Rail Runner train gets lit with WiMAX, sets a good example]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/14/new-mexico-rail-runner-train-gets-lit-with-wimax-sets-a-good-ex/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/14/new-mexico-rail-runner-train-gets-lit-with-wimax-sets-a-good-ex/http://www.engadget.com/2010/04/14/new-mexico-rail-runner-train-gets-lit-with-wimax-sets-a-good-ex/#commentsOh sure, we've seen the occasional big city train get their own WiFi / WiMAX installation, but when a state like New Mexico steps up and does it, we take notice. The New Mexico Rail Runner, which travels some 95 miles between Santa Fe and Albuquerque, is now lit with WiMAX along the entire route, and the service is being provided gratis for all who ride. Better still, the New Mexico Mid-Region Council of Governments has no intentions of ever charging patrons in order to recoup the $2.4 million investment. We're told that users can expect download rates of up to 6Mbps and upload speeds nearing 4Mbps, and we're desperately hopeful that other states will take notice and attempt to get with the program. America's already way behind most every European nation when it comes to rail travel, but toss a "free WiMAX!" sign on the door and you just might coax these car-lovin' Yanks into going mass transit.

[Thanks, Ben]

New Mexico Rail Runner train gets lit with WiMAX, sets a good example originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gbroadbandinternetmobile broadbandmobile internetMobileBroadbandMobileInternetrailrail runnerrail runner wifiRailRunnerRailRunnerWifirailwaySpeedy RailSpeedyRailtrainwifiwimaxwirelessWed, 14 Apr 2010 12:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Trust in Casio's Japanese Exilim EX-FS10S, it'll turn your bogeys into birdies]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/13/trust-in-casios-japanese-exilim-ex-fs10s-itll-turn-your-bogey/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/13/trust-in-casios-japanese-exilim-ex-fs10s-itll-turn-your-bogey/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/13/trust-in-casios-japanese-exilim-ex-fs10s-itll-turn-your-bogey/#comments Sure, we could rattle off a list of specs -- and if you're curiuos, it's a 9.1 megapixel sensor with 3x optical zoom and 720p video -- but you know what's really gonna have Casio's Exilim EX-FS10S flying off shelves? The ability to stand it behind your tee and show you exactly how you screw up your swing, with special help of the company's trademark 1000 frames per second burst mode. The catch is, while the EX-FS10 is already available in US, only the Japanese model seems to have your golf buddy. Bummer.

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Trust in Casio's Japanese Exilim EX-FS10S, it'll turn your bogeys into birdies originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 01:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casioex fs10sex-fs10sExFs10sexilimgolfgolfergolfingsportingsportstraintrainertrainingFri, 13 Nov 2009 01:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Planet's smallest model train set revealed to macro lenses, microscopes (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/26/planets-smallest-model-train-set-revealed-to-macro-lenses-micr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/26/planets-smallest-model-train-set-revealed-to-macro-lenses-micr/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/26/planets-smallest-model-train-set-revealed-to-macro-lenses-micr/#comments New Jersey's own David Smith is enjoying his 15 minutes right about now, as the world is finally talking about his model train set. You see, this model train set isn't just any model train set. No -- it's probably the world's smallest, most ridiculous and most awesome all at once (all at once). The so-called James River Branch community has been in the works for months on end, and the $11 working locomotive is 35,200 times smaller than a real one. Of course, the moving trains are really just attached to the top of a rotating tube, but you can certainly pretend you never heard that spoiler if you'd like. Check the video after the break -- the kid in you will thank us.

Continue reading Planet's smallest model train set revealed to macro lenses, microscopes (video)

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Planet's smallest model train set revealed to macro lenses, microscopes (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>david smithDavidSmithinventionnanotechnologytoytoystrainvideoworld recordWorldRecordworlds smallestWorldsSmallestMon, 26 Oct 2009 08:21:00 EST<![CDATA[The RailPod is one track short of a train car, the future of transportation?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/06/the-railpod-is-one-track-short-of-a-train-car-the-future-of-tra/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/06/the-railpod-is-one-track-short-of-a-train-car-the-future-of-tra/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/06/the-railpod-is-one-track-short-of-a-train-car-the-future-of-tra/#commentsThe RailPod is one track short of a train car, the future of transportation?
Think the PRT podcar is the pod that will re-invent transportation? Prepare to get those opinions railed, as the RailPod is on its way to get you where you're going -- and to put all those striking cabbies out of work. The idea is that unused (or underused) railway lines can be turned into bi-directional traffic routes, with the RailPod using gyros to balance precariously on a single strip of iron, taking up only half the width of the line. Two passengers can ride facing away from each other on this car of the future (presumably to discourage any hanky-panky of the future), whisked away after swiping a credit card and punching in a destination. The Boston-based startup is still in the "please oh please give us money" phase, but hope to have a working prototype ready by the end of the year. Until then you'll have to simply enjoy the video after the break, which you might be surprised to learn was created entirely using computer graphics.

[Via Mass High Tech]

Continue reading The RailPod is one track short of a train car, the future of transportation?

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The RailPod is one track short of a train car, the future of transportation? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Apr 2009 07:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>future of transportationFutureOfTransportationpodpodcarrailrailpodrailwaytrainMon, 06 Apr 2009 07:43:00 EST<![CDATA[WiFi Rail finalizes 20 year deal to bring internet to BART trains]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/31/wifi-rail-finalizes-20-year-deal-to-bring-internet-to-bart-train/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/31/wifi-rail-finalizes-20-year-deal-to-bring-internet-to-bart-train/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/31/wifi-rail-finalizes-20-year-deal-to-bring-internet-to-bart-train/#comments
Nearly a year to the day after we heard that WiFi trials were beginning on some of the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit trains, WiFi Rail has announced a deal that'll last a score and provide high-speed WiFi "throughout the BART transit system and on all BART commuter trains." Reportedly, the network has successfully been tested to handle loads and provide speeds in excess of 15Mbps on trains moving 81 miles-per-hour. As it stands, four downtown San Francisco stations and some segments of the tunnels are already fully functional, but it'll take until the end of 2010 before the entire network is complete. There's no mention of what the price table will end up looking like, though we are told that subscriptions will be available by day, month or year. Now, if only this would filter out to every other mass transit entity in America, we'd be just jolly.

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WiFi Rail finalizes 20 year deal to bring internet to BART trains originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 31 Jan 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bartinternetpublic transportationPublicTransportationsan franciscoSanFranciscosubwaytrainWi-Fi RailWi-fiRailwifiwifi trainWifiTrainSat, 31 Jan 2009 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[NTT Communications bringing WiFi to Japanese bullet trains in 2009]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/19/ntt-communications-bringing-wifi-to-japanese-bullet-train-in-200/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/19/ntt-communications-bringing-wifi-to-japanese-bullet-train-in-200/http://www.engadget.com/2008/12/19/ntt-communications-bringing-wifi-to-japanese-bullet-train-in-200/#comments
Remember that Type N700 train that became Japan's fastest in mid-2007? Yeah, well it's about to get a lot more fun to ride. Starting next year, passengers on the ultra-quick bullet trains will be able to hit up their favorite blogs and banter about aimlessly via email / IM at 270 kilometers per hour (that's 167 miles per hour for you Yanks). The service will reportedly be an extension of NTT Communications' HotSpot service, and we're told that download speeds should reach around 2Mbps. As for cost, the fees will be at the usual HotSpot rate, which runs from ¥500 ($5.73) per day to ¥1,680 ($19.25) per month, or in other words, rates you'll totally pay to stay connected on the brisk runs from Osaka to Tokyo.

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NTT Communications bringing WiFi to Japanese bullet trains in 2009 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 19 Dec 2008 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bullet trainBulletTrainHotSpotjapannttntt docomoNttDocomoosakatokyotrainwifiFri, 19 Dec 2008 10:01:00 EST<![CDATA[California high-speed train system to link NorCal and SoCal at 220mph]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/08/california-high-speed-train-system-to-link-norcal-and-socal-at-2/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/08/california-high-speed-train-system-to-link-norcal-and-socal-at-2/http://www.engadget.com/2008/11/08/california-high-speed-train-system-to-link-norcal-and-socal-at-2/#comments
Like it or not California, it's about time you folks ponied up for a serious rail system. With the recent passage of Proposition 1A, the wheels have started to churn on a sophisticated bullet train system that will eventually link San Diego in the south with Sacramento in the north, with stops at most every major city in between (LA and San Francisco included). The 800-mile network of trains would operate at upwards of 220mph and cost around $45 billion to construct, but it'll create 320,000 permanent jobs by 2030 and reduce the state's reliance on fossil fuel by 12.7 million barrels of oil per year. Unfortunately, there's no set time frame for completion just yet, but we wouldn't be surprised to see this one finished before that Anaheim - Las Vegas maglev project even gets off the ground.

[Via BoingBoing]

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California high-speed train system to link NorCal and SoCal at 220mph originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 08 Nov 2008 16:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bullet trainBulletTraincaliforniagreenrailrailwaysacramentosan diegosan franciscoSanDiegoSanFranciscotraintrainstransportationSat, 08 Nov 2008 16:37:00 EST<![CDATA[C2C coats windows of "quiet" train cabins to block cellphone rings]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/30/c2c-coats-windows-of-quiet-train-cabins-to-block-cellphone-rin/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/30/c2c-coats-windows-of-quiet-train-cabins-to-block-cellphone-rin/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/30/c2c-coats-windows-of-quiet-train-cabins-to-block-cellphone-rin/#comments
For UK citizens willing to have their privacy infringed upon in the name of peace and quiet, C2C is the train company for you. The outfit has introduced a special "quiet" carriage in its trains in order to nix conversations and unexpected cellphone noises for those who would prefer. The cabin in question sports a special coating on the windows that allows light in but rejects WiFi and cellular signals. In order to keep the lawyers at bay, folks who sit in this jammed-up area are asked to agree to those terms beforehand, and just in case you sign while inebriated, there are a number of signs and announcements (um, defeating the purpose much?) informing them that no calls will be allowed. Happy trails!

[Image courtesy of quetzy, thanks ugotamesij]

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C2C coats windows of "quiet" train cabins to block cellphone rings originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 10:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blockerC2Cenglandfilmjammerlondonmobileringtonessciencesignal blockersSignalBlockerstrainukThu, 30 Oct 2008 10:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft sues DHL over Xbox train derailment]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/11/microsoft-sues-dhl-over-xbox-train-derailment/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/11/microsoft-sues-dhl-over-xbox-train-derailment/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/11/microsoft-sues-dhl-over-xbox-train-derailment/#comments
You know who Microsoft hates? No, not Apple. It really hates DHL. Apparently, the delivery service has hit the folks in Redmond where it hurts: in the Xbox. It seems that 21,600 consoles were totally messed over by "impact damage, wetting, pilfering and shortage" when one of the company's freight trains derailed en route to Long Beach, California. The big M claims that DHL refuses to compensate for the lost goods, and has filed a complaint at a US District Court in Seattle, calling for $2 million in damages and stating that the shipper "negligently breached its duties as a common carrier, handler, bailee, warehouseman, agent, or in other capabilities." Harsh words, but really, who's to blame for this mess? Next time we suggest going with G.O.D.

[Thanks, Andrew S.]

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Microsoft sues DHL over Xbox train derailment originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 11 Oct 2008 11:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accidentderailmentdhllawsuitlegalmicrosofttraintrain derailmentTrainDerailmentxboxxbox 360Xbox360Sat, 11 Oct 2008 11:32:00 EST<![CDATA[French public rail trials RFID / USB combo ticket system]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/04/french-public-rail-trials-rfid-usb-combo-ticket-system/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/04/french-public-rail-trials-rfid-usb-combo-ticket-system/http://www.engadget.com/2008/09/04/french-public-rail-trials-rfid-usb-combo-ticket-system/#comments
In an effort to facilitate ticket purchasing, SNCF -- France's public rail system -- will commence a 1,000 user trial of its Weneo smart card system this Fall. Riders will be able to purchase tickets with the small USB dongles at turnstiles via RFID. Once the balance is depleted, users can refill their accounts by plugging the devices into a computer, whereby they're transported to the SNCF's online hub. Since only the rider's account number is stored in the RFID portion of the smart card, this system allows commuters hassle-free ticket purchasing, all while keeping important information privy from hackers - information that some RFID devices seem to have problems keeping secret. If all goes well, SNCF expects to expand the use of Weneo nationwide by 2010.

[Via Wired]

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French public rail trials RFID / USB combo ticket system originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>RFIDSNCFtrainThu, 04 Sep 2008 20:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Power-sipping Eco Ride urban transportation system to hit Japan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/20/power-sipping-eco-ride-urban-transportation-system-to-hit-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/20/power-sipping-eco-ride-urban-transportation-system-to-hit-japan/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/20/power-sipping-eco-ride-urban-transportation-system-to-hit-japan/#commentsJapan's not hurting for trains, but what's the addition of another going to hurt? Senyo Kogyo and Senyo Kiko have jointly announced plans to construct a test line for an energy-saving urban transportation system this October. Dubbed Eco Ride, the "roller coaster-like" system in Chiba Prefecture will operate "using the height difference on the railway," and furthermore, there will be drive units (complete with clanks and clangs, we bet) "installed at various points on the railway so that the Eco Ride can obtain the potential energy to run." Reportedly, Eco Ride would likely remain just a short-distance transportation system even if expanded, but no matter how you slice it, it sure beats taking the Segway to work.

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Power-sipping Eco Ride urban transportation system to hit Japan originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Eco Rideeco-friendlyEcoRidegreenjapanmass transitMassTransitrailrail wayRailWayroller coasterRollerCoasterSenyo KikoSenyo KogyoSenyoKikoSenyoKogyotraffictraintransportationWed, 20 Aug 2008 00:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympic gold medalist credits Wii with helping him mentally prepare]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/13/olympic-gold-medalist-credits-wii-with-helping-him-mentally-prep/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/13/olympic-gold-medalist-credits-wii-with-helping-him-mentally-prep/http://www.engadget.com/2008/08/13/olympic-gold-medalist-credits-wii-with-helping-him-mentally-prep/#commentsLook folks, we won't deny that hardcore usage of the Wii could result in weight loss, but we have all ideas Japan's Kosuke Kitajima relied a lot more on swimming laps religiously and eating a set diet than playing Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games. Nevertheless, the Olympic gold medalist, who snagged said medal in the men's 100-meter breaststroke earlier this week, did mention that he used the game to prepare his mind. "See, Mario does the breaststroke," he stated, "and thus, it's perfect mental training for envisioning the actual Olympic hall." We'd say that's being mighty generous, but whatever gets you to the other end first, right?

[Via Joystiq]

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Olympic gold medalist credits Wii with helping him mentally prepare originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 13 Aug 2008 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gold medalGoldMedaljapanKosuke KitajimaKosukeKitajimaolympicssportsportsswimswimmingtraintrainingwiiWed, 13 Aug 2008 08:28:00 EST<![CDATA[65-inch "digital posters" catch eyes in Tokyo train station]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/15/65-inch-digital-posters-catch-eyes-in-tokyo-train-station/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/15/65-inch-digital-posters-catch-eyes-in-tokyo-train-station/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/15/65-inch-digital-posters-catch-eyes-in-tokyo-train-station/#comments
Utilizing big honkin' displays for advertising purposes is nothing new, but East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and East Japan Marketing & Communications have decided to try "digital posters" out for reference. In short, ten 65-inch Sharp PN655R LCDs have been installed within "the internal concourse on the first floor of Tokyo Station's Yaesu South Entrance," and folks who stroll by can get a glimpse of whatever (the image changes each minute) in stunning 1080p. The goal here, as you might imagine, is to "evaluate the advertising effects of still image ad posters using large LCD panels displayed in a relatively busy gateway." If you're anxious to lay your eyes on the installation, you'd better hurry, as there's no guarantee that they'll remain after September. At least the video posted after the jump is forever.

Continue reading 65-inch "digital posters" catch eyes in Tokyo train station

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65-inch "digital posters" catch eyes in Tokyo train station originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 09:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingcommercial displaycommercial lcdCommercialDisplayCommercialLcddigital posterdigital signageDigitalPosterDigitalSignagehdjapanlcdlcd hdtvlcd tvLcdHdtvLcdTvmass transitMassTransitPN655Rsharptokyotraintrain stationTrainStationtrialTue, 15 Jul 2008 09:08:00 EST<![CDATA[65-inch "digital posters" catch eyes in Tokyo train station]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/15/65-inch-digital-posters-catch-eyes-in-tokyo-train-station/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/15/65-inch-digital-posters-catch-eyes-in-tokyo-train-station/http://www.engadget.com/2008/07/15/65-inch-digital-posters-catch-eyes-in-tokyo-train-station/#comments
Utilizing big honkin' displays for advertising purposes is nothing new, but East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and East Japan Marketing & Communications have decided to try "digital posters" out for reference. In short, ten 65-inch Sharp PN655R LCDs have been installed within "the internal concourse on the first floor of Tokyo Station's Yaesu South Entrance," and folks who stroll by can get a glimpse of whatever (the image changes each minute) in stunning 1080p. The goal here, as you might imagine, is to "evaluate the advertising effects of still image ad posters using large LCD panels displayed in a relatively busy gateway." If you're anxious to lay your eyes on the installation, you'd better hurry, as there's no guarantee that they'll remain after September. At least the video posted after the jump is forever.

Continue reading 65-inch "digital posters" catch eyes in Tokyo train station

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65-inch "digital posters" catch eyes in Tokyo train station originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 09:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Although the mention of a magnetically levitating train outside of US borders won't grab too much attention, saying that phrase here most definitely perks up ears. Sure enough, a maglev project that would shuttle folks from Disneyland to Las Vegas at up to 300 miles-per-hour is now jousting with a cheaper diesel-electric alternative (dubbed DesertXpress) for support. Reportedly, the latter would cost "just" $3- to $5 billion to construct -- compared to $12 billion for the former -- but rather than escorting folks from Anaheim or even Los Angeles, its origin would be planted in Victorville, California. Still, the trip from there to Vegas would only take three to four hours including the 1.5 hour drive to Victorville, but that still doesn't sound nearly as nice as "well under two hours" for the maglev. As it stands, there's quite a bit of red tape to wade through before either option goes forward, but kicking back on a whizzing train sounds an awful lot better than staring at pavement and blasting the air conditioner for five or so hours.

[Via Gadling]

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Maglev, diesel-electric trains vie for support in US desert originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Feb 2008 18:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>californiaDesertXpressdieseldisneydisneylandlas vegasLasVegasmaglevmass transitMassTransitnevadatrainususaWed, 27 Feb 2008 18:16:00 EST<![CDATA[WiFi trial comes to San Francisco's BART trains]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/02/wifi-trial-comes-to-san-franciscos-bart-trains/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/02/wifi-trial-comes-to-san-franciscos-bart-trains/http://www.engadget.com/2008/02/02/wifi-trial-comes-to-san-franciscos-bart-trains/#commentsMerely hours after hearing that a contactless payment trial was going live on San Francisco's BART, along comes word that a test of a slightly different nature was also underway on the very same public transportation system. Reportedly, a recent Wi-Fi Rail installation on a select stretch of track proved that WiFi could be delivered to passengers at around 15Mbps -- up and down -- and if things go smoothly, the firm hopes to get its technology onto all sorts of rail systems across the globe. Unfortunately, there doesn't look to be any firm plans for the trial to stick on BART, but who knows, keep on refreshing that nearby network list on the morning commute and you might just get lucky.

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WiFi trial comes to San Francisco's BART trains originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 02 Feb 2008 14:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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