Sony Vaio VGN-CR353/R

Shout it out in Blazing Red. If you like being noticed, you'll like the glossy, fiery finish and the extra attention. A bright 14.1 Inch LCD goes easy on the eyes, and an onboard 1.3-megapixel camera and microphone provide mobile video conferencing capability when you want to say it face-to-face.

Highlights

• The latest Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T8100(2.10GHz)
• Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium
• 14.1 Inch WXGA display(1280 x 800)
• Built-in 1.3 megapixel camera: MOTION EYE
• Connect to TV: S-Video Out Connector
• Simple entertainment access: AV Buttons

Specification

Operating System

• Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium

Processor

• Intel Centrino Processor Technology
• Processor Name Intel Core 2 Duo Processor T8100 (2.10 GHz)
• Chipset Mobile Intel PM965 Express Chipse
• Processor System Bus 800 MHz
• Memory Bus 667 MHz
• Cache Memory 3 MB

Main Memory

• 2 GB DDR2 SDRAM 34/-
• SO-DIMM Slots 2 SO-DIMM slots (The pre-installed memory module uses one)

Hard Disk Drive

• 250 GB5(Serial ATA, 5400rpm)

Optical Disc Drive

• DVD RW/DR DL/RAM Drive
• Maximum Reading Speed DVD+R: 8x (SL), 8x (DL)/ DVD-R: 8x (SL), 8x (DL)/ DVD+RW: 8x/DVD-RW: 8x/ DVD-ROM: 8x/DVD-RAM: 5x/ CD-ROM: 24x/CD-R: 24x/CD-RW: 24x
• Maximum Writing Speed DVD+R: 8x (SL), 6x (DL)/ DVD-R: 8x (SL), 6x (DL) DVD+RW: 8x/DVD-RW: 6x/ DVD-RAM: 5x/ CD-R: 24x/CD-RW: 24x

Graphics

• Graphics Accelerator ATI Mobility Radeon X2300
• Dedicated Video Memory 128 MB

Display

• Type 14.1 Inch wide(WXGA:1280x800) TFT Colour display (Clear Bright LCD Lite)

Interface

• USB High Speed USB 2.0 x 3
• i.LINK(IEEE 1394) 4 pin (S400) x 1
• Display Output Connector Analogue RGB, mini D-sub 15 pin x 1
• S Video In/Out Connector Output x 1
• Headphone Stereo mini jack x 1
• Microphone Stereo mini jack x 1
• Memory Stick Slot Memory Stick (Standard/Duo Size compatible, MagicGate compatible, Memory Stick PRO compatible, High-speed data transfer compatible)6
• SD Memory Card Slot SD Memory Card7(SDHC compatible, MMC compatible)
• PC Card Slot ExpressCard /34 x1
• DC IN x 1

Communication

• Wireless LAN Type Integrated Wireless LAN IEEE 802.11a/b/g/Draft n 8
• Modem V.92 and V.90 Compliant x 1
• Network (RJ-45)Connector 10Base-T/100Base-TX x 1
• Bluetooth Bluetooth standard Ver. 2.0+EDR
• Camera Front Side Camera
• Effective Pixels: 1280x1024

Audio

• Intel High Definition Audio compatible , 3D audio (Direct Sound 3D support)
• Speaker Built-in stereo speakers
• Microphone Built-in monaural microphone

Keyboard/Input Device

• Keyboard approx. 18 mm key pitch/2 mm keystroke , 82 keys
• Touchpad Intelligent Touchpad

Battery Life

• Bundled Battery VGP-BPS9/S Lithium-ion battery: up to 4 hours of use

Physical Description

• Dimensions (WxHxD) 335.1 mm x 21-38.3 mm x 249 mm
• Weight 2.5 kg (including the supplied battery.

Toshiba A300-1G3

At home, at school, or even for work, these brilliantly designed Satellite A300 laptops let you live brilliantly too. Use the TruBrite 15.4-inch high definition diagonal widescreen display to get more from movies, games, spreadsheets and multitasking. Keep in touch with friends, family and co-workers with onboard wireless, plus a Webcam and microphone. Game all night with a choice of outstanding graphics systems. Use Intel dual-core processing power to make the most of the latest software and keep all your stuff in one handy place thanks to some serious storage capacity,

Specifications

Operating system

• Genuine Windows Vista Home Premium Edition

Processor

• Intel Centrino processor technology featuring Intel Core2 Duo processor T5850,
• Intel PRO/Wireless 3945ABG network connection
• Intel GM965 Express chipset
• Clock speed : 2.16 GHz
• Front side bus : 667 MHz
• 2nd level cache : 2 MB

Memory

• System memory standard :2048 (2 x 1024) MB
+ 1GB Upgrade
• maximum expandability : 4096 MB
• technology : DDR2 RAM (667 MHz)

Hard Drive

• Hard disk capacity : 250 GB
• certification : S.M.A.R.T.

Optical Drive

• DVD Super Multi drive (Double Layer)
• CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-R(DL), DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+R(DL), DVD+RW, DVD-RAM
• maximum speed : Read: 24x CD-ROM, 8x DVD-ROM/ Write: 24x CD-R, 4x CD-RW, 10x HS CD-RW, 10x US CD-RW, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD-R (Double Layer), 4x DVD-RW, 8x DVD+R, 4x DVD+R (Double Layer), 4x DVD+RW, 5x DVD-RAM

Display

• Display size : 15.4 Inch
• Toshiba TruBrite WXGA TFT High Brightness display
• Internal resolution : 1280 x 800

Graphics

• Intel GMA X3100
• Shared system memory

Interfaces

• 1 x DC-in
• 1 x external monitor
• 1 x RJ-11
• 1 x RJ-45
• 1 x TV-out (s-video)
• 1 x i.LINK (IEEE 1394)
• 1 x external microphone
• 1 x headphone (stereo)
• 1 x SP/DIF (optical) shared with headphone socket
• 1 x integrated 1.3 Megapixels Web Camera with built-in microphone
• 1 x 5-in-1 Bridge Media slot (supports SD Cards up to 16 GB, Memory Stick up to 256 MB, Memory Stick Pro up to 2 GB, MultiMedia Card up to 2 GB and xD-Picture Card up to 2 GB)
• 4 (Left 2, Right 2) x USB 2.0 (supporting USB Sleep-and-Charge)

Expansion

• 2 x memory slots (1 to configure)
• 1 x ExpressCard slot

Communications

• Wireless Technology : Wireless LAN (802.11a/b/g)
• Wireless Technology : Integrated Bluetooth
• Wired communication topology : Fast Ethernet LAN 10BASE-T/100BASE-TX
• topology : international V.90 modem (V.92 ready) speed : 56 Kbps data and 14.4 Kbps fax

Sound

• Sound system supported audio format : 16-bit stereo
• supported sound standards : MIDI support
• speakers : built-in Harman Kardon stereo speakers
• manufacturer : Toshiba Bass Enhanced Sound System with Dolby Sound Room

Keyboard / Pointing Device

• Keyboard keys : 87
• Windows keys : 2
• Pointing device type : Touch Pad

Power

• Battery technology : lithium-ion
• maximum life : currently no official Windows Vista battery benchmark result available
• AC adapter input voltage : autosensing AC adapter (100/240 V) for worldwide usage

Physical Description

• W x L x H : 362 x 267 x 34.5 (front) / 38.5 (rear) mm
• weight : starting at 2.78 kg

Dell XPS M1530

The Intel Core 2 Duo is optimized for processor-intensive multimedia and applications, driving your PC and digital entertainment experience further and faster than ever before.

Display Your Colors

• Express yourself by choosing an XPS M1530 in one of our premium colors. Available Black, , the M1530 gives you the ability to select a multimedia masterpiece that suits your personal sense of style.

One-Touch Access

• With Dell MediaDirect, you have instant, one-touch access to movies, music and photos, plus select Microsoft Office functions with Dell's exclusive Instant Office functionality. No need to boot up your PC the low-profile, touch-sensitive media buttons can take you straight to what you want.

Protect Your Files with One Finger

• Never forget your password again: the XPS M1530 features a biometric fingerprint scanner for added security without adding yet another password to your list. The scanner also lets you easily access different programs using different fingers.

Crystal-Clear Viewing

• See your digital content how it was meant to be seen. The XPS M1530 boasts a Hi-def display with 800 lines of resolution (surpassing the 720-line Hi-def standard) for supreme viewing. Plus, an HDMI output allows you to easily connect to an external Hi-def display for sharp, gorgeous image and sound transfer.

Face-to-Face Communication

• To help you stay in touch with friends and interact with the online community, the XPS M1530 features an integrated 2.0 megapixel webcam and enhanced-capture microphone array. Whether you're communicating across the street or across the world, your face and voice will be crystal-clear.

Specification

Operating System

• Windows Vista Home Premium Edition

Processor

• Intel Core2Duo Processor T8300 2.4 Ghz
• 3MB L2 Cache 800MHz FSB

Display

• Screen 15.4 Inch Wide Screen WXGA (1280 x 800) display with TrueLife
• With Integrated Webcam
• CCFL 220 nits

Memory / Hard Drive

• Ram 2GB DDR2 RAM
• Hard Drive 160GB SATA Drive 5400 RPM HDD

Optical Drive

• Slot Load DVDRW

Graphics

• Graphics Nvidia GeForce 8400M Graphics Card
• 128MB Dedicated Memory

Communications

• Dell Wireless 1505 Wireless-N (802.11a/g/Draft n)
• Integrated Bluetooth Module
• 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet

I/O Ports

• 3 USB 2.0
• HDMI
• VGA
• Firewire (IEEE 1394a)
• RJ45 Ethernet port (10/100)
• 8-in-1 card reader
• 1 ExpressCard 54 mm slot
• Stereo in & headphone/speaker out (x2) dual digital array mics

Security

• Integrated Fingerprint Reader

Power

• 6-cell 56WHr Li-Ion Battery

Physical Description

• Weight: Starting at 5.78 lbs5 (2.62 kg)
• Width: 14.06" (357 mm)
• Height: 0.93" - 1.38" (23.7 mm - 35.1 mm wedge)
• Depth: 10.34" (263 mm)

Acer Aspire 6935G - 584G32Mi

The 16 Inch Aspire 6935G beams with notebook cinema excellence, enhancing high-def digital life with truly immersive audio and captivating video! Headlined by the Aspire CineReal Sensation a suite of superior show-time advancementsHD entertainment has never looked, sounded or felt so good. The CineReal Sensation boasts the 16:9 Acer CineCrystal Full HD3 display with 8 ms response time; Acer CineHD graphics and the nVidia GeForce 9600M GT GPU,; Optimized Dolby Home Theater technology via the Acer CineSurround audio system featuring two speakers, the Acer Tuba CineBass booster and True5.1-channel surround sound output; the CE-like CineDash media console, and much more. Take high-def movies, creative applications and games to the ultimate level.

Specification

Operating System

• Genuine Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium

Processor

• Intel Core 2 Duo CPT2P5800
• (2.0GHz / 800FSB / 2MB L2 Cache)

System Memory

• 4GB of DDR III RAM or higher, upgradeable to 4GB using dual soDIMM modules

Display

• 16 Inch HD 1366 x 768 pixel resolution Acer CineCrystal TFT LCD, supporting simultaneous multi-window viewing via Acer GridVista

Graphics

• Nvidia GeForce 9600M GS (512MB of dedicated GDDR III VRAM)
• Dual independent display support
• MPEG-2/DVD hardware-assisted capability
• WMV9 (VC-1) and H.264 (AVC) decoding

Storage Subsystem

• Hard Drive 320GB hard 5400 RPM
• 6-in-1 card reader, supporting Secure Digital (SD), MultiMediaCard (MMC), MMCplus, Memory Stick (MS), Memory Stick PRO (MS PRO), xD-Picture Card (xD)

Media Drive

• DVD-Super Multi Double-Layer drive (DVD+/-RW)

Keyboard / Pointing Device / Security

• Keyboard and Pointing Device 88-/89-key keyboard with inverted "T" cursor layout, 2.5 mm (minimum) key travel
• Touchpad pointing device with Acer Bio-Protection fingerprint reader, featuring Acer FingerNav 4-way control function
• 12 function keys, four cursor keys, two Windows keys, hotkey controls, embedded numeric keypad, international language support, independent Euro and US dollar sign keys
• Empowering Key
• BIOS user, supervisor, HDD passwords
• Kensington lock slot
• Easy-launch buttons: WLAN, Bluetooth, email, Internet, programmable
• Acer CineDash media console capacitive human interface device, including:
• Volume meter (volume up/down)
• Menu navigation (enter/back/left/right)
• Media control (play/pause, stop, previous, next, fast forward, rewind)
• Mute and hold keys

Audio

• Audio Optimized 2nd Generation Dolby Home Theater audio enhancement, featuring Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital Live, Dolby Pro Logic IIx, Dolby Headphone, Dolby Natural Bass and Dolby Sound Space Expander technologies
• Two built-in stereo speakers and one Acer Tuba CineBass booster supporting low-frequency effects
• True 5.1-channel surround sound output
• High-definition audio support
• MS-Sound compatible
• Acer PureZone technology with two built-in stereo microphones featuring beam forming, echo cancellation, and noise suppression technologies

Communications

• Integrated Acer Crystal Eye webcam
• Modem: 56K ITU V.92 with PTT approval, Wake-on-Ring ready
• LAN: Gigabit Ethernet, Wake-on-LAN ready
• WLAN: Intel Wireless WiFi Link 5300 (dual-band quad-mode 802.11a/b/g/Draft-N) Wi-Fi CERTIFIED network connection, featuring MIMO technology, supporting Acer Signal Up with Nplify wireless technology
• WPAN: Bluetooth 2.0+EDR (Enhanced Data Rate)

I/O Interface

• 4 x USB 2.0 ports
• 1 x ExpressCard/54 slot
• 1 x 6-in-1 card reader (SD/MMC/MMCplus/MS/MS PRO/xD)
• 1 x Consumer infrared (CIR) port
• 1 x External display VGA port
• 1 x Headphones/speaker/line-out jack with S/PDIF support
• 1 x Microphone-in jack
• 1 x Line-in jack
• 1 x RJ-45 Ethernet port
• 1 x RJ-11 modem port
• 1 x DC-in jack for AC adapter

Power Subsystem

• ACPI 3.0 CPU power management standard: supports Standby and Hibernation power-saving modes
• 6-cell Li-ion battery pack:
• 3-hour charge-in-use
• 3-pin 90 W AC adapter

Physical Description

• Dimensions & Weight 385 (W) x 275 (D) x 43.6/39.3 (H) mm
• 3.5 kg

HP Compaq 6730s

Business Essential. HP Compaq 6730s Notebook PC s is an excellent price-for-performance mobile office with the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processors, Wi-Fi Certified WLAN options, and a choice of high-performance discrete or UMA graphics.

Specifications

Operating System

• Dos

Processors

• Intel Core 2 Duo Processor P8600(2.40GHz, 3 MB L2 cache, 1066MHz FSB)
• Chipset Mobile Intel PM45 Express Chipset ICH9M-Enhanced

Memory

• Memory 3GB 800 MHz DDR2 SDRAM
• Memory upgrade Upgradeable to 4GB maximum (2 GB SODIMM in slots 1 and 2)

Storage

• Hard drive 320GB 5400 rpm SATA

Optical Drives

• LightScribe DVD+/-RW SuperMulti with Double Layer

Display

• Display size 15.4-inch diagonal WXGA BrightView
• Max Resolution 1280 x 800 with Integrated VGA Webcam
• Integrated camera

Graphics

• Intel Graphics Media Accelerator X3100
• Shared Memory

Ports

• External: 4 USB 2.0
• 1 microphone in
• 1 headphone/line-out
• 1 AC power
• 1 external VGA monitor
• 1 RJ-11
• 1 RJ-45
• Rear: 1 external VGA monitor; 1 RJ-11; 1 RJ-45; 1 S-video
• Slots 1 Express Card/54 1 media card reader

Communication features

• Network interface 10/100/1000 NIC
• Modem 56K V.92 modem
• Wireless Intel 802.11a/b/g/draft-n (up to 300 mbps data rate);
• Integrated Bluetooth 2.0

Physical Description

• Weight Starting at 5.5 lb (2.49 kg)
• Dimensions (w x d x h) 14.1 x 10.5 x 1.27 in (358.0 x 266.8 x 32.3 mm)

Hp Pavilion DV5-1251nr

With a striking, liquid metallic industrial design on the outside and powerful entertainment capabilities on the inside, this 15.4-inch notebook is the perfect partner for fun, communication and productivity.

Specifications

Processor

• Intel Centrino Processor Technology featuring
• Intel Core2 Duo Processor 2.0GHz T6400
• Processor Cache 2MB L2 Cache / 800Mhz FSB

Memory

• Memory 4096MB
• Memory Max 4096MB

Hard Disk

• Hard Drive 320GB (5400RPM)

Multimedia Drive

• LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD R/RW with Double Layer Support

Display

• Display 15.4 Inch Diagonal WXGA High-Definition HP BrightView Widescreen (1280 x 800) Display

Graphics

• Video Graphics NVIDIA GeForce 9200M GS
• Video Memory 512MB dedicated

Communications

• Fax/Modem High speed 56k modem
• Network Card Integrated 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN
• Wireless Connectivity Intel WiFi Link 5100AGN

Audio

• Sound Altec Lansing speakers

Keyboard 101-key compatible

• Pointing Device Touch Pad with On/Off button and dedicated vertical scroll Up/Down pad

PC Card Slots

• 1 ExpressCard/54 Slot (also supports ExpressCard/34)

External Ports

• 5-in-1 integrated Digital Media Reader for Secure Digital cards, MultiMedia cards, Memory Stick, Memory Stick Pro, or xD Picture cards
• 4 Universal Serial Bus (USB) 2.0, 4th port shared with eSATA
• 2 Headphone out
• 1 microphone-in
• HDMI
• 1 VGA (15-pin)
• eSATA + USB 2.0
• 1 RJ-11 (modem)
• 1 RJ -45 (LAN)
• 1 notebook expansion port 3
• 1 IEEE 1394
• irewire (4-pin)
• 1 Consumer IR (Remote Receiver)

Security

• Kensington MicroSaver lock slot
• Power-on password
• Accepts 3rd party security lock devices

Power

• 90W AC Adapter
• 6-Cell Lithium-Ion battery

Physical Description

• Dimensions 14.05" (L) x 10.2" (D) x 1.37" (min H)/1.65" (max H)
• Weight 5.83Ibs

2009 Porsche Boxster

There are a variety of superlatives that the 2009 Porsche Boxster conjures: exhilarating, dynamic, balanced, and pure. As a mid-engine, two-seat, rear-wheel drive roadster, the Boxster features two new engines and loads of power that offer a real connection between the driver and the automobile.

Both the Boxster and Boxster S have more power than ever before. The Boxster gets a new 2.9-liter, 255-horsepower horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine, while the Boxster S has a 3.4-liter, 310-horsepower flat six-cylinder engine. Both are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and a new, optional, seven-speed, dual-clutch automated manual, PDK transmission. The more efficient PDK operates in both manual gearshift and automatic mode replaces the Tiptronic S and uses steering-wheel mounted levers to upshift or downshift. The mid-engine, rear-wheel drive layout offers optimal balance and crisp handling through the curves. The Boxster competes with the Audi TT Roadster, BMW Z4, Chevrolet Corvette convertible and Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class.

As if the Boxster couldn’t look any sharper, Porsche decided to improve the headlights, taillights, side marker lights and emphasize a larger grille opening. On the inside, an updated Porsche Communication Management (PCM) controls the audio, communication and navigation systems. A 6.5-inch color touch screen helps you interact with the integrated CD/DVD drive, XM Satellite Radio, XM NavTraffic and optional BOSE Surround Sound System. The available Park Assist System uses ultrasonic sensors in the rear bumper to detect objects behind the vehicle. Standard Boxster features include a power convertible top with a heated glass rear window that opens or closes in 12 seconds. An optional hardtop is made from robust aluminum and offers all-weather protection.

Standard Porsche Stability Management uses a range of sensors and Automatic Brake Differential and Anti-Slip Regulation to maintain traction and stability during evasive maneuvers. The optional Sport Chrono Package offers selectable driving modes that tune the Cayman to satisfy your driving demands. The standard Porsche Stability Management system offers enhanced control and confidence in corners and extreme handling situations. An Anti-lock Braking System offer amazing stopping power and fade-resistant performance. Standard dual advanced airbags, seat-mounted thorax protection airbags, and head-protection curtain airbags offer excellent passenger protection in a collision.

With the new and improved 2009 Porsche Boxster, you can experience the thrills and joys of driving a legendary automobile without breaking the bank.

2009 Lexus SC 430

Looking to impress neighbors, business colleagues or heads of state? Arrive at any event in the 2009 Lexus SC 430 and blow your competition away. Have the most powerful and coolest sports car on the block with the SC 430 and its 4.30-liter, 288-horsepower V-8 engine. The SC 430 goes from a convertible to a hardtop coupe with just the touch of a button.

A singular trim is available and is a carryover from the 2008 model. There was no reason for Lexus to change even one detail in this piece of perfection. The SC 430 has room for four passengers and has almost every luxury feature is standard, including a navigation system, dual zone automatic air conditioning, and a state of the art Mark Levinson sound system complete with nine speakers. A sumptuous interior with leather trim and shined chrome accents completes this masterpiece on wheels. A 48 month/50,000 mile warranty comes standard. Add on different tire grades and a rear spoiler for just a bit more.

For those who just love extra luxury options, the Pebble Beach edition is available for 2009. The package includes monogrammed floor mats, super-premium paint and color options and summer or all-season tires. Often compared to the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class or the Cadillac XLR, the SC 430 gets better gas mileage (16 MPG city and 18 MPG freeway) at a fraction of the cost.

While the car is a true sports car (from 0 to 60 MPH in about 6 seconds), it features safety amenities found on most ultra-safe sedans or coupes. Front, side and knee airbags come standard. Stability control and ABS brakes keep the sportster on the road no matter what your speed. The Lexus SC 430 also scored five out of five stars on the NHTSA Driver's Crash test.

The 2009 Lexus SC 430 commands attention on the road with its style, power and easy-to-engage convertible feature. Not only is a tremendous car, but also an amazing deal considering its extensive list of features.

2009 Ford Mustang

A throwback to the heyday of the American muscle car, the 2009 Ford Mustang celebrates its 45th anniversary by borrowing key styling elements from the classic Mustangs of the ‘60s and combining them with radical paint colors and big, powerful engines.

The new Mustang is available in four main trim levels – V6 Deluxe, GT Deluxe, V6 Premium and GT Premium that can be ordered in either coupe or convertible form. The 210-horsepower 4.0-liter V6 is good, but is no match for the 300-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 GT, which exemplifies the classic muscle of the Mustang and is one of the fastest cars in its class. All models come equipped with a choice of 5-speed manual or automatic transmissions.

Of those four trims, there are four distinct option/cosmetic packages: Pony, Bullitt, GT California Special and Warriors in Pink. The Bullitt features a black mesh, black leather interior with aluminum trim, absence of Ford badges and a dropped spoiler. Add a 315-horsepower, V8 Tremec 5-speed manual transmission engine and unleash your inner Steve McQueen. When you purchase a Warriors in Pink Mustang, $500 will go to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Breast Cancer Foundation.

Mustangs are all about style, and a selection of 16”, 17”, and 18” aluminum wheels are available to customize your Pony (V6) Mustang. Convertible models have a power-folding convertible top and optional soft boot for open-air fun. GT models feature integrated fog lamps, and optional high-intensity discharge headlamps offer superior nighttime visibility. For safety, all Mustangs come with dual front and side airbags, and an anti-lock braking system is optional on V6 models and standard on GT.

Interior options include a touch screen DVD-based navigation system, combining GPS technology and a 6.5” screen to help guide your route. Two powerful Shaker audio systems are available – a 500-watt version and an Earth-shattering 1,000-watt version with dual trunk subwoofers. An auxiliary audio input jack will accommodate your iPod® with ease, and SIRIUS® satellite radio comes standard. Standard cloth or optional heated leather seating surfaces wrap around supportive front bucket seats, while coupes feature a 50/50 split fold rear seat back to handle large cargo items.

One of the few true muscle cars remaining, the 2009 Ford Mustang offers the kind of driving kicks that are best sampled on an open stretch of highway or your favorite curvy backroad.

2008 BMW Z4

Sizzling performance and svelte styling make the 2008 BMW Z4 a delight for any enthusiast. Available as the Z4 Coupe or Z4 Roadster, either model delivers quick acceleration and well-balanced handling.

The 3.0 liter inline 6-cylinder engine produces 255 horsepower for dynamic thrust, while the standard 6-speed manual gearbox is perfectly suited for quick shifting. The available 6-speed STEPTRONIC® automatic transmission with Adaptive Transmission Control and steering wheel-mounted manual shift paddles allow you to manually shift through the gears with the flick of a finger.

The standard power, lined softtop of the Z4 Roadster opens or closes in less than ten seconds with the push of a button on the center console. Optional amenities include 8-way power seats with 3-way driver’s seat memory for ultimate comfort with 3-stage heating. The available THX^™ Certified premium audio system features MP3 capabilities and 10 audiophile-quality speakers, including 2 subwoofers, for concert-like sound quality. The integrated iPod® Interface allows you to take your digital music on the road. The available Sport Package includes Dynamic Driving Control with a Sport Button for crisper handling and quicker engine response, 18” light-alloy wheels with performance tires, and a sport suspension for even better road feel.

Safety features include Dynamic Stability Control, including Brake Fade Compensation, Start-off Assistant, Brake Drying, and Brake Stand-by with Dynamic Traction Control providing amazing braking power, prevent wheel lockup, and supply excellent traction in all weather conditions. The standard run-flat wheel-tire system with Tire Pressure Warning allows you to drive up to 90 miles after loss of air pressure and provides a warning on the instrument panel if pressure gets too low. Standard dual front airbags, active knee protection airbags, and side-impact airbags protect both passengers in a collision.

Although not as hard-edged its M edition counterpart, the 2008 BMW Z4 offers grin-inducing speed and sexy curves as the Z4 Coupe or Z4 Roadster.

2009 Audi A8

Less austere and more contemporary than other cars in its class, the 2009 Audi A8 is the company's largest luxury sedan. The 2009 model includes most of the premium package options from the 2008.

The car's regular length is 199.3 inches, but an extended L edition increases this by five inches, really expanding the amount of rear leg room. These models both boast a 4.2-liter, 350-horsepower V-8 engine, with an available Sport Package. Audi’s distinctive, wide, trapezoidal grille is now featured on all A8 models. This grille was initially only offered on the more powerful W12's - which feature Audi's top-of-the-line engine, a 6.0-liter, 450-horsepower 12-cylinder, as well as the longer length of the L edition. All editions include 6-speed semi-automatic or manual transmissions with the Tiptronic system, originally developed by Porsche.

Anti-lock brakes, an electronic stability system and ten airbags are standard on the A8, as are a full security system and panic alarm. Additional safety features, such as a blind spot sensor and lane departure warning system are optional.

Creature comforts available across the board include leather upholstery, heated front and rear seats, 16-way power front seats w/power lumbar adjustment, keyless entry, power sunroof, a Bose speaker system, satellite radio and a navigation system w/voice recognition. The W12 adds a DVD entertainment system. Optional amenities include several custom variations (such as the aforementioned Sports Package), as well as a rear refrigerator, a complete leather upgrade and a handsome wood, leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The 2009 Audi A8 remains a truly sophisticated piece of machinery, both inside and out, combining strong performance with tasteful elegance.

2009 Acura TL

Completely overhauled for 2009, Acura's best-selling sports sedan now comes with a new 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine and is newly available with Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive. The model also receives an exterior redesign and an interior face-lift, as well as voice activation for many features. New for 2009 New engine options with more horsepower, all-wheel drive, new exterior design, new cabin and available voice-activated integration for navigation system. Exterior The TL sedan's exterior is drastically redesigned for 2009. It remains wide and aggressive, but a pronounced "beak" juts out from under Acura's shield grill. The TL is 195.3 inches long and has a 109.3-inch wheelbase, making it larger than its predecessor, as well as larger than competitors like the Infiniti G (187 inches) and the Lexus ES (191 inches). 17-inch alloy wheels standard; 18- or 19-inch wheels available, projector low-beam and halogen high-beam headlights, front fog lamps, in-glass radio antenna and dual exhaust finishers add to the TL's refinement. Interior The TL's interior receives a face-lift for 2009, making it slightly more upscale, though just as reserved, as the previous generation's. Every TL model comes with an eight-disc CD changer, iPod and USB connectivity, and an auxiliary input jack. A Technology Package provides interior upgrades like keyless access, voice activation for the navigation system, an 8-inch full-color navigation display and a premium audio system. The TL's trunk has 12.5 cubic feet of storage space, which is less than the Infiniti G and Lexus ES. The TL seats five. Standard interior features include: leather-trimmed interior, 10-way power driver's seat, including power lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, steering-wheel buttons that operate audio, cruise-control and voice-recognition functions.

Under the Hood
There's a choice of two engines, both of which work with a five-speed automatic transmission. Choose between a new 280-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 with 254 pounds-feet of torque, or a 305-hp, 3.7-liter V-6 with 275 pounds-feet of torque (TL SH-AWD). EPA-estimated mileage of 18/26 mpg city/highway in base TL, 17/24 in SH-AWD. Safety Standard safety features include: antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, side-impact and side curtain airbags, electronic stability system, three-point seat belts in all positions and active head restraints for front seats.

General Snooker Tips

Playing snooker has a lot to do with psychology. If you are confident then you play better. Be positive, make your mind up what shot and play it. What ball do you look at when you strike the white? The answer is always the object ball. This is always for every player. You do not look at the white or the end of your tip, just the cue ball.

Being good at snooker is a real pleasure. After all you practice hard, you reach a good standard and the game is so enjoyable. It is vital to play on different tables. Of course it is good to play a lot on one table because it can give you confidence but you must get used to playing on all types of tables and conditions. To be a champion is not just about talent, it is about dedication and determination.

Touching Balls & Penalties And Fouls

Touching Balls

If the cue ball is touching an object ball the striker must play away from the touching ball or be deemed to have pushed (a foul stroke). Playing away from a ball on, it is not a foul to hit a ball not on or to miss all other balls, since first contact is deemed to have been made with the touching ball on. It remains a foul to pot a ball not on, however. Playing away from a ball not on, it is a foul to hit a ball not on or to miss all balls. For example if the ball on is red, cue ball is touching red, striker plays away from and does not disturb red, strikes and goes in off black.

Penalty: 4 points, the value of the ball on.

Penalties And Fouls
A player fouling does not score for that stroke; ends his turn; concedes a minimum 4 penalty points to his opponent.

After any foul the incoming player has the option of playing the cue ball from where it came to rest or requesting his opponent to play the stroke.

Penalty: the value of the ball on or of the ball struck, whichever higher.

Balance In Snooker

The first thing to consider is balance. Balance is important in any sport and snooker is certainly no exception. Good balance is obtained by having a good stance. To find your balance is the first thing you must do if you want to play snooker. If you are solid on the shot then you will be able to pot with more consistency.

The next time snooker is on the TV, watch where the players position their feet. See how the front leg is bent and the back leg is kept straight. This gives a strong base from which to gain that all important balance. The position of the feet is also vital. If your feet are out of line then your whole body will be.

For this first part, try to concentrate on the way you stand. Stay down on the shot after you hit the cue ball, until the object ball is sunk. Make a mental note each time you go down on a shot and each time you stand up, of key positions of feet and legs. If you follow this as a rough guide then, assuming you are right handed, your left foot should be pointing in the direction of the object ball, but angled slightly outwards, and your right foot should be angled roughly toward the black spot.

When you are playing for position, make up your mind how you are going to get on the next ball and position the tip of the cue accordingly. The last thing you should be thinking about before you strike the cue ball is the pot. In fact, all of your efforts should be on making the ball go down, because if your technique is good then your tip should have struck the cue ball where you decided and the cue ball should go roughly where you wanted.

If this is not the case then you have not struck the cue ball where you intended. This means you probably moved on the shot or your stance was wrong, or both. In any case, if the object ball is sunk and you are out of position, you can at least play safe! A good safety shot is sometimes better than a pot.

Snooker Ball Values

Below is a table showing the points that each ball in snooker corresponds to when they are sunk. Every time a ball is sunk, the corresponding are added to a cumulative total for each player.
Ball Colour Points Allocated

15 reds 1 point each
Yellow 2 points
Green 3 points
Brown 4 points
Blue 5 points
Pink 6 points
Black 7 points

Also shown in Picture.

Snooker Table Setup

The six colours should be on their spots. Looking from the Baulk of the table (i.e. with the curved line of the D facing you) their positions are as follows:

Right to left along the Baulk line: yellow, brown, green;
On the centre spot: blue;
On the nearer of the two far-end spots: pink;
On the farther of the two far-end spots: black.

The fifteen reds are placed in a triangle between the pink
And the black, base parallel to the top of the table, the apex
Red being as near to the pink as possible without touching it.

Snooker Rules

The first player plays from on or within the lines of the D. The cue ball shall strike a red as the initial stroke of each turn, until all the reds are off the table. For the next stroke of the turn should a legal score be made, the cue ball shall strike a colour. The game continues by pocketing reds and colours alternately in the same turn. If the striker fails to score or fouls, his turn ends and the other player plays the cue ball from where it comes to rest unless it was jumped off the table, in which case it is played from any unoccupied part of the D.

If the player making the first stroke fails to hit a red, the other player receives the penalty for this foul and plays his first shot from where the cue ball came to rest on the table. Each colour potted or jumped off the table must be re-spotted before the next stroke until finally potted. It is the responsibility of the striker to ensure this happens but he scores all points made in that turn until the non-striker claims the foul. No foul is awarded if the improper spotting is noticed during a later turn.

If the player lawfully pocketing the last red pots with his next stroke a colour, that colour is re-spotted. Otherwise reds being off the table the colours must be struck by the cue ball in ascending order of their values and are not re-spotted if lawfully potted. A player must, when asked, nominate what colour ball he is aiming to play and must always, to the best of his ability, endeavour to strike the ball he is on.