Xavier Lanier

Case Study: ToughBooks Used in Freezing Conditions to Keep the Lights On

For some users, a standard notebook isn't even an option and a notebook that can stand up to cold and wet conditions is necessary. The Panasonic ToughBook CF19 is one such notebook and the folks at ArborMetrics Solution use it to keep in contact with headquarters while they help keep trees away from power lines amongst other tasks.
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Lame: Microsoft Response to HP 40% Cash Back Black Friday Offer Disaster

A lot of people, including myself and Notebooks.com readers, were unable to take advantage of Live.com and HP's 40% Black Friday Cash Back program. Microsoft has yet to offer an explanation of what went wrong or taken proactive steps to address the matter. Instead, its issued a "drawer statement" to Notebooks.com and others who've inquired about this issue.
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Simpsons Apple Store: Yeah It’s Kinda Like That

A recent Simpsons episode makes fun of Apple stores, the company's employees and fanatical customers. I've had some very pleasant experiences at Apple stores, but anyone that's spent any amount of time in one can probably relate at least one of the characters in this episode to one of the real-life Apple store inhabitants.
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HP Magic Giveaway Contests go Live

MediaBlab, Neowin, BostonPocketPC and HackCollege have all launched their HP Magic Giveaway contests. The sites all have their entry rules, but they all have the same great $6,000 prize package.

Tenori-ON: Tech Gift Idea for Musicians, Students

The Tenori-ON is an innovative gadget that Yamaha calls a digital instrument for the 21st century. It's pricey at $1,200, but this would be an awesome gift for an aspiring musician, especially if she's into composing her own lyrics.

Black Friday Disaster: Microsoft’s Live.com Cash Back Fails Big Time

Late last night I blogged about HP and Live.com's 40% off sale, which is one of the best Black Friday deals I'd found this year. It was so good in fact that I decided to just stay away from the crowds completely and buy a few items from the comfort of my home office. But after eight hours of trying to redeem this deal, Microsoft's Live.com Cash Back service still isn't working and there are a ton of disappointed Black Friday shoppers.
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Contest: What Did You Buy on Black Friday? (win a $50 gift card)

We want to hear about what you scored on Black Friday so far. Tell us about your experience, where you bought your Black Friday notebook or other gadgets and whether you're satisfied with your purchases or not. This is a quick and simple contest- so quick that I haven't had a chance to buy a gift card yet. This means the winner gets to choose a gift card to Amazon, Apple, iTunes, HP, Dell, Buy.com or TigerDirect.com. Tell us in the comments section below and we'll pick one a winner at random on Monday.