By now, you've no doubt heard a lot about Microsoft Windows XP Pro. The overview is quite simple, combines Windows 98's and Me's aptitude for running games and legacy hardware with Windows 2000's more stable and manageable kernel. Microsoft is positioning Home Edition as its most important consumer upgrade since Windows 95. The architecture has also changed. One of the most notable changes is an improvement in the way XP detects and uses device drivers an attempt to make the operating system more stable. And although Microsoft says you can install this OS on a 64MB system, we don't recommend it; several features will be turned off, and the system will run slowly.
Olympus SP-350 digital camera
Rating: 8.5/10 Great
PROS Olympus Compact, fully featured, with exposures and colour.
CONS Olympus HoIding can be awkward; some fringing resolution lower than the sensor says.
Olympus digital camera If an SLR, or large bridge camera, is too bulky to take with you, you may consider a smaller compact with a full feature set, like the SP-320. Olympus digital camera Last year's SP-350 had an 8MP sensor; the less-expensive SP-320 offers 7.1 million pixels. The camera has a comprehensive set of exposure modes, and continues its enthusiast heritage with JPEG or RAW recording. Olympus digital camera Apart from the lack of a hotshoe, there's a resemblance to the SP-350 in design.The LCD is the same size at 2.5in, while the body uses the same materials, button layout and styling. The SP-320 looks traditional, with AA batteries held in the right grip, so is useful for travel. Olympus digital camera those used to more-conventional cameras will appreciate the feel and layout of this one. Start-upand shutter release time are quick enough, though the AF occasionally struggles to decide which area to lock onto. Olympus digital camera A big advantage of this camera is the RAW recording, and using Photoshop CS2 at least allows you to adjust some minor fringing. Sharpness can lack bite and this is more noticeable the larger you go. Colourand contrast is very good and exposures too. I was impressed by the noticeable but well-controlled noise at ISO 800. Olympus digital camera As a backup or lightweight alternative to a DSLR, or as a digital toe-dipper for film buffs, the SP-320 isn't bad value. Performance and features outpace many other cameras in this price bracket. Olympus digital camera A nice model that offers more than many competitors.
By now, you've no doubt heard a lot about Microsoft Windows XP Pro. The overview is quite simple, combines Windows 98's and Me's aptitude for running games and legacy hardware with Windows 2000's more stable and manageable kernel. Microsoft is positioning Home Edition as its most important consumer upgrade since Windows 95. The architecture has also changed. One of the most notable changes is an improvement in the way XP detects and uses device drivers an attempt to make the operating system more stable. And although Microsoft says you can install this OS on a 64MB system, we don't recommend it; several features will be turned off, and the system will run slowly.