LightScribe is an optical disc recording technology that utilizes specially coated recordable CD and DVD media to produce laser-etched labels.
The purpose of LightScribe is to allow users to create direct-to-disc labels (as opposed to stick-on labels), using their optical disc writer. Special discs and a compatible disc writer are required. After burning data to the read-side of the disc, the user simply turns the medium over and inserts it with the label side down. The drive's laser then etches into the label side in such a way that an image is produced.
History
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LightScribe is a registered trademark of the Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. LightScribe was conceived by an HP engineer (Daryl Anderson) in Corvallis, Oregon, and brought to market through the joint design efforts of HP's imaging and optical storage divisions.
Mode of operation
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The surface of a LightScribe disc is coated with a reactive dye that changes color when it absorbs 780nm infrared laser light. The etched label will show no noticeable fading under exposure to indoor lighting for at least 2 years. Optical media should always be stored in a protective sleeve or case that keeps the data content in the dark and safe from scratches. If properly stored as such, the label should last the life of the discs in real-world application.
LightScribe labels burn in concentric circles, moving outward from the center of the disc. Images with the largest diameters will take longest to burn.
Initially LightScribe was monochromatic, a grey etch on a gold looking surface. From late 2006, LightScribe discs are also available in colors for categorization. The "burning" is still monochromatic, but the backgrounds can now be produced in various colors, under the v1.2 specification.
Currently it's not possible to rewrite a LightScribe label but it's possible to add more content to a label that is already burned.
The center of every LightScribe disc has a special code that allows the drive to know the precise rotational position of the disc. This in combination with the drive hardware allows it to know the precise position from the center outwards, and the disc can be labeled while spinning at high speed using these references. It also serves a secondary purpose: The same disc can be labeled with the same label again, several times. Each successive labeling will darken the blacks and generally produce a better image, and the successive burns will line up perfectly. However it is recommended to use the Control Panel to modify the printing parameters and have images with higher contrast.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
LightScribe
Wibree
Wibree is a digital radio technology (intended to become an open standard of wireless communications) designed for ultra low power consumption (button cell batteries) within a short range (10 meters / 30 ft) based around low-cost transceiver microchips in each device.
History
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In 2001, Nokia researchers determined that there were various scenarios that contemporary wireless technologies did not address. To address the problem, Nokia Research Center started the development of a wireless technology adapted from the Bluetooth standard which would provide lower power usage and price while minimizing difference between Bluetooth and the new technology. The results were published in 2004 using the name Bluetooth Low End Extension. After further development with partners, e.g., within EU FP6 project MIMOSA, the technology was released to public in October 2006 with brand name Wibree. After negotiations with Bluetooth SIG members, in June 2007, an agreement was reached to include Wibree in future Bluetooth specification as an ultra-low-power Bluetooth technology.
Technical information
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Wibree is designed to work side-by-side with and complement Bluetooth. It operates in 2.4 GHz ISM band with physical layer bit rate of 1 Mbit/s. Main applications include devices such as wrist watches, wireless keyboards, toys and sports sensors where low power consumption is a key design requirement. The technology was announced on 3 October 2006 by Nokia . Partners that currently license the technology and cooperate in defining the specification are Nordic Semiconductor, Broadcom Corporation, CSR and Epson. Other contributors are Suunto and Taiyo Yuden.
Wibree is not designed to replace Bluetooth, but rather to complement the technology in supported devices. Wibree-enabled devices will be smaller and more energy-efficient than their Bluetooth counterparts. This is especially important in devices such as wristwatches, where Bluetooth models may be too large and heavy to be comfortable. Replacing Bluetooth with Wibree will make the devices closer in dimensions and weight to current standard wristwatches.
Bob Iannucci, head of Nokia's Research Centre, claims the technology is up to ten times more efficient than Bluetooth. Reportedly, it will have an output power around -6 dBm. Nordic Semiconductor is aiming to sample Wibree chips during the second half of 2007.
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