How a chip makes a greeting card burst into (fuzzy) song

Article Abstract:

Singing greeting cards incorporate microelectronics and mechanics to function. They have to be cheap enough that people will pay a small amount more than the $3 that the most expensive plain greeting cards cost. Above that price they don't sell. Information Storage Devices Inc.'s Chipcorder is one semiconductor voice input/output device that is often used. Chips of this type record analog sound which takes less storage space and requires fewer electronic components than recording digital sound. Originally designed for answering machines, their cost allows chips with 10-20 seconds of time to be used in cards. A paper switch activated by opening the card starts playback. Cards that allow purchasers to record their own greetings include another switch and a microphone. The small margin on cards has kept retailers from stocking many of them, keeping them out of the retail channel. Distribution over the Internet may offer better opportunities for their sale.

Semiconductor Devices, Product information, Other Commercial Printing, Greeting Cards, Usage, Semiconductor chips, Integrated circuits, Design and construction, Greeting cards industry, Greeting card industry, Tutorial, Information Storage Devices Inc., ISDI, Information Storage Devices Chipcorder (Voice I/O device)

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Do you have enough RAM? It depends on which kind

Article Abstract:

There are three kinds of computer random access memory: dynamic, video, and static. More memory generally means more speed and greater system stability when running graphically intensive or multiple applications. D.RAM is what your PC uses for short-term memory when running applications. V.RAM, found on the video card, processes graphic information for the monitor. Increased S.RAM adds more speed and processing power via a memory cache. Chip prices have fallen dramatically, so it may make sense for users to add to their system. RAM has tended to lag behind microprocessor speed. New chips designed to close that gap are coming out this fall. They are called direct-Rambus RAM, or RDRAM.

Random Access Memory Circuits, Technology application, RAM, RAM (Random access memory), Product application

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Beyond the Palm Pilot: new brands and features for P.D.A.'s

Article Abstract:

The Palm Vx, $449, has 8MB RAM. The Handspring Visor Deluxe, $249, has 8MB RAM and accepts Springboard application cartridges, which are beginning to appear on the market. The Cassiopeia E-105, $599, has a color display and 32 MB RAM. Users can protect their PDA with accessories such as the Rhinoskin Titanium Slider, $99.95, or the Dooney & Burke Leather Palm V Case, $49.95, and enter data quickly with the Stowaway Think Outside folding keyboard, $99.

Electronic computers, Hand-held computers, Handheld computers, Handheld data devices, Computer industry, Equipment and supplies, Buyers Guide, Hand-held data device

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