jonathanhowell - Slashdot User

Submission + - A new global memory card standard (computerworld.com)

Submitted by

Lucas123

on Friday June 01, 2007 @11:21AM

Lucas123 writes: "The Technology Research Institute has approved a new memory card standard called the Multiple Interface Card (miCard). The card will make transferring pictures, songs and other data between electronic gadgets and PCs easier. Twelve Taiwanese companies are preparing to manufacture the new miCard. 'The compatibility with both USB and MMC slots means most users won't need separate card readers anymore. MMC cards fit most consumer electronics, while USB connections are built into a wide range of IT hardware, including laptops, desktops, printers and home entertainment gear.'"

Submission + - What is Bio Degredable plastic all about?

Submitted by

jsbi

on Saturday April 14, 2007 @03:15PM

jsbi writes: "Due to their molecular stability, plastics do not easily break down into simpler components. Plastics are therefore not considered biodegradable .However, researchers are working to develop biodegradable plastics that will disintegrate due to bacterial action or exposure to sunlight. For example, scientists are incorporating starch molecules into some plastic resins during the manufacturing process. When these plastics are discarded, bacteria eat the starch molecules. This causes the polymer molecules to break apart, allowing the plastic to decompose. Researchers are also investigating ways to make plastics more biodegradable from exposure to sunlight. Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun causes many plastics molecules to become brittle and slowly break apart. Researchers are working to create plastics that will degrade faster in sunlight, but not so fast that the plastic begins to degrade while still in use."

Submission + - Kasparov Arrested!

Submitted by geddes on Saturday April 14, 2007 @03:08PM

geddes writes: World chess champion turned opposition leader Gary Kasparov was arrested this morning while leading an march through Moscow in opposition to Russian President Vladamir Putin. Kasporov is a leader of the "Other Russia" coalition which has been banned by the government from appearing on TV, and had been denied a marching permit. From the New York Times:

Essentially barred from access to television, members of Other Russia have embraced street protests as the only platform to voice their opposition ahead of parliamentary elections in December and presidential elections next March. Early this month, Mr. Kasyanov's and Mr. Kasparov's Web sites were blocked, though it was unclear by whom.
Should Kasparov's courage in the face of Government repression be an example nerd-turned-political activist for us all? Which other "nerds" can we look up to who have abandoned their careers (Kasparov resigned from professional chess to fight for democracy in Russia) to fight for social justice?

Submission + - Li-Ion Batteries Coming To A Car Near You?

Submitted by mrneutron2004 on Saturday April 14, 2007 @02:18PM

mrneutron2004 writes: Current generation electric and hybrid vehicles use NiMH (Nickel Metal Hydride) batteries, owing to their greater durability and safety relative to Li-Ion (Lithium Ion) batteries, which are commonly found in consumer class mobile devices (that hopefully don't burst into flames). http://www.fastsilicon.com/latest-news/li-ion-batt eries-coming-to-a-car-near-you.html?Itemid=60

Submission + - Donkey Kong Recreated Using 6,400 Post-it Notes

Submitted by

NickFitz

on Saturday April 14, 2007 @01:54PM

NickFitz writes: "Students at UCSC have recreated the first level of Donkey Kong using 6,400 Post-it notes stuck to the windows of the E2 building. It took a team of about 10 people five hours to complete the work, which will remain in place until May 1. There's a time-lapse video of the construction process."

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