Gadget glut drains component supply

The release this year of must-have gadgets such as the iPad, iPhone 4 and a host of other smartphones, tablet computers and 3D TVs is draining the Asian market dry of electronic components, reports AFP.

An iPad is sold on average every 2.3 seconds, with three million sold in the first 80 days after its debut in the US in April. The increase in demand has made this a hot summer for Taiwanese touchscreen maker Wintek, and not just because temperatures have risen to abnormally high levels.

Located in the central Taiwanese city of Taichung, the company has struggled to keep up with insatiable demand for its hi-tech components.

Computer maker Getac has unveiled a tablet PC for use in rugged conditions, says IT Pro Portal.

The device is designed for use by workers in public utilities, waste management and field-based services environments. The Getac V100 tablet PC comes with a magnesium alloy casing and complies with the MIL STD-810G and IP65 military standards for durability.

According to the Getac V100's company product page, the device comes with a sophisticated multi-touch screen that allows users to navigate without removing their gloves.

Livescribe has augmented its product range with a new smartpen and software enhancements for business professionals, states Tech Gadgets.

After the Pulse, the company has recently disclosed the Echo.The announcement also mentioned future Livescribe offerings, which include communication and collaboration capabilities namely, connect and paper tablet software.

Like its predecessor, the Echo had been crafted to capture everything consumers write and hear. It comes with a rubberised grip and anti-roll surface.