Apr 30 - SOYO Releases VIA KT333 Chipset Motherboards. SOYO
Computer, Inc. today announced its fastest motherboard for builders
of AMD Socket-A based systems who want both style and function.
SOYO's new SY-KT333 DRAGON Ultra motherboard flies past previous
AMD-based boards with its VIA KT333/8233A chipset and many advanced
features, however the new board also makes a fashion statement with
its platinum finish. SOYO will offer the SY-KT333 in a limited "Platinum
Edition," which features a platinum-colored PCB for building
a stylish system when the board is mounted in a translucent case.
The SY-KT333 DRAGON Ultra -- Platinum Edition also has a heat dissipation
feature for keeping the board cool, and includes a bundled sigma box
with two front USB 2.0 ports and a combination Compact Flash Card/Smart
Media Reader/Writer, which allows users to easily transfer data from
digital cameras, PDAs, MP3 Players, and other mobile electronics devices
that use Smart Media. The sigma box occupies a standard 3.5-inch drive
bay.
The SY-KT333 DRAGON Ultra will also be offered in a basic black PCB
and will be bundled with a sigma box peripheral that includes four
front USB 2.0 ports.
SOYO's newest edition to its DRAGON series motherboard line maximizes
VIA's KT333/8233A chipset. The KT333 chipset now fully supports DDR
memory modules at 333MHz. The enhanced chipset solves bottlenecks
created by increasing processor speeds, and accelerates the memory
bandwidth by 20% to 2.7 gigabits per second (GB/sec) compared to 2.1
GB/sec with existing 266MHz memory.
In addition to extra memory bandwidth from the VIA chipset, the SY-KT333
DRAGON Ultra also boosts performance with ATA-133 (133Mbytes/sec)
support for hard drives, and has USB 2.0 on board.
The SY-KT333 DRAGON Ultra is easily expandable with three 184-pin
DDR SDRAM 2.5V DIMM sockets, which support up to 3GB of DDR333 memory.
The board has five 32-bit Bus Mastering PCI slots (V2.2 compliant),
and one Universal AGP Pro slot, which supports 1x/2x/4x mode.
SOYO has integrated several on-board features to add performance
and value. The SY-KT333 features an on board CMI 8738 audio chip to
provide 6-channel digital audio. The sound chip eliminates the need
for a sound card, and also supports optical output & SPDIF output.
SOYO is bundling a SPDIF audio card with both its Platinum and Black
Edition boards. The SPDIF card allows digital audio signals to be
transferred from one device to another without having to convert them
first to an analog. Maintaining the integrity of the digital signal
prevents signal degradation when it is converted to analog.
On board 10/100 Mbps Ethernet is a standard feature of the SY-KT333
with its Realtek 8100B controller. SOYO has also embedded a HiPoint
IDE-RAID chip to provide ATA133 IDE RAID at Level 0 (data striping),
Level 1 (disk mirroring) or Levels 0+1.
The SY-KT333 features an on board Ultra I/O chip, which supports
two RS-232 serial ports (16550 UART compatible); one parallel printer
port (SPP/EPP/ECP mode); one FDD port (Supports 3 mode, 1.2/1.44/2.88
MB FDD; an IrDA (infrared) port with optional cable for transceiver,
and four USB 2.0 ports (2 rear, 2 front). The board also features
two PCI bus mastering ATA133 E-IDE ports, and Ultra DMA 66/100/133
IDE ports, which support four independent channels to accommodate
eight IDE devices, including two for RAID.
SOYO has integrated many enhanced overclocking, system management,
and security features into the SY-KT333 DRAGON Ultra motherboard.
Users can customize their boards to specific applications by adjusting
the CPU FSB, core voltage & multiplier, AGP Pro voltage through
the Award PCI BIOS setup. The FSB can be set in 1Mhz increments through
the BIOS setup.
Support is also included for on-board hardware monitoring, and includes
SOYO's Hardware Health Utility to streamline PC system management.
Among the many hardware monitoring functions are CPU fan speed and
temperature monitoring through a thermal sensor; WOL (Wake On LAN)
function to simplify network management; software power-off controls
and remote and/or alarm power-on control.
SOYO bundles its 8-in-1 Software CD Pack with each board. It includes
Norton AntiVirus 2002, Norton Ghost, Adobe Active Share and Acrobat
Reader, Vcom AutoSave, WinDVD, eWalla text & voice messaging software,
and Imagemore photographic collection.
The MSRP of the SY-KT333 DRAGON Ultra is $179 (U.S.). The Platinum
Edition will have a MSRP of $195 (U.S.). For information, visit www.soyousa.com.
Apr 30 - ATI's MOBILITY RADEON 7500 Ships
in Apple's New Titanium PowerBook G4. The world's number one notebook
graphics vendor, ATI Technologies (TSE:ATY) (NASDAQ:ATYT), today announced
today that its MOBILITY(TM) RADEON(TM) 7500 graphics processor now
ships in Apple's latest Titanium PowerBook G4 notebook.
The MOBILITY RADEON 7500 graphics processor brings all the features
and performance of a desktop PC to the notebook space, including lightning-fast
3D acceleration, superior video editing capability, smooth DVD (digital
versatile disc) playback, integrated TV-out, multi-monitor support,
and the ability to run the latest high-power video games and the industry's
most graphics-intensive applications.
The ultimate mobile studio for creative professionals, Apple's new
Titanium PowerBook G4 features ATI's MOBILITY RADEON 7500 graphics
processor with AGP 4X support and 32MB DDR (double data rate) video
memory and other leading-edge components, including a PowerPC G4 processor
with Velocity Engine running up to 800 MHz.
The PowerBook G4 also features a slot-loading Combo drive (DVD-ROM/CD-RW),
and a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) connector which increases display
options by providing a pure digital connection to DVI-enabled projectors
and displays, as well as Apple's own lineup of award winning flat
panel displays (requires Apple DVI to ADC Adapter). The award-winning
PowerBook G4 offers up to 5 hours of battery life and a 15.2-inch
TFT XGA display housed in a 1-inch thick, 5.4 pound titanium enclosure.
For more information visit www.ati.com.
Apr 30 - SOHOware Adopts Intel XScale Technology
for Home Networking. SOHOware(R) Inc. is developing its next-generation
of residential and SOHO networking solutions around the Intel(R) XScale(TM)
technology by designing with the Intel(R) IXP425 network processor.
According to Yong Ho Son, SOHOware vice president of technology,
"The Intel XScale technology provides SOHOware with the high
performance and programming flexibility to approach the design of
residential networking and multimedia application solutions from a
true system perspective."
SOHOware's current development efforts center on taking today's isolated
broadband connectivity products to the next-generation of application-driven
networks that support data, voice and multimedia capabilities across
a broad range of transport mediums such as Ethernet and IEEE802.11x.
The company expects to launch its family of multimedia gateway systems
in 2002 that is compliant with CableLabs(R) CableHome(TM) 1.0 specifications
for interfacing home networking equipment to cable operator systems.
CableHome specifications define a minimum set of requirements for
network management, quality-of-service, service provisioning and security
functions.
"The Intel IXP425 network processor is an excellent complement
to SOHOware's vision for broadband residential networking systems,"
said Doug Davis, general manager of Intel's Network Processor Division.
"Its XScale core and multiple network processing engines enable
the wire speed performance necessary for such robust broadband applications."
A major goal of cable operators is seamless interoperability of home
networking equipment with broadband cable services to generate incremental
revenues, while reducing life-cycle costs of customer care, according
to Son. For more information visit www.sohoware.com.
Apr 30 - AMD Adopts MIPS Technologies'
64-Bit Architecture. MIPS Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq:MIPS)(Nasdaq:MIPSB),
a leading provider of industry-standard processor architectures and
cores for digital consumer and business applications, and AMD (NYSE:AMD)
today announced the MIPS64(TM) Instruction Set Architecture (ISA)
has been licensed to AMD. With this license, AMD plans to develop
64-bit processors that implement the MIPS64 architecture standard
in addition to its current product line of processors based on the
MIPS32(TM) architecture standards.
"AMD strongly believes in the MIPS architecture, and that the
64-bit MIPS architecture will complement our current 32-bit MIPS32
technology-based products and ultimately, will serve new and different
markets," said Dr. Billy Edwards, vice president and general
manager of AMD's Personal Connectivity Solutions group.
"Consumer demand for new information appliances that combine
computing, Internet access, high quality multimedia and encryption
for secure, high-speed transactions, is driving the need for both
32-bit and 64-bit processing. Both 32-bit and 64-bit MIPS architectures
deliver the performance, power efficiency, and broad application-based
industry support. In addition, they are designed to deliver a level
of design flexibility and scalability unavailable from any other processor
Intellectual Property (IP) provider."
Processor development work under the license is planned to be performed
by AMD's Personal Connectivity Solutions (PCS) group, which was formed
in February with the acquisition of Alchemy Semiconductor, Inc. The
entire Alchemy design team, which spearheaded the development of high-performance,
low-power, MIPS-based(TM) microprocessors for personal connectivity
devices, has joined AMD's PCS group. AMD also holds an ISA license
for the 32-bit MIPS32 architecture.
"The demand for high-performing Windows(R)-Powered multimedia
devices continues to grow, and OEMS need high-performance processors
to power these devices," said Scott Horn, director, Embedded
and Appliance Platforms Group at Microsoft Corp. "AMD, with the
MIPS64 architecture, will be able to offer a very compelling solution
that enables OEMS to rapidly develop smart, affordable devices based
on the current Windows CE.NET operating system."
"The momentum for 64-bit embedded processors is increasing,
and AMD's licensing of the MIPS64 architecture is evidence of that.
In the past nine months alone, nearly half of our licensing agreements
have been for 64-bit architecture and cores," said John Bourgoin,
chairman and CEO of MIPS Technologies. "We are particularly pleased
that AMD, with its many years of experience in embedded markets and
in microprocessor development, recognizes the value that 64-bit technology
is bringing to these markets."
MIPS Technologies is the only company in the embedded processor industry
to openly license a 64-bit architecture. It is supported by widely-used
operating systems and embedded tool chains, as well as hundreds of
applications. Such widespread support makes it a compelling solution
for designers who want to quickly get to market with their next-generation
products.
About AMD's Personal Connectivity Solutions Group
AMD's PCS Group currently has over 20 design wins for its 32-bit
MIPS products and with its recently announced Au1100(TM) processor,
claims an industry leading combination of performance, low power consumption
and integration. AMD also enjoys support from numerous third-party
software providers and an overlapping customer base with its Computational
Products Group and Memory Group products.
About 64-Bit MIPS Architecture
MIPS Technologies began developing its 64-bit processor architecture
more than 10 years ago, based on the RISC research of MIPS co-founder
John Hennessy, currently president of Stanford University. Today,
MIPS Technologies is the only company that openly licenses 64-bit
architecture. More than a dozen companies, including AMD, Broadcom,
IDT, LSI Logic, NEC, PMC-Sierra and Toshiba, have deployed the technology
in processors for a variety of applications, including the Sony PlayStation(R)
2 computer entertainment system, Motorola digital cable set-top boxes,
and HP laser printers.
For more AMD news and product information, please visit our virtual
pressroom at www.amd.com.
Apr 30 - Star Wars Jedi Knight II: Jedi
Outcast Tops PC Sales Charts. Star Wars(R) Jedi Knight(R) II:
Jedi Outcast(TM), from LucasArts Entertainment Company LLC, was the
best-selling premium priced PC game in dollars for the month of March,
according to NPD Intelect. The first-person action game has remained
a top-selling title in North America since its launch on March 28,
2002.
In addition to strong North American retail sales, Jedi Outcast also
is topping sales charts in two of the largest European PC game markets,
Germany and the United Kingdom. Since its worldwide launch in March,
the game has remained the best selling premium-price PC title in Germany,
according to Media Control and a top-five selling title in the United
Kingdom, according to Chart Track.
"We're very happy with the strong initial sales performance
of Jedi Outcast both in the U.S. and around the world," says
Mary Bihr, vice president, worldwide sales and marketing for LucasArts.
"Raven Software in conjunction with LucasArts, produced a high-quality
gaming experience that has been very well received by both consumers
and retailers alike. We anticipate that the game will continue to
be a strong seller for months to come, carrying on LucasArts' legacy
as a top PC game publisher."
Developed by Activision, Inc.'s (Nasdaq:ATVI) premier game studio
Raven Software, Jedi Outcast is a dynamic single and multiplayer action
experience that continues the saga of the once-powerful Jedi Knight,
Kyle Katarn, as he struggles with the power -- and dangers --of the
Force. Through a multitude of complex and richly detailed Star Wars
environments players face a variety of powerful enemies and once again
fight for the Rebel cause. Armed with the power of the Force and an
arsenal of weapons, including a Jedi Knight's signature lightsaber,
players hold the fate of the Star Wars galaxy and the destiny of Kyle
Katarn in their hands.
More information about Activision and its products can be found on
the company's World Wide Web site, which is located at www.activision.com.
Apr 29 - AMD Reports First Quarter Loss.
AMD today reported sales of $902,073,000 and a net loss of $9,163,000
for the quarter ended March 31, 2002. The net loss amounted to $0.03
per share. The company reported record unit sales of PC processors
during the quarter.
Total sales declined by 24 percent from the like period of 2001 and
by 5 percent from the fourth quarter of 2001. In the first quarter
of 2001, AMD reported total sales of $1,188,747,000 and net income
of $124,837,000, which amounted to $0.37 per diluted share. In the
fourth quarter of 2001, AMD reported net sales of $951,873,000, and
a net loss of $15,842,000, or $0.05 per share.
AMD sold a record 8 million PC processors in the first quarter of
2002. Total PC processor sales of $684 million for the quarter grew
by 3 percent compared to $661 million in the like period of 2001.
Processor sales declined by 3 percent from the record $703 million
reported in the seasonally strong fourth quarter of 2001.
Sales of AMD memory products, principally flash memory devices, continued
to be weak, amounting to $160 million, compared to $411 million in
the like period a year ago and $196 million in the fourth quarter
of 2001.
"The strength of the AMD Athlon(TM) XP processor enabled AMD
to achieve record unit sales of PC processors," said W.J. Sanders
III, chairman and chief executive officer. "We believe AMD grew
unit market share in PC processors, defined as Microsoft(R) Windows(R)
compatible processors for mobile, desktop, server, and workstation
computing. Sales of mobile processors grew in both units and dollars
from the prior quarter. During the quarter, we began shipping our
AMD Athlon XP processor produced on 130-nanometer (nm) technology
(code-named "Thoroughbred") for mobile applications.
"Shipments of the desktop version of the AMD Athlon XP processor
on 130-nm technology will commence this quarter," Sanders said.
"Our conversion to 130-nm technology is going extremely well,
and we now expect to complete the transition to 100 percent of PC
processor production on 130-nm technology ahead of our previously
announced year-end timetable.
"We also achieved substantial growth in sales of AMD Athlon
MP processors for servers during the quarter. We have focused our
initial sales and marketing efforts for AMD Athlon MP processors in
the North American market, where we believe we have attained a unit
market share of approximately 6 percent.
"While sales of flash memory products once again declined substantially,
there are signs that the industry flash crash is now behind us,"
Sanders said. "For the second consecutive quarter, total shipments
in both units and bits increased while pricing remained weak. Bookings
for flash memory products improved over the prior quarter, and visibility
is improving. Demand was strongest for our higher-density flash memory
devices, and we are seeing signs of a recovery in the cellular telephone
sector, where we are gaining market share at the market leaders.
"We will begin sampling flash memory products with our proprietary
MirrorBit(TM) technology in the current quarter, and expect that these
products will contribute to Memory Group revenues in the second half
of the year. MirrorBit technology is a breakthrough in memory cell
architecture that enables a flash memory cell to store twice as much
data as a standard flash memory cell with no compromise in device
performance and reliability," Sanders said.
"In January we saw working silicon for our Hammer family of
processors. We have commenced sampling to key infrastructure partners.
Our early results strengthen our confidence in our plans to begin
shipments by the end of 2002," Sanders concluded.
Current Outlook
The company's outlook statements are based on current expectations.
The following statements are forward-looking, and actual results could
differ materially. Economic and industry conditions remain uncertain,
and continue to make it particularly difficult to forecast product
demand. The company's current outlook is based on the following projections.
The company expects substantial sequential growth in sales of flash
memory devices in the second quarter.
The company expects that unit sales of PC processors in the second
quarter will follow seasonal patterns, which generally show a sequential
decline in the range of 5 to 10 percent. The company expects to maintain
unit market share at current levels in the PC processor market. The
company expects to sell substantially increased volumes of AMD Athlon
XP processors manufactured on 130-nm technology in the current quarter.
Depending on unpredictable PC processor pricing patterns in a generally
weak PC market and the rate of growth in the flash memory market,
AMD aggregate sales are expected to be in the range of $820 to $900
million in the second quarter.
AMD will provide an audio broadcast of its investor teleconference
on the Investor Relations page of its web site at http://www.amd.com
or http://www.StreetEvents.com.
Apr 29 - Phoenix Technologies Introduces
BIOS Crash Recovery Tools. Phoenix Technologies Ltd. (Nasdaq:PTEC),
today announced FirstWare Rescue, an innovative new family of emergency
tools engineered into a secure, tamper-resistant "safe zone"
in the foundation of the PC.
Even after a major disaster such as an operating system crash, scrambled
hard disk, software worm or virus attack, FirstWare Rescue continues
to function, so PC users can resolve problems on their own or use
the Internet to get help.
Phoenix, best known for the BIOS software built into the core hardware
of hundreds of millions of PCs and connected devices worldwide, has
engineered FirstWare Rescue into a protected zone in the foundation
of the PC. Phoenix patent-pending FirstWare(TM) technology keeps this
data under the watchful eye of the FirstBIOS, protected by an encrypted
"internal firewall" and impervious to tampering. In this
secure, on-board PC "bomb shelter," IT departments and PC
users have the tools they need to get up and running after a PC meltdown.
"We believe that the BIOS is the ultimate platform for software
that can secure PCs from the inside out, and protect data from corruption
in today's world of hackers, virus attacks, worms, and increasingly
complex software," said Alan L. McCann, senior vice president
& general manager, Phoenix Technologies. "FirstWare Rescue
is just the beginning of a new era of PCs that are safer, more stable
and above all, easier to use."
An Ultra-Secure "Bomb Shelter" in the Foundation of your
PC
The chief causes of PC instability are viruses, hackers, and the
sheer growing complexity of PC systems and software. Rather than attacking
the problem from the outside (with corporate firewalls, external storage
or recovery software layered on top of the operating system, where
it won't work after a major crash) Phoenix Technologies is working
with PC makers to create a safe, stable area inside the PC.
The first phase of Phoenix's FirstWare initiative, announced today,
is FirstWare Rescue, a suite of self-contained emergency recovery
tools:
FirstWare Rescue takes a triage approach to resolving problems:
1. FirstWare Check -- About 80% of PCs that are returned to
manufacturers have no actual hardware defect. FirstWare Check
reduces these system returns by quickly testing the hardware
on problem PCs and removing any confusion of whether the
problem is hardware or software related. Check examines the
system board, processor, memory, hard drive and video
hardware.
2. FirstWare Connect -- The Internet has enabled software
companies to freely distribute bug fixes, drivers and software
patches. But what if the problem you're having prevents you
from even logging on to get them? Like a "spare tire" for
the
Internet, FirstWare Connect is an "always available" emergency
browser that gets you online even when the OS won't boot. This
streamlined browser can be pre-set by the hardware
manufacturer or IT staff to download updates, request help
from the PC maker's website, or send an S.O.S. message to the
help desk.
3. FirstWare Vault -- Users frequently need access to their CDs
to get drivers for a new printer, make configuration changes,
or to reinstall applications after a serious crash. But in
most cases, users (and sometimes even IT departments) have
lost the original CDs, are miles away from the office, or
can't remember where they put them. With Vault, the essential
factory-installed applications are compressed and stored in an
ultra-safe, protected area where they are always like new and
can never be scrambled or destroyed by viruses. In the event
of a major disaster, Vault re-installs up to 4 times faster
than a CD, significantly shortening the length of a help desk
call.
4. FirstWare Recover -- In 1 out of 6 cases, the only solution to
a crash or attack is to completely reinstall the system
software. But who ever carries around a recovery CD when
they're traveling on the road? FirstWare Recover restores the
PC back to new -- and it's built into the PC so you can't lose
it. A special non-destructive restore option will not
overwrite personal data files.
FirstWare Rescue suite is now available direct from Phoenix Technologies
for system builders and PC manufacturers. Consumers will begin seeing
FirstWare in the next generation of PC hardware from major manufacturers.
For more information about Phoenix Technologies, visit www.phoenix.com.
Apr 29 - Worldwide Server Market Experienced
Flat Growth in First Quarter. The tough market conditions experienced
by the server industry continued into the first quarter of 2002.
Worldwide server shipments totaled 1.09 million in the first quarter
of 2002, an increase of 0.6 percent over the first quarter of 2001,
according to preliminary statistics by Dataquest Inc., a unit of Gartner,
Inc. (NYSE: IT and ITB).
"The economic downturn and weak global business environment continue
to have a great impact on customer's buying behavior," said Shahin
Naftchi, senior analyst covering servers for Gartner Dataquest's Computing
Platform Worldwide program. "Businesses are not ready to spend
on tech products unless it's absolutely crucial. Customers mostly
purchase the least expensive systems to meet their short-term needs
and can show a quick return on their IT investment."
Compaq remained in the top spot with 22.8 percent of the worldwide
server shipments, followed by Dell and IBM, with 17.8 percent and
14.3 percent, respectively. Dell was the only vendor to record positive
double-digit year-over-year growth.
The U.S. performance in the first quarter of 2002 was more positive
than expected. The U.S. server market showed a 7.6 percent increase,
with shipments of 419,622 units, up from 390,027 units in the first
quarter of 2001. Dell increased its lead in the U.S. market with 26
percent of unit shipments, followed by Compaq with 21.4 percent.
"Dell's build-to-order model allows it to rapidly pass along
component price reductions to its customers, thereby improving its
price competitiveness," said Jeffrey Hewitt, principal analyst
for Gartner Dataquest's Servers Worldwide program.
For more information, visit www.gartner.com.
Apr 29 - EA Unveils SimCity 4. Electronic
Arts (Nasdaq:ERTS) today announced that the long-awaited 4th generation
of the PC game SimCity(TM), SimCity(TM) 4, is in development at the
company's Walnut Creek-based Maxis(TM) studio.
Featuring new simulation and graphics engines, new regional game play
and the new ability to track the lives of individual Sims as they
go about their daily routine, SimCity 4 is the most realistic, powerful
and personal SimCity experience ever. SimCity 4 will make its debut
to industry insiders on May 22nd at the Electronic Entertainment Exposition
in Los Angeles.
"SimCity 4 is the ultimate SimCity experience," according
to Lucy Bradshaw, General Manager of Maxis, developers of the #1 selling
PC game of all time, The Sims(TM). "We have really lifted up
the hood and made amazing improvements to the underlying simulation
to give the player the most responsive, personal and satisfying SimCity
yet."
Right from the start, players will experience new God-like powers
of creation as they lay the groundwork for their cities by molding
mountains, carving valleys, seeding forests and laying rivers. With
these new landscape creation features, players can now construct the
most realistic metropolis imaginable.
Unlike earlier games in the series, SimCity 4 cities do not live in
isolation from the world, they are part of an entire region. Each
city a player now creates will become part of an ever-growing tapestry
of municipalities that, once connected by transportation networks,
can share and compete for resources. Depending upon the choices made
by a player, this multi-city game play can result in a variety of
outcomes within that region.
For the first time ever, players can follow a Sim as they go about
their life in the city. Players can personalize their Sim and immediately
move him into any area and watch him experience life in the city,
first hand. Is he or she enjoying a happy existence in an urban utopia
or enduring a futile fight for survival in the inner-city. A player's
Sim will provide valuable clues to improving the city.
More information about EA's products can be found on the Internet
at www.info.ea.com.
Apr 28 - Sunday Shopping Watch.
Weekly Comparison.
Notebooks - Prices are pretty dismal on notebooks. This weeks
best deal is a 1.1 GHz Duron for $1,099. After seeing the great deal
last Sunday, an Athlon 4, 1 GHz laptop advertised below $1,000, this
weeks best deal is awful. If you're in the market for a low-cost notebook,
wait for lower prices or shop online.
High-end Athlon, Pentium III-M, and Pentium 4-M processor notebook
prices appear unchanged.
Desktops - Pentium 4 desktops stayed about the same, however
Athlon "+" processor desktops seem to be slowly dropping
in price.
This Sunday's Special Discounts and Financing.
In addition to sales on specific items, the following store-wide sales
are advertised this week. (Note that these
ads are for the Dayton,Ohio area. Prices or offerings may be different
where you live.)
BestBuy is giving away 6 months of free MSN with any computer
purchase. They are also offering 12 months of interest free financing
on all notebooks over $598. Additionally, they are giving $100 mail-in
rebates on all desktop packages, and all notebooks.
Circuit
City is offering 12 months
of interest free financing on all desktop packages and notebooks.
Additionally, they are offering a $100-$350 mail-in rebates with purchase
of any desktop package and $100-$200 mail-in rebates with purchase
of any notebook.
Office
Depot
is offering no interest, no payments, for 6 months on any computer
purchase over $298.
CompUSA no ad this Sunday.
Staples no ad this Sunday.
Shopping Alert on Lower Priced
Desktops. Many lower priced Celeron desktops made by almost
all computer manufacturers should be carefully investigated before
purchase.
Most of these low priced desktops have no AGP video expansion slot,
no onboard dedicated video RAM, no CD-RW drive, and very few empty
PCI expansion slots. These computers will be very difficult to upgrade,
and they have poorer performance than other desktops that do not have
integrated audio and video chips on the motherboard.
Often by spending $200-$400 more dollars for a Pentium 4 or Athlon
XP based system, you can get twice the performance, more features,
and you will have an upgradeable computer that will serve you well
for another 3 years.
If you choose the $700 Celeron system to save a few bucks, keep in
mind that in a year or two you will probably want to replace it.
About Windows XP. It has been a little over 5
months since Windows XP began to be bundled with new computers. Windows
XP became available for separate purchase on October 25th. For more
information on Windows XP see our Windows
XP Upgrade Guide.
Internet Rebates. Most stores are no longer
advertising 3 year Internet rebates. Check with your local store before
you buy. Please see our article, What
You Need to Know About Internet Rebates and Free PCs, for an in-depth
discussion of Internet Rebates.
Definitions. A desktop system/package is defined
as a computer with monitor and printer or scanner.
A build-to-order system is customized at the retailer
and then ordered from a vendor's store. In addition to the computer's
stated price, you still pay sales tax and shipping charges (if you
order direct from the vendor without going through the chain store,
you may not have to pay sales tax and you could get a better warranty).
Caution about advertised prices.
When reading advertisements, read the fine print of the ad to make
sure you know what is being advertised and what it cost. For example,
many advertisers will show a complete system with computer, monitor,
and printer but advertise a price for the computer only.
* Prices discussed in this article. We report prices after
rebates and discounts are subtracted.
Items highlighted in Black are good deals.
Items highlighted in Red means prices have
gone up and the system is not a good buy this week.
Items in normal text means prices are about the same as the previous
weeks.
|
Best Deals this Sunday
|
|
Category
|
Product Description
|
Price* (see above)
|
Store
|
|
Best Celeron Deal
|
HP 1.2 GHz complete system
|
$624
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best Low-cost Pentium 4
|
HP 1.8 GHz complete system (with flat panel
monitor)
|
$1199
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best High-end Pentium 4 System
|
None Advertised
|
|
|
|
Best Low-cost Athlon XP System
|
HP 1600+ complete system
|
$899
|
Circuit City
|
|
Best High-end Athlon XP System
|
Compaq 1900+ complete system
|
$1149
|
Circuit City
|
|
Best Low-cost Notebook
|
HP Duron
1.1 GHz with DVD
|
$1099
|
Best Buy, Circuit
City
|
|
Best High-end Notebook
|
Compaq AMD 1600+ Athlon 4 with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1399
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best High-end Notebook
|
Compaq 1.4 GHz Pentium 4 with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1759
|
Office Depot
|
Additional Information. For additional technical
information, advice on how to buy a laptop or desktop, and vendor
and manufacturer links, please see our Computer
Buying Advice page.
About Sunday Shopping Watch. Sunday Shopping Watch appears
every Sunday (except some holidays like Easter and Christmas) in our
News and Rumors column. It is a review of local (Dayton, Ohio) computer
chain store advertisements. While we can not guarantee your local
chain store has the same items, this article should help you make
informed buying decisions.
Apr 26 - AMD Announces 'AMD Opteron' as
Brand for Next-Generation Server & Workstation Processors.
AMD (NYSE:AMD) announced that it has selected "AMD Opteron"
as the brand for its 8th-generation enterprise class processor for
servers and workstations, formerly code-named "SledgeHammer."
The AMD Opteron™ processor is based on AMD's 8th-generation
processor core, which will represent the landmark introduction of
the industry's first x86-64 technology. The AMD Opteron processor
is designed to provide investment protection, running existing 32-bit
applications with unsurpassed performance, and offering customers
a seamless transition to 64-bit technology.
The AMD Opteron processor will also incorporate the breakthrough
HyperTransport™ technology, which helps to eliminate or reduce
system bottlenecks, enable better efficiency, and increase throughput
to improve overall system performance. With three HyperTransport interconnects,
the AMD Opteron processor will be able to provide up to 19.2 gigabyte/second
aggregate bandwidth for server systems, which is up to six times the
throughput of the majority of today's server processors.
In another key milestone, AMD announced it is collaborating with
Microsoft to incorporate 64-bit support for the future 8th-generation
AMD Athlon and AMD Opteron processors into the Windows® operating
system. AMD Opteron processors are also planned to be supported by
64-bit operating systems from major Linux vendors.
"The origin of the AMD Opteron brand name means, simply, the
best. In choosing this name, AMD is conveying that the processor will
give users the option to run either 32-bit or 64-bit applications,
with optimal performance on both," said Ed Ellett, vice president
of marketing for AMD's Computation Products Group.
The AMD Opteron processor is designed to provide flexibility, scalability
and performance for demanding enterprise-class applications. It is
planned to effectively compete against the Intel Xeon and Itanium
processors. Unlike the proprietary and fractured solutions that currently
dominate the 64-bit computing market, AMD's 64-bit solution is based
on the industry-standard x86 instruction set, on which the vast majority
of the world's PCs run. AMD's 64-bit solution is based on a flexible,
commodity infrastructure, allowing enterprises to build smart solutions.
Shipments of the AMD Opteron processor are planned to begin in the
first half of 2003.
Building on the established brand equity of the AMD Athlon™
brand, 8th-generation processors for desktops and notebooks are planned
to build upon the AMD Athlon brand name. Shipments of AMD's 8th-generation
AMD Athlon processor for desktops are slated to begin in the fourth
quarter of 2002.
About the AMD Opteron™ Processor
The AMD Opteron processor is based on AMD's eighth-generation processor
core which is planned to mark the introduction of the industry's first
x86-64 technology implementation. This technology is planned to preserve
companies' investments in 32-bit applications while allowing a seamless
transition to 64-bit computing as those companies require. The AMD
Opteron processor is designed to deliver high-performance server and
workstation solutions for today's most demanding enterprise applications.
The processor is designed to be scalable, reliable and compatible,
which can result in lower total cost of ownership. Key AMD Opteron
processor innovations include an integrated memory controller, which
reduces memory bottlenecks, and HyperTransport™ technology, which
increases overall performance by removing or reducing I/O bottlenecks,
increasing bandwidth and reducing latency.
About HyperTransport™ Technology
HyperTransport technology is a high-speed, high-performance, point-to-point
link for integrated circuits, and is designed to meet the bandwidth
needs of tomorrow's computing and communications platforms. HyperTransport
technology helps reduce the number of buses while providing a high-performance
link for PCs, workstations, and servers, as well as numerous embedded
applications and highly scalable multiprocessing systems. It is designed
to allow chips inside of PCs, networking and communications devices
to communicate with each other up to 48 times faster than with some
existing bus technologies.
About AMD's x86-64 Technology
AMD's straightforward approach to 64-bit computing builds upon the
x86 instruction set, one of the industry's most proven and widely
supported technologies. AMD's x86-64 technology is designed to support
applications that address large amounts of physical and virtual memory,
such as high performance servers, database management systems, and
CAD tools. AMD's x86-64 technology seamlessly integrates into the
current computing and support environment, and is designed to enable
enterprises to deploy high performance 64-bit capable systems that
build upon the billions of dollars already invested in 32-bit software.
For more information about the AMD Opteron processor, please visit:
www.amd.com/8thgenerationnews.
Apr 26 - Planar Unveils 23.1-Inch Flat-Panel
Monitor. Planar Systems Inc. (NASDAQ:PLNR) is launching a new
flat-panel monitor featuring a viewing area measuring 23.1 inches
diagonally. Ideal for financial professionals, engineers, architects,
desktop publishers, video editors and other creative professionals,
Planar's slim-profile, big-screen flat-panel monitor displays two
standard pages of text side-by-side, allowing users to work with much
more information at once. 
Planar has built into the new product 1600 x 1200 (UXGA) resolution,
top-performing image clarity, ultra-wide 160-degree viewing angle,
both analog and digital (DVI) inputs, a USB hub and intuitive set-up
and on-screen controls -- and all within a compact and appealing industrial
design. The manufacturer's list price for the product is $3,600.
"Planar's two decades of flat-panel display experience are clearly
evident in this flagship product," said Erick Petersen, director
of the desktop monitor business at Planar. "All Planar desktop
displays give users top visual performance and the most complete feature
set in the industry. Our latest offering gives our customers more
of what they've come to expect from us -- brilliant displays that
deliver a compelling value."
Planar's 23.1-inch display comes bundled with the award-winning Benwin
GX-6A multimedia speaker system, featuring two flat-panel satellite
speakers and a powered subwoofer. For more information, visit www.planar.com.
Apr 26 - Epson Unveils the Industry's
First Seven-Color Archival Desktop Photo Printer. Epson America
Inc. is introducing its fastest, sleekest and most impressive desktop
photo printer yet -- the EPSON Stylus(R) Photo 2200.
This printer is ideal for anyone who is serious about photography,
ranging from amateurs to professional portrait, commercial and fine
art photographers. It replaces the award-winning EPSON Stylus Photo
2000P and is loaded with features that will set a new standard for
desktop photographic printing.
By using Epson's new seven-color UltraChrome inks, the EPSON Stylus
Photo 2200 is able to print images at fast speeds with a larger color
gamut than the previous generation. These unique pigment-based archival
inks reproduce the color range, density and saturation of dye-based
inks more than ever before, making this printer the best in its class
with its photo and color quality, and superior fade-resistance.
"Epson has achieved another significant milestone with the introduction
of the EPSON Stylus Photo 2200. With incredible advances in ink and
printing technology, this printer provides the ultimate in wide-gamut
color, durability and flexibility," said Parker Plaisted, product
manager, photo imaging, Epson. "This printer is sure to inspire
photographers of all levels, especially with a price that is $200
less than its predecessor."
By listening to photographers and what they want in the ultimate
photo printer, Epson developed UltraChrome ink, a brand new generation
of pigment ink. Building on the technology developed for the EPSON
Archival(TM) Ink and the EPSON DuraBright(TM) Ink, this new UltraChrome
Ink retains the advantages of high resistance to water and light,
plus the largest color range for pigment inks.
The EPSON Stylus Photo 2200 is the first printer to utilize UltraChrome
inks, providing a wide color gamut that is now extremely close to
the gamut of the popular six-color, dye-based Epson inks with more
vibrant and saturated reds, oranges and yellows. This printer also
can print stunning black and white photographs with the addition of
a new lower density black ink -- Light Black -- which helps produce
more neutral grays.
The UltraChrome ink has faster printing and drying times enabling
the printer to achieve a print speed of four minutes for an 8"
x 10" photograph on glossy paper, which is three times faster
than the EPSON Stylus Photo 2000P.
The EPSON Stylus Photo 2200 offers impressive lightfastness(a) ratings
with prints lasting up to 80 years on EPSON Watercolor Paper and black
and white prints lasting up to 100 years on various fine art papers.
The EPSON Stylus Photo 2200 has a sleek, modern, attractive case
design and black and silver case color, as well as quiet operation.
The printer offers a resolution of up to 2880 x 1440 dpi using ultra
small four-picoliter droplets, which produces an equivalent dot size
to a two-picoliter dye-based droplet. The printer uses Epson's exclusive
Micro Piezo(TM) ink jet technology for creating incredible detail,
beautiful skin tones and an ultra-wide color range that is ideal for
photography.
Compatible with both Windows and Macintosh platforms, the printer
features built-in parallel, high speed USB 2.0 and IEEE 1394 FireWire
ports.
Pricing, Support and Availability
The EPSON Stylus Photo 2200 will be available in July for an estimated
street price of $699 through mail order, computer superstores, specialty
camera and art stores and at Epson's retail Web site (www.epsonstore.com).
Apr 26 - IBM Looks Airline Security in
the Eye. IBM is joining with Schiphol Group of Amsterdam to offer
airlines and airports around the world a quick security access system
that uses biometric iris scanning technology. 
The new offering will be based on the existing Automatic Border Passage
(ABP) system Schiphol Group has deployed at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.
This system identifies and verifies travelers by cross referencing
a real-time iris scan with the travelers' pre-registered iris data
-- which is stored on an encrypted smart card. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
was the world's first airport to employ a new automatic border passage
system using iris recognition for passengers in a high-security environment.
The ABP system, which has been in operation since October 2001, is
currently used for identity verification and border passage functions,
supplementary to manual passport control by the Dutch border police.
It runs on IBM eServer xSeries and uses an IBM DB2 database to access
non-biometric related passenger data.
IBM will work with Schiphol Group to extend a subset of the biometric
security features in this system so it can be used by airlines and
airports for passenger identification and tracking in functions such
as ticketing, check in, screening and boarding. Additionally, the
companies plan to develop components of the technology to provide
secure employee and staff access to restricted areas of travel and
transportation facilities.
"The system's ability to process four-to-five people per minute
and provide highly reliable, machine-made decisions on whether the
person actually is who he or she claims to be, will go a long way
towards meeting travelers' demands for security, convenience and speed,
" said Mike Hulley, general manager, IBM Global Travel &
Transportation Industry group.
The security procedure for this solution involves two phases. In
the first phase, the traveler is qualified and registered. This process,
which includes a passport review, background check, and iris scan
that is encrypted and embedded on a smart card, usually takes about
15 minutes. Currently the solution at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is
offered to members of Privium, the airport's new service programme
open to holders of European Economic Area passports (EU countries
plus Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein) that is independent of airline
frequent flier programs. Currently, some 2,500 people are using the
Privium service programme. IBM and Schiphol Group have indicated that
this model can be varied at new installations as the customer and
circumstances demand.
The second phase identifies and verifies the registered traveler
at the border passage checkpoint. This is done when the traveler approaches
a gated kiosk and inserts a smart card in the kiosk card reader. The
system reads the smart card and allows valid registered travelers
to enter an isolated area. The traveler then looks into an iris scan
camera so that the iris can be matched with the data on the smartcard.
If a successful match is obtained, the passenger can continue to the
gate. If the biometric analysis fails, or the traveler's passage is
not authorized by any external system link, the automatic gate directs
the traveler to the front of the queue for the standard manual passport
check. The entire automatic border passage procedure is typically
completed in about 10-15 seconds.
By adding dedicated software to the iris scanner's standard software,
Schiphol Group has designed the system so that it does not use a database
but can receive data from a smartcard chip, which means there is no
sharing of the iris information. The use of individual smart cards
to hold the biometric data rather than a biometrics database, coupled
with the fact that program enrollment is voluntary, has eased concerns
about privacy. Due to a strict separation of data on the chip, the
card reader is also able to read the Dutch Border Police data independently
from the biometric information, further easing privacy concerns.
"We chose iris biometric technology because of its security
and reliability as well as the fact that it is a non-contact system,"
said Verboom. The core iris scanning technology has been enhanced
by Johan Enschede Security Solutions to ensure high performance and
accuracy. Consequently the verification process has been drastically
improved and currently is about 50 percent faster than the standard
software. Additionally since the system involves no physical contact,
such as fingerprint or hand geometry biometrics, there are no concerns
regarding hygienics and no extra time is required for cleaning and
maintenance of the unit.
For more information on IBM's offerings for the travel and transportation
industries, visit www.ibm.com/industries/travel.
For more information on the Schiphol Group, visit www.schiphol.nl.
Apr 26 - Home of the Future Opens its
Doors. Would you like sit in your armchair and select your favourite
tune by humming it? Can you imagine dimming the room's lights by just
saying the command? Would you believe that your bathroom mirror will
be able tell you that you are ill?
From today, these dreams will take a big step on the road to reality
as Philips officially opens HomeLab, a real house filled with state-of-the-art
technology that will be tested by normal people in an everyday environment.
Unlike traditional product testing facilities, HomeLab is a live-in
"home" (with living room, kitchen, two bedrooms, bathroom
and study) that is linked through hidden cameras, microphones and
one-way mirrors to sophisticated observations rooms. This allows Philips'
researchers to "live" with the occupants 24-hours-a-day,
7-days-a-week to better understand their needs and motivations, and
bring the best products to market as quickly as possible.
HomeLab features a range of Ambient Intelligent prototypes-technologies
that are sensitive, personalized, adaptive and responsive to people.
It includes home entertainment systems that can respond to human voice
commands or create digital fantasy environments for virtual reality
games; biofeedback technology embedded into everyday household objects
such as a bathroom mirror; and an interactive user interface that
consolidates multiple home devices into a single system for managing
typical digital activities such as recording a voicemail, watching
a video or listening to music from any room in the home.
Most connections are wireless, with systems controlled by handheld
devices as well as large-area flat-panel displays, and the HomeLab's
wireless LAN (Local Area Network) has access to the outside world
via broadband internet. Chunky black boxes housing televisions or
stereo apparatus will be a thing of the past. TV pictures can be projected
onto blank walls. Music will come from MP3s stored on the HomeLab
computer jukebox, which can even recognise and play a hummed tune.
Traditional
testing has relied upon volunteers testing a new product for a limited
time before giving their opinion, often only after a matter of hours.
Although this provides good initial feedback, it does not identify
whether consumers will become bored, frustrated, or even angry with
a product over time. With HomeLab, "residents" will be staying
for between 24 hours and two months, depending on the type of research
being conducted.
"To achieve a world in which Ambient Intelligence is pervasive,
we need to teach technology to react to humans rather than forcing
humans to 'program' technology," said Erkki Liikanen, the Commissioner
responsible for the European Union's investment in Philips HomeLab.
"We also need to create technology that understands cultural
differences, closes gaps in technology standards and is affordable
for businesses to bring to market. Studying these human needs at a
facility like Philips HomeLab brings us closer to understanding how
technology can really make a difference."
Philips can be found online at www.philips.com.
Apr 25 - New ThinkPad T30 Features Revolutionary
Design Change. IBM today introduced a new ThinkPad notebook computer,
the T30 -- a thin and light mobile computing powerhouse with a blend
of new features that makes the machine appealing to individual users
as well as companies of all sizes.
The flagship ThinkPad T30 offers customers a revolutionary, programmable
multi-pointing system that allows users to quickly and easily choose
the way they want to work, along with a unique solution that makes
it easier to manage and restore PC systems and reduce IT support costs,
and wireless connectivity that offers levels of security equal to
a local area network connection.
"The wireless user interface on the ThinkPad is the best I have
experienced with a wide range of encryption options as well as the
operational displays for signal strength, signal quality and active
channel," said John McCrea, senior vice president of marketing
at Radiance Technologies, an emerging, 60-employee company and a leader
in enterprise digital delivery management software. "By far,
ThinkPad is the easiest notebook to set up and use, and its security
capabilities are the most extensive in the industry."
ThinkPad T30 New Features
The ThinkPad T30, which boasts a total of 55 patents and others pending,
is the first computer to offer UltraNav, a multi-pointing system that
combines the latest full-function TrackPoint device with a new programmable
touch pad. The UltraNav includes expertly designed wrap-around buttons
that have the same touch and feel as the IBM TrackPoint for maximum
usability; the touch pad corners can be used as "hot buttons"
to launch up to four software applications or Web sites for customers
who have Internet access; and the entire touch pad can be used as
a scrolling device. UltraNav's customized set-up software wizard allows
users to quickly choose how they want to navigate.
The T30 also offers IBM's patent-pending HDD shock absorber, a one-of-a-kind
feature which provides a cushion of air to help protect memory and
prevent loss of data when a notebook in use is placed on a hard surface.
"Our customers have told us they want secure, mobile PCs that
are easier to use and allow them to work anytime, anywhere,"
said Fran O'Sullivan, general manager, PC products and services, IBM
Personal Computing Division. "We take that feedback and leverage
our research and technology to provide users with a better mobile
experience. For example, the new pointing system is ergonomically
designed based on customer research. The PC industry revolves around
timely innovation, and with our latest mobile offerings we've raised
the bar once again."
Wireless: Optimized for connectivity, select models of the new ThinkPad
T30 offer leading-edge integrated wireless solutions, including for
the first time built-in Cisco Aironet 350 Series Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11b)
technology and out-of-the-box wireless networking support for IEEE
802.1x /Extensible Authentication Protocol (EAP) security standard.
In addition to the Cisco models, IBM has also integrated Intel PRO/Wireless
2011b LAN technology as a feature on select T30 models.
The new T30 utilizes IBM's in-display dual antenna system for strong
signal performance(1) with a wide variety of built-in communications
capabilities, including Bluetooth and Wi-Fi2 wireless on select models,
as well as Ethernet and integrated modem. In addition, IBM Access
Connections software enables users to easily manage connectivity options,
allowing them to save preferred settings and switch between various
communications capabilities.
Models of the ThinkPad T30 will be generally available May 8, with
prices ranging from $2,499 to $3,499.
IBM today also announced its newest ultraportable for highly mobile
users, the ThinkPad X24, weighing 3.6 pounds and featuring up to 4.1
hours battery life and 256 MB memory standard. The ThinkPad A31, with
new Intel Pentium 4 processors, CDRW and a number of other options,
was also introduced.
Prices for the ThinkPad X24 range from $2,499 to $2,674; prices for
the A31 range from $2,199 to $2,374.
All IBM PCs can be purchased direct through www.ibm.com.
Apr 25 - Addonics Announces CardBus USB
2.0 Adapter and USB 2.0 Hub. Addonics Technologies today announced
a pair of solutions, which can upgrade older notebook PCs to USB 2.0
or add additional USB 2.0 ports to existing systems.
The Addonics CardBus USB 2.0 Adapter provides USB 2.0 capability
to any CardBus-equipped computer. The adapter plugs into the CardBus
slot of any computer to give users two USB 2.0 slots. It is the best
solution to gain the performance advantage of 480 Mbits/sec throughput
that USB 2.0 provides for external CDRWs, hard drives, DVD players,
cameras and other high-speed peripherals.
The Addonics Card Bus USB 2.0 Adapter is total plug-and-play under
Windows 98SE, Me, 2000 and XP. The adapter supports both USB 2.0 and
USB 1.1 peripheral devices. It also supports Mac OS X or greater (at
USB 1.1 speed).
List price of the Addonics CardBus USB 2.0 Adapter is $55. Price
includes AC/DC adapter to provide the needed power to USB powered
devices.
USB 2.0 Hub - Add Four High-Speed Ports To Any USB-Ready Computer
The Addonics USB 2.0 Hub is perfect for users who need additional
USB ports on their systems or want to connect a USB 2.0 device that
is up to 15 feet away. The hub adds four high-speed USB 2.0 ports
to any computer with one USB connection (it operates at USB 1.1 speed
when connected to a USB 1.1 port).
The hub is fully USB 2.0 Hi-Speed compliant and is compatible with
any USB 1.1 or USB 2.0 device. It will auto adjust the data transfer
rate from 12 Mbits/sec to full 480 Mbits/sec when connected to a USB
2.0 port.
The Addonics USB 2.0 hub is an ideal accessory for mobile users because
it weighs just 5.29 ounces and measures 3.5 x 2.7 x 0.8 inches. Users
can also power the device, and all peripherals connected to it, from
the external AC/DC power adapter. It has also been designed to provide
sufficient power through the USB bus to many common USB peripherals
such as the Addonics Pocket CDRW, DVD, CD-ROM, DVD/CDRW, ExDrive,
Floppy, the SuperDisk 240, or the Pocket DigiDrive. The hub features
an auto switch to USB bus power or self-power (with AC/DC adapter
connected) mode.
List price of the Addonics USB 2.0 Hub is $55 with external power
adapter and USB 2.0 cable.
Visit Addonics at www.addonics.com.
Apr 25 - Corsair Announces Availability
of 512 Megabyte DDR DIMMs. Corsair Memory, Inc., an industry leader
in ultra-performance DDR DRAM modules for gaming and overclocking
applications, has announced that it is now offering two new 512 megabyte
modules tailored specifically for overclocking applications.
The first part, Corsair part number CMX512-3200, is guaranteed to
operate at 400 MHz. The second part, part number CMX512-3000C2, is
guaranteed to operate at 370 MHz, but with a column access strobe
latency ("CAS latency") of only two clock cycles.
"Most users of Corsair's memory like to put at least 512 megabytes
of memory into their systems," stated Don Lieberman, Corsair's
Vice President of Engineering. "We believe that these modules
offer our customers the ability to hit the highest speeds possible.
One 512 megabyte module will outperform two 256 megabyte modules built
with the same type of components in nearly any given performance-oriented
system."
Corsair's 512 MByte XMS3200 and XMS3000 modules utilize 32Mx8 RAMs
which have been carefully screened to meet these demanding performance
requirements. The modules have been extensively qualified in motherboards
based on chip sets from Via Technologies and Silicon Integrated Systems
(SiS) that are capable of supporting the required high-speed memory
bus. The modules are shipped with a pre-installed aluminum heat spreader.
Further information and specifications on this product and other
XMS products can be found at Corsair's web site (www.corsairmemory.com).
Apr 25 - SmartDisk's FireFly Hard Drive
for USB 2.0 Now Available. SmartDisk Corporation (Nasdaq:SMDK)
today announced a 20 Gigabyte (GB) model of its portable Universal
Serial Bus (USB) 2.0 hard drive, FireFly(TM) for USB. Approximately
the size of a deck of playing cards, the new FireFly drive stores
up to 20 hours of superior quality video, more than 5,000 MP3 songs
or more than 15,000 high-quality digital photographs.
FireFly is ideal for a variety of digital video, audio, data backup
and multimedia applications used by consumers and professionals. It
stores and rapidly transfers large volumes of music, video, photos
and data to and from desktops and laptops. FireFly's small, durable
magnesium casing -- just 2.5" (W) x 4" (D) x .6" (H)
--and weight of approximately four ounces make it easy to carry in
a purse, a briefcase or pocket. The new model supports both USB 2.0
and USB 1.1 host systems, which means that users in transition between
the two versions can use FireFly on any USB machine.
Because FireFly is powered by the computer itself, it doesn't require
its own power adapter. The drive is also "Mass Storage Class"
compliant, which means users don't have to install software drivers
before using FireFly for most Windows or MacOS releases. Its rapid
read and write speeds let users work on data and applications -- even
digital video applications -- directly on the drive.
FireFly was first introduced with FireWire(TM) connectivity at the
Macworld Expo New York, 2001, where it was given a "Best of Show"
award.
Pricing and Availability
FireFly for USB is priced at $399.95 SRP for the 20 GB model. It
will be available in early May. A 5 GB model, shipping now, is priced
at $199.95 SRP. The drives can be purchased through retailers and
distributors, as well as through the company's Web site at www.smartdisk.com.
Apr 25 - F-Secure Maintains Level 2 Alert
on Klez.H Email Worm. -Secure Corporation (HEX:FSC) is maintaining
a "Level 2" alert status for the Klez.H virus, which has
been spreading around the world for a week. Klez.H is a mass-mailing
Windows worm, which can generate massive amounts of e-mail traffic.
Found in the wild on April 17 in various countries in Asia, the worm
has been spreading globally, with infections reported especially heavily
in the USA, UK and Central Europe.
"It looks like Klez.H is going to be around for a while, probably
months," commented Mikko Hypponen, Manager of Anti-Virus Research
at F-Secure. "It hasn't shown much sign of slowing down over
the past few days, although all major antivirus programs detect it
already, proving that there are lots of users out there without up-to-date
anti-virus protection".
Klez.H is the eighth in a series of viruses written by an individual,
operating most likely from mainland China or Hong Kong. The first
virus in this family was found in October 2001. Most of the viruses
in the Klez family have spread worldwide. Klez.H, like other Klez
viruses, spreads as an e-mail attachment. On some systems the attachment
can execute automatically when the e-mail is read.
Although it uses a long list of different e-mail subjects, Klez.H
even sometimes puts random text as the e-mail subject. The worm can
generate different types of e-mails that look like they have been
sent by people or by companies. The name of the attachment is random,
but always has the extension BAT, PIF, SCR or EXE.
Klez.H sometimes picks data files (such as Word documents or JPG
pictures) from the infected machine and attaches them to the messages
it sends out. This results in confidential information being disclosed
to third parties. This means that Klez.H might sometimes spread other
viruses unintentionally. For example, if a user has DOC files infected
with a macro virus, Klez might send them to third parties, spreading
the macro virus even further.
F-Secure Corporation continues to monitor Klez.H, maintaining the
status as a Level 2 alert under the F-Secure Radar alerting system.
Level 1 is the highest level of alert.
F-Secure is distributing a free tool to disinfect Klez. This program,
as well as technical description and screenshots of the Klez virus
is available at www.F-Secure.com/v-descs/klez_h.shtml.
InfoHQ Note: We have recieved several Emails with this virus. All
Emails were over 100 KB in size and had various subjects and senders.
One Email subject was made to appear as an update to a Microsoft program.
You can also use the HouseCall
free online virus scanner to detect and clean this virus.
Apr 24 - Intel Xeon Processors Accelerate to 2.4
Gigahertz. Intel Corporation has accelerated the Intel(R) Xeon(TM)
processor for two-way server and workstation platforms to 2.4 gigahertz
(GHz).
Featuring 512 kilobyte (KB) of level two cache and built on Intel's
industry-leading 0.13-micron process technology, the Intel Xeon processor
is the first dual-capable processor to be produced on 300 mm wafers.
The combination of larger wafers and smaller die size will lower manufacturing
costs and raise output.
"Intel Xeon processor-based platforms offer customers the top
of the line in terms of scalability, performance and value,"
said Mike Fister, senior vice president and general manager for Intel's
Enterprise Platforms Group. "By continuously accelerating processor
frequencies and boosting system performance of the Intel Xeon processor,
Intel will continue to widen the performance gap with RISC-based platforms."
Front-end or general-purpose Internet servers, featuring one or two
processors, are increasingly popular for companies conducting e-Business
functions such as Web hosting, data caching, search engines, security
and streaming media applications. These cost-effective Intel-based
servers address the infrastructure trend of "scaling out,"
where companies and service providers quickly deploy more servers
to accommodate growth in server workloads and allow for redundant
workloads for additional reliability and availability.
The Intel Xeon processor for dual-processing servers is based on
the Intel(R) NetBurst(TM) microarchitecture. It offers industry-leading
performance and is one of the first Intel processors to feature Intel's
Hyper-Threading Technology. The Intel(R) E7500 chipset is available
for dual processing servers and the Intel(R) 860 chipset is available
for dual processing workstations.
A number of manufacturers worldwide, including Compaq Computer Corporation,
Dell Computer Corporation, Gateway Inc., Hewlett-Packard Company,
IBM Corporation, and SuperMicro Inc., are expected to ship platforms
based on the new processor in the next few months.
The Intel E7500 chipset enables twice the memory bandwidth over legacy
SDRAM platforms. The new chipset accelerates memory access to increase
platform performance and delivers new levels of performance for I/O
intensive server applications.
In addition, Intel is expected to introduce an array of server platform
building blocks in the next few months supporting the Intel Xeon processor
and Intel E7500 chipset. Included in this suite of new products will
be new server boards and associated chassis featuring dual Intel Xeon
processors, PCI-X I/O, and DDR memory.
Pricing and Availability
The Intel Xeon processor with 512 KB level two Advanced Transfer
Cache is priced at $615 in 1,000-unit quantities for 2.4 GHz.
Additional information about Intel is available at www.intel.com.
Apr 24 - Intel Introduces New Mobile
Pentium 4 Processor-Ms. Intel(R) Corporation today introduced
three new mobile processors for laptop computers that provide consumers
the performance to take advantage of the latest computing trends --
such as digital music, wireless gaming, photography, movies, and graphic-intensive
applications -- and the flexibility to enjoy them anytime, anywhere.
Today's introduction will bring a wider range of Mobile Intel Pentium(R)
4 Processor-M-based laptop designs and greater affordability to the
mobile PC market segment worldwide. Available at speeds of 1.8, 1.5
and 1.4 GHz, the Mobile Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M will help to usher
in more than 30 new laptops, from full-size to sleek thin-and-light
models for both consumers and business users. Systems will be available
from leading PC makers at prices starting at $1,300.
While laptops have been essential business productivity tools for
more than decade, their increased utility and affordability have made
consumer laptops the fastest growing segment in the PC marketplace.
According to industry analyst firm IDC, laptop shipments will total
approximately 30 million this year. The laptop's growing performance
capabilities -- coupled with consumer enthusiasm to connect, share
and retrieve information and be entertained anywhere, anytime -- have
helped fuel demand.
"It's not just a laptop, it's a lifestyle," said Ann Lewnes,
vice president, Intel Sales and Marketing Group, and director of Consumer
Marketing. "Intel mobile processor-based laptops provide consumers
with more choices to fit their lifestyles, along with the freedom
and flexibility to do what they want, where they want, when they want."
Desktop Performance Without the Desk
The Mobile Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M brings desktop performance
to the laptop PC. With systems based on the new mobile processor,
consumers can listen to their favorite digital music on a long road
trip, watch DVD movies on an airplane or from the rear seat of a minivan,
and send vacation photos in e-mail while poolside. Parents can use
a digital camcorder to film a child's birthday party and burn it to
a CD or DVD to share with family. Students can collaborate on school
projects from the campus library or all-night pizza joint. Internet
fans can surf the Web from any room of the house and play head-to-head
PC games at wireless LAN parties.
Several laptops using the Mobile Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M include
built-in wireless capabilities such as 802.11b and Bluetooth radios.
As wireless features become common in laptops, consumers will experience
a new level of mobility. Many airports, hotels and coffee shops have
created "hot spots" where these laptops can be connected
to the Internet wirelessly. Additionally, wireless support features
built into the Microsoft Windows XP operating system makes connecting
to wireless easier and more secure.
"The combination of Windows XP Professional and the Mobile Intel
Pentium 4 Processor-M offer enhanced power management and wireless
support features, allowing users to enjoy a new level of mobile freedom
and enabling access to information on the go," said Rogers Weed,
corporate vice president at Microsoft Corp. "Windows XP Professional
is designed to make mobile computing easy, reliable and secure."
Laptops based on the Mobile Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M will be available
directly from PC manufacturers, resellers, online and at worldwide
retail outlets from industry-leading computer makers including: Acer
America Corporation, Chem USA Corporation, Compaq Computer Corporation,
Dell Computer Corporation, Fujitsu PC Corporation, Gateway Inc., Hewlett-Packard
Company, IBM Corporation, MicronPC, LLC, NEC Corporation, Sony Electronics
Corporation, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., TTX Canada
and WinBook Computer Corporation.
Mobile Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M -- Designed For Laptops
The Mobile Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M is the highest performing
processor optimized for laptops. The "M" signifies that
the processor has been designed for use in laptops and includes advanced
performance and power management features especially suited for the
mobile computer user. The processor includes support for the Enhanced
Intel SpeedStep(TM) technology, which provides the best balance of
performance and low power operation to help extend battery life. Maximum
performance is provided when multitasking between processor-intensive
applications, such as playing the latest wireless game, looking at
digital pictures of your family vacation, or downloading video from
the Internet. During simpler tasks such as writing an e-mail, the
processor speed and power is reduced to help prolong battery life.
The Mobile Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M family is available at speeds
of 1.8, 1.7, 1.6, 1.5 and 1.4 GHz. In 1,000-unit quantities, the Mobile
Intel Pentium 4 Processor-M at 1.8, 1.5 and 1.4 GHz are priced at
$637, $268, and $198 respectively.
Additional information about Intel is available at www.intel.com.
Apr 24 - Dell Unveils $1,299 No-Compromise
Pentium 4 Notebook. For budget-conscious customers who demand
the most mobile computing power for their money, Dell (Nasdaq:DELL)
today expanded its value notebook family with the introduction of
the Inspiron(tm) 2650.
The new notebook features Intel's new Mobile Pentium(tm) 4-M processor
combined with NVIDIA graphics and is priced starting at $1,299.
"The Inspiron 2650 is a no-compromise notebook optimized for
mobility and brings all the latest technologies to customers on a
budget," said John Medica, vice president of Dell's client product
group. "We understand the desire to stay connected and be productive
whether at home, school, the office or a local coffee shop. Like most
Dell notebooks, our Inspiron 2650 can be custom-configured to meet
a customer's specific needs."
The Inspiron 2650 offers the performance needed for productivity
applications, digital photo editing, music management, DVD viewing
or computer gaming applications. Taking advantage of new power management
technology, the Inspiron 2650 can offer up to three hours of battery
life, allowing users the flexibility of true mobility wherever it
takes them.
For fast e-mail access and Internet connections, the Inspiron 2650
includes an integrated modem, 10/100 Ethernet port and an optional
Dell TrueMobile(tm) 1150 wireless networking PC card.
All Inspiron 2650s can be configured with up to 512 MB SDRAM, up
to 40GB hard drive, and a choice of bright 14- or 15-inch display
that minimizes the need for an external monitor. Choices for the permanent
integrated optical drive include CD-ROM, DVD, CD-RW and a multifunction
DVD/CD-RW combination drive that allows users to burn their own CDs
and watch all their DVDs.
To meet a range of home productivity and entertainment needs, the
Inspiron 2650 comes with Microsoft's Windows(R) XP Home Edition operating
system with Works Suite 2002, Music Match software for listening to
digital music and Dell Picture Studio for processing and sharing digital
photos and six months of America Online or DellNet by MSN membership
(new members only).
Information on Dell and its products can be obtained at www.dell.com.
Apr 24 - New Toshiba Satellite 1200 Series
Has Wireless Feutures. Toshiba's Computer Systems Group today
announced the new Satellite(R) 1200 Series.
Priced at only $1,399, the Satellite 1200 is designed for budget-conscious
consumers, small/home office users and small businesses looking for
a feature-rich notebook with built-in Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11b) wireless
capabilities.
With integrated wireless connectivity, the Satellite 1200 allows
students, teachers, small businesses and other consumers to enhance
their productivity without breaking their budget. The product's lightweight
design makes it perfect for sliding into a backpack, providing students
with the tools for an enhanced learning experience in the classroom
and beyond.
Packed with an Intel(R) Celeron(R) 1.20GHz processor, 256MB of RAM
and an array of useful features, the Satellite 1200 Series is the
perfect choice for computer users searching for affordability, performance
and the freedom from wired connections.
For additional information about Toshiba's Satellite 1200, visit
www.shoptoshiba.com.
Apr 24 -Dell Launches Mobile Pentium
4-M Workstation. Dell (Nasdaq:DELL) today announced U.S. availability
of the Dell Precision(tm) Workstation M50, designed specifically for
professionals who require mobility and the performance to do complex,
high-end computing.
Priced starting at $3,599, the Dell Precision M50 comes with the
NVIDIA(R) Quadro(tm)4 500 Go GL graphics processing unit and a single
Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4-M processor at 1.8GHz, both of which fuel performance
for high-end 3-D graphic operations like OpenGL(R) and DirectX(R)
professional applications.
It is designed for customers who need workstation hardware certification
with independent software vendors in the computer-aided design (CAD),
engineering, digital content creation, geographic information systems,
computer animation, software development and financial analysis markets.
Bryan Lamkin, senior vice president of Adobe's graphics business
unit, said his company's customers will benefit from the improved
performance of the workstation. "With an Intel Pentium 4-M platform,
additional memory support and integrated IEEE-1394, the new workstation
and Adobe Premiere software provide an excellent professional, mobile
digital video editing solution."
The Dell Precision M50 complements Dell's line of Precision workstations
by providing the same certification and support as the company's desktop
workstations with the added benefit of mobility, Tim Mattox, Dell
vice president of relationship client marketing, said. "This
new product delivers the outstanding performance, high-end graphics,
and flexibility our customers have come to expect from the world's
preferred provider of workstation products," he said.
Information on Dell and its products can be obtained at www.dell.com.
Apr 23 - ATI Ships Fastest ALL-IN-WONDER
RADEON 8500. ATI Technologies Inc. (TSE:ATY, NASDAQ:ATYT) today
announced that the retail version of the new ALL-IN-WONDER(R) RADEON(TM)
8500 128MB is now shipping.
As the fastest performing addition to the ALL-IN-WONDER(R) family,
this new multimedia video card redefines computer-based state-of-the-art
home entertainment and incredible video creation for North American
customers.
"We chose ATI's industry leading ALL-IN-WONDER(R) solution for
our Presario home and home office PCs because it bridges the gap between
PC and pure entertainment technology for our customers," said
Ken Willett, vice president, Desktop Marketing, in Compaq's Access
Business Group. "Whether users require a super high-quality graphics
solution for gaming or a digital VCR capability, the ALL-IN-WONDER(R)
solution will exceed their speed and performance needs."
As an all-in-one television, video and graphics solution, ALL-IN-WONDER
RADEON 8500 128MB allows users to view television programs by way
of an integrated program guide, save and edit recorded video content,
play games, enjoy DVDs, VCDs, CDs, and much more - all powered by
the REMOTE WONDER(TM).
"With ATI's fastest ALL-IN-WONDER(R) RADEON(TM) solution, more
consumers can experience the exciting features of the REMOTE WONDER
and 128 MB of memory for amazingly fast 3D graphics all combined with
the industry leading functionality of the ALL-IN-WONDER family,"
said Godfrey Cheng, Director of Marketing, Multimedia Products, ATI
Technologies Inc. "It's an amazing video card that delivers even
more amazing performance that just can't be beat. ALL-IN-WONDER RADEON
8500 128MB users are going to be astounded by the performance and
quality of this video card."
ATI offers an extraordinary ALL-IN-WONDER line-up to satisfy the
needs of any multimedia video card buyer. Priced at US$399, the newly
introduced ALL-IN-WONDER RADEON 8500 128 MB is the fastest multimedia
graphics cards for gamers. ALL-IN-WONDER RADEON 7500 delivers top-notch
multimedia capabilities at a value price of US$199.
Now at a newly reduced price of US$299, ALL-IN-WONDER RADEON 8500DV
is a great solution for digital video editing enthusiasts. The ALL-IN-WONDER
family of video cards has something for everyone. Visit ATI'sWeb site
at www.ati.com.
Apr 23 - ATI Launches Trade-In, Trade-Up
Program. ATI Technologies Inc. (TSE:ATY, NASDAQ:ATYT) is now offering
North American consumers the opportunity to trade-in an older ATI
video card or any competitive video card and get one of ATI's newest
video cards, including ALL-IN-WONDER(R) RADEON(TM) 8500 128 MB.
"This trade-in, trade-up program is a great opportunity for
consumers to dispose of their older video cards or inferior competitive
cards and install the best video card from ATI for their personal
computers," said Godfrey Cheng, Director of Marketing, Multimedia
Products, ATI Technologies Inc. "ALL-IN-WONDER RADEON 8500 128MB
is the best purchase decision for multimedia en
