Aug 07 - AMD Delivers Opteron Processor Model 246.
AMD (NYSE:AMD) today announced immediate availability of the AMD Opteron(TM)
processor Model 246, designed to provide outstanding performance for
servers and workstations. The AMD Opteron processor Model 246, which
will power the IBM eServer 325, provides a unified platform for servers
and workstations, enabling simultaneous 32- and 64-bit computing.
The IBM eServer 325 is planned to power one of the world's largest
Linux supercomputers at Japan's National Institute of Advanced Industrial
Science and Technology (AIST).
Recently announced results of the Transaction Processing Performance
Council's TPC-H benchmark, which measures business-related database
queries, confirm the IBM eServer 325 featuring the AMD Opteron processor
Model 246 is currently the highest performing system tested on this
benchmark for both 100GB- and 300GB-sized databases.
"The clear increase in productivity offered by the AMD Opteron
processor can drive a shift in enterprise and cluster computing,"
said Marty Seyer, vice president and general manager of AMD's Microprocessor
Business Unit. "With AMD64 technology integrated in the AMD Opteron
processor, coupled with IBM's eServer 325 product line, IT managers
will now have easy access to 64-bit capabilities. The AMD Opteron
processor can give businesses and institutions of all sizes a lower
total cost of ownership with superior performance."
"Our customers in research-intensive industries, such as oil
and gas exploration, pharmacology, finance and higher education, have
been eagerly anticipating IBM products based on the AMD Opteron processor,"
said Dave Turek, vice president of Deep Computing at IBM. "These
critical industries often utilize clustering, which demands stability,
reliability and ease of management as well as superior computing performance
for intense calculations. The AMD Opteron processor is uniquely suited
for their needs."
AMD Opteron processor Model 246-based servers outperform many competitive
offerings by up to 50% on industry standard benchmarks. Complete benchmarking
details for the AMD Opteron processor are available at www.amd.com/opteronperformance.
Aug 07 - New Kodak EasyShare Cameras and
Printer Dock 4000. Expanding its award-winning EasyShare digital
photography system, Eastman Kodak Company today introduced two new
digital cameras and an additional printer dock.
-- At US$399 manufacturer's suggested retail price, the Kodak
EasyShare DX4530 zoom digital camera is one of the most
affordable 5-megapixel cameras on the market.
-- Designed for digital newcomers, the Kodak EasyShare CX6230
zoom digital camera (US$199 MSRP) is one of the simplest to
use point-and-shoot, fully automatic zoom digital cameras.
-- The new Kodak EasyShare printer dock 4000 (US$199 MSRP)
designed to work with the EasyShare DX4530 digital camera and
other EasyShare CX/DX 3000- and 4000-series cameras - produces
durable, borderless 4 x 6-inch Kodak prints in as little as 90
seconds with or without a computer.
Kodak EasyShare DX4530 zoom digital camera
The Kodak EasyShare DX4530 zoom digital camera will be available
worldwide beginning this month. It features 5 megapixel resolution
with unsurpassed image quality, resulting in crisp, sharp prints at
sizes up to 20 x 30 inches, as well as a 3X optical Kodak Retinar
all-glass aspherical lens, 3.3X advanced digital zoom and Kodak Color
Science technology - all with effortless operation.
A press of the DX4530 camera's red-jeweled "Share" button
allows a person to immediately select printing, e-mailing, and mark
as favorite options for each picture, and on-camera sharing is made
simple with a bright, 1.8-inch indoor/outdoor LCD screen. The DX4530
comes with 32 MB of internal memory plus a MultiMediaCard/SD Card
expansion slot to permit additional picture taking or extended digital
video recording.
Kodak EasyShare printer dock 4000
The Kodak EasyShare printer dock 4000 is a simple way for owners
of the DX4530 and other EasyShare CX/DX 4000 and 3000-series digital
cameras to get durable, 4 x 6-inch Kodak pictures with or without
a computer. Similar to the award-winning EasyShare printer dock 6000,
the printer dock 4000 triples the functionality of a common photo
printer.
It combines all the benefits of an EasyShare dock - quick battery
recharging and one-touch picture transfer - with high quality thermal
printing. The application of an exclusive XtraLife laminate coating
makes the photos durable and water resistant. People simply use the
on-camera share/print option to easily select which images to print,
dock the camera, then with the touch of a button, get their Kodak
photos in as little as 90 seconds. The printer dock 4000 will be available
beginning this month.
Kodak EasyShare CX6230 zoom digital camera
The EasyShare CX6230 zoom digital camera is ideal for digital newcomers
who want to take pictures that can be made into crisp, sharp prints
up to 8 x 10 inches. The point-and-shoot CX6230 provides 2 megapixel
resolution, a 3X optical Kodak Retinar aspheric all-glass zoom lens,
3.3X continuous digital zoom, and eight easily accessed picture modes
such as night, landscape, close-up, black and white, and sepia.
The camera also captures 30-second digital video clips with audio,
and incorporates the popular sharing features common across EasyShare
products. It will be available beginning in September 2003.
More information on Kodak EasyShare products is available at www.kodak.com/go/EasyShare.
Aug 07 - America Online Launches AOL Communicator.
America Online, Inc., the world's leading interactive services company,
today announced the launch of AOL(R) Communicator, a stand-alone,
advanced communications product for AOL(R) members that brings together
enhanced e-mail, instant messaging and a full-featured Address Book
into one integrated suite.
AOL Communicator is available at no additional charge to AOL members
who can use it seamlessly with the AOL(R) and AOL(R) for Broadband
services to manage their online communications. AOL Communicator can
consolidate e-mail from multiple AOL Screen Names and other POP and
IMAP accounts into a single application. Ideal for AOL for Broadband
members seeking an always-on communications package, AOL Communicator
also integrates Radio@AOL for Broadband and My AOL Today, an all-new,
interactive screen saver and news ticker, that delivers personalized
news and information according to a member's selected interests.
AOL Communicator complements the new AOL(R) 9.0 Optimized, which
includes an extensive array of rich communications options, including
an upgrade for AOL Mail, enhanced instant messaging services, as well
as additional built-in safety and security protections, AOL's new
TopSpeed(TM) Web accelerator technology that is designed to enhance
Web surfing, and more.
"Many AOL members, especially those using the AOL for Broadband
service, have expressed great interest in using more advanced e-mail
features and we're thrilled to now provide them with this robust,
full-featured communications application," said David Gang, Executive
Vice President of AOL Products. "For 'power' mail users, AOL
Communicator is the perfect combination of powerful e-mail, instant
messaging, personalized and up-to-the-minute news and content, and
the hallmark ease of use AOL members have come to expect."
AOL members can download AOL Communicator for Windows at no charge
from AOL Keyword: AOL Communicator. A version of AOL Communicator
for AOL(R) for Mac OS X members will be available in the Fall. For
more information on AOL 9.0 Optimized, please visit www.aolepk.com.
Aug 07 - Monster Announces Strategic Marketing
Decision Not to Renew Online Advertising Agreements. Monster(R),
the leading global online careers property and flagship brand of Monster
Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ: MNST), today announced that after a lengthy
review of its marketing strategy, the company has decided not to renew
its online advertising agreements with America Online, Inc. and MSN.
The agreements with each company are set to expire on December 1 and
December 31, 2003, respectively.
The company's decision follows months of analysis and a shift in
Monster's strategic marketing roadmap to maximize its brand recognition
as the online recruitment leader. As a result, the company will redirect
approximately $50 million per year on targeted, national and local
marketing initiatives. This will enable Monster to raise its overall
advertising mix, including broadcast, to attract more targeted and
local traffic to better meet the needs of its customers.
"The world has changed a great deal since 1999. While working
with AOL and MSN played an integral role in establishing Monster as
the online recruitment leader, we are now focused on implementing
multiple marketing strategies on the national and local levels to
attract a more highly targeted audience," said Jeff Taylor, Founder
and Chief Monster.
In the month of June 2003, Monster had 18.1 million unique visitors
including AOL and MSN (comScore Media Metrix). Approximately a quarter
of Monster's unduplicated overall traffic came via AOL and MSN. Unduplicated
refers to traffic that solely came to Monster via the career channels
on AOL and MSN.
Mr. Taylor continued: "While we are still committed to online
marketing, with the extra marketing dollars freed up, we will redirect
our efforts on TV, local, outdoor, radio and keyword buys to better
meet the needs of our local and national customer base. This effort,
as part of our previously announced $125 million global marketing
budget, will include the roll-out of an extensive marketing campaign
this September with our new advertising agency of record, Deutsch
Inc. This campaign will feature a new super-brand concept designed
to help ensure continuous marketing presence on national and local
levels."
Michael Sileck, Chief Financial Officer, Monster Worldwide, commented,
"By redirecting the funds from the AOL and MSN agreements, we
can invest approximately $50 million a year to further leverage the
Monster brand and strengthen its position as the online recruitment
leader. As we continue to execute on our business plan, it is crucial
that our marketing dollars yield a return on investment that ensures
the expansion of the Monster franchise. By doing so, we can continue
to deliver on our commitment to maximize long-term shareholder value
while seeking additional revenue-increasing opportunities."
The strength of the Monster brand is exhibited in a recent NFO Brand
Study during Q2, 2003. In the study of online careers sites, Monster
had a total unaided brand awareness of 74 percent for job seekers,
with its nearest competitors at 37 percent and 24 percent. Monster
also achieved a total brand awareness of 92 percent, with its nearest
competitors at 69 percent and 60 percent. Additionally, 85 percent
of online users who have posted a resume online have posted theirs
on Monster.
More information about Monster is available at www.monster.com.
Aug 07 - Residential Dial-up Internet
Service Subscribers Would Prefer DSL over Cable. Dial-up Internet
subscribers who would switch to high-speed access would most likely
choose to upgrade to DSL service over cable modem if both were available
in their areas, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2003 Internet
Service Provider Residential Customer Satisfaction Study(SM) released
today.
The study, now in its sixth year, finds that when dial-up respondents
were asked about which service they would switch to if all forms of
dial-up and high-speed Internet service were available, 52 percent
who said they would switch to high-speed Internet would switch to
DSL, compared to 38 percent who would choose cable. Yet, cable-modem
providers currently have almost twice the subscribers of DSL. Among
Internet subscribers, 74 percent use a dial-up Internet service provider,
17 percent use a cable modem, and 9 percent use DSL.
"DSL providers are having a lot of success convincing consumers
that they have an advantage over cable, particularly in the area of
price," said Steve Kirkeby, senior director of telecommunication
research at J.D. Power and Associates. "Price continues to be
the number-one reason to switch providers among dial-up and high-speed
Internet subscribers. However, widespread availability is a critical
hurdle that DSL providers haven't yet been able to jump."
The study finds residential Internet subscriptions continue to grow,
with 64 percent of households subscribing to either dial-up or high-speed
service -- up 7 percent over 2002. While the vast majority continues
to use dial-up service, high-speed access has increased 8 percent
in 2003 to 26 percent of Internet households.
AT&T Worldnet ranks highest in overall customer satisfaction
among dial-up Internet service providers, with top scores on four
of the seven factors that contribute to overall satisfaction: performance
and reliability, image, offerings and promotions, and billing. The
remaining factors are cost of service, e-mail services and customer
service.
EarthLink ranks highest in overall satisfaction among high-speed
providers, scoring highest in six factors: customer service, image,
e-mail, cost of service, billing, and offerings and promotions.
The 2003 Internet Service Provider Residential Customer Satisfaction
Study is based on responses from more than 7,700 residential customers
of Internet service providers nationwide.
No advertising or other promotional use can be made of the information
in this release without the express prior written consent of J.D.
Power and Associates at www.jdpower.com
Aug 06 - ATI Introduces ALL-IN-WONDER
9600 PRO. ATI Technologies Inc. (TSX: ATY, NASDAQ:ATYT) enhances
the multimedia PC experience with the new ALL-IN-WONDER(R) 9600 PRO.
ATI's newest multimedia video card joins the award-winning ALL-IN-WONDER(R)
family to provide customers with all the best of current PC Multimedia
technologies combined with fantastic new features such as FM Radio,
Dual VGA, Faster-than-Real time DVD / CD Authoring and the next generation
REMOTE WONDER(TM) II radio frequency (RF) Remote Control.
FM-on-Demand allows ALL-IN-WONDER 9600 PRO owners to schedule favorite
FM radio programs and extract selected portions to archived MP3 files.
In addition, unique pitch-shifting features allow users to play back
programs faster or slower but in normal tones. For example, speeches
could be heard word for word or learning musicians could pick out
every note of a song. The FM Player also features an alarm clock so
owners can wake up to their favorite radio program.
ATI's award winning MULTIMEDIA CENTER Software has been updated to
version 8.6, which now includes DVD and CD Authoring. A customer can
easily archive recorded television, video and audio programs to the
media of their choice with a couple of clicks of the mouse. ATI's
media authoring solution supports DVD+/-R, DVD+/-RW, and CD-R/-RW.
Depending on the media drive speed, ATI's solution allows Faster-than-Real
time authoring which makes real time authoring obsolete because it
does not tie up a computer for an extended period of time.
Designed as ATI's mainstream multimedia solution, ALL-IN-WONDER 9600
PRO also includes the new REMOTE WONDER II and dual VGA support. The
ALL-IN-WONDER 9600 PRO will be available from selected partners in
Europe and Asia-Pacific within 4 to 6 weeks.
ALL-IN-WONDER 9600 PRO becomes the foundation of the perfect entertainment
device: TV player, Personal Video Recorder, DVD and CD player, video
editing platform, and now FM radio player. "The ALL-IN-WONDER
9600 PRO creates an incredible multimedia PC experience possible by
delivering revolutionary features combined with amazing graphics -
it's the most comprehensive solution available today," said Godfrey
Cheng, Director of Marketing, Multimedia Products, ATI Technologies
Inc. "The ALL-IN-WONDER continues to be the industry's best upgrade
that turns any boring PC into a digital multimedia powerhouse."
ALL-IN-WONDER 9600 PRO includes ATI's RADEON(TM) 9600 PRO graphics
chip for amazing graphics performance. With 100 per cent Microsoft(R)
DirectX(R) 9 support for games of today and tomorrow, ALL-IN-WONDER
9600 PRO users can explore stunning new worlds of cinematic gameplay
with the unprecedented combination of power and performance, The video
card offers long-term entertainment value with its quad-pipe architecture
and high precision cinematic shaders that will result in amazing visual
gaming experiences to excite devoted gamers and casual fans alike.
For more information, visit www.ati.com.
Aug 06 - AMD Demonstrates Linux-Based
PDA at LinuxWorld. AMD (NYSE:AMD) today demonstrates OpenPDA,
a Linux technology-based software platform running on the latest version
of the AMD Alchemy(TM) Solutions Mobile Handheld Reference Design
Kit (RDK).
This latest version of the RDK further demonstrates the unparalleled
levels of functionality and portability enabled by the high-performance,
low power, and highly integrated Au1100(TM) processor. When combined
with the OpenPDA software suite, this platform represents a compelling
new alternative for the PDA market.
The OpenPDA suite from Metrowerks is a comprehensive software solution
for creating PDAs and other wireless network-connected computing devices.
OpenPDA enhances innovative hardware designs with outstanding software
for productivity, entertainment and personal information management
functionality.
The software platform includes an embedded Linux kernel, Trolltech's
Qtopia multi-language user interface, esmertec's Jeode Java Virtual
Machine (JVM), and the Opera software full-featured Web browser. Extended
capabilities such as desktop synchronization utilities and mobile
networking are also included. The OpenPDA Development Studio, a comprehensive
system level development package, is now available from Metrowerks
with support for the Au1100 processor.
The Mobile Handheld RDK running OpenPDA provides designers an example
of a powerful, multimedia PDA hardware and software solution with
a host of standard applications including: multimedia player, games,
voice recording, image viewer, synchronization, browsing, and Java
technology. In addition, OpenPDA provides a full Personal Information
Management (PIM) suite that includes calendar, contacts, to do list,
e-mail, and text editor programs.
The Au1100 processor is a MIPS32(TM) technology-based system on a
chip (SOC) processor, and is available at speeds of 333MHz, and 400
MHz with power dissipations of less than 200 milliwatts and 250 milliwatts
respectively.
LinuxWorld attendees can see the demonstration at BOOTH # 647, August
5-7.
For more information on the Au1100 processor please go to: www.amd.com/connectivitysolutions/au1100.
Aug 06 - Addonics Announces New DVD 4X
DVD+/-R/RW Duplicator and External Burner. Addonics Technologies
today announced a new generation of DVD DigiCopiers, which feature
a 4X DVD+/-R/RW duplicator, external DVD+/-R/RW burner for PCs and
networks, and multiple drive interface support for USB 2.0, FireWire,
CardBus or Serial ATA-based systems.
The device solves the confusing array of recordable media standards
on the market because it is compatible with all popular media. The
new line of Addonics DVD+/-R/RW DigiCopiers supports read/write to
DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, Double-sided DVD, CD-R and CDRW media.
No operating system or PC is needed to use the new Addonics DVD DigiCopier
as a duplicating station. To copy DVDs or CDs users just need to:
(1.) Place the master DVD/CD into the source drive (2.) Load blank
media in the destination drive (3.) Within few minutes your DVD or
CD is copied.
There are no buttons to push, no complicated software programs to
learn, and no attention is needed while the copy is being made. Using
standard 4.7GB or 9.4GB doubled-sided DVD+R, DVD-R, DVD+RW or DVD-RW
media, users easily copy their own corporate or personal videos for
playback on computer DVD or regular DVD players. The Addonics DVD
DigiCopier is also a cost-effective means to duplicate training materials
and large databases for information distribution or for data archiving.
The new Addonics drive is more than a stand-alone DVD/CD copier.
It is also an external DVD+/-R/RW burner. The DVD+/-R/RW DigiCopier
can be used to master DVD titles, music CDs, photo CDs or data CDs.
Users just connect the drive to any desktop or notebook PC with the
Addonics interface cable (USB 2.0, FireWire, CardBus or Serial ATA)
and install the DVD/CD mastering software that comes bundled with
the unit. After you create your own master, you can now make extra
copies to distribute to your friends or associates.
Typical duplication time for a full disc is 12 minutes for CD-R to
40 minutes for DVD-R or DVD+R. When used with a computer, the bundled
disc mastering software supports Windows 98SE, ME, 2000, NT and XP.
Note: the DVD+/-R/RW DigiCopier may not able to duplicate a copy-protected
DVD or CD.
The source drive of the DVD DigiCopier operates at 16X Maximum DVD-ROM.
The destination drive is a DVD+/-R/RW device with 4X on DVD+/-R, 2X
on DVD+/-RW, and a 16x8x32 CDRW. Other features include automatic
format detection, which detects DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+R, DVD+RW, CD-R
and CDRW media to make the drive perform at the maximum speed of the
media.
In addition, the DVD DigiCopier can be connected to either a USB,
FireWire port, PCMCIA (CardBus) slot or Serial ATA port. Interface
cables are all interchangeable with every unit and different interface
cables can be ordered separately. Data transfer rate varies depends
on the type of interface. The drive can achieve a data transfer rate
of up to 21,600KB/sec (16X DVD-ROM) with a FireWire, USB 2.0 or Serial
ATA interface. The small footprint duplicator weighs just 10.03 lbs
and measures 7.5 wide x 10.63 deep x 6.75 inches high
The new line of DVD+/-R/RW DigiCopiers are offered in two models.
The USB 2.0 version (Model # AEDVDCOPPM4U) includes the Addonics 4X
DVD+/-R/RW and 16X CDRW Duplicator; USB 2.0 interface cable; Sonic
MyDVD, DVD/CD mastering software and MPEGII decoding software for
Windows 98SE, Me, 2000 and XP, and a user guide. It has a MSRP of
$659.
The base unit (Model # AEDVDCOPPM4) includes the Addonics 4X DVD+/-R/RW
and 16X CDRW Duplicator, and a user guide. Users can choose from four
optional interface/upgrade kits (list priced from $55-75) for making
USB 2.0, FireWire or CardBus or Serial ATA connections. The base model
has a list price of $599.
Addonics products are available through the company online store
www.shopaddonics.com, major catalog
companies, and resellers.
Aug 06 - Fabless Semiconductor Association
Announces Top Ten Fabless Companies. The Fabless Semiconductor
Association (FSA), a premier semiconductor trade association, announced
the top ten fabless companies based on revenue for the quarter ended
June 30, 2003.
QUALCOMM's (Nasdaq:QCOM) CDMA division (QCT segment) topped the list
of all fabless companies with revenues of more than $557 million for
the quarter. NVIDIA's (Nasdaq:NVDA) revenues are expected to be between
$455 million and $460 million, while Broadcom (Nasdaq:BRCM) ranked
third with $377 million in revenue. Other companies in the top ten
ranking included ATI Technologies (Nasdaq:ATYT), Xilinx (Nasdaq:XLNX),
SanDisk (Nasdaq:SNDK), MediaTek (Taiwan: 2454.TW), Altera (Nasdaq:ALTR),
Marvell (Nasdaq:MRVL) and Conexant (Nasdaq:CNXT), respectively.
Overall, fabless revenues are expected to grow more than five percent
from Q1 2003 to Q2 2003 and 42 percent year-over-year, after all companies
report earnings.
In 1994, industry leaders incorporated the FSA (www.fsa.org)
on the premise that the fabless business model would be a viable,
long-term business model. Today the viability of outsourcing as a
sustainable business model for the industry has been proven. The organization
encourages the relationship between semiconductor companies and suppliers;
facilitates business partnerships; creates awareness of the fabless/outsourced
business model; disseminates industry data; and fosters standards
and policies.
FSA members represent fabless companies, integrated device manufacturers,
foundry providers, packaging/assembly houses, electronic design automation
companies, investment bankers, venture capitalists, intellectual property
providers and other companies.
The FSA's vision is that by 2010 half of all integrated circuit revenue
will come from fabless/outsourced operations.
Aug 06 - 321 Studios Announces Release
of DVD and CD Rescue Products. 321 Studios, the leader in DVD
back-up software, announced today the release of its latest breakthrough
in asset protection technology: DVD X Rescue and CD X Rescue. These
two new products recover and restore data from unreadable, scratched,
corrupt or defective DVDs or CDs (CD-R and CD RW.) Utilizing a DVD
or CD burner, DVD X Rescue and CD X Rescue create brand new, perfectly
playable DVDs or CDs from the damaged original.
"DVD X Rescue and CD X Rescue are the perfect solutions for
imperfect media." said Robert Moore, founder and president of
321 Studios. "No other product exists on the market that has
the capability to recover data from damaged media sources. We at 321
Studios are proud to offer these innovations that will bring your
favorite CD or DVD back to life."
DVD X Rescue and CD X Rescue provide users with the ability to fix
a favorite movie that jumps, an audio CD that skips, a photo disc
with treasured photos that can no longer be accessed, and other personal
and business technology dilemmas. These new products create a brand
new and problem-free copy of a DVD or CD from a damaged original.
While CDs and DVDs look to be indestructible, they can be susceptible
to a number of disasters caused by every day use. CD X Rescue and
DVD X Rescue can repair and restore discs rendered unreadable due
to scratches from regular use and even some aggressive scratching
beyond normal use as tested in the 321 Studios' laboratory. In addition,
these media mediums are subject to common read errors and distortions
that cause discs to be unreadable. 321 Studio's DVD X Rescue and CD
X Rescue fixes a host of these problems however, solution results
differ depending on the extent of damage.
CD X Rescue and DVD X Rescue work far better than disc buffer solutions,
which actually grind off a portion of the top layer of the disc. While
these devices can often temporarily fix certain scratch problems,
they are expensive, require refills, and don't offer a long-term solution
for disc users.
Users can rescue their damaged or corrupt CDs and DVDs with DVD X
Rescue and CD X Rescue using nothing more than a DVD/CD burner and
blank DVD or CD.
DVD X Rescue and CD X Rescue have been tested extensively, work with
all common PC and MAC formats and are compatible with Windows XP/2000/98/ME.
DVD X Rescue and CD X Rescue will be available on September 3, 2003
for retail purchase from 321 Studios at www.DVDXCopy.com,
and at select retail outlets.
-- DVD X Rescue has a sale price of $69.99, with a $20 mail-in rebate.
-- CD X Rescue has a sale price of $49.99 with a $10 mail-in rebate.
Aug 05 - Intel Delivers Optimization
Kits for Mobile Phones and PDAs. Intel Corporation today announced
the availability of optimization kits that will help wireless application
developers improve the power and performance of cell phone and PDA
applications running on processors based on Intel(R) XScale(TM) technology.
Results from software vendors using the kits in early trials have
shown performance improvements anywhere from 50 percent for a mobile
gaming vendor to 20 times better for a fingerprint recognition application.
Meanwhile, other companies including a videoconferencing software
maker experienced a 25 percent increase in battery life.
"The goal of these kits is simple: Enable the industry to make
the cell phone or PDA as exciting as possible," said Tony Sica,
vice president and director of group marketing for Intel's Wireless
Communications and Computing Group. "The emergence of advanced
data networks provide a unique opportunity for the software development
community to bring its creativity and innovations into a new and interesting
segment. The combination of these new optimization kits and Intel
XScale technology based processors provide a vehicle with the power
and performance necessary to help bring convincing applications and
services to these segments."
The kits include a Pocket PC* PDA based on an Intel(R) PXA255 processor
for downloading and testing the applications, as well as a number
of software tools and a support CD used for fine-tuning the applications.
The Intel tools include the Intel(R) VTune(TM) Performance Analyzer
software and the Intel(R) C++ Compiler for Microsoft eMbedded Visual
C++.
The support CD contains optimization documentation, software development
kits, sample code and links to Intel optimization resources. The kits
are available now at www.shop-intel.com/shop/product.asp
for $999.
Future kits will include additional handheld and wireless handset
devices using the latest Intel XScale technology based processors
and operating system support, including Microsoft Smartphone, Linux
and Palm OS.
Aug 05 - Linux Sweeps IBM Customers
from Smallest to Largest. IBM today at LinuxWorld San Francisco
announced new customers from various industries that are moving to
Linux, marking the astounding growth in demand for Linux, from the
smallest to the largest customers.
From small and mid-sized business (SMB) customers Netflix and Marinalife
to enterprise customer NYFIX, companies in every industry and throughout
the world are choosing Linux and IBM to save costs, consolidate workloads
and integrate their e-business operating environments.
In response to the overwhelming customer demand, IBM is expanding
its Linux practice in key areas, including the expanded IBM Global
Services (IGS) Linux practice, SMB solutions testing in IBM Linux
competency centers and Business Partner and ISV programs for Linux-based
solutions. IBM's industry-leading Linux consultancy practice has expanded
to meet customer demand for Linux-related services. More than 3,000
employees in IGS now have skills in open source technologies, a ten
fold increase since 2001.
"In a tough economy, customers need to do more with less,"
said Jim Stallings, general manager, Linux, IBM. "As customers
increasingly move from proprietary solutions, such as those from Sun,
HP and Microsoft, IBM will continue to drive Linux adoption by expanding
our Linux practices and offering customers and partners the tools
they need to integrate their e-business operating environments while
realizing improved performance and better return on investment."
For more information about IBM and Linux, visit www.ibm.com/linux.
Aug 05 - Canon Introduces PictBridge Compatible
Inkjet Printer. Canon's new i560 Desktop Photo Printer is the
world's first PictBridge-enabled inkjet printer, which allows consumers
to print directly from any PictBridge compatible camera or camcorder
- regardless of brand. Customers can also print high-quality borderless
photos, sharp text or perfectly formatted web pages from the computer.
As one of the fastest printers in its class, the i560 delivers print
speeds of up to 22 pages per minute (ppm) in black and up to 15 ppm
in color and it is capable of delivering a staggering 19 million droplets
of ink per second at the maximum of 4800 x 1200 dpi color resolution.
Dramatic improvements in speed and quality found in the i560 printer
compared to its predecessor - the i550 model - are based on the inclusion
of Canon technology found in the multi-award winning Canon i850 photo
printer. This technology includes the i850 unit's print head and many
of the print engine components.
"Our new i560 is a fast desktop and photo printer capable of
connecting directly to PictBridge-enabled digital cameras," said
Yukiaki Hashimoto, senior vice president and general manager of the
Consumer Imaging Group at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon
Inc. (NYSE CAJ). "Designed to fit consumers lifestyles, the printer
lets users plug their digital camera in for quick and easy snapshots
or print beautiful images from their computer."
The i560 print head uses a Canon-exclusive technology that combines
ultra-fine two picoliter drops for exceptional quality and detail
when printing photos and five pl droplets for fast text and graphics
printing. The print head also features 1600 nozzles and advanced Microfine
Droplet Technology(TM) to eject the exact amount of ink for each droplet,
resulting in a higher quality photo print and increased print speeds.
The Canon Think Tank System(TM) provides economical ink use using
four individual tanks that can be replaced individually as each tank
runs out.
The Canon i560 Desktop Photo Printer is compatible with Windows XP/2000/Me/98/95/
NT 4.0, Mac OS 8.6-9.x, Mac OS X v 10.2.1 to 10.2.x. A one-year limited
warranty with InstantExchange is included with an option to purchase
an extended limited warranty (good for up to three years) from Canon
for a suggested retail price of $50.00. The i560 Desktop Photo Printer
will be available in August for a suggested list price of $129.99.
For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.
Aug 05 - Marx Toys Unveils New Internet
Robotic Toy Line. Marx Toys And Entertainment Corp. (OTCBB:MRXT),
announced the launch of a revolutionary interactive toy that will
enhance Internet users of all ages with their instant messaging experiences.
Marx will be the exclusive retail distributor of what could be the
hottest toy this holiday season. The toy, which will resemble famous
cartoon characters and real life individuals, will sit on top of one's
computer monitor and verbalize the user's incoming messages through
an advanced "text to speech" technology.
The animatronic messaging companion not only talks in the actual character's
voice, but has the motorized ability to move it's mouth and head simultaneously.
This companion, which will retail at $24.99, also uses inferred censor
technology and is linked to the front of the computer monitor. Last,
it consists of multifunctional capabilities, which include reading
stories and playing a handful of online games that come packaged with
each toy.
"Our team is very excited to bring this product to market, it's
the first interactive Internet related toy of its kind. First there
was hardware, then software. Now, we'd like to introduce toyware.",
states Marx Toys' CEO, Steven Wise and added, "Marx will continue
to be aggressive. Our newly hired sales force has set goals of selling
one million units through its retail channels and we are presently
in negotiations with major Internet service providers, motion picture
studios, television producers and other licensees."
Late last week, Marx Toys & Entertainment acquired software company,
AZtor Corporation. The software technology will help Marx to develop
enhanced interactive toy lines for the future. The interactive characters,
which are already creating a buzz in the toy industry, will be in
stores shortly.
About Marx Toys And Entertainment Corp.
Marx branded toys are sold at more than 400 toy and hobby retailers
across the U. S. and has a rich history dating back to 1928. To read
more on this history, visit www.marxtoys.com.
In late July, Marx acquired a software company, AZtor Corporation.
More info is at www.aztor.com.
Aug 05 - America Online and CareerBuilder,
LLC Announce Career-Services Alliance. America Online, Inc., the
world's leading interactive services company, and CareerBuilder.com,
the smarter recruitment resource for finding better candidates and
jobs, today announced a multi-year strategic alliance under which
CareerBuilder.com will power the Careers and Jobs areas of several
America Online brands. CareerBuilder.com will also receive promotion
on several Time Inc. interactive properties as well as on CNN.com.
The alliance brings the wide online consumer audiences of America
Online, Time Inc. and CNN together with CareerBuilder.com's unique
combination of national, local and niche audiences, offering job-seekers
and recruiters a powerful online resource to match qualified prospective
employees with the right company. The exclusive four-year agreement,
beginning in mid-December 2003, involves a combination of performance-based
elements and guaranteed payments, and is valued at up to $115 million
over the term.
Under the agreement, tens of millions of AOL and CompuServe members
and Netscape users will have convenient access to all of CareerBuilder.com's
more than 400,000 continuously updated job postings, representing
more than 25,000 of the top employers in virtually every industry
and field. AOL members will also be able to take advantage of CareerBuilder.com's
smart online products such as the confidential Personal Search Agent
that hunts for job opportunities in expressed areas of interest and
automatically emails them to job seekers.
Ted Leonsis, AOL Vice Chairman and President, AOL Core Service, said:
"With an increasingly competitive job market, a search for employment
has to include the online medium. We're very pleased to bring CareerBuilder.com's
employment resources to the millions of users of America Online's
brands, because CareerBuilder.com is a leader in the recruitment arena,
offering targeted job search products and a connection to 25,000 of
the nation's most sought after employers."
For more information about CareerBuilder.com products and services,
visit www.careerbuilder.com.
Aug 05 - Broadband Users Accounted for
Almost One-Third of Total Online Spending. Scarborough Research,
a leader in identifying local, regional and national consumer patterns,
announced a recent study that shows American adults with at-home broadband
connections accounted for almost one-third (31 percent) of all consumer
online spending last year totaling 15 billion dollars.
At home broadband users - those who used an ISDN, DSL technology
or a cable modem to access the Internet in the past 30 days -currently
represent 19 percent of online adults.
America's 23 million broadband users are twice as likely as all Internet
users to have spent $2,500 or more online in the past 12 months. Broadband
users are 39 percent more likely to purchase jewelry online; 64 percent
more likely to purchase toys and games online; and 64 percent more
likely to purchase cars, trucks and SUVs. Furthermore, broadband users
are more likely to use the Internet to view traditional media content
than other Internet users. This escalating category of Internet users
is the next generation of web users and information seekers.
Broadband users are 68 percent more likely than all Internet users
to have read a magazine online and 40 percent more likely to have
read a newspaper online in the past 30 days. One-fifth (20 percent)
of broadband users listened to the radio online in the past 30 days,
making them 72 percent more likely than all Internet users to do so.
As compared to all Internet users, broadband users are 42 percent
more likely to have visited a broadcast television network website
in the past 30 days and one-third (33 percent) more likely to have
logged onto a local television station website. They are also 45 percent
more likely to have accessed Internet yellow pages in the past 30
days.
"Traditional media websites, which have often been perceived
mostly as extensions of their broadcast or print counterparts, are
able to provide richer online experiences to those with broadband
connections and offer rich content like streaming audio and video,
interactive games, and sophisticated graphics and downloads,"
said Gary Meo, senior vice president, internet and print sales, Scarborough
Research. "Their ability to integrate traditional content with
rich media also allows online marketers to present advertising in
new and exciting formats. The continued adoption of broadband is one
of the key drivers of the advertising growth that online companies
have been experiencing this year."
Where do broadband users live?
According to Scarborough Research, Honolulu is the top ranked broadband
market as 40 percent of Honolulu adults who accessed the Internet
in the past 30 days have a broadband connection at-home. San Diego,
CA, is second highest with 34 percent followed by Rochester, NY, with
32 percent. Cities with the lowest broadband penetration include Spokane,
WA (nine percent), Albuquerque/Santa Fe, NM (eight percent), and Roanoke/Lynchburg,
VA (six percent).
Compared to all Internet users in the U.S., broadband users are well-educated
(12 percent more likely than all adults accessing the Internet to
hold a college degree and 17 percent more likely to have a post-graduate
degree) and affluent (32 percent more likely than total Internet users
to have household incomes of $75,000 or more). Slightly more than
a quarter (26 percent) of broadband users are between the ages of
35 and 44 and almost half (49 percent) have one or more children in
the household.
"At-home broadband consumers spend more money online than the
average Internet user and their affluence and education levels make
them a favorable marketing target," said Mr. Meo. "Local
media outlets can take advantage of broadband penetration in their
markets - and the expanded creativity of rich content - to reach this
valuable consumer group with content and advertising."
More information about Scarborough Research can be found at www.scarborough.com.
Aug 04 - America Online Introduces
AOL 9.0 Optimized. America Online, Inc., the world's leading interactive
services company, today announced the introduction of AOL(R) 9.0 Optimized,
the latest version of the AOL and AOL(R) for Broadband services, and
the beginning of the "Members First" download campaign.
On Friday, August 1st, AOL for Broadband members using
the Microsoft(R) Windows(R) XP and Windows(R) 2000 operating systems
will be the first to get an exclusive, preview copy of the new version
before the product is generally released in stores and marketing outlets
this fall. All other AOL members will be notified online in the coming
weeks as AOL 9.0 Optimized is available for them to download. Members
can also order a free AOL 9.0 Optimized CD in the online upgrade area.
The most compelling upgrade in AOL history, AOL 9.0 Optimized includes
a number of valuable new and enhanced features designed to help members
get the most from being online. During a special online promotional
campaign, a record 2.8 million AOL members signed up to receive an
automatic alert when AOL 9.0 Optimized is available to download. And
pre-release usage of the product during beta testing surpassed expectations
with active participation from more than 150,000 members.
Jon Miller, AOL's Chairman and CEO, said: "Our members told
us exactly what they want in their AOL service and AOL 9.0 Optimized
was built in response. No matter how members and their families connect
to the AOL service - whether by dial-up or by adding the AOL for Broadband
service to a basic high-speed connection - this upgrade will allow
each person to create the online world that they want. Once again,
the Company that encouraged generations of people to experience the
Internet, is delivering a consumer-focused online service that provides
real value, enjoyment, and the most ease and convenience available."
Throughout this fall, AOL will ramp up a multi-faceted marketing
campaign to build momentum around the AOL 9.0 Optimized release. As
part of this campaign, AOL will integrate online promotions, product
placement and full-scale brand advertising to increase exposure to
9.0 Optimized, and also will make the new version generally available
to consumers online and through CDs distributed in a wide range of
retail stores, venues and other marketing outlets. In addition, the
Company is working together with leading computer manufacturers to
offer AOL 9.0 Optimized on popular desktop and laptop PCs and make
it even more convenient for consumers to get the new AOL and software
and service.
"Dell's committed to offer customers AOL 9.0 Optimized on our
market-leading personal computers to make it easier for them to enjoy
the best possible online experience," said John Hamlin, Senior
Vice President and General Manager of Dell's U.S. Consumer Business.
"By bringing America's favorite PC together with the industry-leading
interactive services and content of AOL, our customers will be able
to benefit from faster and more robust online sessions."
Highlights of AOL 9.0 Optimized include:
-- Built-in Safety and Security Protections. New protections, including
personalized and adaptive spam filters that get smarter as you use
them, and enhanced Parental Controls that put parents in control and
allow members and their families to take on the Internet's biggest
annoyances on their terms. In addition to these new features, the
AOL service also provides members with automatic virus scanning for
e-mail attachments.
-- New Technologies for a More Seamless Online Experience. AOL's
new TopSpeed(TM) Web acceleration technology that enhances Web surfing
at no additional charge, as well as software that will automatically
reconnect and restart if an interruption occurs in either a dial-up
or broadband session, along with entirely new ways to customize the
AOL experience, including a personalized Welcome experience with new
options to help members quickly get to important things every time
they sign on.
-- New Ways to Share and Have Fun Online. New 3D animated SuperBuddy(TM)
Icons and a suite of new instant messaging and personalized "expressions"
features designed to make it even more fun to be online and to communicate
with friends and family through voice conversations using a new AOL(R)
Talk Phone, video clips, digital photos, and file sharing.
-- New Communications Options. A significant upgrade for AOL(R) Mail
that retains AOL's signature ease of use while incorporating a number
of improvements designed for more active and advanced e-mail users,
such as: a new Manage Mail tab that makes it easy for members to view
all of their mail from one place; the ability to permanently store
up to 20 megabytes of mail per Screen Name - for a total of up to
140 megabytes per account - on AOL's servers at no additional charge;
an expanded library of stationery designs, art and sound effects,
and smileys to dress up e-mails; and a new Mail QuickView feature
that allows members to see recently received mail at-a-glance.
-- More Family and Kid-Friendly Fun Features. The new AOL(R) Cash
Card program offers a parent-controlled prepaid card that is an easy
way to give teens and young adults an online allowance and help teach
them good money management habits. This year, AOL is also introducing
new, customized versions of the AOL service designed expressly for
kids and teens.
-- More of the Best On-Demand and Exclusive Programming Online. VIP
access to exclusive, original, brand name news, sports, entertainment,
and music content that makes the online experience more complete for
members.
"AOL 9.0 Optimized underscores the Company's focus on relentless
innovation to deliver what's most important to our members - providing
increased safety and security protections, making their lives easier,
and bringing the fun back to being online," said David Gang,
Executive Vice President, AOL Products. "Anticipation is building
for the new AOL 9.0 Optimized and we're excited about delivering this
great new product to our members."
AOL members can find out more at Keyword: Upgrade. AOL can be found
online at www.aol.com.
Aug 04 - Medea Ships FireFly FireWire
Storage Solutions. Medea Corporation, the leading manufacturer
of ATA-based storage solutions for rich media and streaming applications,
announced today that the company has begun shipping FireFly(TM), an
innovative FireWire-based storage solution for content creation applications.
"FireFly is the first FireWire storage solution to feature a
docking station and removable disk modules that also operate as stand-alone
FireWire drives," said Roger Mabon, Vice President of Channel
Marketing at Medea. "With FireFly, one disk module can be left
secure in the docking station while the other module is used to create
content while 'on-the-fly'. When the module is replaced in the docking
station, content can be automatically synchronized to provide a backup
copy of the user's valuable data."
FireFly Overview
FireFly is a modular FireWire storage solution designed for today's
storage-intensive applications, including digital audio and video
editing, DVD authoring, digital imaging, and desktop publishing. The
system features a FireWire port on the front of the docking station
for easy connection of DV camcorders.
FireFly is available in capacities up to 500GB (2x 250GB modules)
and can be either striped (RAID 0) for performance, mirrored (RAID
1) for data protection, or formatted as independent FireWire drives.
FireFly is available in 240, 400, and 500GB capacities with North
American pricing of $699, $999, and $1,299, respectively. FireFly
is available now from Medea's authorized dealers and mail-order vendors.
Visit www.medea.com for a list of these
resellers.
Aug 04 - Other World Computing Introduces
Internal Optical Media Upgrades for Macs. Other World Computing
(OWC) today introduced Mercury Ti and Mercury Cube slot-loading internal
SuperDrive and Combo drives available for both PowerBook G4 Titanium
15-inch and Power Macintosh G4 Cube models, respectively.
Allowing users to replace their current internal optical drive, OWC
SuperDrives provide full DVD-R/RW and CD-R/RW capabilities, while
the OWC Combo drives provide full CD-R/RW and DVD playback capabilities.
Drives are 100 percent compatible with all Apple software titles,
including iDVD (SuperDrive only), iTunes and Disc Burner.
"Out goes the stock drive and in goes the new OWC SuperDrive
or Combo drive upgrade," said Larry O'Connor, president of OWC.
"Now both Cube G4 and PowerBook G4 owners can have it all --
conveniently right inside their machine and with 100 percent Apple
software compatibility."
OWC SuperDrives are priced from $379.95 for both the Mercury Ti and
Cube models, and both models of OWC Combo drives are priced at $199.95.
All come with step-by-step instructions for easy installation and
are available exclusively through OWC at www.macsales.com/MercurySL.
Further, OWC offers a trade-in rebate of $19 or $85, respectively,
for the return of a properly functioning Apple CD/DVD or Apple CD-R/RW+DVD
that the new OWC drive has replaced.
Aug 03 - Sunday Shopping
Watch.
Best Sunday Deals - See our Best Sunday
Ad Deals Table below for specific system prices.
Weekly Comparison. Another very good weekend
to go out and buy a new desktop or laptop computer.
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.)
Best Buy is offering 12 month no-interest financing on all desktop
and laptop purchases, and $150 mail-in rebates on advertised desktop
packages and laptops.
Circuit City is offering
$150 mail-in rebates on advertised desktop packages and notebooks.
Office
Depot
has no store-wide promotions this Sunday.
CompUSA is offering 18 months
no payment, no interest financing on any purchase of $499 and higher
with printed CompUSA
Ad.
Staples has no store-wide promotions
this Sunday.
Compare
to Online Prices - Compare the Sunday ad prices to
those being offered at DealTime, it searches over 160 online computer
stores.
InfoHQ Related Shopping Pages
Shopping Alerts
- Our latest shopping advisories on buying digital cameras and camcorders,
desktop computers, laptops, and other computer items.
Windows XP
Upgrade Guide - All about upgrading to Windows XP.
What You Need to Know
About Dial-up Internet Service Rebates - The pros and cons of
'free' Internet service deals. Also see our latest InfoHQ Tech Watch
Newsletter; Free
PC and Free Internet Deals.
Definitions. A complete desktop system/package/complete
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 computer manufacturer. 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 Sunday Ad Deals
|
|
Category
|
Product Description
|
Price* (see above)
|
Prices up or Down this Week
|
Store
|
|
1. Best Celeron Deal
|
Compaq 2.4 GHz complete system with 17"
monitor
|
$419
|
-$80
|
Circuit City
|
|
2. Best Celeron Deal
|
HP 2.5 GHz complete system with 17"
monitor
|
$599
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
3. Best Celeron Deal
|
Compaq 2.6 GHz complete system with 17"
monitor
|
$629
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
1. Best Pentium 4 System
|
Sony 2.4 GHz system with 15" flat
panel, and DVD-R/W
|
$959
|
-$40
|
Best Buy, Circuit City ($999)
|
|
2. Best Pentium 4 System
|
HP 2.6 GHz complete system with 15"
flat panel, DVD-R/W, and HT Technology
|
$1199
|
-
|
Circuit City
|
|
1. Best AMD Athlon XP System
|
eMachines 2300+ complete system
|
$389
|
+$20
|
Best Buy
|
|
2. Best AMD Athlon XP System
|
eMachines 2600+ complete system with
17" flat panel
|
$589
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
3. Best AMD Athlon XP System
|
eMachines 2600+ complete system with
15" flat panel and DVD-RW
|
$879
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
1. Best Low-cost Laptop
|
Toshiba 2 GHz Celeron with DVD/CD-RW
|
$799
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
2. Best Low-cost Laptop
|
Compaq 2 GHz Celeron with DVD/CD-RW
|
$799
|
-
|
Circuit City
|
|
3. Best Low-cost Laptop
|
Toshiba 2.2 GHz Celeron with DVD/CD-RW
|
$999
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
4. Best Low-cost Laptop
|
Compaq Athlon XP 2400+ with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1049
|
|
Circuit City
|
|
1. Best High-end Notebook
|
Compaq 2.4 GHz Pentium 4 with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1199
|
-
|
Circuit City
|
|
2. Best High-end Notebook
|
Toshiba 2.6 GHz Pentium 4 with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1249
|
-
|
Best Buy, Circuit City
|
|
3. Best High-end Notebook
|
Sharp 2.8 GHz Pentium 4 Media Center
with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1799
|
-
|
Circuit City
|
|
|
|
Peripherals and Software
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
Maxtor 7200 RPM 80 GB hard drive with
8 MB buffer
|
$69
(after rebates)
|
+$10
|
Office Depot
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
Seagate 7200 RPM 120 GB hard drive with
8 MB buffer
|
$99
(after rebates)
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
HP 4X multiformat DVD-RW
|
$199
(after rebates)
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
TDK 4X multiformat DVD-RW
|
$269
(after rebates)
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
TDK 52X CD-RW
|
$69
(after rebates)
|
|
Circuit City
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
Samsung 52X CD-RW
|
$39
(after rebates)
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
|
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 can help you make
informed buying decisions.
Aug 01 - IBM Plans to Deliver
World's Most Powerful Linux Supercomputer. In advance of LinuxWorld
San Francisco, IBM today announced that Japan's largest national research
organization is the first customer to order the breakthrough technology
of the new IBM eServer 325 to deliver the world's most powerful Linux
supercomputer as part of a massive, distributed computing Grid to
support various research including life sciences and nanotechnology.
The IBM eServer 325, a new DB2 Linux cluster with support for the
AMD Opteron processor, and expanded Lotus client software are a few
of the new comprehensive offerings for Linux that IBM will announce
at LinuxWorld. The offerings separate IBM from the competition and
highlight its unique ability to offer scalable total hardware, software
and services solutions that will help small, mid-sized, and enterprise
customers save costs, solve key business issues, and integrate their
e-business infrastructure.
Japan's Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST)
system will include 1,058 of IBM's new eServer 325 systems, based
on the AMD Opteron processor. The complete cluster will be capable
of delivering more than 11 trillion calculations per second. The supercomputer
is planned to be integrated with other non-Linux systems to form a
massive, distributed computing Grid, enabling collaboration between
corporations, academia, and government.
The introduction of the IBM eServer 325 marks a significant milestone
in e-business integration by delivering the capability to run Linux
combining 64-bit performance with 32-bit application compatibility,
by delivering hardware and software that supports the high-performance
AMD Opteron processor.
The support allows high performance computing customers to seamlessly
migrate their IT systems to a 64-bit environment, optimizing their
32-bit investment and performance while capitalizing on the power
of 64-bit computing. Designed to run either Linux or Windows operating
systems, the eServer 325 can run both 32- and 64-bit applications
simultaneously, providing customers with flexibility to effectively
manage their business.
"In an environment where businesses need to do more with less,
customers are increasingly turning to Linux and IBM to help integrate
their infrastructure, increase flexibility and improve performance,
all while saving costs," said Jim Stallings, general manager,
Linux, IBM. "As Linux continues to evolve as a reliable environment
for critical applications, IBM will continue to offer breakthrough
technology, like the eServer 325 and DB2 Cluster, across our product
line, providing our customers with total business solutions."
For more information about IBM and Linux, visit www.ibm.com/linux.
Aug 01 - Sprint and AOL
Launch Mail and Instant Messenger Service on PCS Vision Phones.
Sprint (NYSE: FON, PCS) and America Online, Inc., the world's leading
interactive services company, today announced the availability of
AOL(R) Mail and AOL(R) Instant Messenger(TM) service (AIM(R)) on PCS
Vision Phones nationwide. Now millions of AOL members and AIM users
can fully manage their AOL Mail in addition to sending and receiving
instant messages directly from their PCS Vision Phones. This launch
extends the relationship between the two companies, which dates back
to February 2000 when Sprint became the first provider to launch AOL
services across a wireless network.
With the launch, PCS Vision customers don't have to be tied to the
computer to connect to their AOL Mail or AOL Buddy List(R) as Sprint
and America Online are bringing leading online communication features
to PCS Vision Phones. Sprint and AOL have been working closely together
for the past three years to bring internet-based wireless content
and services to mobile phone users nationwide.
"Communication is the number one reason people own a PCS Phone.
The addition of AOL tools to PCS Vision services now makes it even
easier for Sprint customers to communicate wirelessly via email or
instant messaging," said Chip Novick, vice president of consumer
marketing for the PCS Division of Sprint. "These new interactive
services, available nationwide, let customers move their online world
in-hand and remain connected while away from the computer."
"With the availability of AOL Mail and AIM on PCS Vision Phones,
AOL members and AIM users with these next generation phones will never
have to worry about missing an important email or IM while on the
go," said Bill Schwebel, Vice President and General Manager of
AOL Wireless. "We are excited to be extending our partnership
with Sprint, and ensuring that as mobile services evolve, we are able
to provide AOL members and AIM users with added services that extend
the reach of the Internet."
By using any of more than eight models of Internet-ready PCS Vision
phones, AOL members across the country will experience the best of
interactive content with the best of wireless communications virtually
anywhere, anytime on the enhanced Sprint Nationwide PCS wireless network.
AOL members can also use any of the additional four Sprint PDA phones
to access AOL services and content.
PCS Vision from Sprint includes services that allow customers to
take and receive pictures from select PCS Phones; browse the Internet
at speeds faster than most dial-up connections; check personal and
corporate e-mail; watch clips and stream audio for news and music;
download polyphonic, animated and voice ringers, and full-color, graphically-rich
games and screen savers, all on the enhanced Nationwide PCS Network.
The PCS Vision Premium Pack is available for $15 a month. This includes
unlimited access to the PCS Vision Web, unlimited text messaging and
$10 per month in premium applications such as games, ringers and screensavers.
For more information, visit www.sprint.com.
Aug 01 - FirewireDirect Ships 800Mbps
FireWire Hard Drives. FirewireDirect.com Inc. today announces
the introduction of the first in a series of bold new 800Mbps external
hard drives and enclosures with the debut of the StingRay 800, a powerful
dual interface USB 2.0 and FireWire 800 3.5" desktop hard drive
storage system.
FireWire 800, or 1394b, is a new, faster FireWire standard rolling
out in highly anticipated new products from FirewireDirect. The improved
standard offers dramatically increased speeds and enhancements that
will be immediately attractive to digital video and audio producers,
multimedia creators and every personal computer user demanding cost
effective and speedy storage for the digital life style.
FirewireDirect was first to market with several 800Mbps products,
and the StingRay 800 is their first storage offering, available in
up to 320 GigaBytes in a single volume and already offering the huge
speed gains promised by the new standard. Most users will see sustained
reads of over 50MB/s and writes of over 40MB/s, about double the possibilities
of traditional FireWire.
Like all FirewireDirect products, the drive plugs and plays without
special drivers. The dual USB 2.0 FireWire 800 interface enables it
to connect to virtually any computer. The drive separates itself from
the pack with a whisper quiet fan for efficient and noiseless cooling,
and a built-in power supply -- no bulky power brick cords. These and
other attributes make the StingRay a powerful 800Mbps FireWire solution
that's especially attractive for mobile personal computer users.
The drive is available and shipping now, in sizes ranging from an
Enclosure Kit for users building their own, to the huge 320GB HDD,
the only single volume FireWire 800 external drive of this size available
to consumers.
The StingRay 800 is a truly cross platform solution, complete with
software for both Mac and Windows users.
The drive can been viewed and ordered from: www.firewiredirect.com.
Aug 01 - New Satellite Internet Modem
Delivers on Faster Speeds. StarBand, America's leading high-speed,
two-way satellite Internet provider to residential and small office
customers, today announced the national expansion of the StarBand
480 Pro service with a professional-strength, network-ready, business-grade
satellite modem delivering faster speeds, instant networking capability
and compatibility with a wide array of computer operating systems
including Windows, Macintosh, UNIX, and Linux.
The StarBand 480 Pro provides high performance Internet service with
peak download speeds of up to one megabit per second (Mbps) and upload
speeds of 100 kilobits per second (Kbps) in Turbo Mode, which is available
for most large file uploads.
"We committed our time and resources to delivering this highly
demanded solution to the marketplace and are now ready to fulfill
the pent-up demand for it," said StarBand Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer Zur Feldman. "The StarBand 480 Pro, our fourth
generation product, shows once again that StarBand listens to the
customer and delivers on their needs."
"StarBand has a history in being first to market in this category
and today we are doing so again with the StarBand 480 Pro," said
Howard Lossing, VP of Sales and Marketing. "Our commercial customers
asked for, and we delivered, a product that works with all operating
systems, has faster upload speeds, includes a built-in router making
networking easier, offers multiple static IP addresses, and does not
require PC-based software."
The initial limited roll-out to several hundred customers in the
First Quarter of 2003 resulted in very high customer satisfaction
with more than 90% claiming they would recommend the StarBand 480
Pro Small Office service to other businesses because of its reliability,
faster upload speeds and networking ease.
The StarBand 480 Pro satellite modem includes a four-port Ethernet
router enabling instant networking of multiple personal computers
to provide maximum flexibility for networked environments. With the
product software and intelligence now embedded on the satellite modem,
business customers with Windows, Macintosh, UNIX, Linux and many other
Operating Systems supporting TCP/IP can enjoy networked high-speed
Internet access from StarBand.
For more information about StarBand and the StarBand 480 Pro Small
Office service, please visit: www.StarBand.com.
Aug 01 - Midsize Businesses Embrace Wireless
LANs. As low prices and wireless connectivity continue to drive
the trend in the midmarket toward mobile PCs, 60 percent of midsize
businesses (MSBs) in North America will deploy wireless LANs (WLANs)
within their premises by the end of 2003, according to Gartner Inc.
(NYSE: IT and ITB). WLANs will become a critical component for those
seeking to improve business efficiencies in a wide variety of processes,
including inventory, shipping and manufacturing.
"Supporting the access requirements of mobile workers is becoming
a serious concern for midsize businesses" said Jim Browning,
vice president and research director for Gartner. "Demand for
wireless Internet access in the home, the office and in public places
is growing rapidly, while PC vendors are packaging wireless capability
in their products. These factors are driving the adoption of next-generation
wireless solutions in midsize businesses."
MSBs that have invested in WLAN technology to explore its flexibility
and to reduce operating costs will experience some soft benefits and
will probably break even on their investment in two or three years.
However, there is a bigger opportunity to improve return on investment
by linking WLANs with the appropriate enterprise applications, such
as enterprise resource planning, supply chain management and customer
relationship management. Through 2004, more than 60 percent of all
WLAN implementations will include some type of extension to vertical
applications.
For more information, visit www.gartner.com.
Aug 01 - Worldwide WLAN 802.11 Market to
exceed $3 Billion in 2007. According to Dell'Oro Group, the Wireless
LAN - 802.11 market will grow from $1.5 B in 2002 to $3.1 B in 2007,
with all product categories continuing to drive revenue growth through
the scope of the forecast.
Dell'Oro Group's recently published Report indicates that most products
will transition from 802.11b to 802.11g and then to 802.11 Multimode
(802.11a/g), with the exception being Enterprise-class Access Points
which will likely skip the transitions to 802.11g and move quickly
to Multimode solutions.
According to Greg Collins, Director, Dell'Oro Group, "The major
product categories that we track are in varying stages of transition.
Both the SOHO-infrastructure segment and the Network Interface Card
(NIC) segment are transitioning from purely stand-alone products to
WLAN becoming an embedded feature in other mainstream technology products;
namely broadband Customer Premises Equipment (CPE), notebook and handheld
computers respectively.
"We are also at the early stages of Enterprise WLAN networks
moving from largely stand-alone networks and applications, to becoming
more tightly integrated with existing voice and data networks. As
the barriers to WLAN deployments in the Enterprise fall and as WLAN
clients and networks proliferate outside of the Enterprise, we will
see increased penetration of WLAN in Enterprise environments."
Visit the Dell'Oro Group at www.delloro.com.
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