Aug 15 - Symantec Sees Decrease in New W32.Blaster.Worm
Infections.Symantec, the world leader in Internet security, today
announced that it has seen an initial peak in the number of new W32.Blaster.Worm
infections.
In fact, Symantec Security Response experts have noted a 30 to 40
percent decrease in infected systems from Monday, August 11 PDT to
Tuesday, August 12 as monitored by the Symantec DeepSight Threat Management
System.
"The W32.Blaster.Worm, which propagates via the Microsoft Windows
DCOM RPC Interface Buffer Overrun Vulnerability, has been spreading
worldwide at a much slower rate than CodeRed, Nimda or Slammer,"
said Alfred Huger, senior director Symantec Security Response. "The
potential for infection with W32.Blaster.Worm, however, is much greater
than previous worms due to the overwhelming number of machines that
are affected by the MS RPC Buffer Overrun vulnerability."
Of the 188,000 hosts infected, the top five countries currently affected
are the United States (48 percent), United Kingdom (15 percent), Canada
(5 percent), Australia (3 percent) and Ireland (2 percent).
Although the number of new infections is declining, the first variant
has also been identified. W32.Blaster.B.worm, a variant of W32.Blaster.worm,
differs only in that it renames the executable as Penis.exe. Symantec
Security Response has rated this worm as a Level 2 threat. In addition,
Symantec has discovered a new Trojan, W32.Randex.E that also takes
advantage of the vulnerability. This Trojan allows its creator to
control a computer by using Internet Relay Chat (IRC) and is also
rated a Level 2.
The Symantec DeepSight Threat Management System, part of Symantec's
Early Warning Solutions, tracks security threats and provides quick
analysis countermeasures to protect against malicious threats on a
global basis. The most extensive data network in the world, the solution
gathers data from firewalls and intrusion detection systems (IDS)
of more than 20,000 partners in more than 180 countries -- offering
the most comprehensive view of what is happening on the Internet.
Symantec Security Response encourages network administrators to implement
the following:
-- Ensure that all available patches and feasible mitigating
strategies provided in Microsoft Security Bulletin MS03-026
have been applied. The patch is available at
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/treeview/default.asp?url=/
technet/security/bulletin/MS03-026.asp
(Due to the length of this URL, it may be necessary to copy
and paste this hyperlink into your Internet browser's URL
address field.)
-- Ensure that the following ports are filtered at the network
perimeter and between all untrusted network segments: udp/135,
udp/137, udp/138, tcp/135, tcp/445 and tcp/593.
Symantec Security Response encourages home users to immediately
install the latest patch from Microsoft and update their virus definitions
to protect against W32.Blaster.Worm.
W32.Blaster.Worm Removal Tool
Symantec Security Response has posted a removal tool for W32.Blaster.Worm.
The removal tool is available from: http://securityresponse.symantec.com/avcenter/venc/data/
w32.blaster.worm.removal.tool.html.
(Due to the length of this URL, it may be necessary to copy and paste
this hyperlink into your Internet browser's URL address field.)
Aug 15 - Google Adds New Features to Search
Toolbar. Google, developer of the award-winning search engine,
today announced the latest version of the popular Google Toolbar is
out of beta and available for download at http://toolbar.google.com.
Google's free browser utility enables users to search from any page
on the web and offers pop-up blocking, web form filling, and a new
Blogger button that makes posting to Blogger.com weblogs quick and
easy.
"The Google Toolbar demonstrates our commitment to developing
search products that make information more accessible and useful to
people worldwide," said Jonathan Rosenberg, vice president, Product
Management, Google. "Whether it's searching for content, blocking
pop-ups, or automatically filling in forms, the Google Toolbar makes
accessing information on the web fast, easy, and convenient."
The Google Toolbar is a powerful search and web surfing utility that
seamlessly integrates with users' web browsers. New features of the
Google Toolbar 2.0 include:
-- Pop-up Blocker: Blocks distracting pop-ups while users surf the
web.
-- AutoFill: Completes web forms with information that's saved securely
on a user's own computer.
-- BlogThis: Makes posting links to Blogger.com weblogs quick and
easy.
Additional features include:
-- Google Search: Access Google search from any web page.
-- Search Site: Search only the pages of the site being viewed.
-- PageRank: See Google's ranking of any page on the web.
-- Highlight: Highlight search terms as they appear on the page
-- each word in its own color.
-- Word Find: Find search terms wherever they appear on the page.
Today's announcement follows several recent Google search enhancements
that demonstrate the company's ongoing efforts to create new and innovative
technologies. These new features include:
-- Calculator: Enables users to solve mathematic problems by
entering numeric expressions into the google.com or the Google
Toolbar search boxes. More information on the calculator can
be found here:
http://www.google.com/help/features.html#calculator.
-- Google News Alerts: An automatic news alert system that
notifies subscribers via e-mail about the latest Google News
listings related to a specified subject.
(http://www.google.com/newsalerts)
-- Tilde Operator: A new search command that enables users to
search not only for a particular keyword, but also for its
synonyms. This is accomplished by placing the tilde character
directly in front of the keyword in the search box.
(http://www.google.com/help/refinesearch.html)
-- Advanced News Search: An easy-to-use Google News feature that
enables users to more accurately pinpoint news-related
searches. (http://news.google.com/advanced_news_search)
For more information, visit www.google.com.
Aug 15 - AT&T Wireless
Offers New Color-Screen BlackBerry Handheld. Expanding its portfolio
of BlackBerry(R) handhelds, AT&T Wireless (NYSE:AWE) is now offering
customers the BlackBerry 7210 Wireless Handheld(TM) -- a new color-screen
handheld with international roaming capabilities. The new handheld
developed by Research In Motion (RIM) (Nasdaq:RIMM)(TSX:RIM) runs
on AT&T Wireless' Next Generation GSM(TM)/GPRS network, providing
wireless phone, text messaging, email, Web browsing and organizer
access in dozens of countries across the globe.
The BlackBerry 7210 Wireless Handheld provides customers with wireless
access to their personal and corporate email, including attachments,
for users of Microsoft(R) Outlook(R), Lotus(R) Notes(R) and popular
Internet Service Provider (ISP) email accounts. AT&T Wireless'
extensive network of global roaming partners provides business travelers
with the ability to check email in thirty-two countries and place
phone calls in more than one hundred nations using the new BlackBerry
handheld. The new BlackBerry 7210(TM) is priced at $449.99.
AT&T Wireless' data plans for BlackBerry handhelds start at only
$39.99 per handheld per month, and optional voice calling plans start
at only $19.99 per handheld per month. Customers can purchase the
BlackBerry 7210 directly through AT&T Wireless' sales channels.
Additional details can be found at www.attwireless.com/blackberry.
Aug 15 - Block Windows Messenger Service
Pop-up Ads With a Free Download. In an effort to protect home
and small business users from the growing number of Windows Messenger
Service pop-up ads, web browser security provider Winferno offers
a free download, StopMess, that will eliminate these advertisements
with one mouse click. The Window Messenger Service pop-up ads appear
on users' computers as a way to solicit advertisements, lead users
to another web site or possibly enter a user's computer unauthorized.
"Our users are asking us, at an alarming rate, for assistance
in removing these pop-up windows that are controlled by a PC's operating
system," said Jon Lal, President of Winferno Software. "Since
our mission is to deliver web browser security to all users, we thought
it was best to provide a free tool and offer it immediately to any
user."
To complement the free download and provide web browser security,
Winferno recently updated Secure IE 2003(TM), which eliminates security
threats while web browsing. Secure IE 2003 offers features like a
one time, automatic set-up for zone-based security settings, which
can then automatically be updated with Secure IE's Internet Security
Advisor.
Other security features include intercepting all file downloads and
then routing authorized files through a virus scanner; there is also
built-in blocking of undesirable pop-ups, Flash and ActiveX commands,
and many other security features. Along with security, Secure IE 2003
offers productivity features like easier search, faster downloads,
highlighting and sticky notes and the ability to save web pages as
a single file or use a tab view for multiple web pages.
How to Access the StopMess Free Download
The StopMess free download designed to block Windows Messenger Service
pop-up ads is now available to all users and can be downloaded from
www.secureie.com/stopmessenger.asp.
Separately, Secure IE 2003 is available on a 15-day free trial. Its
retail price is $29.95. Secure IE 2003 may be purchased from www.secureie.com.
Secure IE 2003 is also available through McAfee's website. All Winferno
software comes with a 30-day, 100% money back guarantee.
Aug15 - interMute Introduces SpySubtract
to Detect and Destroy Spyware. interMute, Inc., developer of award
winning AdSubtract Web-preference software, today announced SpySubtract,
an easy to-use, powerful PC software solution that detects and safely
removes spyware and security threats.
Already, SpySubtract is protecting users from the malicious Blaster
worm attacking Windows PCs. Known by a variety of names -- including
W32.Blaster, MSBlast and W32/Lovsan -- the virus-like program, called
a worm, first appeared on Monday. Thousands of PC users have downloaded
SpySubtract for protection, at the rate of one download per minute.
interMute received advanced warning of the malicious Blaster worm
because it infects a PC by using the same port as interMute's AdSubtract
product. When a PC is infected with the worm, it causes AdSubtract
to report an error. interMute took immediate action to protect its
users and also make SpySubtract available to the general public, to
stop the worm from spreading.
"When we learned the worm was crashing our customer's computers
and spreading like wildfire, we quickly responded by providing SpySubtract
to our user base to detect and destroy the worm," said Ed English,
CEO, interMute. "interMute is dedicated to providing simple,
effective tools for Internet privacy and security. SpySubtract is
the latest addition to interMute's arsenal of powerful Web-preference
solutions."
By downloading SpySubtract - available for free at www.spysubtract.com
- users can halt the Blaster worm's attack before damage is done.
SpySubtract immediately detects and removes the worm, preventing possible
PC harm and averting the spread to others. Microsoft disclosed the
vulnerability and offered a protective software patch on its Web site
to safeguard vulnerable computers. However, many users neglected to
install Microsoft's patch and already have the worm present on their
computers.
Ongoing Protection
interMute's SpySubtract software protects web users' not only from
the Blaster worm, but from all sorts of malicious spyware. Spyware
is a major threat to privacy and security, affecting anyone who uses
a computer. Such programs can monitor computer activities while gathering
and transmitting your personal information. Some popular freeware
and music programs quietly install spyware along with their software.
interMute's SpySubtract continuously monitors for such invasive software
and alerts users when spyware is detected, allowing them to easily
and quickly destroy it.
Pricing and Availability
Available now at www.spysubtract.com,
SpySubtract's free version allows users to continually scan and remove
spyware. For $29.95, users can upgrade to the PRO version, which provides
spyware database updates to protect against newly discovered spyware
and worms.
Aug 14 - Samsung Takes the Lead in the
Ultra-Wideband WPAN Technology. Samsung Electronics and Staccato
Communications of San Diego, Calif., today announced an agreement
to jointly develop Ultra-wideband-based (UWB) technology for the Wireless
Personal Area Network (WPAN) market and to collaborate on application
development. The result of the collaboration will be an accelerated
time-to-market advantage for both companies to introduce standards-based
UWB chipsets and end products based on Multiband OFDM technology.
"Samsung was among the very first companies to invest time,
money and resources in ultra wideband," said Dr. Yong Suk Kim,
UWB project manager, Samsung Electronics (SAIT). "With our experience
in building radios, in designing and manufacturing semiconductors,
and with our presence in consumer electronics and personal computers,
Samsung is in an excellent position to bring UWB products to market
successfully. The relationship with Staccato signals our commitment
to offer consumers cost-effective, high-speed wireless connectivity."
"UWB is the most exciting wireless technology to come along
in years, and Staccato has already built a wealth of expertise in
the field," said Dr. Roberto Aiello, CEO, Staccato Communications.
"With Samsung's leadership in the digital entertainment and consumer
electronics markets coupled with our experience, we will be able to
make the vision of UWB connectivity into a reality."
Samsung and Staccato intend to leverage each other's expertise to
offer a new generation of high-performance, low-power and cost-effective
UWB solutions for consumer, mobile and computing applications by accelerating
the development of UWB-based products for very high bit-rate networks,
up to 480 Megabits per second (Mbps).
Staccato will benefit from Samsung's leadership in developing memory
chipsets, CDMA mobile phones, consumer electronics and Radio Frequency
(RF) technologies. Samsung will benefit from Staccato's years of experience
in developing UWB wireless communication technology, including advanced
UWB Multiband OFDM technology, and its unique CMOS implementation
capabilities.
Samsung and Staccato are actively involved in standards activities.
In fact, Samsung is one of the founding members of WiMedia Alliance
and engaged with every organization associated with UWB to date, including
IEEE 802.15.3a, IEEE 802.15.4SGa, USB-IF, Multiband Coalition and
most recently, the newly organized Multiband OFDM Alliance. "No
other company can make this claim," said Dr. Yong Suk Kim.
Availability of initial chipsets will be in conjunction with emerging
IEEE 802.15.3a standard.
An FCC ruling on February 14, 2002, approved use of the UWB spectrum.
UWB is a high-speed, short-range wireless technology and is ideal
for transferring broadband digital content between PCs and PC peripherals,
and devices in different entertainment clusters in the home, such
as digital video recorders, set-top boxes, and televisions.
For more information, please visit the web sites http://samsungelectronics.com,
and www.staccatocommunications.com.
Aug 14 - DivX Certified KiSS
DP-500 Networked DVD Player Now Available. The first officially
DivX Certified(TM) DVD player, the KiSS DP-500, is now available for
sale on www.divx.com. The DP-500, powered by the EM8550 DVD processor
from Sigma Designs (Nasdaq: SIGM), is a revolutionary network-connected
DVD player from KiSS Technology that is capable of playing back DivX
video, including versions 3.xx, 4.xx and 5.xx. DivX.com is the first
retail channel in the United States to offer the DP-500 for sale at
the price of U.S. $299.
The "DivX Certified" badge ensures consumers that a device
will play back DivX(R) video content (including DivX 3.11) at the
highest possible level of visual quality. The KiSS DP-500 is the first
network-capable DVD player to offer DivX playback, enabling users
to download DivX content from the Internet and then play it directly
on a television.
"We're very excited to bring our users the first DivX Certified
DVD player on DivX.com in the form of the KiSS DP-500, which is the
kind of next-generation connected device that will help shape the
future of consumer electronics," said Jordan Greenhall, CEO and
co-founder of DivXNetworks Inc.
"We created the DivX Certified process to bring consumers, content
providers and CE companies together to facilitate real convergence
and meet global demand. Devices like the DP-500 will empower our users
to create, distribute and enjoy their video content on a variety of
devices and platforms throughout the connected home."
In addition to supporting DivX video technology, the DP-500 offers
a number of cutting-edge features, including progressive scan, Ethernet
10/100, Internet radio streaming, PC-Link, support for DVD, SVCD,
VCD, CD, MP3, Ogg Vorbis, CD-RW & DVD-RW/+RW playback, and a photo
album feature that enables users to view digital photos on a television.
"We are excited to work with DivXNetworks as our first retail
channel for the U.S. market, which highlights the significance of
our DP-500 as the first DivX Certified DVD player," said Peter
Wilmar Christensen, CEO of KiSS Technology. "Our team has worked
diligently to create an innovative next-generation DVD player that
sets a new standard for networked consumer products, and we look forward
to bringing that device to the worldwide community of video enthusiasts
and early adopters in the DivX community."
"The KiSS DP-500 is an ideal device for consumers who have been
anxiously awaiting high-quality products that will enable them to
bring their DivX content beyond the PC to their living rooms,"
said Ken Lowe, vice president of strategic marketing of Sigma Designs.
To learn more about the DivX Certified program, visit www.divx.com/divxcertified.
For more information on the KiSS DP-500, visit http://www.divx.com/hardware.
Aug 14 - Zone Labs Introduces Essential
Security Tool for Instant Messaging -- New IMsecure Pro. Zone
Labs Inc., a leading creator of endpoint security solutions, today
announced the immediate availability of a new product, Zone Labs IMsecure
Pro, the first comprehensive instant messaging (IM) security solution
for any program that accesses the most popular IM services such as
AOL Instant Messenger, MSN Messenger and Yahoo! Messenger.
IMsecure Pro ensures that IM conversations are private and secure,
protecting PCs and valuable personal information from spammers, identity
thieves, hackers and predators who exploit vulnerable IM connections.
IMsecure Pro protects the PC transparently, regardless of service
or client used, requiring no change to existing habits or software.
A recent study conducted for the National Cyber Security Alliance
by America Online discovered that 86 per cent of users store sensitive
personal information such as credit card numbers, bank account information
and social security numbers on their PCs, making any unprotected PC
an attractive target for hackers and online predators. Highlighting
this expanded risk is the rapid growth of instant messaging for both
personal and business use; Ferris Research predicts that instant messaging
will grow from 54 million unique consumer users in 2002 to 341 million
unique consumers in 2007.
"Instant messaging is quickly becoming a key communication tool,
equal in importance to email and the telephone," said Frederick
Felman, vice president of marketing, Zone Labs. "Because instant
messaging provides a persistent and direct connection to the outside
world, it can be exploited by hackers to gain entry to a PC. IMsecure
Pro was built based on Zone Labs' core philosophy that security must
be both powerful and easy to use for maximum protection."
By design, IM programs seek any open PC communications port to communicate,
which can put individual PCs and any network to which they are connected
at risk if the user has selected an IM security solution that relies
on traditional methods like monitoring specific ports or IP addresses.
While the IM clients are regularly updated, the client protocols that
they use are rarely changed. Because IMsecure Pro secures by protocol,
it offers always-current, dependable and flexible protection for the
most popular IM clients.
Universal, Client-Independent Protection
IMsecure Pro secures the three major IM services --AOL Instant Messenger,
MSN Messenger and Yahoo! Messenger -- which carry the majority of
IM traffic. In addition, IMsecure Pro secures the most popular third-party
clients such as Trillian, EasyMessage, Imici and Meca. Unlike competitive
products, IMsecure Pro secures IM protocols rather than specific IM
clients' ports or IP addresses, thereby protecting all IM traffic.
As a result, users can continue to communicate with their existing
IM product while gaining the benefits of increased security.
Instant Protection
With pre-configured Smart Default settings, IMsecure Pro offers 'out
of the box protection'. A Security Log records IM security events
as they occur and displays them in a configurable view so users are
aware of IM-related security events that occur on their PCs and can
take follow-up actions, if necessary.
Inbound Threat Protection
IMsecure Pro follows Zone Labs' "guilty until proven innocent"
security philosophy, protecting against both known and unknown IM
vulnerabilities. It guards the PC from infiltration by hackers introducing
malicious code through invalid messages, buffer overflow attacks or
dangerous IM-borne scripts. An additional benefit of Zone Labs' "guilty
until proven innocent" approach to security is the Spam-Blocker,
which shields users from inappropriate content and wasted time by
blocking unsolicited messages.
Outbound Threat Protection
ID Lock prevents users from inadvertently sending personally-identifiable
information such as a social security number, bank account or credit
card information. This is especially useful for families who wish
to ensure that their children do not share sensitive information,
like their home or school address, to strangers. In addition, Message
Encryption protects IM traffic from being intercepted and read by
others so that IM conversations remain private and free from monitoring.
IMsecure Pro encrypts IM communication between any two IMsecure Pro-protected
client programs that are communicating via the same service, e.g.,
a Yahoo! Messenger user communication with a Trillian user over Yahoo!.
IMsecure Pro 1.0 is available immediately for purchase and download
from the Zone Labs web site at www.zonelabs.com
for $19.95, including one year of security updates. A 15-day trial
version of IMsecure Pro also is available on the Zone Labs site.
For those users who want only basic IM security, IMsecure 1.0 is
available from the Zone Labs web site at no cost for personal and
non-profit use.
Aug 14 - UPnP Implementers Corporation
Certifies First Product. The UPnP(TM) Implementers Corporation
(UIC) today announced that the organization has certified the first
product in the new AV device category -- a UPnP Digital Media Receiver
for OEM customers. The Digital Media Receiver allows consumers to
wirelessly transmit content from their Personal Computer (PC) to their
home A/V entertainment center using standard Wi-Fi technology. Users
can listen to MP3s and stream video and photos in the comfort of their
living room.
"We're pleased to certify this Philips device, which will be
provided to OEM's by the new Philips and Accton joint venture, Arcadyan.
OEM customers can leverage the UPnP(TM) certification under their
own brand in multiple market segments. We expect it to be the first
of many networked audio/video products that feature UPnP technology,"
said Karen Stash, President of the UIC.
"This is a tremendous achievement," said Engelbert van
Pelt, Executive Vice President, Arcadyan Technology Corporation, the
newly formed joint venture between Royal Philips Electronics and Accton
Technology Corporation. "By including UPnP(TM) technology, we're
creating the first of many products for the home that consumers can
just plug in and use to transmit digital content from the PC and Internet
into the living room. In fact, consumers will be able to buy the first
branded product as early as this summer."
"The certification of a product in this new AV Device category
represents a very significant step. In just 18 months the standards
have been extended to include new categories and many new products,"
said Stash. "The members of the UPnP Forum are enabling simple
and robust connectivity between stand-alone products and PCs from
many different vendors today, and will continue to develop standards
to help make sure that home and business networks just work."
There are now more than 44 UPnP(TM) certified products and 33 UIC
member companies. Products authorized to display the UPnP certification
mark provide an easy way for consumers to recognize those items that
have been developed with a simple method for connecting to home and
corporate networks. All certified products implement the UPnP device
standards as defined for specific product categories developed and
published by the UPnP Forum, an industry association of over 600 companies.
About UPnP Technology
UPnP(TM) technology makes home networking simple and affordable so
the connected home experience becomes a mainstream experience for
users and a great opportunity for the industry. Published in 2000,
version 1.0 of the UPnP architecture offers pervasive network connectivity
between PCs of all form factors, intelligent appliances, and wireless
devices.
UPnP architecture leverages TCP/IP and the Web technologies to enable
seamless proximity networking in addition to control and data transfer
among networked devices in the home, office, and everywhere in between.
UPnP technology can be supported on essentially any operating system
and works with essentially any type of physical networking media --
wired or wireless -- providing maximum user and developer choice and
great economics.
For more information about the UPnP Forum, visit: www.upnp.org
and www.arcadyan.com.
Aug 14 - Home Audio Video interoperability
Consortium Announces New Technical Initiative. The Home Audio
Video interoperability (HAVi)(TM) Consortium, today announced the
formation of a new technical working group, The File Management Working
Group. It will be lead by the Technical Steering Committee's chairman,
Fernando Matsubara of Mitsubishi Electric. The new working group will
focus on extending and enhancing the HAVi specification.
The File Management Working Group is responsible for defining facilities
to manage private data content over the HAVi network. The new facilities
will further enhance existing HAVi content management by supporting
retrieval and storage of content material such as photos, movies,
and songs in devices connected to the HAVi network.
The envisioned new File Manager will support multi-format digital
items with diverse QoS requirements, ranging from simple text or still
pictures files to high definition A/V clips. The new facilities will
complement current HAVi services which concentrate in playback and
recording of digital streams. The unparalleled technical features
of the IEEE 1394 FireWire(C) bus will continue to play a fundamental
role.
The addition of a File Manager will offer consumers and easy and
friendly way to globally manage the content of the home entertainment
network. The working group is expected to deliver specifications for
new APIs or extensions to existing APIs in order to provide content
management facilities to applications by the end of 2003.
About HAVi, Inc.
HAVi is a not-for-profit association comprised of leading consumer
electronics, software, semiconductor and computer manufacturers who
have formed to promote a network architecture for Home Audio Video
interoperability.
Further information about HAVi may also be downloaded from the organization's
website www.havi.org.
Aug 13 - AMD Launches New AMD64 Logo Program.
AMD (NYSE: AMD) today launched the AMD64 Logo Program to help consumers
and IT decision makers identify hardware and software products ready
for AMD64, a new class of computing technology that can run current
and next-generation software on the same processor at the same time.
"The AMD64 Logo Program allows leading software and hardware
developers to signify their support for the extraordinary value of
simultaneous, native 32- and 64-bit computing on the AMD64 platform,"
said Rich Heye, vice president and general manager of AMD's Microprocessor
Business Unit. "The AMD64 logo indicates that end users can continue
using their software and hardware today and migrate to next-generation
technology at their own pace."
AMD64 is a new class of computing that directly follows the evolutionary
path of the industry-standard x86 architecture. The AMD Opteron(TM)
processor, for servers and workstations, and the upcoming AMD Athlon(TM)
64 processor, for desktop and mobile PCs, are the first AMD64 processors.
By maintaining compatibility with today's 32-bit solutions, AMD designed
these processors to enable a seamless transition to pervasive 64-bit
computing. For the first time, hardware and software developers can
create a unified 32- and 64-bit computing infrastructure compatible
with the x86 architecture.
"Hardware and software compatibility is an essential element
of any successful technology migration, and is a tenet that we take
extremely seriously," said Drew Henry, senior director of platform
business at NVIDIA. "The AMD64 Logo Program lets our customers,
developers, and end users know that their NVIDIA-based graphics and
platform solutions are designed to work flawlessly out of the gate
with all of the current and next-generation hardware and software
solutions based on AMD64 technology."
"The AMD64 logo tells you that you're getting the best of both
worlds," said Tim Sweeney, founder and president of Epic Games.
"Epic Games' port to AMD64 gives you the ability to run 64-bit
applications that can take advantage of an incredible amount of memory,
virtual address space, and double the number of registers of previous
CPU's at the same time you get high-performance compatibility with
existing 32-bit applications."
AMD also introduced new logos for its AMD64 processors, the AMD Opteron
processor for servers and workstations and the upcoming AMD Athlon
64 processor for desktop and mobile computing. Both processors deliver
outstanding performance on today's 32-bit software while running more
advanced 64-bit software.
"The AMD64 logo enables end users to make a visual connection
between AMD64 processors and vendor-validated software and peripherals,"
Heye said. "It links the new AMD64 logo to AMD's well recognized
product logos and helps communicate the compatibility of today's and
tomorrow's computer products with AMD64 technology."
Software and hardware developers interested in the AMD64 Logo Program
can find program requirements and the AMD64 logo license and usage
guidelines at the AMD Web site, www.amd.com
or www.amd.com/logos.
About AMD64
AMD64 defines a new class of computing by extending the industry-standard
x86 instruction set architecture across 32- and 64-bit platforms.
AMD64 is an AMD innovation designed to deliver compatibility with
existing 32-bit x86 solutions and simultaneous industry-leading 64-bit
performance.
The AMD Opteron processor for servers and workstations is the first
processor in this new class of computing. AMD plans to launch the
AMD Athlon(TM) 64 processor for desktop and mobile personal computers
on September 23, 2003, which is designed to enable pervasive adoption
of the AMD64 architecture. AMD64 replaces terms such as "Hammer"
(now, "AMD64 technology") and "x86-64 ISA" (now,
"AMD64 ISA").
Aug 13 - Transmeta Unveils Efficeon
Brand for TM8000 Microprocessor. Transmeta Corporation (Nasdaq:TMTA),
the leader in efficient computing, today unveiled Efficeon(TM), the
brand name and logo for its new, high performance TM8000 microprocessor
family. Efficeon ushers in a new era (eon) of efficient computing
for users of ultra-portable and mainstream notebook computers. Likewise,
Efficeon enables innovation and new classes of devices such as tablet
PCs, ultra-personal computers, silent desktop computers, blade servers
and embedded systems.
The Efficeon microprocessor offers an unmatched combination of power
efficiency, design flexibility, performance-on-demand and low cost,
and will be a leader in delivering best-in-class performance, per
watt, per dollar.
"The Efficeon name and look communicate the ideal of efficient
computing that the market is embracing as we enter into this new era
of smaller, more powerful, and cooler running devices," said
Arthur L. Swift, senior vice president of marketing, Transmeta Corporation.
"As major computer manufacturers evaluate Transmeta's new microprocessor
for a variety of applications, they can rest assured that a strong
and memorable brand is behind the product."
The Efficeon processor is an intelligent and sensible alternative
to competitive offerings, as Transmeta promotes freedom of choice
for computer makers looking to select complementary chipsets. Efficeon's
dynamic LongRun power management features and integrated architecture
give system designers and marketers a wide range of choices in creating
products that deliver added value, functionality, security, comfort,
reliability, and cost-savings to end users.
"We are promoting the Efficeon brand with our system partners
to convey the promise of a distinctive, efficient user experience,"
noted Dr. Matthew R. Perry, president and CEO, Transmeta Corporation.
"Efficient computing is what the mobile market is demanding --
uncompromising application performance, extended battery life, low
heat, appealing ergonomic designs, ultra-small form factors, fully
integrated functionality, and more dependable products with fewer
components. Naturally, all of this has to come at an appealing price
point."
Transmeta was the first x86 microprocessor company to focus on energy
efficient processors and the resulting design benefits for small,
thin, light and fanless computers in a wireless world. First with
Crusoe processors and now with higher performance Efficeon processors,
Transmeta continues to generate innovation and meaningful end user
benefits, such as lower priced computers and increased productivity
by extending the battery life of mobile devices.
"Until Transmeta released the Crusoe processor in 2000, the
mobile computer market was stagnating with repurposed desktop technology,
oversized and overweight hardware, and disappointing growth,"
said Rob Enderle, emerging technology expert for the Enderle Group.
"Crusoe showed the computer industry what was possible and helped
build the excitement that the market now enjoys. Efficeon has the
potential to take advantage of that growth, and we've been told by
laptop OEMs that this new Transmeta chip provides positive differentiation
and positions well against Intel's Pentium M. With Efficeon, Transmeta
is positioned to take advantage of what should be a very lucrative
mobile opportunity through 2004."
The Efficeon's ability to execute up to eight instructions per clock
enables typical, real-world applications to run about 50 percent faster
per clock cycle, and multimedia applications up to 80 percent faster
per clock cycle, than the current Crusoe TM5800 processor. Many computer
makers, including major names in the industry, have been evaluating
the Efficeon processor for a wide range of applications. These companies
have provided positive feedback to Transmeta and initial customer
product announcements are expected in the fourth quarter of this year.
"Transmeta made the computer industry recognize the narrow-minded
nature of the megahertz race, which did not properly balance the changing
needs of end users in the emerging wireless computing era," said
Tim Bajarin, mobile computing expert and president, Creative Strategies.
"The Efficeon processor should be considered by computer makers
looking to build small, thin and light designs that require minimal
power budgets."
Transmeta will provide additional information about the Efficeon
processor in the coming months, including detailed specifications
and benchmark data. Dave Ditzel, the company's co-founder and chief
technology officer, will make a presentation about the new processor
at Microprocessor Forum in San Jose, October 13-16, 2003.
To learn more about Transmeta's Efficeon processor, visit www.efficeon.com.
Aug 13 - Voodoo PC Launches New Notebook
-- Envy M:460. Voodoo PC, a world leader in the design and manufacturing
of high-performance personal entertainment systems, announced today
the availability of the new Envy M:460, the world's first and fastest
DirectX 9, Cinematic Gaming Notebook. The M:460 is equipped with ATI's
MOBILITY(tm) RADEON(tm) 9600 mobile visual processor modular graphics
subsystem, which provides the notebook's cinematic-quality imagery.
In unveiling the new M:460, Voodoo PC has received tremendous support
for the notebook by the PC industry, particularly early adopters.
Voodoo also announced strong initial sales of the M:460, a product
that sparked a rush of innovation across the entire PC manufacturing
industry.
"The appetite of gaming consumers worldwide for innovative PC
and notebook technologies is stronger than ever," said Ravi Sood,
CEO of Voodoo PC. "In just the two weeks since the global launch
of the M:460, we have already sold out of our first two shipments,
which we are incredibly excited about."
Because of the significant rise in numbers, computer gaming -- now
an ascendant culture -- has had a profound affect on the way people
think, play, learn, communicate and work. Voodoo PC caters to that
culture. And as the PC end user becomes more tech savvy and the mobile
gaming market rapidly expands, Voodoo PC brings the power of desktop
systems into the laptop's substantially smaller, flat footprint.
Voodoo Envy M:460
Voodoo Envy M:460 Cinematic Gaming Notebook offers Intel Pentium
4M Processor 2.6GHz, 512MB of DDR 333 Memory, the world's first 60
Gigabyte Hitachi Travelstar 7200PRM laptop hard drive, ATI Radeon
Mobility 9600 Video Card featuring 64 Megabytes VRAM Video Card --Daughter
Card Upgradeable, a 15" SXGA 1400X1050 Display Wireless Ethernet
and a battery that lasts three to four hours. Voodoo is the first
company in North America to introduce this chipset.
Roughly 1.1 inches thin and customizable with tattoo and color options,
the M:460 will empower users with the ability to experience dramatic
visual effects, unmatched performance and vibrant cinematic realism.
With the M:460's real-life rendering, hardcore gamers will be completely
blown away by the astonishing images in their games.
About Voodoo PC
VoodooPC is a world leader in the design and manufacturing of high-performance
personal entertainment systems. An industry pioneer since 1991, Voodoo
is the world's foremost PC gaming system provider and is dedicated
to delivering leading-edge performance, style and craftsmanship to
the discerning PC enthusiasts.
Those seeking the customization experience that Voodoo has become
well known for in the PC industry can indulge further at www.voodoopc.com.
Aug 13 - Hynix Announces DRAM Industry's
First 1GB DDR2. Hynix Semiconductor Inc. (Hynix, www.hynix.com),
announced today that it has successfully completed development of
its 1GB DDR2. Hynix will begin sampling its 1GB DDR2 in early 4Q 2003
and will begin its full-scale volume production by early 2004 to coincide
with the release of Intel's DDR2 chipset.
Hynix will utilize its Golden Chip 0.11-micron process technology
for production of its 1GB DDR2 and 512Mb DDR2. By effectively utilizing
existing equipment, Golden Chip technology allows mass production
of 0.11-micron technology products with minimum additional investment
in capital expenditures. The company estimates the use of its 0.11-micron
technology will reduce overall investment requirements by 50% compared
to its competitors and will increase the number of die per wafer by
40% in comparison to its .13-micron Prime Chip technology, maintaining
Hynix's competitive position in cost and technology.
Hynix's 1GB and 512Mb DDR2 will be offered in 68-Ball, and 60/84-Ball
Fine-Pitch Ball Grid Array (FBGA) package and fully complies with
JEDEC specification and standards.
Aug 13 - HDMI Expected to Overtake DVI in
Consumer Electronics. With the ability to add High-bandwidth Digital
Content Protection and deliver high-bandwidth, uncompressed video,
Digital Visual Interface (DVI) is continuing its foray into the Consumer
Electronics (CE) market.
However, according to In-Stat/MDR, DVI's successor, High-Definition
Multimedia Interface (HDMI), is expected to overtake DVI in CE products
in the near future. The high-tech market research reports that the
PC market will continue to adopt DVI, and PC peripherals like business
projectors and LCD monitors will continue to their strong support
of the interface. Yet, HDMI will overtake DVI in CE products such
as digital televisions, set top boxes and DVD players, within 2-4
years.
"Developed principally by major CE vendors, HDMI addresses the
shortcomings of DVI in the consumer electronics market by adding audio
support, as well as a smaller connector," said Brian O'Rourke,
a senior analyst with In-Stat/MDR. "As a result, HDMI should
be adopted rapidly in the consumer electronics segment, with the first
HDMI-enabled products being released in late 2003."
In-Stat/MDR has also found that:
-- PCs generally handle audio and video separately, so they
cannot use HDMI without a product redesign, which is not expected.
-- Among PC makers, Apple has been the leader in implementing
DVI. Apple has included a native DVI port in all
configurations of its Power Mac G4 desktop line, as well as in
both configurations of its Titanium PowerBook G4 notebook
model. Apple is moving ahead with its transition from CRT to
flat panel displays. So it makes sense for it to be among the
first PC manufacturers to embrace DVI, the leading digital
connection from PC to LCD monitor.
-- PC peripherals are the best current market for DVI, with a
2002 penetration of 27.4 percent, rising to 71 percent in
2007. Displays and signs should be the fastest growing market
for DVI over the forecast period, though they are starting
from a very low base point. DVI in LCD monitors should grow
rapidly, along with the market as a whole. DVI has already
achieved solid penetration in business projectors, and the
growth of that market will benefit DVI.
In-Stat/MDR (www.instat.com)
offers a broad range of information resources and analytical assets
to technology vendors, service providers, technology professionals,
and market specialists worldwide.
Aug 12 - World-Capable Color
BlackBerry 7230 From RIM Arrives In United States. Businesspeople
hoping for an affordable, world-traveling, do-it-all device need wait
no longer as T-Mobile USA, Inc. and Research In Motion (RIM) (Nasdaq:RIMM)
(TSX:RIM) are introducing the tri-band BlackBerry(R) 7230 Wireless
Handheld(TM) with high-resolution color display -- available nationwide
today exclusively from T-Mobile.
From large enterprises to prosumers, T-Mobile business customers
can now enjoy the T-Mobile Get More(R) benefits average consumers
have long appreciated: more included device features for the money
and unparalleled pricing on the nation's largest all-digital GSM/GPRS
network. Selling for $399.99, T-Mobile customers who buy the BlackBerry
7230(TM) can add, to most voice plans, unlimited email and mobile
content for $29.99 a month -- making wireless email affordable and
billing easy-to-understand.
For many business travelers, the ability to use the same device for
wireless voice and email connectivity while traveling globally has
only been a dream. The BlackBerry 7230's GSM/GPRS tri-band functionality
coupled with T-Mobile's strong international presence is the perfect
solution for simple "one number," "one email"
communication for global business travelers. T-Mobile offers the most
seamless wireless coverage on the planet so BlackBerry 7230 customers
can make and receive phone calls in more than 100 countries worldwide,
with email and Web roaming already supported in many European countries.
"When we say you Get More(R) minutes, features and service from
T-Mobile, our exclusive BlackBerry 7230 offering is one of the ways
we bring that promise to life for business customers," said Scott
Ballantyne, vice president of business services marketing for T-Mobile
USA, Inc. "We make this exclusive T-Mobile offering affordable
for businesses of all sizes because we offer plans that respond to
the needs of businesspeople for easy and affordable flat rate pricing."
The BlackBerry 7230, expanding on T-Mobile's broad line-up of BlackBerry
handhelds, is the ideal voice and email integrated solution for consumers,
small businesses and corporate enterprise alike as the handheld supports
both corporate email and Internet Service Provider (ISP) email with
the recent introduction of BlackBerry Web Client(TM).
With always-on, push-based access to existing email accounts, a built-in
phone and integrated support for SMS, Web browser and organizer applications,
the BlackBerry 7230 is designed to keep mobile professionals connected,
informed and communicating on the go. The BlackBerry 7230's design
is sleek and lightweight and delivers superior battery performance
-- even while adding support for color and tri-band features.
"The BlackBerry 7230 follows the longstanding BlackBerry tradition
of delivering leading wireless features and performance. We think
customers will be very impressed with the combination of this hi-res
color screen and outstanding battery life," said Mark Guibert,
vice president, corporate marketing at Research In Motion. "Whether
you're talking, listening, sending, receiving, viewing or typing on
the BlackBerry 7230, the quality of this product and service delivers
a first-rate experience."
Wireless Email
BlackBerry 7230 incorporates exceptional wireless email features
enabling customers to manage their email, including attachments, quickly
and easily. T-Mobile customers can wirelessly access up to 10 corporate
or personal email accounts, including popular ISPs, to stay connected
to both business and personal email on the BlackBerry 7230. The BlackBerry
"push" architecture means email is automatically delivered
to the handheld and users receive emails automatically -- no effort
required.
Mobile Phone
The feature-rich, tri-band phone offers excellent voice clarity and
supports features such as call waiting, conference calling and call
forwarding (where available). The BlackBerry 7230 can be held to the
ear in the same manner as a standard phone or used with a hands-free
headset (included) allowing customers to type notes or access information
while speaking.
SMS
The BlackBerry 7230 supports Short Messaging Service (SMS) enabling
customers to send short text messages that can be quickly exchanged
between SMS-enabled wireless devices without adding email messages
to an inbox. The full QWERTY keypad on the BlackBerry 7230 is ideal
for typing SMS messages.
Organizer
Customers can stay organized with the full-featured calendar, address
book, memo pad and task list applications that can be synched with
their desktop personal computer for maximum productivity.
International Roaming (i)
The BlackBerry 7230 is a tri-band wireless handheld, operating on
900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS networks. Coupled with T-Mobile's strong
international presence, via the T-Mobile family of companies and more
than 200 roaming agreements, T-Mobile customers can enjoy the benefit
of staying in contact via wireless voice and email, at consistent
rates while traveling abroad.
Application Integration
The BlackBerry 7230 features exceptional software integration. Customers
can use the same integrated address book and inbox to access all email,
voice and SMS applications. Additionally, BlackBerry 7230 users can
even click on an email address, telephone number or URL inside an
email message to automatically compose a new message, call a telephone
number or connect to a URL.
Expandable
The BlackBerry 7230 incorporates Java 2 Micro Edition (J2ME). The
modular J2ME application development environment opens the handheld
to a large and growing developer community writing productivity-enhancing
wireless applications that can extend back-office resources to mobile
professionals.
To purchase a BlackBerry 7230 or find the nearest sales representative
go to www.t-mobile.com/business/products.
For more information, visit the company Web site at www.t-mobile.com.
Aug 12 - Riptide Wireless to Provide Revolutionary
Fixed and Mobile High Speed Wireless. Riptide Wireless, a local
Fixed and Mobile Wireless Internet Services Provider, is now providing
its Next Generation High Speed Internet Service that works in the
office, home and on the go.
Riptide is building the first commercial Physical Wireless Mesh Network
in the United States. Using equipment from vendors in both the licensed
and license-exempt frequency spectrums, Riptide's Mesh Network offers
both dedicated, fixed service up to 20Mbps and local roaming service
via WiFi. Best of all, pricing for this dual mode service starts at
only $29.95 a month.
A Mesh Network is the latest wireless technology available and works
by removing the direct line of sight issues and other problems with
today's legacy Point to Multipoint (PMP) wireless networks. Due to
obstructions like tall buildings and trees, today's PMP networks are
only able to offer about 40% coverage in an area where a Base Station
is established on a tall building.
A Mesh Network however, does not require a Base Station (or a tall
building) and actually works by routing its signal from customer to
customer around obstructions allowing up to 100% coverage in the company's
service areas. It actually parallels the wired Internet in its design
and deployment. As more users are added to the Mesh, the more robust
and resilient it becomes.
Superior to a T1, DSL or Cable services, Riptide's Mesh Network allows
users to take their broadband connection to another level. "Our
vision is to create a ubiquitous Wireless Broadband Network that will
offer service wherever you are," stated Andra Sachs, president
and chief operations officer. "DSL is great but try to walk out
of your office or home and use it. Riptide users can save lots of
money by using one service for both their fixed and roaming needs
at home, at the office and on the go."
In the July 2003 issue of PC Magazine, Mesh Networks were named one
of the '20 Hot Technologies to Watch.' Initial target users for the
Riptide Mesh service in Southern California include Mobile Sales Professionals,
Media and Real Estate Industries, Government Agencies, T1/DSL Resellers
and WiFi Hot Spot Operators/Integrators.
For more information, visit www.riptidewireless.com.
Aug 12 - Go Wireless with Concord Camera
Corp.'s Bluetooth Digital Camera. Concord Camera Corp. ("Concord")
(NASDAQ: LENS) No cables. No fuss. The Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless is
the first 2 Megapixel Bluetooth(TM) enabled digital camera in the
market. Designed with convenience in mind, the Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless
transmits images to compatible Bluetooth(TM) devices such as mobile
phones, PDAs and computers and as the name implies, no wires or cables
are necessary for transmission.
Technology.
Sending images has never been easier. The Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless
can beam an image to most Bluetooth(TM) devices that support OBEX
and are able to receive, process and display a JPEG image. With over
1,800 members in the Bluetooth(TM) consortium, the number of Bluetooth(TM)
devices in the market is increasing. The Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless
camera transmits pictures from as far away as 30 feet and no direct
line of sight is necessary. It is even possible to transmit an image
through office walls. The camera can detect up to seven Bluetooth(TM)
devices at a time allowing the user to select the device to which
to transmit.
Easy to use. Easy to send.
"Our customers asked for quick and easy transfer of photos from
the camera to a computer, mobile phone and PDA. Our answer is the
Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless. What can be quicker and simpler than a
digital camera that can transmit images without cables in as little
as six seconds?" commented Urs W. Stampfli, Senior Vice President
and Director of Global Sales and Marketing at Concord Camera Corp.
("Concord").
Sending images to a Bluetooth(TM) enabled device requires just a
few button presses and no cable connections. Bluetooth(TM) technology
combined with a simple and intuitive user interface provides consumers
with the simplicity they demand.
Ready to go.
The Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless is packaged with a Bluetooth(TM) adaptor
which will allow the user to transform their Microsoft (R) Windows
(R) based laptop or computer into a Bluetooth(TM) device. It's simple.
Just install the Bluetooth(TM) driver and plug the adaptor into the
USB port and the computer is now able to receive pictures from the
Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless.
Feature rich.
The camera can store over one hundred images in its 7MB of internal
memory but also has an SD/MMC card slot for additional storage options.
The camera also features a 4x digital zoom and preset scene selections
for flexible picture taking. The camera offers three focus modes to
insure great pictures at any distance, macro for close-up images,
portrait for group photos and infinity for scenic views. Video clip
capability allows users to capture special moments while the web camera
feature is perfect for business and personal activities. The user
can select between 2 Megapixel, 1 Megapixel or VGA resolution images.
Compatibility.
The Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless digital camera is compatible with Microsoft
(R) Windows (R) 98SE, 2000 Professional, ME, XP Home and Professional.
Images can be transmitted to specified Bluetooth(TM) compatible devices.
Please visit Concord's web site at www.concord-camera.com
for an up to date list of compatible devices.
Weighing in at only 4.5 ounces and having a compact 3.44 inch length,
the Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless is pocket-sized and easily accessible
any time you would like to snap a picture.
Pricing and Availability.
The Concord Eye-Q Go Wireless is available now at a suggested retail
price of $179.99.
Aug 12 - America Online and Edmunds.Com
Announce New Marketing and Technology Alliance. Just in time for
new car season, America Online, Inc., the world's leading interactive
services company, and Edmunds.com, the premier online resource for
automotive information, have formed an alliance that will provide
AOL members far greater control over their new-car buying process.
Edmunds.com is now powering the new cars areas of the relaunched AOL
Autos Channel, allowing users to research the make, model and trim
options on new vehicles, read reviews written by leading auto industry
critics, compare options from one model to another, read about new
dealer incentives and get free price quotes from the nearest qualified
dealer.
The new alliance is integral to the new Autos areas across AOL, CompuServe
and Netscape, also announced today. AOL Autos offers a convenient
and intuitive car buying experience that makes it virtually effortless
for consumers to find the exact new or used car they want, while helping
save both time and money. The agreement will also help enable America
Online to directly build and expand on its existing relationships
with many of the leading car manufacturers, as well as finance, insurance,
and warranty partners.
Researching automobile purchases and sales is one of the most popular
activities in the world of online commerce. According to a study from
Forrester Research, 68% of consumers who used non-car company Web
sites say they were important for helping them make decisions about
their vehicle purchase, exceeding the number who relied on advice
from friends (61%), car company Web sites (59%), or auto dealership
personnel (57%).
The new Autos areas of America Online's brands will tap into that
growing interest by offering AOL, CompuServe and Netscape users such
valuable services from Edmunds.com as:
** All-new car research and comparison tools, such as new Buying
Guides where users will be able to find and read reviews of the top-rated
current-model year cars;
** New pricing tools, where members will be able to research a model
with options and find the latest dealer incentives;
** Edmunds' expert reviews for all available current-year vehicles;
** Convenient free-quote pricing from qualified local dealers to
help members get the best deal.
Chris Croll, Vice President of E-Commerce, America Online, said:
"By forming an alliance with one of the most-trusted brands in
the Automotive space, AOL members will have a convenient, one-stop
shop that offers virtually every resource a consumer might need to
buy a new car from Buying Guides to a price quote service that brings
the local car dealers directly to the car shopper. AOL Autos is about
putting our members in control of the car buying process."
For more information, visit www.aol.com
or www.edmunds.com.
Aug 12 - MacLinkPlus Deluxe Version 14
Now Available. In a recent stream of new product announcements
for the Macintosh platform, DataViz has updated its flagship Macintosh
product MacLinkPlus Deluxe 14.
Since 1991, over ten million users have depended on MacLinkPlus Deluxe
for reliable, accurate file conversion. This latest version streamlines
the conversion process, adds new translators for Office 2003 for Windows,
Office X for Mac, and more. It also includes a simple way to translate
and e-mail documents.
"DataViz's roots are in its Macintosh products and we are very
excited about the newest version of MacLinkPlus Deluxe," said
Kristen Garvey, DataViz. "MacLinkPlus Version 14 highlights our
recent efforts to update and extend Macintosh product line including
SmartList To Go Handheld Edition, Passwords Plus, PDA Playground and
Documents To Go."
New features in Version 14 include:
-- New translators for Word and Excel 2003, X, and WordPerfect 10
and 11
-- New Quick Tips for using unrecognized files, including easy steps
to use when translating any file
-- The ability to translate and e-mail files to Windows users inone
simple step (Entourage or Mail e-mail client required)
-- Contextual menu support for OS X
-- Additional AppleScripts to automate tasks such as using dropfolders
to automatically translate and email files todifferent recipients.
-- Updated MacLinkPlus Deluxe interface
Pricing and Availability
MacLinkPlus Deluxe is available immediately from DataViz at www.dataviz.com.
It sells for $79.95. Customers who own a previous version can upgrade
to MacLinkPlus Deluxe 14 for $39.95.
Aug 11 - Minolta Introduces
Next Generation Single Lens-Reflex 5 Megapixel Digital Camera.
Building upon the success of Minolta Corporation's highly acclaimed
DiMAGE 7 series of digital cameras, Minolta introduces the new 5 megapixel
SLR-type DiMAGE A1 digital camera. The DiMAGE A1 was designed with
today's creative digital photographer in mind.
Featuring the world's fastest AF speed among 5-megapixel SLR-type
digital cameras, a fast built-in f/2.8 - 3.5 7x optical zoom lens,
a top shutter speed of 1/16,000 of a second, dual-focal macro system,
extra-fine image-quality option, Minolta's new CxProcess II and 3-D
Predictive Focus Control, Subject Tracking AF, Anti-shake function,
and compatibility with portable and studio flash systems, the Minolta
DiMAGE A1 exploits the power of digital imaging by providing the tools
photographers need to express their creativity and solve visual problems.
In addition, Minolta has also introduced new remote imaging software
for use with the DiMAGE A1, the new DiMAGE Capture software, for enhanced
creative capabilities.
"The new DiMAGE A1 digital camera represents the next generation
in quality and performance from Minolta," said Jon Sienkiewicz,
vice president of marketing, Minolta Corporation's Consumer Products
Group. "The DiMAGE A1 is built for creative digital photographers
who demand the highest quality images and versatility in a compact,
easy-to-use camera."
The new DiMAGE A1 is built around a high-precision electro-optical
system designed to maximize image quality. The system starts with
a 5.3 megapixel 2/3-type progressive primary-color CCD with 5.0 million
effective pixels for fine high-resolution images. The DiMAGE A1 uses
14-bit A/D conversion to record the richness and infinite subtleties
of light.
The Minolta DiMAGE A1's fast f2.8 - f3.5 7x optical zoom lens is
an advanced apochromatic (APO) lens employing anomalous dispersion
(AD) glass to minimize chromatic aberration at all focal lengths and
produce sharp, contrasty images. With a focal range of 7.2mm to 50.8mm,
it is equivalent to a 28mm to 200mm 35mm zoom lens. The DiMAGE A1
zoom has a dual-focal macro system that allows the lens to be set
at the wide-angle or telephoto position to take advantage of different
focal lengths.
For photographers who demand high-quality images, new image-quality
and image-size settings have been added to the Minolta DiMAGE A1.
The extra-fine image-quality option produces a high-quality JPEG file
with little compression or loss of detail. And the new 2080 x 1560
image size gives photographers the ability to switch between 5 megapixel,
3 megapixel, and 2 megapixel images smoothly.
Featuring continuous AF, the Minolta DiMAGE A1 uses Minolta's new
3-D Predictive Focus Control to track the subject from when the shutter-release
button is pressed all the way down until the exposure is made ensuring
optimum focus. Subject Tracking AF uses the 3-D Predictive Focus Control
system to lock on to and track a subject as it moves through the frame.
And, Minolta's Flex Focus Point adds unlimited versatility to the
DiMAGE A1's AF system. Flex Focus Point is a single crosshair sensor
that can be placed anywhere within the field of view. With the camera
on a tripod, photographers simply use the four-way key of the controller
to position the Flex Focus Point on the subject; the AF system will
use that point for each exposure.
The DiMAGE A1 incorporates Direct Manual Focus (DMF). After the AF
system has focused and locked on the subject, the focus can be fine-tuned
manually. The camera's new Flex Digital Magnifier (FDM) can enlarge
a section of the live image by two or eight times so sharpness can
be judged in manual focus or when using DMF.
This is Minolta's first digital camera to employ CxProcess II, Minolta's
new image-processing technology. CxProcess II controls the essential
image qualities of color, contrast, and sharpness while minimizing
noise.
The camera's new Anti-shake function minimizes the effect of camera
shake, a slight blurring of the image when the camera is handheld,
to provide the sharpest image possible. The continuous-advance drive
modes make it possible to record action as it unfolds. Three JPEG
or five 5-megapixel RAW images can be captured at a rate of 2 frames
per second. And, at the heart of the DiMAGE A1 is a new high-speed
image-processing LSI for increased performance. Power consumption
has also been greatly reduced.
For more information, visit Minolta's Web site located at www.minoltausa.com.
Aug 11 - Minolta Introduces New 3.2 Megapixel
DiMAGE Z1. Minolta Corporation introduces the stylish new 3.2
megapixel DiMAGE Z1 - the first in a series of easy-to-use powerful
Single Lens-Reflex (SLR)-type digital cameras. Designed around and
the first digital camera to include Minolta's new built-in 10x Mega-zoom
lens, the DiMAGE Z1 possess advanced technology and the world's fastest
autofocusing among digital cameras with a built-in 10x or greater
optical zoom.* In addition, the DiMAGE Z1 is capable of recording
TV-quality 30 frames per second VGA movies.
"The new Minolta DiMAGE Z1 possesses advanced technology and
powerful optics so photographers can capture the pictures they want,
even high-quality VGA movies. This camera's ease-of-use makes it perfect
for the soccer mom on the go and its manual operation and even histogram
display appeals to the serious photographer in the family. This compact,
stylish digital camera has the imaging tools needed to capture images
in virtually any situation," said Jon Sienkiewicz, vice president
of marketing, Minolta Corporation's Consumer Products Group. "And
the DiMAGE Z1's breakthrough design and engineering reflects the sophistication
and future of digital technology."
The new Minolta 10x Mega-zoom is a fast f2.8 - f3.5 lens allowing
fast shutter speeds for sport or natural-light photography. With a
focal range of 5.8mm to 58mm, it is equivalent to a 38 - 380mm 35mm
camera lens. When combined with the seamless 4x digital zoom, it has
an amazing 40x zoom range, equivalent to a 38 - 1520mm lens. To extend
the versatility of the powerful 10x Mega-zoom, an optional 0.75x wide-converter
is available. And close-up photography is possible with just the press
of a button. The camera's Super Macro mode lets photographers focus
down to 1.6 inches from the front of the lens.
Such powerful optics combined with a high-resolution 3.3 megapixel
1/2.7 interline primary-color CCD sensor requires a powerful autofocus
(AF) system. The new Minolta DiMAGE Z1 employs Rapid AF to ensure
sharp images with minimum delay. Rapid AF uses a passive AF sensor
to instantly estimate the distance to the subject and the camera's
CCD to determine the precise focus point.
The CCD uses a 60 frame per second sampling rate to determine the
optimum focus giving the Minolta DiMAGE Z1 the world's fastest AF
among digital cameras with a built-in 10x or greater optical zoom.
CxProcess II, Minolta's new image-processing technology, is employed
to bring out the best in the 3.3 megapixel 1/2.7 interline primary-color
CCD.
Although the new DiMAGE Z1 uses complex AF technology, focusing the
camera couldn't be easier. Simply place the subject anywhere within
the focus frames and the camera will do the rest; an AF sensor is
briefly displayed so the subject can be confirmed.
Minolta's new drive mode, Progressive Capture, makes sure photographers
never miss a shot. When the shutter-release button is pressed and
held down, Progressive Capture begins saving images in the buffer
memory.
The DiMAGE Z1 is equipped with Minolta's unique Switch Finder. This
unique system allows the camera's LCD monitor to be viewed directly
or through the viewfinder. The Real Motion LCD monitor uses a 60 frames
per second frame rate. This Real Motion frame rate brings the live
image to life by the ability to show action smoothly.
Every aspect of the DiMAGE Z1's performance is pushed to the limit.
Startup time is 2 seconds and shutdown time is 2.4 seconds. After
focus has been locked, the shutter-release time lag is 0.06 second,
comparable to a 35mm SLR film camera. The camera will be ready to
capture another image in 1.2 seconds after the exposure.
Significantly smaller than a compact 35mm SLR camera with a built-in
flash and zoom lens, this powerful imaging system can easily slip
into a fanny pack or hip bag.
For more information, visit Minolta's Web site located at www.minoltausa.com.
Aug 11 - FirewireDirect Unveils Ultra III
FireWire 800 Storage System. FirewireDirect.com Inc. today announces
the introduction of the Ultra III 800, the newest in their long-established
and popular Ultra Series of FireWire 3.5" desktop hard drive
systems and the first in this line to employ the new, faster FireWire
800 data interface.
It is the second announcement of an 800Mbps hard drive product from
FirewireDirect in as many weeks, propelling the company to a position
as the early frontrunner in the transition to consumer FireWire "B"
products. FirewireDirect was the first FireWire dedicated company
when they debuted over 3 years ago, and with the release of their
FireWire 800 PCI card and a series of cables became the first company
to ship FireWire 800 products to consumers two months ago.
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 now offers two desktop hard drive systems capable
of the new performance standards.
The new Ultra III 800 employs the Oxford 922 FireWire 800 chip, and
has a dual USB 2.0 and FireWire interface. It boasts a sleek, Titanium
styled chassis, ships with FireWire and USB cables, installs easily
with no special drivers, includes drive formatting software for both
Windows and Mac, and is available and shipping now in Enclosures and
a series of high-performance drives up to 320GB.
The StingRay 800, another 800 Mbps FireWire drive (also with USB
2.0) was announced last week and has already become a popular seller
for FirewireDirect.
Both drives are providing speeds of up to an over 50MB/s, even on
modest machines, and are visible at the company's Web site: www.firewiredirect.com.
Aug 11 - Serious Internet Security Incidents
Predicted for 20% of Companies. With more than 600 million individuals
worldwide now on the Internet, cybercriminals are taking advantage
of users, enterprises and unsecured systems to usher in a new era
of high-profit, low-overhead crimes, according to Gartner, Inc. (NYSE:
IT and ITB).
Gartner analysts said that through 2005, 20 percent of enterprises
will experience a serious (beyond virus) Internet security incident.
These crimes are targeting information and intellectual property.
While the majority of enterprises will not face such an attack, companies
must still take the proper precautions. Being a victim of one of these
security incidents could be much more costly for enterprises if they
don't protect themselves.
"It takes only one unsecured machine on a network to create
potential risk for everyone else," said Richard Hunter, vice
president and Gartner Fellow. "The risks and the costs of defenses
are high, and the trend is moving both upward."
Gartner's assessment is that, at its highest level within the enterprise,
information security's top vulnerabilities are:
-- Fundamentally insecure commercial software
-- An inadequate patch update model
-- Misguided users who believe crime happens to "someone else"
While companies try to address those security issues, a number of
new technologies will add to their challenges. Web services will produce
discontinuities in new application security. Unsecured wireless LANs
represent a serious point of potential failure for enterprise networks,
and instant messaging is creating worrisome holes.
"As enterprises turn their collective attention away from tactical
security issues stemming from homeland security initiatives and back
to infrastructure security, they will witness an evolution from after-the-fact
improvements to more secure and thus more expensive products,"
said Victor S. Wheatman, managing vice president for Gartner.
For more information, visit www.gartner.com.
Aug 10 - 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 24 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 has no store-wide promotions
this Sunday.
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
|
$429
|
+$10
|
Best Buy
|
|
1. Best Pentium 4 System
|
Sony 2.4 GHz system with 15" flat
panel, and DVD-R/W
|
$899
|
-$60
|
Circuit City
|
|
2. Best Pentium 4 System
|
Compaq 2.4 GHz complete system with 15"
flat panel, DVD-CD-R/W, and HT Technology
|
$999
|
-
|
Circuit City
|
|
3. Best Pentium 4 System
|
HP 2.6 GHz complete system with 17"
monitor, DVD-R/W, and HT Technology
|
$1039
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
4. Best Pentium 4 System
|
HP 2.6 GHz complete system with 15"
flat panel, DVD-R/W, and HT Technology
|
$1499
|
-
|
CompUSA, Circuit City
|
|
5. Best Pentium 4 System
|
Sony 2.8 GHz complete system with 15"
flat panel, DVD-R/W, and HT Technology
|
$1759
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
1. Best AMD Athlon XP System
|
eMachines 2400+ complete system
|
$389
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
2. Best AMD Athlon XP System
|
Compaq 2800+ complete system with 17"
monitor and DVD-RW
|
$869
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
3. Best AMD Athlon XP System
|
Compaq 3000+ system with 17" monitor
and DVD-RW
|
$899
|
|
CompUSA
|
|
1. Best Low-cost Laptop
|
HP Athlon XP 2200+ with DVD/CD-RW
|
$850
|
|
Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA ($899)
|
|
2. Best Low-cost Laptop
|
HP Athlon XP 2400+ with DVD/CD-RW
|
$999
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
3. Best Low-cost Laptop
|
Compaq Athlon XP 2400+ with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1049
|
|
Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA ($1099)
|
|
1. Best High-end Notebook
|
Compaq 2.4 GHz Pentium 4 with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1199
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
2. Best High-end Notebook
|
HP 2.6 GHz Pentium 4 with DVD - RW
|
$1549
|
-
|
Circuit City
|
|
3. Best High-end Notebook
|
Toshiba Widescreen 2.8 GHz Pentium 4
with DVD/CD-RW
|
|
Read
Our Latest Tech Watch Newsletter