July 13 - AMD Reports Second Quarter Results and
Record PC Processor Unit Sales. AMD today reported sales of $985,264,000
and net income of $17,352,000 for the quarter ended July 1, 2001.
Net income amounted to $0.05 per diluted share, on 341 million fully
diluted shares outstanding.
Total sales declined by approximately 16 percent, and on continuing
businesses, by approximately 11 percent from the second quarter of
2000. Results for the second quarter of 2000 included approximately
$63 million in sales from the company's voice communications business,
which was sold on August 4, 2000.
Sales declined by approximately 17 percent from the first quarter
of 2001, when AMD reported sales of $1,188,747,000 and net income
of $124,837,000, or $0.37 per diluted share.
For the first six months of 2001, AMD reported total sales of $2,174,011,000
and net income of $142,189,000, or $0.43 per diluted share. For the
first six months of 2000, AMD reported sales of $2,262,466,000 and
net income of $396,491,000, or $1.17 per diluted share.
AMD had record unit sales of more than 7.7 million PC processors
during the quarter. Unit sales of seventh-generation AMD Athlon(TM)
and AMD Duron(TM) processors were both at record levels. Average selling
prices (ASPs) for PC processors declined sharply from the first quarter
in the face of very aggressive pricing in a weak PC market.
Sales of AMD memory products declined by 13 percent from the second
quarter of 2000 and by 23 percent sequentially in a continuing weak
demand environment.
"In what proved to be a more challenging semiconductor business
environment than anticipated, we believe we gained market share in
our two principal product lines, flash memory devices and PC processors,"
said W.J. Sanders III, chairman and chief executive officer.
"Demand for flash memory products continued to reflect severe
weakness in the communications and networking sectors," Sanders
continued. "The superiority of AMD flash memory products coupled
with supply agreements with more than two-dozen leading OEMs have
mitigated the impact on AMD of a severe downturn in the flash memory
market. We believe we have gained market share in the flash memory
arena in the first half of 2001.
"In a weak PC market, we experienced strong demand for AMD Athlon
and AMD Duron processors. Continuing the steepest ramp of any AMD
processor family, unit sales of our seventh-generation PC processors
grew 16 percent sequentially. The strength and breadth of our PC processor
products and the superior performance and value proposition of AMD
Athlon and AMD Duron processors enabled AMD to achieve record PC processor
unit sales. While responding to aggressive competitive pricing depressed
our revenues and earnings, we believe we continued to gain unit market
share in the PC processor market during the quarter. PC processor
revenues declined 11 percent sequentially, but grew nominally over
the second quarter of 2000," said Sanders.
Other developments
-- AMD expanded its PC processor portfolio during the second quarter
with the introduction of the AMD Athlon 4 processor for mobile PCs
and the AMD Athlon MP(TM) and companion AMD 760 MP(TM) chipset for
workstation and server applications.
-- AMD introduced higher-performance AMD Duron and AMD Athlon processors.
The 950-megahertz AMD Duron processor is the industry's highest-performance
processor for the value segment of the PC market, and the 1.4-gigahertz
AMD Athlon processor offers more delivered performance than any other
PC processor.
-- AMD announced a breakthrough in flash memory cell architecture,
known as Mirror Bit(TM) architecture that enables a flash memory device
to store twice as much data as a standard flash memory device while
maintaining complete pin and software compatibility without compromising
AMD's industry-leading endurance of one million read-write cycles.
-- AMD retired $517 million of 6 percent convertible debentures.
-- The company's Fab 30 in Dresden, Germany was named "Fab of
the Year" by the prestigious industry publication Semiconductor
International, the third time an AMD facility has claimed this honor.
-- NEC Corporation (NEC Japan), Microsoft Co., Ltd. (Microsoft Japan),
and ASCII Network Technology Inc. introduced a jointly developed streaming
content server powered by the 1.33-GHz AMD Athlon processor that is
targeted at commercial applications.
-- AMD continued to gain support for its HyperTransport(TM) technology,
enhancing its position as an industry standard. With a peak data rate
of 6.4 gigabytes per second, HyperTransport technology moves information
faster within PCs, networking systems, and communications devices.
More than 100 companies now support HyperTransport technology.
Current Outlook
The company's outlook statements are based on current expectations.
The following statements are forward-looking, and actual results could
differ materially. The company's current outlook is based on the following
projections.
Demand for flash memory products continues to be weak, driven primarily
by the continued severe weakness in the communications and networking
sectors. Visibility in this product segment is poor, and the company
projects a sequential decline in sales for the third quarter.
PC industry unit growth for 2001 is less than previously forecasted,
and the company now believes that industry unit shipments will be
approximately flat for the year. Based on a normal seasonal pattern,
which would show a pick-up in market demand for PCs in the third quarter,
the company expects that unit sales of its AMD PC processors in the
current quarter will again be at record levels with ASPs under continuing
pressure.
Weakness in the communications and networking sectors continues to
impact the company's foundry services and other IC products, and the
company projects that these revenues will continue to decline in the
third quarter.
If current conditions prevail, the company expects that overall revenues
could decline in the range of 10 to 15 percent in the current quarter.
With a decline in sales of this magnitude, the company would report
an operating loss.
Normal seasonality coupled with a recovery in some of the markets
for flash memory products should enable the company to increase revenues
and return to solid profitability in the fourth quarter.
Information about AMD is available on the Internet via the World
Wide Web at http://www.amd.com.
July 13 - Rambus Reports
Results for the Third Fiscal Quarter and Future Litigation Plans.
Rambus Inc. (NASDAQ: RMBS) today reported financial results for its
third fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2001. Revenues for the quarter
were $23.3 million, up 31% over the same period last year but down
25% from the previous quarter.
Excluding acquisition-related costs, pro forma net income
for the third fiscal quarter was $3.9 million (17% of revenues), compared
to $4.8 million (27% of revenues) in the same period last year and
$8.2 million (26% of revenues) in the previous quarter. The net income
for this quarter reflects a year-to-date adjustment in our tax rate
to more accurately reflect our estimated tax liability. Without this
adjustment (and excluding acquisition costs), our pro forma net income
for the quarter would have been $2.8 million ($0.03 per diluted share).
Operating expenses in the June 2001 quarter were higher than expected.
Operating expenses were driven by $8.8 million in costs associated
with the Company's litigation activities. This compares to $1.7 million
of such costs in the same period last year and $7.3 million in the
previous quarter. Overall, operating expenses were $21.2 million versus
$20.2 million last quarter and $11.7 million in the same period last
year.
(Notice how Rambus has already spent $16.1 million in litigation
this year. They are almost gobbling up every penny they make in lawsuits
against DRAM manufacturers. -Ed )
"Our third fiscal quarter results show the continuing effect
of the dramatic decline in the DRAM market," said Geoff Tate,
CEO of Rambus Inc. "With the slowdown in the PC and other markets,
we expect the DRAM industry to continue to struggle for the next few
quarters. The only positive news in the industry seems to be RDRAM
where very high volume increases more than offset significant price
declines."
Rambus expects RDRAMs to continue to do significantly better than
the general DRAM market. However, with the continued weakness in the
PC market and the resulting dramatic price reductions for both RDRAMs
and SDRAMs, we anticipate that our total revenues will decline sequentially
in the September quarter by about 20%.
Business Update
While RDRAM prices followed the industry trend by declining during
the third fiscal quarter, volume increased by over 80% to more than
offset the price declines. Over the next few quarters, we believe
that the price declines will accelerate the adoption of RDRAM in mainstream
PC markets. In the January - March period, over $500 million worth
of RDRAMs were shipped which we believe represented an increase in
market share to more than 11% of worldwide DRAM sales. Those companies
who are producing RDRAM are now profiting from that support in an
otherwise very difficult environment.
The RDRAM extended PC roadmap was presented at the Rambus Developers
Forum in Tokyo last month. This announcement was received with a great
deal of excitement because of our ability to increase from today's
1.6GB/s to 9.6GB/s per module by 2005. This is the kind of bandwidth
that is desirable for microprocessors expected in this timeframe.
The adoption of RDRAM continues to go very well in our target segments
of consumer, computer and communications. In the consumer segment,
we have RDRAM designed into a wide range of products from the Sony
PlayStation2 to digital TVs and set-top boxes. In the computer segment,
Intel's push with the Pentium 4, the addition of Winbond to the other
five major RDRAM manufacturers and the increased availability of low-cost
four layer motherboards from Taiwan are having a positive effect.
Increasing numbers of OEMs are shipping Pentium 4 RDRAM systems for
less than $1,000. In addition, we have had several design wins where
RDRAM will be used in network switches and routers.
Litigation Report
The verdict in Virginia is a setback. (Infineon was found innocent
of infringing on Rambus' pataents. - Ed) The ongoing litigation is
critical for Rambus to protect its intellectual property business
model. We have already filed our notice of appeal regarding infringement
in the U.S. Circuit Court. "We disagree with the outcome of the
Virginia case and have already filed an appeal for the infringement
portion. We are a small company working to prevent large companies
from violating our intellectual property." said Mr. Tate. "We
remain convinced that it is in the best long-term interest of our
shareholders to vigorously defend our intellectual property."
We are retaining new counsel with specialized appellate expertise
to represent us in the appeals process.
The trial date in Delaware against Micron is currently set for October
29. Geoff Tate commented, "I am pleased to announce the addition
of Jim Pooley to our legal team at Gray Cary Ware & Freidenrich.
Mr. Pooley brings to our team a long and highly successful track record
in the defense of intellectual property in the high technology area."
Outside the US, a decision in the infringement case against Infineon
in Germany is expected on July 20. In Italy an experts' report determined
that Micron SDRAMs infringed our patent, but a judge refused to grant
a preliminary injunction; we are appealing that decision. Rambus remains
committed to protecting our intellectual property rights.
Rambus can be found on the Web at www.rambus.com.
July 13 - Bull Announces Intel Itanium-Based
Escala IL Servers. Bull Infrastructure & Systems has announced
its new line of Escala IL enterprise servers based on the Intel(R)
Itanium(TM) architecture, and unveiled 4-way and 16-way models in
this product line.
Bull Infrastructure and Systems is announcing a full range of servers
(from 1 to 16 processors), based on two model ranges: the Escala IL400R
(4-way rackable server) and the Escala IL1600 (16-way server).
Bull will offer the Escala IL400R with a choice of three supported
operating systems: 64-bit Linux(R), Microsoft(R) Windows(R) Whistler
Server and AIX 5L(TM). The Escala IL400R server includes comprehensive
reliability features such as hot-pluggable, redundant power supplies
and fans.
The operating systems supported initially by the Escala IL1600R will
be Microsoft(R) Windows(R) Whistler Server and AIX 5L(TM). The Escala
IL1600R offers reliability and manageability features of enterprise
systems, including hot-pluggable system and I/O boards, hot-pluggable
and redundant power supplies and fans, self-correcting memory and
hardware partitioning (up to 4 independent partitions per system).
General availability for the new Escala IL family in end-user production
environments will depend on the general availability of the chosen
operating system on the Intel(R) Itanium(TM) architecture. For more
information on Bull, see www.us.bull.com.
July 12 - Boeing and IBM
Set New Record in Satellite Digital Communications. Boeing Satellite
Systems (BSS), a unit of The Boeing Company (NYSE:BA), and IBM (NYSE:IBM)
today announced they have created the world's most powerful satellite-based
digital signal processor, designed to make space-borne wireless communications
available to a wide audience of users.
|
Built by Boeing Satellite Systems (BSS) and launched
in October 2000, the Boeing GEO-Mobile (GEM) model Thuraya satellite
features the world's most powerful satellite digital communications
processor. The satellite's digital communications processor
built by BSS and IBM has successfully completed on-orbit test
and evaluation. Using the satellite's on-orbit test capability,
BSS engineers have confirmed perfect performance of this state-of-the-art
commercial digital signal processing technology.
|
This digital signal processor is the heart of the Thuraya
satellite, a powerful Boeing-built GEO-Mobile (GEM) spacecraft that
was launched in October 2000 for Thuraya Satellite Telecommunications
Co. Ltd., based in the United Arab Emirates. The digital signal processor
provides the satellite with more computing power than 3,000 Pentium
III-based computers, enabling the spacecraft to handle up to tens
of thousands of phone calls simultaneously.
Space-based wireless systems offer a new means of connectivity for
areas of the world where telephone lines and other infrastructure
for traditional communications are less developed or don't exist.
Boeing is tapping IBM's advanced custom integrated circuit technologies
to improve the performance, reliability and cost of satellite-based
communications, vastly improving the performance of previous digital
satellite systems.
"We are extremely proud of our digital signal processing expertise,"
said Randy Brinkley, president of Boeing Satellite Systems. "The
digital signal processor aboard the Thuraya satellite is five times
more capable than any previous Boeing digital processor. We are proving
that by advancing the state-of-the-art in satellite communications
technology, we can provide viable alternatives to land-based communications
systems."
Thuraya's chief executive Yousuf Al Sayed added: "We are pleased
to be powering our system using such advanced processing technology.
The digital signal processor is one example of how Thuraya has incorporated
the most powerful technological options available today toward the
creation of a truly pioneering telecom initiative."
Key to the highly flexible digital processor is its high density Application
Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) chip technology. Designed by BSS
and built by IBM, Thuraya satellite ASICs contain up to 3.8 million
gates (circuits) each and represent the first adaptation of commercial
ASIC technology to very large-scale digital satellite payloads. In
a 17-month period, Boeing and IBM jointly designed, built, and delivered
nine multimillion-gate ASICs with 100-percent first-pass success rate,
enabling delivery of flight units just 24 months after the official
start of design.
 |
Technicians at Boeing Satellite Systems (BSS) assemble
digital signal processing payloads such as the one aboard Thuraya.
Built by BSS and IBM, the Thuraya digital communications processor
incorporates variable-bandwidth channel capability, on-board circuit
switching for more than 25,000 full duplex circuits, and agile
transmit/receive digital beamforming for more than 300 projected
cell sites. |
For more information, visit Thuraya on the web at www.thuraya.com.
July 12 - Microsoft Names Recoton
as Supplier For Xbox Voice Recognition Technology. Recoton Corporation
(NASDAQ:RCOT) today announced that Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT)
has awarded an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) contract to
STD Holding Limited, a manufacturing subsidiary of Recoton, to develop
and manufacture a speech recognition-capable headset accessory product,
for use with the Xbox(TM) video game system.
The unique voice recognition and communication features of the Xbox
will enable users to operate and control certain games using voice
commands through the headset, called the Xbox Communicator(TM), that
is being jointly developed by STD and Microsoft. The Xbox is planned
to launch on November 8, 2001, while the broadband online gaming service
will debut in the spring of 2002. Created under contract between STD
Holding Limited and Microsoft, the voice recognition headset, called
the Xbox Communicator, will be marketed by Microsoft as part of its
Xbox branded peripheral line of products.
The excitement and buzz has been growing steadily for the Xbox since
its first public unveiling in January 2001 at the CES (Consumer Electronics
Show) in Las Vegas. Over 200 software publishers and developers have
announced their intent to develop exciting new titles for Xbox. In
May 2001 at E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo), held in Los Angeles,
California, InterAct Accessories Inc., the video game accessory marketing
subsidiary of Recoton, demonstrated numerous Xbox accessory products
that will be available at launch and stated that many other unique
products are also in development. The announcement of this unique
product should further increase the excitement about the Xbox.
Robert L. Borchardt, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
of Recoton, commented, "We are honored that Microsoft has chosen
STD to work on this milestone product. We believe that this agreement
will showcase the expertise of STD in developing and manufacturing
innovative peripherals for the video gaming industry. We also believe
that this agreement reflects the solid relationship that STD has built
over the years with Microsoft through its work on previous OEM contracts.
We intend to continue to expand our relationship with Microsoft to
develop new and unique products for the Xbox.
More information about Recoton can be found at www.recoton.com.
More information about Xbox can be found at www.xbox.com.
July 12 - How Much Would It
Cost To Clone A Person? A hundred thousand here, a couple of hundred
thousand there ... And that doesn't even cover the bribes. So how
much would it cost to clone a person? Approximately $1.7 Million,
according to our estimates.
In this special Forbes.com report, "We Cloned You. Now, Here's
The Bill," Staff Writer Matthew Herper itemizes costs for a fictional
human clone. Of course, human cloning isn't legal (which might explain
why the doctor's fee is so high), but given the multi-million dollar
price tags for homes, art works and other high-ticket items people
are purchasing, human cloning is certainly affordable for some.
Included in the cost estimate: -- Initial Doctor Fee,
Including Bribes
-- Egg Donor
-- Cloned Embryos
-- Surrogate Mothers
-- Miscellaneous
The full story is available at www.forbes.com/clonebill.
July 12 - AK.TV, World Internet TV Channel,
To Launch On August 17. Kanakaris Wireless (OTCBB:KKRS), the company
which first streamed a movie over the Internet in December, 1995,
moves into world television today as beta tests begin of the evolutionary
www.AK.TV at 4 PM EST, 1 PM PST. More of a global interactive TV channel
than a web site, Kanakaris Wireless announced that AK.TV will officially
go on the air on August 17.
To kick things off, AK.TV will include over 500 different movies which
will all play without repeating in a bid to play more movies in a
shorter period of time than any cable or conventional TV channel has
ever done. Kanakaris will have more programming news in the near future,
and will maintain an online schedule with easy conversions to local
time zones.
200,000 Kanakaris registered users will be able to log on to AK.TV
with their existing pass codes (at the time of the official launch)
and anyone with an Internet connection will be able to watch for free
by signing up once and selecting the optimum delivery for their device.
So far, Pocket PCs, certain cellular phones, desktop and laptop PCs,
and most TVs (with a device obtainable from Kanakaris Wireless and
an Internet connection) will be able to receive AK.TV on a global
basis.
"The revenue streams which are potentially available to AK.TV
include sponsorships, pay-per-view for on-demand features, commerce
sales through items which will be linked to a shopping cart, and membership
fees," stated Robert Wood, Chief Technology Officer, Kanakaris
Wireless. "We have also been approached to create programming
targeted to international audiences, and look forward to having an
impact on he convergence of TV with the digital age," he added.
A number of interactive features, brought about in a convergence of
computer and internet technology with conventional TV style programming
and sponsorships, will make up AK.TV. The Company will provide a summary
of these features in an announcement coinciding with the August 17
launch date.
When officially launched, there will be approximately 100 on-demand
movies in addition to the regularly scheduled TV programming, and
the subscriber benefits of CinemaPop.com will continue within the
framework of the AK.TV channel. New e-book and print-on-demand book
technologies will be added to AK.TV early in its development.
For further information on Kanakaris Wireless business and consumer
services go to www.KANWIN.com. To view
the Kanakaris online movie web site, utilizing the Kanakaris CinemaWEAR
(TM) encoding process, go to www.CinemaPOP.com.
July 12 - JVC Begins Shipping "D'ahlia"
Hologram HDTV Television to Stores Nationwide. JVC, one of the
world's leading developers and manufacturers of sophisticated audio,
video and related software products, today announced that D'Ahlia
(AV-61S902), the 61" D-ILA hologram HDTV rear projection television,
has begun shipping to select retailers nationwide and will soon be
available to consumers.
"Consumers and dealers alike have been clamoring for the arrival
of D'Ahlia since we first introduced it to the public at this year's
CES convention," said Michael Holmes, Vice President and Merchandising
Manager of the JVC Color Television Division. "We are delivering
on JVC's promise to be at the forefront of innovative television technology,
and are leveraging JVC's expertise in audio and video products to
bring our customers the best viewing experience in the market."
JVC's exclusive D-ILA Device offers 1.32 million pixels or 3.96 addressable
RGB Dots and is capable of producing 1280 x 1028 pixels, the highest
resolution available from a consumer device, and a high-contrast,
big-screen image with a wide angle of visibility.
With a sleek, contemporary design and brilliant picture, D'Ahlia sets
a new standard for future-oriented home theater systems. Featuring
a brighter picture than conventional projection televisions, D'Ahlia
boasts a brilliant image and a wide viewing angle allowing for improved
visibility both vertically and horizontally.
To further assure the best possible picture quality, whether a viewer
is using DTV, DVD or D-VHS, D'Ahlia includes Dual Auto Sensing Component
Video Inputs so whether you are feeding an HD or DVD signal, D'Ahlia
automatically adjust to the proper frequency. Component Video inputs
provide easy connection of DTV decoders, while the D-ILA Device assures
magnificent reproduction of DTV images. This revolutionary TV also
features (4) S-Video (Y/C), (4) AV (RCA) inputs and an NTSC Tuner.
D'Ahlia also includes JVC's unique "Natural Progressive"
picture improvement technologies to optimize signal quality before
the picture is displayed on the screen. JVC's Natural Progressive
technology doubles the image data in each field and uses advanced
3D interpolation to display a solid image without any noticeable scanning
lines on-screen and eliminates jagged edge noise and image trails.
D'Ahlia is equipped with everything needed for a truly dynamic home
theater experience. This includes a pair of 10cm full range stereo
speakers plus two 16cm superwoofers for thundering bass, a built-in
50W amplifier for big stereo sound, as well as Dolby 3-D Phonic circuitry
to produce a surround sound effect even without any speakers connected
externally.
For more information on JVC, D'Ahlia or JVC products, visit JVC's
Web site at www.jvc.com.
July 11 - Hitachi Expands Its 21-Inch Super
Space Saving Monitor Line. Hitachi America, Ltd., a subsidiary
of Hitachi, Ltd. (NYSE: HIT), has added three new 21-inch monitors
to its 3S Series of Super Space Saving displays.
The new CM827, CM828 and CM828B displays have one of the tightest
dot pitches and one of the shortest depths of any 21-inch (19.9 inch
viewable) monitors on the market. Each model measures a scant 18.5"
depth and weighs only 60 lbs - the size of most 19-inch monitors.
Each designed for demanding CAD/CAM, graphics and imaging professionals
who require high performance, large screen viewing in a compact cabinet.
The dot pitch for all three of the new monitors is 0.21 mm horizontal
and 0.14 mm vertical. The CM827 provides resolutions up to 1856 x
1392 at a 72 Hz refresh rate, while the CM828 and CM828B models provide
resolutions up to 2048 x 1536 at a 71 Hz refresh rate. The CM828B
has the same high performance specifications as the CM828, but is
encased in a designer black/midnight gray cabinet.
All three models feature Hitachi's PrecisionFocus(TM) technology,
which is significantly sharper with brighter, richer colors and improved
contrast, even at the corners and edges. They feature language selection
and Hitachi's EasyMenu(TM) on-screen controls with adjustments for
color temperature, degauss, moire, pincushion and more. These monitors
provide dual inputs so users can switch between two computers without
re-booting.
The new monitors are environmentally friendly and available for immediate
shipping from Hitachi distributors worldwide. Pricing for the CM827,
CM828 and CM828B is highly competitive, with MSRPs ranging from $779
to $849.
Information is available on the World Wide Web at www.hitachidisplays.com.
July 11 - Fujifilm introduces
the FinePix 1300 and the FinePix 2400 ZOOM Cameras. Fujifilm Canada,
Inc. introduces the latest additions to its already expansive digital
camera line: the FinePix 1300 and the FinePix 2400 ZOOM. The cameras
are Fujifilm's fifth and sixth introductions of 2000, giving it one
of the broadest camera rosters in the digital industry. Fujifilm's
latest offerings range from entry-level shooters like the FinePix
1300 to groundbreaking commercial cameras like the FinePix S1 Pro
digital SLR.
"At Fujifilm, we have a history of offering digital cameras
that appeal to specific sectors of the market and the FinePix 1300
and FinePix 2400 ZOOM are no exceptions," remarked Anita Thomas,
Product Manager, Digital Camera Products, Fujifilm Canada, Inc. "As
a whole, digital photographers are a diverse lot with certain features
and controls appealing to some, but not others. If there is one common
denominator among them it's the desire for colorful and true-to-life
pictures. As a company renowned for its color reproduction, we can
deliver just that with our new digital cameras."
Designed as the ultimate family camera, the fun and easy-to-use
FinePix 1300 builds upon the tradition of the high-resolution sub-$500
digital camera pioneered by Fujifilm's MX-1200. Sporting a standard
1.3 million-sensor CCD, the FinePix 1300 records images with vibrant
color and detail at resolutions as high as 1280 x 960, a perfect size
for eye catching, 4 x 6- and 5 x 7-inch prints. Despite their size,
the image files generated by the FinePix 1300 can transfer smoothly
through E-mail, allowing the user to share his or her images with
family and friends.
"With the picture-taking ability of the FinePix 1300 there has
never been a better time for families to make the leap into digital
photography," said Thomas. "This starter model, with its
quality image reproduction and transferability, is a superb, entry-level
digital camera."
While the FinePix 1300 was designed for families and beginners,
the FinePix 2400 ZOOM is a fine choice for a more discerning digital
photographer. Packing a 2.1 million-sensor conventional CCD in a familiar
point-and-shoot camera body, the FinePix 2400 ZOOM captures images
through an aspherical 3x optical zoom lens that has a range equivalent
to that of a 39mm-117mm zoom in the 35mm format. And just like a point-and-shoot
film camera, the FinePix 2400 ZOOM has a bevy of easy-to-find features
that make it easy for just about anyone to pick up the camera and
take pictures.
"Rather than have most of the key controls placed within an
internal menu system, we pulled the controls 'out' of the FinePix
2400 ZOOM and placed them on the body of the camera for ease of operation,"
explained Thomas. "This makes the camera very user friendly,
allowing just about anyone who has operated a camera, film or digital,
to take pictures with the FinePix 2400 ZOOM."
The Fujifilm FinePix 2400 ZOOM and Fujifilm FinePix 1300, which will
both ship with Adobe PhotoDeluxe® Home Edition 3.0 software, will
be available in October. The FinePix 2400 ZOOM will be available at
an estimated street price of $599, while the FinePix 1300 will retail
for approximately $399.
July 11 - "Always On" Broadband Drives Demand
for Consumer Internet Security. The need for intrusion protection
against unapproved PC and network access, as well as a greater need
for virus and privacy protection, will fuel end user demand for broadband
Internet security products for the home over the next few years, according
to Cahners In-Stat Group.
The high-tech market research firm projects that, driven
in large part, by strong sales in the firewall category, the consumer
broadband security market will grow from $74 million in 2000 to over
$800 million by the end of 2005.
"Consumers today are just now beginning to accept the benefits
of always-on, high-speed Internet access as availability of these
services reach beyond the initial adopters," said Jaclynn Bumback,
research analyst for In-Stat's enterprise and residential communications
group.
In-Stat sites that as service providers make these services widely
available and consumers subscribe at impressive numbers, the realization
that some level of baseline security is needed is only beginning to
sink in for most consumers.
Based on a survey of over 1,000 U.S. households, In-Stat found that
of those consumers who do have a broadband connection today, 50 percent
are without any form of intrusion protection such as a basic software
or hardware firewall.
"As broadband penetration approaches critical mass, the fact
that half of these consumers are still fully exposed to the dangers
of always-on Internet connectivity is amazing," said Mike Wolf,
director of enterprise and residential communications at In-Stat.
"In time, we believe that intrusion protection will become a
requirement as consumers become better educated about the need for
Internet security."
In-Stat has also found that:
-- The largest category of units shipped from 2000 to 2005 will
remain software-based firewalls. These products have proven
popular due to their low cost (many can be downloaded free
over the Internet) and wide availability.
-- The overall higher Average Selling Prices for hardware
firewalls will result in a much larger overall market for
hardware firewalls. The average price for a hardware firewall
in 2000 was $177, compared with just $19 for a software-based
firewall. By 2005 prices on hardware firewalls will have
dropped significantly, but the price differential will still
be considerable.
Cahners In-Stat Group can be found on the Web at www.instat.com.
July 11 - Seiko Instruments Introduces
`Leave-It-On' Mini-Keyboard for Handhelds. Seiko Instruments Austin
Inc. (SIAS), a worldwide leader in "Instruments of Intelligence,"
today introduced the first integrated and mobile mini-keyboard solution
-- the Thumboard(tm) TB5000 -- for the Palm(tm) V series.
The TB5000 is the first model in SIAS's new Thumboard(tm) Keyboard
line and marks the beginning of the company's diversification into
the PDA/handheld arena. The Thumboard(tm) offers people on-the-go
who want quick, portable typing a simple, easy way to enter information
into a PDA.
"We've learned through consumer market research how awkward
and time-consuming the graffiti application is to use on handheld
devices," comments Stokely Marco, director of marketing, Seiko
Instruments Austin. "So we've eliminated the difficulty of entering
data, as well as designing the Thumboard(tm) to fully integrate with
the handheld for a `leave-on' approach, thus providing improved functionality
and easier access to key Palm OS(R) features."
The TB5000, which slips directly onto one's handheld fully covering
the graffiti area and interfacing with the serial port, goes beyond
general keyboard functionality with the inclusion of Palm(tm) OS Hot
keys (Calendar, To Do, etc.) and text editing capabilities by way
of the Command function key.
With its QWERTY keyboard, direct numeric keys and an extensive character
set, it is ideal for typing notes and messages, as well as updating
calendar and contact information. Its small size and ease of integration
enables the user to keep the Thumboard(tm) on the device at all times,
barely increasing the size of the PDA.
SIAS has further simplified the Thumboard(tm) feature set with the
inclusion of the primary soft keys, such as "New," "Done,"
"Delete," taking away the extra step of needing to touch
the screen to execute these commands.
The TB5000 (expected market price $49.99) shipping in August will
be available nationwide in retail, consumer electronics and home office
stores and works with the Palm(tm) V series handhelds. In September,
SIAS will be shipping three additional Thumboard(tm) models; TB5100
compatible with the Palm m500, TB5500 compatible with the Palm m505
and the TB6000 compatible with Visor(tm).
July 11 - Zeros & Ones Unveils Breakthrough
in Digital Video Compression. Zeros & Ones, Inc. (OTCBB:ZROS)
today announced the successful completion of Phase Two of its development
of a revolutionary new high quality digital video compression engine.
Code named "MC-10," the new compression engine represents
a breakthrough in digital compression technology--achieving ratios
between three to ten times compression with the same or superior levels
of image quality to MPEG2.
The Company is currently in the process of putting five full-length
feature films on a single DVD to demonstrate the power of its inventions,
and aggressively expanding its patent portfolio along these lines.
The Company intends to commercialize and license MC-10 as well as
several of its processes into individual products.
The market for digital video compression is huge, encompassing DVDs,
personal video recorders (such as Microsoft Ultimate TV and TiVO),
satellite TV, digital motion picture transmission to theaters, high-quality
video conferencing, digital video phones, wireless, and other broadband
applications.
The Company is currently seeking strategic technology and investment
partners to further the development of MC-10 and to bring it to its
full commercial potential.
Headquartered in Santa Monica, Calif., Zeros & Ones, Inc. (www.zerosones.com)
is a transmedia holding company with digital convergence operations
in content, technology, and production.
July 10 - Lexmark introduces sub-$200 laser
printer. Acknowledging the growing demand among home users, students
and small businesses for fast and affordable laser printing, Lexmark
International, Inc. (NYSE: LXK) today introduced the E210, a fast,
easy-to-use laser printer priced at $199.
"At less than $200, the Lexmark E210 breaks a critical price
barrier for many customers," said Paul Rooke, Lexmark vice president
and president of its Printing Solutions and Services Division. "With
the E210, home users, students and small businesses can print black
and white documents with the speed and quality once affordable only
to medium and large businesses."
The Lexmark E210 prints at a quick 12 pages per minute (ppm) and
gives users the high-quality laser output they demand. The Lexmark
E210 ships with both a parallel port and Universal Serial Bus (USB)
for easy connection to home and office PCs. The E210's small footprint
will accommodate almost any home or office, where space is at a premium.
The E210 offers 150 sheets of input capacity and 100 sheets of output
capacity and is designed to handle a variety of media types, including
envelopes, labels, transparencies and card stock. The E210 uses an
easy to install, single-element replacement cartridge and is also
robust enough to handle print volumes of up to 5,000 pages per month.
The Lexmark E210 ships with a one-year LexExpress warranty, featuring
a next-business-day-exchange.
Pricing and availability
With the estimated street price of $199, the Lexmark E210 will be
available in popular retailers and office superstores including Wal-Mart,
OfficeMax and Staples, beginning in July. Lexmark can be found on
the Internet at www.lexmark.com.
July 10 - New MicronPC Notebook
Computer Line Brings Improved Features and Flexibility. MicronPC
today announced the introduction of the TransPort(R) XT notebook computer
--an enhanced notebook for mid-market, government and educational
customers. The MicronPC TransPort XT combines a flexible design and
rich feature set with a small footprint, meeting the unique needs
of the mobile professional.
"The TransPort XT offers mobile users an innovative portable
computer that integrates a lightweight form factor with the power
and expandability of a desktop replacement solution," said Paul
Petersen, vice president of product marketing and development for
MicronPC. "With a forward-looking design that blends performance,
flexibility and a small footprint, the TransPort XT delivers what
notebook users need to achieve maximum productivity. The TransPort
XT can also help lower total cost of ownership by maintaining backwards
compatibility with all TransPort GX/+ family media modules, peripherals
and docking solutions," Petersen added.
At a weight of just 6.1 pounds and a size of only 1.3 inches high
x 12.4 inches wide, the TransPort XT offers a comprehensive range
of features and expandability options that include:
-- a 14.1-inch XGA display
-- the choice of either a mobile Intel(R) Pentium(R) III processor
featuring Intel SpeedStep(TM) technology or an Intel Celeron(TM) processor
-- two SODIMM memory sockets for up to 512MB of PC100 SDRAM
-- 12.7mm hard drive technology support for up to 30GB capacity
-- 32X variable speed CD-ROM drive or 8X variable speed DVD drive
-- Intel(R) PRO/Wireless 2011 LAN adapter option
-- internal RJ-11 and RJ-45 jacks.
A typical, well-featured TransPort XT configuration sells for $2,199
and comes equipped with the following:
-- mobile Intel Pentium III 800 processor featuring Intel SpeedStep
technology
-- 14.1-inch XGA TFT LCD display
-- 128MB PC100 SDRAM
-- 20GB hard drive
-- 8X variable speed DVD drive
-- floppy disk drive.
About MicronPC
MicronPC, LLC provides award-winning computer products and services
for small and medium business, government, education and consumer
markets. In addition to its direct business-to-business sales channel,
MicronPC products are sold through leading resellers nationwide. MicronPC
is held by Gores Technology Group, an international acquisition and
management company, through its affiliate, GTG PC Holdings, LLC. MicronPC
is headquartered in Nampa, Idaho. More information about the company
can be found at www.micronpc.com.
About Gores Technology Group
With headquarters in Los Angeles, Gores Technology Group (GTG) is
a privately held international acquisition and management firm that
pursues an aggressive strategy of acquiring promising high-technology
organizations and managing them for growth and profitability. GTG
has made a name for itself by acquiring and successfully managing
companies--including many divisions acquired from large publicly traded
companies--through its commitment to customers, employees, and continued
development of intellectual property. GTG has acquired and managed
approximately 35 interrelated but autonomous technology-oriented companies
with locations throughout the world. Those companies provide a broad
range of technology-based products and services to a substantial customer
base representing millions of active users worldwide. Visit the company's
Web site at www.gores.com.
July 10 - GeForce3 Captures Best
PC Hardware Award at E3. NVIDIA(R) Corporation (Nasdaq:NVDA) today
announced that its GeForce3(TM) Graphics Processing Unit captured
the award for best PC Hardware from the E3 Game Critics.
Selected by a prestigious group of more than 35 editors from North
America's largest print and online publications, the recognition of
the NVIDIA Geforce3 is a testament to the strength of the GeForce
brand and the level of innovation inherent to NVIDIA technology. As
the core technology foundation for Microsoft(R)'s highly-anticipated
Xbox(TM), GeForce3 will also bring NVIDIA's world renowned 3D expertise
to console gamers for the first time.
"Quite simply, no PC hardware dominated E3 as much
as NVIDIA's latest graphics powerhouse," said Rob Smith, associate
chairman, Game Critics Awards and editor in chief, PC Gamer Magazine.
"The GeForce3's abilities are already being put to great use,
and with PC owners able to enjoy a common format that all games seem
to take advantage of, that's a truly positive step forward for PC
gaming."
"We're thrilled to claim this award which is strong recognition
of the talent and passion that went into the design of GeForce3,"
said Dan Vivoli, senior vice president of marketing at NVIDIA. "By
combining programmability, performance, and outstanding visuals, GeForce3
ensures end-users of unprecedented graphics experiences, regardless
of their choice of gaming platform."
About the NVIDIA GeForce3
The NVIDIA GeForce3 GPU integrates the NVIDIA nfiniteFX(TM) engine
and Lightspeed Memory Architecture(TM) to bring environments and characters
to life. Game developers take advantage of the fully programmable
Vertex and Pixel Shaders of the nfiniteFX engine to create a virtually
infinite number of special effects and custom looks.
The GeForce3 is the world's most advanced GPU with more than 57 million
transistors and is able to perform more than 800 billion operations
per second and 76 billion floating point operations per second (FLOPS).
The GeForce3 GPU achieves an astounding 3.2 billion, antialiased samples
per second fill rate, more than four times the performance of the
award-winning GeForce2 Ultra and more than seven times the processing
power of any competitive consumer graphics product.
As do all of the GeForce family products, GeForce3 drives the most
extreme resolutions and color depths of up to 2048 x 1536 x 32. The
GeForce3 architecture has been chosen as the reference platform for
the Microsoft(R) DirectX(R) 8 application programming interface (API)
and the Microsoft next-generation game console, Xbox(TM).
Visit the NVIDIA Web page at www.nvidia.com.
July 10 - Office Depot Announces Acquisition
of Computers4Sure.com and Solutions4Sure.com. Office Depot, Inc.
(NYSE:ODP), the world's largest seller of office products, today announced
that it is acquiring privately held 4Sure.com, Inc. and the businesses
of its two Web-based retail outlets, Computers 4Sure.com and Solutions4Sure.com.
The new subsidiary of Office Depot operates two distinct but complementary
Websites from its headquarters and call centers in Connecticut. Terms
of the acquisition were not disclosed.
Computers4Sure is an on-line technology superstore featuring more
than 60,000 name brand technology products including PC hardware,
software, networking, and supplies focused on the SOHO and consumer
markets. They provide technical customer service and support to more
tech savy buyers. Solutions4Sure.com is dedicated to the needs of
small and medium sized businesses for technology products and services.
4Sure.com, Inc. was founded in late 1998 by its President, Bruce Martin,
and by Linwood A. ("Chip") Lacy, Jr. Martin formerly served
as head of Merchandising at Ingram Micro, Inc. and President and COO
of Multiple Zones International. Lacy formerly served as Chairman
and CEO of Ingram Micro, Inc.
Bruce Nelson, Office Depot's CEO, stated: "Technology products
and solutions are the most frequently requested items by our on-line
customers. Today, we offer only a very limited assortment and this
acquisition will give us a recognized brand and Websites, a well established
customer base, and a "virtual" inventory of more than 60,000
products that will be drop shipped directly to customers. We also
acquire a highly skilled and experienced management team that will
strategically position Office Depot to reach tech savvy buyers --IT
Department Managers, and younger tech literate buyers who prefer to
buy on-line instead of in retail stores."
Office Depot can be found on the Web at http://www.officedepot.com.
July 10 - EasyLink Announces Mailwatch
Service's Ten Most Intercepted E-mail Viruses. EasyLink Services
Corporation (Nasdaq:EASY), a leading global provider of outsourced
messaging services to enterprises and service providers, has stopped
several instances of viruses from damaging its clients' networks.
EasyLink MailWatch Service uses highly advanced anti-virus technology
to detect and block more than 57,000 known viruses and variants that
can be embedded in e-mail attachments.
In June, MailWatch detected and intercepted a total of 55,598 virus
instances. During the month, the top ten viruses intercepted by MailWatch,
in order of frequency were:
W32/Magistr@MM
W32/Hybris.gen@MM
W32/BadTrans@MM
VBS/SST.gen@MM
VBS/LoveLetter@MM
W95/MTX@M
JS/Kak@M
W32/Navidad.e@M
VBS/Haptime@MM
VBS/VBSWG.gen@MM
The virus posing the most threats to network systems in June, W32/Magistr@MM,
is a combination of a file infector and an e-mail worm. After the
virus is run, it gathers e-mail addresses from address books, and
the worm can send non-viral and infected attachments to those addresses.
The virus poses a serious threat because it can cause pertinent information
to be erased and can destroy sectors on the hard disk.
EasyLink Services Corporation (Nasdaq:EASY), based in Edison, N.J.,
is a leading global provider of outsourced messaging services to enterprises
and service providers. For more information, please visit www.easylink.com.
July 09 - NETGEAR Introduces
Wireless Home Networking Products. NETGEAR Inc., a provider of
small business and home networking products, today announced the availability
of the company's first product family in a new generation of multimedia
entertainment networking products.
Sleek and trendy in design, the company's Multimedia Wireless product
line is the first wireless home networking solution to provide true
Quality of Service (QoS). The best data throughput in the wireless
networking market enables simultaneous video and audio streaming on
multiple PCs and other Internet enabled devices without interruption
from any other network activity or appliances typically found in the
home such as cordless phones or microwaves. Home users can share a
high-speed Cable/DSL Internet connection virtually anywhere in or
around their homes and enjoy a new quality of multimedia entertainment
without the hassle of installing expensive cabling.
"We are excited to be one of the first companies to acknowledge
that the Internet is rapidly emerging as the dominant source for multimedia
entertainment in the home," said Patrick Lo, president and chief
executive officer of NETGEAR. "Our first wireless multimedia
networking solution enables consumers to truly enjoy the benefits
of streaming audio and video content over the Internet. Users can
network multiple PCs as well as up and coming Internet enabled appliances
such as the new Philips FW-i1000 Internet Audio Mini Hi-Fi that combines
a CD mini shelf system with Internet audio and fully enjoy digital
radio streaming in from more than 1,000 stations around the world."
According to a recent survey by Parks Associates, nearly 70% of high-entertainment
consumers are interested in various entertainment networking applications
for the home. Sales of network-capable entertainment products, like
MP3 Jukeboxes, set-top boxes and Internet radios are expected to grow
from $2.6 billion in 2001 to $13.9 billion in 2005.
"NETGEAR understands consumers' growing interest to enjoy high-quality
streaming audio and video over the Internet on multiple PCs and other
Internet-enabled devices throughout the home," said Kurt Scherf,
vice president of research for Parks Associates. "The company's
Multimedia Wireless Network provides all the necessary features for
consumers to enjoy movies, MP3, and games throughout their home without
the hassle of installing additional cables."
The Multimedia Wireless Network Family
The rapid acceptance of Broadband Internet access combined with
the escalating number of multi-PC homes has created a need for reliable
and high performance home networks. These customers are looking for
products that are easy to install, work reliably and support the types
of applications common in the home. The Multimedia Wireless Home Network
is comprised of the WE102 Multimedia Wireless to Ethernet Bridge and
the WA301 Multimedia wireless PCI Network Card, which are now available
individually or in a bundled kit. The products are based on ShareWave's
Whitecap technology, come with a five-year warranty and can be up
and running in less than 30 minutes.
WA301 -- 11Mbps Multimedia Wireless PCI Adapter
NETGEAR's Multimedia Wireless products allow customers to share
the Broadband cable and DSL connection from anywhere in the home.
The WA301 Multimedia Wireless PCI Adapter allows customers with current
or legacy desktop PCs running Windows 95/98/2000/Me to connect to
their Multimedia Wireless network with greater throughput than with
802.11b standards. Street price is expected to be $149. The WE301
will be available in retail stores in July 2001. The WA301 comes with
a five-year warranty.
WE102 -- 11Mbps Multimedia Wireless to Ethernet Bridge
The WE102 Multimedia Wireless to Ethernet Bridge allows peer to
peer networking thus making the access point obsolete. The WE102 can
be combined with NETGEAR's high performance Cable/DSL routers like
the FR314 Firewall Cable/DSL Router or the RP114 Cable/DSL Web Safe
Router in order to extend the broadband connection throughout the
home. Street price is expected to be $199. The WE102 will be available
in retail stores in July 2001. The WE102 comes with a five-year warranty.
WB302 -- 11Mbps Multimedia Wireless Network Starter Kit
The WB302 Multimedia Wireless Starter Kit is comprised of the one
WE102 Multimedia Wireless to Ethernet Bridge and one WA301 Multimedia
Wireless PCI Adapter. Street price is expected to be $349. The WE102
will be available in retail stores in July 2001. The WB302 comes with
a five-year warranty.
For more information visit the company's Web site at www.netgear.com.
July 09 - Plextor Introduces
Professional-Quality SlimLine CD-RW Drive. Plextor Corp.(R), a
leading developer and manufacturer of high-performance CD-related
equipment and software, today announced the immediate availability
of the PlexWriter(TM) 8/8/24A SlimLine CD-RW drive. The new PlexWriter
drive breaks new ground as Plextor's first product offering in a slimline
form factor and the industry's first slimline drive to deliver professional-level
speed and performance.
The internal PlexWriter SlimLine measures just 12.7mm in thickness
and weighs 0.62 lbs. The PlexWriter SlimLine offers 3-in-1 functionality
with 8X CD-recording, 8X CD-rewriting, and 24X max CD-playback. It
also features BURN-Proof(TM) (buffer underrun-proof) technology, which
ensures fault-tolerant CD burning. BURN-Proof prevents errors from
occurring when data flow to the drive is interrupted during the recording
process. This error-reducing technology makes CD-recording more practical
by allowing users to surf the Web, download files, and utilize other
applications while recording CDs in the background.
"The new PlexWriter SlimLine is a groundbreaking CD-RW drive
because it's the first to combine 8X recording speeds and professional
features like BURN-Proof with a radically smaller form factor that
fits inside a notebook computer," said Howard Wing, vice president
of sales and marketing for Plextor. "Although the SlimLine is
smaller and lighter, it is designed and manufactured with the same
world-class quality standards as conventional 5.25-inch PlexWriter
drives, so end users will see the same high levels of durability and
reliability."
The internal PlexWriter 8/8/24A SlimLine with E-IDE (ATAPI-4) interface
is currently shipping to OEMs, resellers, and distributors with a
$249 manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP).
For more information, visit www.plextor.com.
July 09 - UMAX announces new
48 bit scanners. UMAX Technologies, Inc., a leader in imaging
technologies, today announced the availability of the new Astra 4400
scanner, which provides a new industry benchmark for affordable, high-resolution
color scanning.
The company's first 48-bit color scanner, this new model blends ultra-high
image quality and simplicity of use in ways unprecedented at consumer-friendly
prices. With 1200 x 2400 dpi resolution, 48-bit internal color, USB
connectivity and programmable push-button controls, the Astra 4400
scanner will satisfy demanding prosumers and small to medium size
business users, yet even novices will find them simple to set up and
use.
The Astra 4400 and its companion scanner, the transparency-capable
Astra 4450, reflect the continuing UMAX drive to refine scanning technology
with highly automated, easy-to-use functionality. Many procedures
including copy and direct scan to fax or e-mail can be performed with
push-button ease. The scanners also feature a custom button, fully
configurable to launch user applications such as photosharing or editing.
The scanners' 48-bit color resolution provides trillions of sharp,
vibrant colors, making the Astra 4400 and 4450 ideal for such business
uses as production of professional-quality business cards, brochures
and newsletters. The Astra 4450, to be made available shortly, will
come with a Universal Transparency Cover (UTC) for scanning transparent
media up to 4" x 5".
The Astra 4400 and Astra 4450 scanners support Windows 98, 98SE, 2000
and ME. They require a Pentium or better processor, USB port and CD-ROM
drive, along with 64 MB of RAM and 250+ MB of available disk space.
A modem and Internet connection are required for Internet and e-mail
functions. The Astra 4400 is available immediately at the consumer-friendly
suggested price of $129. Pricing and availability of the Astra 4450
will be announced later. For further information, visit www.umax.com.
July 09 - Mondays Prove to be
Manic for IT Support Staff. Support.com, Inc. (Nasdaq:SPRT), the
leading provider of support automation software, today announced that
over 80 percent of IT support staff hate Mondays. The reason, according
to a recent survey/a, is that IT staff are bombarded by an overwhelming
number of support calls on Monday, making it the most frenzied day
of the week for these overworked professionals.
IT support managers assert that they are inundated with calls for
help in handling employees PC and application problems on Mondays.
Other support inquiries are spread evenly over the remainder of the
week. However, 6 percent of IT support staff would gladly barricade
themselves in, citing "every day" as the worst day for IT
queries.
Implementing self-service technology can alleviate the stress that
peak demand times impose on IT professionals. The corporations that
were surveyed view the results as a "wake-up" call to ascertain
self-help needs and ensure appropriate staffing levels. In addition,
the survey highlights the lost productivity on Mondays for all staff
whose computers are out of commission for a proportion of the day.
"Support automation can help every company get off to a good
start each week with less frustration for IT support staff and users
alike. To deliver real business benefits self-service support needs
to be quick, personalized and solve real problems, otherwise employees
will become frustrated and end up calling the help desk anyway,"
said Bruce Mowery, vice president of marketing at Support.com. "By
automating support, users and first level support staff find it far
easier to solve many different IT issues themselves, without involving
expensive, high-level IT specialists. Support resources can also be
scaled more easily to meet peak demand periods."
For more information about Support.com, visit the company's Web site
at www.support.com.
July 08 - Sunday Shopping
Watch.
Special Discounts and Financing. In addition to sales on specific
items, the following store-wide sales are advertised this week.
Best Buy is giving away 1 year of free MSN with any computer purchase.
They are also offering a $100 mail-in rebate on any advertised notebook
or desktop.
Circuit
City is offering $50 instant
rebates on all Intel processor desktop packages and notebooks.
Office Depot is offering
a $100 instant rebate on any Athlon powered build-to-order notebook.
CompUSA no ad this Sunday.
Staples no ad this Sunday.
HHGregg no special store-wide computer
sales (individual items may be on sale).
Internet Rebates. All
stores continue to offer 3 year, $400 Internet Rebates. Please see
our article, What You Need to Know
About Internet Rebates and Free PCs, for an in-depth discussion
of Internet Rebates.
Definitions. A complete system/package is defined
as a computer with monitor and printer or scanner.
A build-to-order system is customized at the retailer
and then ordered from a vendor's store. In addition to the computer's
stated price, you still pay sales tax and shipping charges (if you
order direct from the vendor without going through the chain store,
you may not have to pay sales tax and you could get a better warranty).
* Prices discussed in this article. Advertisers
typically deduct the $400 Internet rebate from an items true price.
We report all prices without subtracting the $400 Internet rebate,
however all other rebates and discounts are usually subtracted.
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.
|
Best Deals this Sunday
|
|
Category
|
Product Description
|
Price* (see above)
|
Store
|
|
Best Celeron Deal
|
HP 900 MHz complete system
|
$849
|
Best Buy, Circuit City
|
|
Best Pentium III System
|
None Advertised
|
|
|
|
Best Pentium 4 System
|
Compaq 1.7 GHz build-to-order system with
17 inch monitor
|
$1349
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best Duron System
|
None Advertised
|
|
|
|
Best High End Athlon System
|
Compaq 1.3 GHz DDR complete system
|
$1499
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best Low Cost Notebook
|
Compaq 800 MHz Celeron with DVD
|
$1099
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best High-end Notebook
|
Compaq 1 GHz Athlon with DVD
|
$1518
|
Office Depot
|
Additional Information. For additional technical
information, advice on how to buy a laptop or desktop, and vendor
and manufacturer links, please see our Computer
Buying Advice page.
About Sunday Shopping Watch. Sunday Shopping Watch appears
every Sunday (except some holidays like Easter and Christmas) in our
News and Rumors column. It is a review of the highlights of local
(Dayton, Ohio) computer chain store advertisements. While we can not
guarantee your local chain store has the same items, this article
should help you to make informed buying decisions.
July 06 - Micron Electronics
and Interland Merger Approved by SEC. Micron Electronics, Inc.
(Nasdaq:MUEI) and Interland, Inc. (Nasdaq:ILND) today announced that
the companies' Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus relating to the previously
announced acquisition of Interland by Micron Electronics has been
declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission and filed
electronically.
The companies announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement
on March 23, 2001.
The companies also announced that on May 11, 2001, the waiting period
for antitrust review of the proposed acquisition under the Hart-Scott-Rodino
Act expired without inquiry from the Department of Justice.
Micron Electronics, Inc. (Nasdaq:MUEI) is the parent company of HostPro,
Inc., a leading provider of infrastructure, Web site, and hosted software
applications to small and medium businesses around the world. HostPro
manages more than 147,000 hosted Web sites and more than 79,700 paid
hosting accounts. More information about Micron Electronics can be
found at www.micronelectronics.com.
More information about HostPro can be found at www.hostpro.com.
Interland, Inc. is a leader in providing managed Web hosting services
for over 89,000 Web sites around the world. According to International
Data Corporation (IDC), Interland is the sixth largest hosting company
in terms of total customer accounts. Interland is one of the leading
hosting companies in the rapidly growing hosting market, expected
to reach $24.8 billion by 2004. The company provides a full spectrum
of managed hosting services, including system monitoring and reporting,
managed backup and recovery, and system administration services, as
well as e-commerce solutions, Web design, and business applications
hosting. More information about Interland can be found at www.interland.com.
July 06 - EA Announces Plans For Third Sims
Expansion Pack. Electronic Arts (Nasdaq:ERTS) today announced
plans to release this Fall The Sims(TM) Hot Date Expansion Pack, a
new add-on disk to the top-selling PC game of 2000 & 2001, The
Sims. The Sims Hot Date Expansion Pack represents an entirely new
experience for The Sims --dating!
With exciting new characters, interests, romance objects, and an all-new
Downtown area filled with restaurants, shops and parks, The Sims Hot
Date will get your Sims off the couch and into the singles scene.
Play matchmaker for your Sims and watch them become Casanovas or Casanevers.
"Just like everyone, the Sims are looking for love,"
said Tim LeTourneau, producer at EA's Maxis(TM) studio. "Hot
Date allows Sims to experience the hilarious ups and downs of the
dating game."
Players can have their Sims ask each other out on a date or try their
luck with an in-game dating service. Arrange to meet another Sim Downtown
at exciting and romantic locations that the player can create. Everything
from a candlelit dinner, a drink at the bar or a rendezvous in the
park is possible as your Sim attempts to orchestrate an evening to
remember.
Once your Sim is out with that special someone, additional interests
and new interactions keep the conversation flowing and chemistry clicking.
Sims can now flirt, play footsie, engage in a little tonsil hockey,
or converse in Simlish about new and diverse interests. Being a fun
and fascinating date gets your Sim one step closer to a goodnight
kiss or more!
Players can watch sparks fly or fizzle as their Sims meet and date
a host of new characters. Sims can spurn the advances of The Jock,
welcome the overtures of the Femme Fatale, find true lust with Mr.
Medallion, or strike out with the Blonde Bombshell. Over 100 new objects,
including the Picnic Basket, Cuddle Couch and the Love Tub, allow
players to set the mood for their Sims. Find your Sim a soul mate
... or have fun trying with The Sims Hot Date.
For more information on The Sims, The Sims Livin' Large, The Sims
House Party, and The Sims Hot Date visit http://www.thesims.com.
July 03 - AMD Athlon Processor-Based
Supercomputer Soars Into Top 500 List. AMD (NYSE:AMD) today announced
that the Tokyo Institute of Technology's PRESTO III--a server cluster
containing 78 AMD Athlon(TM) processors--was ranked in the Top 500
list released at the June 2001 International Supercomputer Conference
held in Heidelberg, Germany. The PRESTO III marks the first time an
AMD processor-based supercomputer has made the internationally renowned
list.
The PRESTO III is employed at the Matsuoka Laboratory
of the Global Scientific Information and Computing Center and the
Department of Mathematical and Computing Science. It runs simulation
and scientific applications such as operations research, high-energy
physics, and neuroscience.
"Upon launching the project, we evaluated many solutions and
concluded that the AMD Athlon processor was the best choice in terms
of performance and stability. We are delighted that our PRESTO III
cluster has become the first AMD Athlon processor-based computer to
make the Top 500 list," said Dr. Satoshi Matsuoka, who led the
PRESTO III supercomputer initiative. "We are grateful to our
research sponsor, the Japan Science and Technology Corporation, for
support throughout the PRESTO program, and to AMD for providing the
processor technology. Our hope is to move up on the Top 500 list for
the second half of 2001."
"The AMD Athlon processor is an excellent choice for cutting-edge
computer platforms targeted at computation-intensive applications,"
said Shunsuke Yoshizawa, AMD director of corporate/channel marketing,
North Asia Pacific. "This innovative processor is a powerful
and reliable solution, well suited to supporting advanced scientific
facilities and critical research projects."
Compiled by high-performance computer experts, computational scientists,
manufacturers and the Internet community, the Top 500 (www.top500.org)
list provides current information about the most powerful computer
systems in the world. The international list has been released twice
a year since 1993. The Tokyo Institute of Technology's PRESTO III
was ranked No. 439.
Additional press releases and information about AMD and its products
are available at: www.amd.com.
July 03 - Motorola
Ships One Millionth Talkabout T900 2-Way Text Messaging Device.
Motorola (NYSE:MOT) today announced the shipment of the one millionth
Talkabout(R) T900 2-Way text messaging device, less than a year following
its introduction.
The compact and colorful Talkabout T900 was the first member of Motorola's
expansive two-way messaging product assortment designed specifically
for consumers and is leading the unprecedented growth of the two-way
messaging industry in the U.S.
"We aren't surprised at the success of the Talkabout T900 and
have believed two-way messaging would be a hot solution for consumers
ever since we developed the world's first two-way text messaging device
in 1995," said Miguel Pellon, vice president and general manager
of the Wireless Messaging Division, Motorola. "Today we continue
to shape the future of two-way messaging with groundbreaking technology
and innovative messaging products to suit the lifestyles of all consumers,
from the trend-wise V.Series Personal Communicator Model 100 to the
business-minded Accompli 009."
The Talkabout T900, which operates on Motorola's superior ReFLEX(R)
protocol, allows users to exchange messages with any e-mail address
- whether it's from another 2-way device, other mobile device or a
PC. With its four-line, 80-character QWERTY keyboard and illuminated
display, the Talkabout T900 makes it easy to both send and read messages.
In addition, the Talkabout T900's "Info-on-Demand" feature
enables users to request and receive customized information from the
Internet including movie show times, headline news, the latest weather
forecast and stock quotes. And, a built-in address book stores the
contact information of 250 friends, family and coworkers -all this
in a package weighing less than four ounces and about the size of
a large pack of gum. The Talkabout T900 retails for as low as $99
with carrier rebate.
New developments for the Talkabout T900 now make it possible for
users to manage their personal and desktop e-mail accounts, access
their Hotmail, MSN or EarthLink e-mail accounts, and send and receive
Instant Messages (IMs) - all from the Talkabout T900.
For more information, visit www.motorola.com.
July 03 - U.S. Vacationers
Addicted to E-mail? According to a Gartner, Inc. (NYSE: IT and
ITB) survey, 42 percent of users check their business e-mail while
on vacation, while 23 percent check e-mail on the weekends.
On workdays, 53 percent of business users check e-mail six or more
times a day, while 34 percent of users check e-mail constantly throughout
the day. On average, business users spend 49 minutes per day managing
e-mail accounts.
Gartner analysts warn that the "always on" syndrome for
business users is redefining not only the workday, but also family
weekends and vacations.
"Business use of cell phones, instant messaging and e-mail has
crept into our lives on a 24 by 7 basis," said Maurene Caplan
Grey, Gartner senior research analyst. "The connected vacationer
is always on the alert for business interruptions. For better or for
worse, 42 percent of us go online to look for business e-mails during
vacation."
The Gartner survey revealed that business users receive an average
of 22 e-mails per day. Results also showed that only 27 percent of
these e-mails require immediate attention and 34 percent are occupational
spam -- a Gartner term denoting unnecessary e-mails from co-workers.
"E-mail has become the corporate security blanket of this decade,"
continued Grey. "If executives don't get their 22 e-mails per
day, they actually miss them and begin to feel out of the loop."
"We've become a country that thrives on being connected. The
thought of communication happening without our knowledge keeps us
tethered to the workplace," concluded Grey.
For information about Gartner, Inc., visit www.gartner.com.
July 03 - Increase in Hackers Propelling
Data and Network Encryption Market. The amount of classified information
being transmitted via networks is rapidly increasing.
However, as e-terrorists attempt corporate espionage and hacker attacks,
military and government agencies, along with contractors, are propelling
sales as they invest in data and network encryption devices that assure
necessary privacy.
New analysis by Frost & Sullivan, "World Military and Government
High Assurance Network and Data Encryption Market," reveals that
this industry generated revenues of $176 million in 2000 and is projected
to increase steadily to $457.6 million by 2007.
"Hackers are no longer solely focused on disrupting service and
implanting viruses," says Frost & Sullivan Senior Analyst
Brooks Lieske. "They are also doing less noticeable, but potentially
more damaging activities such as reading e-mail and gathering restricted
information from Internet sites and computers."
International agencies ranging from the National Security Agency (NSA)
to the NATO are increasing network defense spending and modernizing
equipment to ensure the privacy of transmitted information. Because
of the multiple security risks associated with networks, end users
are trending towards multi-layered security, with the military showing
growing interest in wireless encryptors.
"Manufacturers must also cater to defense contractors who use
similar high-speed encryptors to comply with government security regulations,"
says Lieske. "Not only must contractors protect sensitive information
from global espionage, but corporate espionage has also become a concern."
"Corporate espionage is an ever-present threat, and defense contractors
require quality encryption for sensitive information. The `better
safe than sorry' perspective will have a very positive influence on
demand."
More information about Frost & Sullivan can be found at www.defense.frost.com.
July 02 - Intel Introduces
Pentium 4 Processor At 1.8 and 1.6 GHz. Intel Corporation today
announced availability of the Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 processor at 1.8
GHz, the company's highest-performance microprocessor for desktop
computers. Intel also introduced a Pentium 4 processor at 1.6 GHz.
Computer makers worldwide will be launching systems based on these
new microprocessors, which are available immediately.
Intel's Pentium 4 processor continues to provide higher performance
for desktop computer users. Robust yields have allowed Intel to accelerate
the introduction of these products, with a 2 GHz version planned for
later this quarter.
"These two new speeds enable a broader range of performance and
price points for our customers," said Louis Burns, vice president
and general manager, Intel Desktop Platforms Group. "Momentum
continues to grow as customers and software vendors take advantage
of Pentium 4 processor performance."
Pentium 4 processor-based systems are designed to meet the needs of
a range of users. For consumers, the Pentium 4 processor delivers
high performance for processing digital video and audio, displaying
3-D graphics, and taking advantage of the latest Internet technologies.
As they connect entertainment and productivity devices, users get
even more value from their high-performance Pentium 4 processor-based
systems. For business users, the Pentium 4 processor provides the
performance, longevity and return on investment needed to achieve
the greatest competitive advantage for both today and tomorrow.
The Intel(R) NetBurst(TM) Micro-Architecture and Intel(R) 850 Chipset
The Intel NetBurst(TM) Micro-architecture enables the Pentium 4
processor to run at extremely high speeds, bringing high performance
to computer users where they need it most. This technology will power
Intel's most advanced 32-bit processors during the next several years.
The Pentium 4 processor is the first completely new desktop processor
design from Intel since 1995, when the Intel(R) Pentium(R) Pro processor,
with its P6 micro-architecture, was introduced.
The Pentium 4 processor platform is based on the high-performance
Intel(R) 850 chipset. The Intel 850 chipset's dual RDRAM* memory banks
complement the Pentium 4 processor's 400 MHz system bus, handling
up to 3.2 gigabytes of data per second. Also, Intel is shipping in
high volume the Intel Desktop Board D850GB, which supports the Pentium
4 processor in the ATX form factor.
The Pentium 4 processor at 1.8 GHz is Intel's highest-performance
desktop processor as measured by the SPEC CPU* 2000 benchmark. The
Pentium 4 processor at 1.8 GHz delivers the world's highest desktop
processor score on SPECint*_base2000, with a score of 596. In addition,
the Pentium 4 processor at 1.8 GHz delivers a SPECfp*_base2000 score
of 618. For more information on Pentium 4 processor performance, visit
www.intel.com/procs/perf.
Pricing and Availability
The Pentium 4 processor at 1.8 GHz is manufactured on Intel's high-volume,
0.18-micron process technology, and is available now. In 1,000-unit
quantities, the 1.8 GHz version is priced at $562; the 1.6 GHz version
is priced at $294. Intel is also shipping boxed versions to Intel
Premier Providers and Intel Product Dealers, enabling them to ship
Pentium 4 processor-based systems immediately.
More information can be found at www.intel.com.
July 02 - Intel Announces New Celeron
Processors. Intel Corporation today released two new Intel®
Celeron™ processors. The desktop Intel Celeron at 900 MHz is
Intel's fastest offering for the price-sensitive desktop value PC
market segment. The mobile Intel Celeron processor at 850 MHz is optimized
for full-size and thin and light notebook designs, providing leading
performance at attractive price points.
Intel Celeron processors include design features such as 128 KB of
on-chip, level-two cache with a high-bandwidth interface to the processor
core. The Intel Celeron processor line continues to lead the value
PC market segment worldwide.
In 1,000-unit quantities, the desktop Intel Celeron processor at
900 MHz costs $103. Desktop Intel Celeron processors are now available
at 900, 850 and 800 MHz (all with the 100 MHz system bus), as well
as at 766 and 733 MHz.
In 1,000-unit quantities, the mobile Intel Celeron processor at 850
MHz costs $134. Mobile Intel Celeron processors are now available
at 850, 800, 750 and 700 MHz (all with the 100 MHz system bus).
Intel, the world's largest chip maker, is also a leading manufacturer
of computer, networking and communications products. Additional information
about Intel is available at www.intel.com.
July 02 - SOYO Releases Pentium
III "Tualatin" Motherboard. SOYO, Inc. today announced the SY-TISU
- an ATX Universal footprint motherboard that maximizes performance
of Intel's 815EP B-step chipset with support for Intel's Pentium III
Tualatin Processors with 133MHz FSB and speeds up to 1.2GHz. The board
will also accommodate Intel FC-PGA Pentium III, and Celeron Processors.
< Editor's Note: Intel has not yet announced
the Pentium III Tualatin. When Intel announces the Tualatin, we will
post it on this page.>
The SY-TISU is SOYO's first motherboard to feature Intel's new Pentium
III Tualatin CPU, which is the first Intel chip to use the 0.13-micron
manufacturing process, which replaces the 0.18-micron process currently
used for most PC processors. By miniaturizing the chip size the processor
can run at faster speeds while it consumes less power and emits less
heat. This makes SOYO's SY-TISU suitable for many high-performance
applications.
SOYO's SY-TISU includes many advanced features such as Direct AGP
VGA in 1x/2x/4x mode, a CNR (Communications & Networking Riser)
connector, which saves a PCI expansion slot and allows the addition
of a number of networking features such as LANs, home phone networking,
DSL, and dial-up modems. The board also features onboard AC97 audio
CODEC. The board has a list price of $99.
The SY-TISU is expandable to 512MBs RAM with its three SDRAM DIMMs
slots, and features six 32-bit bus mastering PCI slots. The on-board
super I/O supports two RS-232 serial ports, one parallel printer port,
one floppy disk port, two Ultra DMA100/66/33 ports, four USB ports,
audio line/out ports, game port, PS/2 Mini-DIN mouse & keyboard
ports, and an IrDA port.
For more information, visit www.soyousa.com.
July 01 - Sunday Shopping
Watch.
Special Discounts and Financing. In addition to sales on specific
items, the following store-wide sales are advertised this week.
Best Buy is giving away 1 year of free MSN with any computer purchase.
They are also offering 18 months no interest financing on all desktops,
notebooks, and build-to-order systems and and an additional $100 off
any 800 MHz or faster desktop complete package.
Circuit
City is offering a $150
mail-in rebate on all build-to-order desktops and notebooks, and $100
mail in rebates on all Intel processor desktop packages.
Office Depot no special store-wide
computer sales (individual items may be on sale).
CompUSA is having a 4 day sale
from today through Wednesday.
Staples no ad this Sunday.
HHGregg no special store-wide computer
sales (individual items may be on sale).
Internet Rebates. All
stores continue to offer 3 year, $400 Internet Rebates. Please see
our article, What You Need to Know
About Internet Rebates and Free PCs, for an in-depth discussion
of Internet Rebates.
Definitions. A complete system/package is defined
as a computer with monitor and printer or scanner.
A build-to-order system is customized at the retailer
and then ordered from a vendor's store. In addition to the computer's
stated price, you still pay sales tax and shipping charges (if you
order direct from the vendor without going through the chain store,
you may not have to pay sales tax and you could get a better warranty).
* Prices discussed in this article. Advertisers
typically deduct the $400 Internet rebate from an items true price.
We report all prices without subtracting the $400 Internet rebate,
however all other rebates and discounts are usually subtracted.
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.
|
Best Deals this Sunday
|
|
Category
|
Product Description
|
Price* (see above)
|
Store
|
|
Best Celeron Deal
|
HP 800 MHz complete system
|
$700
|
Best Buy, Circuit City
|
|
Best Pentium III System
|
HP 1 GHz complete system
|
$1150
|
Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA
|
|
Best Pentium 4 System
|
Sony 1.4 GHz complete system
|
$1599
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best Duron System
|
Sony 900 MHz complete system
|
$999
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best High End Athlon System
|
HP 1.4 GHz DDR with 17 inch monitor
|
$1599
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best Low Cost Notebook
|
Compaq 850 MHz Duron with DVD
|
$1399
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best High-end Notebook
|
Sony 750 MHz Pentium III with DVD
|
$1599
|
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 the highlights of local
