Jul 24 - Panasonic Debuts Lightest Rugged Notebook
With DVD/CD-RW Drive. Panasonic Computer Solutions Company, world's
leading provider of ruggedized portable computers, today introduced
the industry's only under-three-pound ultra-portable uniting legendary
Toughbook(R) durability with an integrated high-performance DVD-ROM/CD-RW
drive and the unprecedented processing prowess, wireless connectivity,
and energy efficiency of Intel's advanced Centrino(TM) mobility platform.
"Consider the new Toughbook(R) CF-W2 a reaffirmation of our
determination to provide the highest attainable levels of performance,
technological innovation, and durability throughout the entire Toughbook(R)
line," said Panasonic Computer Solutions Company president Rance
Poehler. "The W2 is the lightest notebook in the industry with
an integrated combo drive...and best part is that it is a Toughbook."
"Adapting Centrino's architecture to this form factor has enabled
us to offer advanced features previously available only in full-size
notebooks with hot, heavy, ultra-capacity power cells," Poehler
added. "I believe our customers will appreciate the job our engineers
did integrating the DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive into W2 without taking any
hit whatsoever in battery runtime, cooling efficiency, portability
or ruggedization. Our engineering department worked very closely with
Intel on the development of this product.
The CF-W2 was also engineered for maximum integration with Intel's
state-of-the-art Centrino(TM) mobile technology.
"Enveloped in a high-style magnesium case with a shock mounted
HD, Panasonic's CF-W2 sets a new standard for lightweight, two spindle,
and durability features. We are expecting a very high demand for this
product," comments Poehler.
Toughbook(R) W2 CF-AWAZZKM Intel(R) 900MHz ULV Pentium M CPU, Centrino(TM)
system architecture, 12.1" XGA TFT Active-Matrix Display, 40GB
HDD, 256MB RAM, internal DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive, 100BASE-TX/10
BASE-T wired LAN, 56K analog modem. Estimated Street Price: $ 2,250
Information on Panasonic's full line of notebook PCs for the mobile
professional can be obtained at www.panasonic.com/toughbook.
Jul 24 - Planar Delivers New
Line of Flat-Panel Monitors. Planar Systems, Inc. (Nasdaq:PLNR),
a worldwide leader in flat-panel display systems, is launching the
new PE line of flat-panel monitors that delivers excellent performance
for cost-conscious buyers. With the addition of the PE line's 15-,
17- and 19-inch models, Planar now offers a flat-panel monitor for
every desktop computing application and budget, further speeding the
adoption of flat-panel monitors as the standard choice for display
technology.
The entry-level PE line rounds out Planar's broad offering of dependable
desktop displays, which includes the award-winning mid-level PL line,
ideal for home or office; and the premium PX models, designed for
high-performance video and business applications.
The PE monitors are designed for corporate users as well as home office
users and students -- anyone who demands reliable performance at an
attractive price. Planar's PE monitors feature a thin-bezel design
and built-in power supply for greater space savings and are compatible
with VESA wall-mounting standards. Continuing Planar's commitment
to customer satisfaction, every Planar monitor includes an industry
leading 3-year "Customer First" warranty, featuring free
2-day-air advance replacement.
"Consumers have been watching as LCD monitor offerings and screen
performance have steadily improved in recent years," said Rhoda
Alexander, director of monitor research at iSuppli/Stanford Resources.
"The majority of monitor customers are already sold on the technology
with price remaining as the only barrier for many of them. As prices
decline on LCD monitors, the already strong shift towards LCDs from
CRTs will accelerate."
According to iSuppli/Stanford Resources, the markets for 17- and
19-inch LCD monitors comprise the fastest growing segments worldwide,
with unit demand increasing 59 and 83 percent respectively, between
2003 and 2007. Data also show that worldwide unit demand for LCD monitors
will exceed that of CRT monitors by Q1 2004.
"With the new PE line, Planar helps a wider range of computer
users enjoy the visual performance of flat-panel technology and raises
the bar for what every user should expect from their monitor,"
said Erick Petersen, general manager of commercial business Planar.
"The PE line provides our channel partners with an entry-level
product with the quality, performance and commitment to customer satisfaction
they have come to expect from Planar."
Planar's PE monitors are available now in black or white, and feature
the following attributes:
PE150:
15-inch diagonal screen
400:1 contrast ratio
200 Nit brightness
1024 x 768 resolution (XGA)
Estimated street price of $289
PE170:
17-inch diagonal screen
350:1 contrast ratio
300 Nit brightness
1280 x 1024 resolution (SXGA)
Estimated street price of $429
PE190:
19-inch diagonal screen
600:1 contrast ratio
300 Nit brightness
1280 x 1024 resolution (SXGA)
Estimated street price of $599
Planar's extensive product line includes the PL line in 15-, 17-,
19-, 20- and 23-inch sizes, PX line in 17-, 19-, and 21-inch sizes
and PT touch-screen models in 12-, 15-inch sizes. Details for each
model and links to resellers can be found at www.planar.com.
Jul 24 - LEA Announces Elektra
and Netplug Family of Powerline Networking Products. LEA, a world
leader in the development of ADSL and Powerline technology, today
announces a complete product line of Powerline Networking products.
These products create a complete no-new-wires networking
solution for the home and small business. The LEA Powerline product
set is composed of the Elektra ADSL/PowerLine Gateway for broadband
ADSL access and LAN inter-working, and the Netplug series of single
port Ethernet, USB and PCI adapters. An additional product is the
Netplug Bridge, which enables the distribution of Broadband on-premise
using existing cable/ADSL modems or routers/hubs/switches.
The Elektra ADSL/Powerline Gateway combines ADSL access with Powerline
networking to provide a fully managed solution for the distribution
of Broadband on-premise. The Elektra also supports existing network
connectivity with Ethernet and USB interfaces.
The Netplug is a family of Powerline adapters which interconnects
the Powerline network to PCs, mainframes, printers, cameras etc. via
Ethernet, USB and PCI interfaces. The Netplug Bridge product allows
customers to use existing ADSL/cable modems to set up a Powerline
network in conjunction with the LEA Netplug adapters. All the products
conform to the HomePlug specification and are CE marked for the European
market.
Powerline networking provides all the benefits of a LAN network without
the need for new wiring or sockets. There are power outlets throughout
the premise, creating a secure environment for the transfer of files,
email, music, games, video and voice between all devices on the network
and allow secure access to the Internet.
"The Elektra ADSL/Powerline Gateway is a 2003 European Information
Society Technology Prize winner confirming LEA as a leader in ADSL
and Powerline networking with a world class family of products to
support this position," said Eric Berthaud, CEO of LEA. "The
tremendous growth in Internet services has created an unprecedented
demand for Broadband access and networking in the home and small business.
LEA's Elektra ADSL/Powerline Gateway and Netplug Powerline Adapters
provide a cost effective 'plug-and-go' network solution available
on every wall of every room."
About LEA S.A.
Founded in 1999, this dynamic French corporation has targeted the
broadband wireline market and established itself as a world class,
ISO 9001 certified supplier of ADSL/VDSL splitters, Powerline Communications,
and xDSL Interoperability Test Service solutions. LEA's headquarters
are in Rennes France. www.leacom.fr.
Jul 24 - MeterNet Launches BankALARM Security
Software. With over thirty-five million people now using their
personal computer to bank online every month, it's not surprising
there has been a dramatic increase in identity theft cases over the
last 24 months. It has been estimated that 57% of all hacking attacks
are financial related and identity theft cases will double by the
year 2005.
Every personal computer has a large number of software "Service
Ports" that are available every time the PC communicates or surfs
via the Internet. However, hackers with rogue scanners find ways to
access computers using these "Service Ports" without user
knowledge. Identity thieves can use these sophisticated tools to gain
access to users' computers to capture private information and passwords.
New BankALARM is powerful real-time security software and update
service that helps to protect personal identity online by providing
real-time network monitoring, program filtering, spyware detection
and port control. BankALARM enables consumers to establish their own
Client Intruder Detection System (C_IDS) for each personal computer
which tracks all activity with optional lock down and cloak settings.
BankALARM protects in the background from an easy-to-read control
panel with simple click-on, click-off navigation. BankALARM appeals
to late adopters who find other security products too complex to understand,
set-up or operate.
BankALARM provides tighter control & advanced Real-Time security
to improve online defense for all computer users, beginner to expert.
Annual subscriptions cost $49.00 per computer per year and can be
ordered online securely using PayPal at http://bankalarm.com.
Customers receive a BankALARM CD-ROM shipped directly to register
their personal computer (WinXP required).
Jul 24 - America Online to Launch AOL
Cash Card Program for Teens. America Online, Inc., the world's
leading interactive services company, today announced that an AOL(R)
Cash Card program for teens and young adults will be available to
members as a new feature of AOL(R) 9.0 Optimized, the latest version
of the AOL and AOL(R) for Broadband services. AOL members will be
able to sign up for the AOL Cash Card program at no charge and there
is no annual card fee.
The AOL Cash Card program, developed in partnership with Visa and
their successful Visa Buxx program, provides a parent-controlled,
re-loadable payment card for teens and young adults that gives them
a way to make purchases, learn how to budget and manage their money
responsibly - all within the guidelines set by their parents.
The program allows parents to set spending limits, track their teen's
spending, load additional funds onto the account every month or set
up a recurring load schedule to maintain the card as an "allowance,"
receive real-time updates on purchases, and access transaction histories
entirely online through the AOL service. In addition, online money
tools help teach teens and young adults about key financial concepts
such as budgeting, savings, investing, e-commerce and more.
As part of the program, teens will receive an AOL Visa Buxx Cash
Card, which looks like a traditional Visa card with a magnetic stripe
and the teen user's name embossed on the card. The card may be used
for purchases, both online and offline, anywhere Visa is accepted,
and may also be used for cash withdrawals at ATM machines.
The AOL Visa Buxx Cash Card is a prepaid card, not a credit card that
functions as a loan from a bank, or a debit card that draws on funds
from a checking account. Each transaction draws from a fixed amount
of money that parents load onto the card. The card will be issued
by Bank One, the largest Visa card issuer in the world, and carries
no annual fees for AOL members.
The AOL Cash Card program is a smart and effective introduction to
financial responsibility and budgeting concepts for teens of all ages
- from younger teens who are learning how to manage an allowance or
income from a first job, to older teens and young adults who are away
at college.
AOL members will be able to sign up for the AOL Cash Card program
at no charge. The program will be available for members with teenagers
ages 13 and up that have Screen Names on AOL 9.0 Optimized. It will
be fully integrated with AOL's Parental Controls and will also be
available at AOL Keyword: Cash Card. To learn more about AOL 9.0 Optimized,
visit www.aolepk.com.
Jul 23 - Dell PowerEdge 400SC Server Costs
Less than $500. A new single-processor Dell(tm) (Nasdaq:DELL)
server offers small- and medium-sized businesses big performance at
a great value.
The PowerEdge 400SC is the first server from a major systems manufacturer
to feature an 800 MHz front side bus and starts at just $499. Powered
by an Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 processor at up to 3.2GHz and up to 4GB
of memory, the new server is optimized for the network infrastructure
and file or print applications of small- and medium-sized businesses
(SMB). In addition, the server's compact pedestal chassis and intuitive
setup tools enable small organizations with little or no IT staff
to easily replace a desktop-based network with their first server.
"Our SMB customers tell us that to be competitive they need
the fastest technology at the lowest price," said Neil Hand,
director of Product Marketing, Dell Product Group. "By delivering
industry firsts in performance features, the PowerEdge 400SC provides
customers with plenty of computing power so they can stay focused
on growing their business."
Additional specifications include:
-- Two IDE or SCSI drives
-- ECC 400MHz DDR memory
-- Integrated Gigabit(a) Ethernet network connection
-- Hardware RAID controller options
The PowerEdge 400SC is available immediately with factory installation
of Microsoft(R) Windows(R) 2000 Server, Windows Server 2003, and Red
Hat(R) Linux. Services available include Dell's complete networking
assessment, installation and training for small and growing businesses
to simplify the design, setup and management of customers' computer
networks.
Additional information on PowerEdge servers can be found at www.dell.com/poweredge.
Jul 23 - New Intel Compilers Target Wireless
Devices. Intel Corporation today introduced its first compilers
to help developers write applications for Intel® Personal Internet
Client Architecture-based PDAs, cell phones and other wireless devices
using Intel® XScale™ technology-based processors.
Software developers use compilers to translate such programming languages
as C++ into the language understood by the processor. An efficient
compiler is an important part of helping software run at top speeds.
The new Intel® C++ Compiler for Microsoft eMbedded Visual C++
is part of Intel's suite of compilers, which also includes tools for
Intel® Pentium® 4, Intel® Xeon™ and Intel® Itanium®
2 processors. Developers can now use one set of tools for applications
that span enterprise, home and mobile computing devices based on Intel
processors.
"Availability of these new compilers means developers now have
optimized tools to improve the performance of applications spanning
Intel-based mobile and wireless devices, desktops and servers,"
said Jon Khazam, general manager of Intel's Software Products Division.
"Our detailed knowledge of processor architecture allows us to
design tools for the Intel XScale technology, Pentium 4, Intel Xeon
and Intel Itanium 2 processor families that bring out the best in
Intel-based computing and communication systems."
Optimized for Intel XScale technology-based processors, applications
built with the new compilers should exhibit improved graphical quality,
enhanced user-interactivity and better communication with other devices
in a network. Personal productivity applications, games and core cell-phone
operations and utilities can also realize performance benefits.
"By switching to the Intel® C++ compiler and tools for Intel
XScale technology, we achieved a 45 percent performance improvement
in the core parts of our voice-over-IP application for handheld devices,"
said Mats Perjons, director of product management, Global IP Sound.
"In addition to this impressive performance improvement, the
compatibility and quality of technical support that Intel provided
were important factors in selecting the Intel compilers for software
development targeted at handheld devices."
The compilers are available in two forms: the Intel® C++ Compiler
for Microsoft eMbedded Visual C++ is available for the suggested list
price of $399 and is intended for application development use.
The Intel® C++ Compiler for Platform Builder for Microsoft Windows
CE .NET is available for the suggested list price of $1,499 and is
intended for OEM and system integrator use. Each product is available
today from Intel and resellers worldwide for download and on CDROM.
More information is available at www.intel.com/software/products.
Jul 23 - Nextel Offers Ruggedized Modems.
New Rugged and GPS-Enabled iR1200 Wireless Modems Extend Communication
Capabilities for Mobile and Field Service Workers and Enable Unique
Business Productivity Solutions for Industries Including Public Sector,
Utilities, Transportation, and Construction
Nextel Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ:NXTL) and eLutions, today announced
new rugged wireless modems that meet the performance and durability
requirements of users in demanding environments. The iR1200 is the
latest addition to Nextel's portfolio of wireless products, services,
and software. Moisture resistant and designed to function in extreme
temperatures, the iR1200 Rugged Modem and the iR1200 GPS-Enabled Modem
allow mobile workers to connect laptops, mobile data terminals, and
PDAs to Nextel's nationwide network for real-time remote access to
company databases and mission-critical data applications in industrial
and/or turbulent settings.
"The iR1200 significantly enhances Nextel's portfolio of data
device solutions. Nextel customers now have the power to access our
nationwide always-on packet data network and dial-up circuit data
services safely, effectively and efficiently in extreme surroundings."
said Ernie Cormier, vice president of the Business Solutions Group
at Nextel. "As a company, we are committed to meeting the unique
needs of our customers, whether in the enterprise space or in the
public sector. Coupled with Nextel's suite of industry-related software
applications, the iR1200 makes real the promise of anywhere, anytime
computing on Nextel's national network."
"We are excited to introduce these new solutions, complete with
our applications software capability, in a cooperative effort with
Nextel," said Rick Burant, managing director of the Wireless
Technologies Business Unit at eLutions. A number of industries may
leverage Nextel's data network and the iR1200 modems to wirelessly
enable their mobile workforce, including public sector, utilities,
transportation and construction. For those companies whose mobile
workers must have access to vital information in extreme work environments,
the iR1200 modem is an incredibly powerful tool."
Features include an optional global-positioning system (GPS) capability,
allowing users to harness the power of location-based services for
fleet management and tracking applications. The modems also meet military
specifications for resistance to temperature, shock, vibration, moisture,
dust and electromagnetic radiation, ensuring consistent operations
even in unforgiving environments. Both iR1200 products offer mounting
hardware built for a no-hassle replacement of many CDPD modems and
easy configuration to a variety of devices with standard dial-up networking
or TCP/IP commands.
The iR1200 Rugged Modem and iR1200 GPS-Enabled Modem may be purchased
through Nextel's Direct Sales, Corporate Accounts, National Authorized
Representatives, Local Authorized Representatives and Public Sector
sales channels. The iR1200 Rugged Modem is available for the promotional
price of $624.99; the iR1200 GPS-Enabled Modem is available for the
promotional price of $824.99.
For more information, visit www.nextel.com.
Jul 23 - RedCannon Security Introduces
Fireball CyberProtection Suite. RedCannon Security, the newest
guardian against Internet hackers, cyber criminals, Spammers and online
stalkers, today launched the company's flagship security software
offering, Fireball(TM) CyberProtection Suite.
Based on the company's patent-pending Surround Security Architecture,
Fireball CyberProtection Suite guards against today's most advanced
Internet-borne threats by providing users with multiple layers of
protection. Fireball CyberProtection Suite combines the protection
of a personal firewall, intrusion detection system, privacy controls,
system assessment, parental controls, and complete IPSec virtual private
network client (VPN) in a single, affordable software package, retailing
for $49.95.
"The technology industry is just at the tip of the iceberg in
bringing digital technology to the masses," said Tim Bajarin,
president of Creative Strategies, a market analysis and strategic
research firm in Campbell, Calif. "The problem with technology
in the mass market is that it leads to more opportunities for confusion
and conflict, especially when it comes to addressing the issue of
security online. What RedCannon has done with Fireball CyberProtection
Suite, in overall functionality, look and feel, and price point, could
help relieve some of the pain consumers feel when trying to figure
out computer security. They have developed what appears to be a very
solid offering for the consumer and mobile computing markets."
Easy to configure and very user friendly, Fireball protects the three
points of entry where attacks can occur -- operating system, applications
and communications protocols -- surrounding the entire desktop with
a fully integrated set of security features. Fireball protects computers
by analyzing all inbound and outbound traffic for malicious activity,
shielding the desktop from Trojan horse programs, OS attacks, data
leakage, invasion of privacy and even annoying pop-up ads. The product's
core features are managed through an icon-driven, easy-to-understand
console modeled after some of the most consumer-friendly software
on the market today. Fireball CyberProtection Suite includes:
-- Multi-layer firewall -- a user's first line of defense,
RedCannon's advanced stateful firewall provides network and
application level protection, and includes both normal and
expert modes
-- Intrusion detection -- instantly identifies and blocks
Internet attacks and Trojan horse programs, signaling an
alert, providing a description of the attacker, and
identifying the type of attack
-- Parental controls/Profiles -- enables users to set up multiple
profiles for the users of a computer, and restrict access to
Web sites and applications, including setting time parameters
for how long a user (such as a child) may use an application.
The feature also monitors and logs Web site visits and
attempts, and records application usage.
-- Privacy -- includes a series of features such as Web content
filtering, inbound and outbound e-mail screening, cookie
protection and ad blocking
-- Vulnerability assessment -- automatically searches the
computer for known Microsoft security vulnerabilities and
automatically downloads the patches for proactive, ongoing
desktop protection
-- IPSec VPN Client -- Fireball CyberProtection Suite is the only
offering in the market currently shipping with a full,
integrated VPN client, enabling businesses to offer better
protection to remote offices and telecommuters. The fully
tested IPsec VPN client is compatible with CheckPoint, Cisco,
NetScreen and SonicWALL firewalls and VPN gateways.
"The evolving complexity of threats found on the Internet today,
compounded with the always-connected networks brought about by the
increasing use of broadband and wireless, demand a more integrated
and innovative approach to desktop protection," said Vimal Vaidya,
founder and CEO of RedCannon Security. "Fireball CyberProtection
Suite delivers an unmatched feature set, in an affordable and easy-to-use
package, that will actually encourage consumers to learn how to better
protect themselves online."
Pricing and Availability
RedCannon Fireball CyberProtection Suite is available for download
immediately for $49.95 at www.redcannon.com.
The software will be available in leading retail outlets for the same
price beginning in August 2003.
Jul 23 - Astraware Rolls Out GTS Racing
Challenge for Pocket PC. Astraware Ltd and Pazzazz Games are launching
a new Pocket PC version of the popular Palm OS auto racing game, GTS
Racing Challenge. The game is a 3D racing game that delivers console-quality
visuals and game-play to Pocket PC handhelds.
After GTS Racing Challenge was first released, the media universally
applauded the game for its excellent graphics and game-play. BargainPDA
commented, "Astraware is behind another great game -- this time
it's the best looking racing game the Palm OS has ever seen,"
while Aximsite remarked, "No other racing games that are currently
available on Pocket PC even come close to this one."
The game-play of GTS Racing Challenge is similar to SNES/Game Boy
Advance titles like F-Zero or Mario Kart, but with large, realistic
car sprites rendered in full color from 3D models. Both the players'
view and cars are free to rotate in 3D, and the raceway is fully texture-mapped.
The cars race along roadways with photo-realistic skylines.
The game offers a wide variety of racing options, including 32 separate
racetracks and three different super-charged models of GTS race cars.
Players will enjoy power sliding around corners, skidding into a U-turn
for a sudden change of direction, or even cranking the wheel and "doing
doughnuts" on the spot. Taken together, these features put GTS
Racing Challenge at the cutting edge of PDA games.
"GTS Racing Challenge has already wowed the media and consumers
alike as the most playable and thrilling car racing game available
for the Palm OS," said Howard Tomlinson, Astraware's CEO. "Bringing
this title to Pocket PCs will excite fans who have been eagerly awaiting
the first quality race driving game for the platform."
Astraware has long been recognized as one of the top producers of
PDA games while Pazzazz Games enjoys a solid reputation for developing
3D games for console game systems and PDAs. Astraware and Pazzazz
Games first worked together in 2002 to develop a more advanced racing
game than had ever before been available for Palm Powered(TM) handhelds,
resulting in the launch of the original GTS Racing Challenge for Palm
OS in February of 2003.
GTS Racing Challenge is priced at US$17.95 at Astraware's Web site,
www.astraware.com.
Jul 22 - Intel And Linksys To Improve
Wireless Broadband Experience. Intel Corporation and Linksys®,
a division of Cisco Systems, Inc., today established a technology
and marketing program to improve the experience of setting up and
operating wireless networks in homes and small offices using Linksys
wireless routers and access points and Intel® Centrino™ mobile
technology.
The program includes joint engineering and co-marketing activities.
Initially, Intel is conducting engineering testing or "verification"
of Intel Centrino mobile technology with Linksys wireless access points
and routers that are currently available. This process tests compatibility
between these devices, further enhancing the end user's Intel Centrino
mobile technology wireless experience.
The verified Linksys products will be identified with a label reading
"Verified with Intel Centrino Mobile Technology" on the
packaging to help inform consumers that the Intel and Linksys products
have been tested to work together. The verification effort is under
way, and verified Linksys products will be available starting this
month at retail locations in the United States, Canada and other countries.
Intel and Linksys have also committed to work on new ways to maximize
wireless performance and enhance wireless connectivity as part of
the program. This includes plans to develop technology that will allow
notebook PCs based on Intel Centrino mobile technology to detect the
presence of Linksys wireless products and configure them with minimal
effort by the end user. Today, notebook PCs are manually configured
to interact with a wireless network. Work is under way to enable Intel
and Linksys products with the advanced configuration technology in
2004.
"The rapid adoption of Intel Centrino mobile technology shows
that mobile users support Intel's vision of mobile computing and faster,
simpler access to the Internet," said Paul Otellini, Intel president
and chief operating officer. "Intel Centrino mobile technology
and Linksys wireless products are a powerful combination in the effort
to broaden the use of wireless broadband."
"I truly believe that partnerships are one of the keys to the
future success of the networking industry - benefiting not just partner
companies, but the end customer with quicker access to technologies,
greater innovation and ease of use," said John Chambers, Cisco
president and chief executive officer. "The combination of Intel,
Linksys and Cisco technologies helps to fuel wireless adoption in
the home and enterprise markets, which are major areas of growth for
the industry."
Representing Intel's best technology for mobile PCs, Intel Centrino
mobile technology includes a new mobile processor, related chipsets
and integrated 802.11 wireless capabilities that have been optimized,
tested and validated to work together.
Intel has already verified Intel Centrino mobile technology interoperability
with service providers whose networks support thousands of public
wireless LAN "hot spots" worldwide. Linksys wireless access
points and routers deliver seamless, trouble-free wireless broadband
connectivity in home or small business environments using wireless
LAN (802.11 a, b and g) technology.
For more information, visit the Linksys Web site at www.linksys.com.
Additional information about Intel is available at www.intel.com.
Jul 22 - Toshiba to Ship
Media Center Notebook PC with Wide-Screen Display. Toshiba's Computer
Systems Group (CSG) today announced the Satellite P25-S607 notebook
PC combining a 17.0-inch diagonal wide-screen (1440 x 900) display
and television recording functionality to create a central home entertainment
media console. The wireless-enabled Satellite P25-S607 will be available
later this month for $2,699.
Draped in a unique, eye-catching blue design while integrating DVD,
CD and television functionality, the Satellite P25-S607 is a welcome
addition to any college dorm room, home office or living room setting.
Powered by the Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition, users can
record their favorite television programs for later viewing, store
and access digital media and play DVDs directly from the notebook
for a personal theater experience.
Offering a full array of multimedia features, the Satellite P25-S607
includes a built-in DVD-Multi drive allowing users to burn CDs and
DVDs and act as a second hard drive to store critical data. Complementing
the 17.0-inch diagonal wide-screen display, the notebook features
the NVIDIA(R) GeForce(TM) FX Go5200 graphics processing unit delivering
breakthrough 3D imagery and rich color texture. Two harman/kardon(R)
stereo speakers are also included enhancing audio/video playback and
computer gaming.
In addition to a suite of multimedia and entertainment applications,
the Satellite P25-S607 keeps users productive and connected. With
integrated dual Wi-Fi(R) (IEEE 802.11a/b) wireless connectivity, Satellite
P25-S607 customers with a wireless home network can enjoy the flexibility
of wireless Internet access from any room in the home.
ConfigFree(TM) Software Takes the Hassle out of Wireless Connections
The Satellite P25-S607 ships standard with Toshiba's own uniquely
designed ConfigFree software which allows easy control of communication
devices and Wi-Fi connections. It enables the end user to find communications
problems, offers the user suggestions and also creates profiles for
easy switching between locations and communication networks. This
cuts down on an organization's overall support costs and eliminates
needless trouble shooting calls to Toshiba's service and support call
center. And most importantly, it keeps the end user productive by
minimizing unnecessary down time.
Visit www.tosohiba.com for more information.
Jul 22 - Sharp Actius RD20 Desktop Replacement
Notebook Gets Performance Boost. Sharp Systems of America today
announced a boost in performance in the Actius RD line of desktop
replacement notebook computers. The enhancements include a processor
upgrade, expanded memory capabilities, upgraded video processor and
memory, and an upgrade to the optical drive to include DVD burning
capabilities.
"Sharp is dedicated to offering the latest in innovation and
advancement in our Actius line of notebook computers," said Terry
Hanly, product marketing manager at Sharp Systems of America. "The
Actius RD20 is a notebook that serves as an ideal home or office PC,
delivering performance and function of a desktop computer in a portable
notebook package."
The Actius RD20 -- A True Desktop Replacement
Designed for high performance, the Sharp Actius RD20 boasts true
desktop performance. With an upgrade to the Intel(R) Pentium(R)4 3.06
GHz processor and driven by Microsoft(R) Windows(R) XP Home Edition
operating system, the Actius RD20 is perfect for professional imaging,
as well as memory-intensive video and gaming applications. The Actius
RD20, which comes equipped with 512MB DDR SDRAM, is upgradeable to
1024MB. Complete with a 60GB hard drive, the Actius RD20 combines
the performance and capabilities of a desktop computer with the flexibility
of a notebook.
Leveraging Sharp's leadership in the LCD arena, the Actius RD20 boasts
an extremely bright LCD display that is much brighter than standard
notebook displays and provides viewing angles comparable to those
of an LCD desktop monitor -- 160 degrees horizontally and 135 degrees
vertically. The 15-inch XGA (1024 x 768) LCD screen provides bright,
clear pictures in which even small letters are clearly legible. Featuring
a one-touch brightness button, the Actius RD20 LCD screen can quickly
be switched to its highest brightness for movie/picture viewing, or
to a lower brightness for typical office application usage. The Actius
RD20 provides users with unparalleled video performance.
Maximizing the advantage of having the most advanced notebook LCD
screen on the market, Sharp is upgrading the video processor to the
NVIDIA(R) GeForce(TM)4 440 Go graphic processing unit with 64MB of
dedicated graphics memory. The GeForce(TM)4 440 Go delivers a host
of video enhancements that include power management (via the NVIDIA
PowerMizer(TM) Mobile technology) and high-resolution anti-aliasing
to deliver amazing detail and performance for all applications.
"The Sharp Actius RD20 is a terrific notebook for users who
insist on the best in technology and performance," said Jeff
Fisher, executive vice president of worldwide sales with NVIDIA. "By
combining the outstanding 3D graphics and superb video capabilities
of the NVIDIA GeForce4 440 Go with Sharp's superior LCD technology,
Sharp has ensured that the Actius RD20 is a true stand-out among desktop
replacement notebook computers."
To underline the Actius RD20's superior capability for video, the
notebook computer also includes sharp-fx(TM), Sharp's exclusive DVD
optimization software. This included module for InterVideo's WinDVD(R)
player automatically adjusts image contrast for optimum clarity. Combined
with the Actius RD20's high-quality 15-inch LCD screen, this image-enhancing
software brings out the best DVD picture quality available in the
notebook industry.
The Actius RD20 also receives a boost in its optical drive. One of
the first notebooks in the U.S. market to support DVD-RAM technology,
the Actius RD20 comes complete with a DVD multi-drive with DVD-R/-RW/RAM
and CD-R/RW media compatibility that allows users to produce original
DVDs, back up important data on DVD or CD, and watch DVD movies at
the users' convenience. Fully equipped with premium-quality speakers
under the LCD display, the Actius RD20 also supports 5.1 channel virtual
surround sound for users using external 2 channel speakers with built-in
Dolby Virtual Speaker (DVS) and WinDVD(R).
In addition to its strong performance, the Actius RD20 provides users
with complete connectivity, including integrated IEEE 802.11b wireless
LAN support. The Actius RD20 also includes Memory Stick(TM), SD memory
card, SmartMedia(TM), and CompactFlash(TM) card slots, an IEEE1394
port and four USB 2.0-compliant ports.
The Actius RD20 will offer three of the hottest gaming titles available
from Electronic Arts, Inc. Offered with the notebook will be Tiger
Woods PGA Tour(R) 2003, James Bond 007: Nightfire, and Need For Speed(TM)
Hot Pursuit 2. These titles leverage the graphics horsepower of the
GeForce4 440 Go processor in the Actius RD20 -- it's "The way
it's meant to be played."
The Actius RD20 is competitively priced with an estimated selling
price of $2,499.
Availability
Immediately available, the Sharp Actius RD20 notebook computer is
available through Sharp directly (http://sharp.smartermall.com),
or through Sharp's network of retail partners and reseller channels.
Jul 22 - Samsung Electronics
Unveils the World's Fastest CPU for Mobile Devices. Samsung Electronics
Co., Ltd., a leader in advanced semiconductor technology, today announced
the S3C2440, the world's fastest mobile CPU, with a core speed of
533MHz. The new mobile CPU will drive the emergence of new services,
functions and multimedia content for mobile handheld devices such
as PDAs and smartphones.
"The increasing popularity of mobile applications is driving
the demand for high-performance, low-power mobile processors, "
said Vice President Yun-tae Lee of the Mobile Design Project Team
at SOC R&D Center, Samsung Electronics. "Samsung developed
its newest 533MHz processor using its unique high-speed process and
low-power design technology in conjunction with an optimized power
management methodology for high performance operation from a minimal
power source."
The S3C2440 enables value-added end-user features such as camera
interface, TFT & STN LCD display support, SD/MMC/SDIO, USB host
and device, and touch screen interface. By providing a comprehensive
set of common system peripherals, the S3C2440 reduces overall system
costs and eliminates the need to configure additional components.
The S3C2440 CPU supports major operating systems including Microsoft
Windows CE, Palm OS, Symbian and Linux. The device also offers the
advantages of a built-in NAND flash boot loader so that high-density
NAND flash memory can be used without having to install an additional
support chip.
The S3C2440 features an ARM920T core, a 16/32-bit RISC microprocessor
for high performance in a small form-factor and a low core voltage
of 1.3V. In addition, it is developed using 0.13um CMOS standard cell
and a memory compiler and adopts Advanced Microcontroller Bus Architecture
(AMBA).
A recent Gartner Dataquest forecast reveals the global application/
multimedia processor market is expected to reach 25 million units
in 2003 and leap to 170 million units by 2007. Samsung's high-speed,
low-power mobile S3C2440 CPU is sampling now in 533MHz, 400MHz, and
300MHz versions and will be in mass production from Q4 2003.
For more information, visit www.samsungsemi.com.
Jul 22 - CSR's Bluetooth solution brings
telephony functionality to Microsoft's 'Athens' prototype PC.
CSR (Cambridge Silicon Radio), today
announced that its BlueCore single-chip solution has been chosen by
Microsoft Corp. to bring Bluetooth wireless technology to its 'Athens'
prototype PC.
The 'Athens' PC is currently on a world tour that has recently included
Bluetooth Congress in Amsterdam and Microsoft aims to use it to demonstrate
how multiple forms of communication can be merged into a consistent
and streamlined design. CSR's BlueCore has been used to enable integrated
wireless telephony functionality that would allow a user to utilize
a central communications unit via a wireless handset and headset.
Mike Foley, Wireless Architect, Microsoft & Former Chairman of
the Board,
Bluetooth SIG commented, "In developing this prototype, we have
paid
particular attention to ensuring that both 'Athens' hardware and software
are meshed as tightly as is possible. CSR's BlueCore solution is technology
that we have already integrated into our Bluetooth wireless keyboard
and
mouse. Our experience tells us that BlueCore is a sturdy, robust product
and that the CSR's designers are fully capable of bringing their expertise
to such a demanding project as 'Athens'."
The 'Athens' prototype PC is intended for business use and aims to
provide a
vision of future business desktop PC technology that will provide
a seamless
and natural experience for both communications and collaboration.
An
integrated communications unit is wirelessly connected to a Bluetooth-enabled
handset and headset, the silicon for which is provided by CSR.
Kristine Overlaur, Technical Marketing Manager, CSR, added, "Bluetooth
is
ideal for wirelessly channelling real-time data between devices. Our
market
leading BlueCore silicon is designed for easy integration into any
kind of
electronic device, and therefore we are pleased Microsoft have
identified this when designing the 'Athens' prototype PC."
More information can be found at www.csr.com
and the partner web site
www.btdesigner.com.
More information about Bluetooth can be found on the SIG web site
at
www.bluetooth.com.
Jul 21 - Dell Says Customer
Are Shifting to Standard Enterprise Technology. Michael Dell today
said more and more customers are making the company a trusted enterprise
partner, especially for standards-based servers, storage systems and
services. And shareholders embracing Dell's broader reach have approved
a corporate name change -- from Dell Computer Corp. to Dell Inc.
Mr. Dell, chairman of the board and chief executive officer, reinforced
in remarks at the company's annual meeting of shareholders here this
morning that the competitive advantages of Dell's customer-focused,
direct way of doing business are enabling it to expand and deepen
its customer relationships.
"We've always done business differently from other companies,"
said Mr. Dell. "That allows us to better understand the needs
of and create superior value for customers, and consistently produce
leading operating results for investors and others who hold stakes
in Dell."
He said the applicability of Dell's direct model and opportunities
for the company are vast. While the company's United States business
remains exceptionally strong, growth in other markets is also rapid.
Product shipments last quarter were up 40 percent in Asia-Pacific
and Japan, and 29 percent in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Operating
income in both regions nearly doubled, to record levels.
In the enterprise, Dell's first-quarter server shipments rose 40
percent, more than four times the average of other suppliers, and
the company accounted for almost one-third of U.S. server volume.
External-storage revenue was up 65 percent.
"Customers are increasingly using clusters of standard servers
in place of mainframe computers that rely on costly proprietary technology,"
Mr. Dell said. "Standards-based systems are now the better choice
for most computing applications, and the trend to such powerful and
reliable technology favors our company."
Dell's large and growing influence in the enterprise explains the
company's name change, a management proposal approved by shareholders
in proxy voting. Mr. Dell said the company's formal name is "catching
up" with its evolution from supplying strictly computer hardware
to providing a diverse range of technology products and services.
Information on Dell and its products can be obtained at www.dell.com.
Jul 21 - SanDisk Announces Record Revenues.
SanDisk Corporation (NASDAQ:SNDK), the world's largest supplier of
flash memory data storage card products, today announced results for
the second quarter ended June 30, 2003.
Total second quarter revenues grew 84% to $234.6 million compared
to the second quarter of 2002 and increased 34% from the prior quarter
of 2003. Second quarter net income was $41.3 million compared to $9.0
million and $24.9 million for the prior year's corresponding quarter
and the first quarter of 2003, respectively. Earnings per share grew
300% for the second quarter of 2003 and were $0.52 per diluted share
compared with $0.13 per diluted share in the same quarter of 2002.
Earnings per share grew 58% sequentially compared to $0.33 per diluted
share in the first quarter of 2003.
"The second quarter was our best quarter ever for revenues and
operating earnings. Megabytes and units sold in the quarter reflect
record performance, far exceeding our internal forecasts.
" Demand for our products was exceptionally strong throughout
the quarter from OEM and retail customers in all geographies. Current
market demand is driven by strong sales of digital cameras as well
as accelerating sales of camera cell phones, USB flashdrives and numerous
other new applications for NAND flash. I am particularly pleased with
our increasing penetration into the camera cell phone market, as well
as our excellent internal execution in launching the miniSD card in
the second quarter," said Eli Harari, President and CEO of SanDisk
Corporation.
"Current demand for NAND flash is exceeding the total industry
supply, resulting in a benign pricing environment as we enter the
third quarter. I am optimistic about our business prospects in the
second half of the year."
SanDisk's web site / home page address: www.sandisk.com.
Jul 21 - Transmeta Reports Q2 FY03 Results.
Transmeta Corporation (Nasdaq:TMTA), the leader in efficient computing,
today announced financial results for its second quarter of fiscal
2003 ended June 27, 2003.
Net revenue for the second quarter of fiscal 2003 was $5.1 million,
compared with $6.0 million reported in the first quarter of 2003 and
$7.5 million in the second quarter of 2002. GAAP net loss for the
second quarter of 2003 was $22.0 million, or a loss of $0.16 per share.
This compares with a GAAP net loss of $20.1 million, or a loss of
$0.15 per share in the first quarter of 2002 and a GAAP net loss of
$35.6 million, or a loss of $0.27 per share a year ago.
"In the second quarter, we achieved revenue and loss per share
in line with our guidance, and once again lowered our operating expenses
and improved cash usage by more than was expected," said Dr.
Matthew R. Perry, president and CEO of Transmeta.
"Production for the TM8000 remains on plan for the third quarter
of this year. In the second quarter, we sampled 1.1 GHz TM8000 processors
and customer feedback has been positive," said Dr. Perry. "With
the TM8000's ability to execute up to eight instructions per clock,
typical real-world applications can run about 50 percent faster per
clock cycle, and multimedia applications up to 80 percent faster per
clock cycle, than our current processor. The combination of higher
clock speed and improved efficiency should allow us to expand our
served market. We look forward to disclosing more information about
the TM8000 throughout the next few months.
"Our Crusoe TM5800 processor continues to gain strong customer
interest in the embedded market. This quarter we announced several
key design wins, including HP's Thin Client t5700 and a reference
design win with Microsoft for its Smart Displays. We also recently
closed two licensing agreements for companies to apply some of our
non-core technologies to new markets.
Several Ultra Personal Computer (UPC) manufacturers plan to launch
their products in the second half of the year, with a few planning
third quarter introductions. Interest in UPCs continues to grow and
we expect to be the leading processor supplier to this emerging market.
The balance of high performance, power efficiency, flexibility, choice
and low cost we offer make our processors well suited for UPCs as
well as small form factor notebooks and Tablet PCs," said Dr.
Perry.
"We continue to expect notebook design activity to shift to
our TM8000 processor beginning in the fall, with the high volume opportunity
occurring in the spring of 2004 for mainstream notebooks and other
form factors. Revenue from several of our UPC manufacturers and embedded
customers is expected to ramp over the next few quarters. We will
continue to explore revenue opportunities for leveraging our IP into
new markets. We will also continue to control our spending, to monitor
closely the growth ramp of these emerging markets and our TM8000 processor,
and to position ourselves appropriately to have the flexibility to
evaluate a variety of funding opportunities," said Dr. Perry.
To learn more about Transmeta, visit www.transmeta.com.
Jul 21 - Kano Intros Fast 4x DVD+RW/R
Drives For Macs, PCs. Kano Technologies has introduced its K4Xtreme(TM)
4x DVD+RW/R drive. A complete storage solution, the fast new drive
is available in an internal model for the PC, and external models
for PCs and Macs. The K4Xtreme has a 4x write speed for both DVD+RW
and +R media. A storage capacity of 4.7GB per DVD makes the K4Xtreme
the perfect choice for video archiving, and data backup and archiving.
"This is simply the fastest DVD+RW/R system currently available,"
said Robert Young, Kano's director of national sales. "We are
extremely pleased to be one of the first companies to introduce the
4x DVD+RW capability. The K4Xtreme can record an entire DVD in less
than 15 minutes. It can also write to and read CD media at speeds
of 24x10x40x, and can read DVD-ROM at a speed of 8x."
"Using a USB 2.0 or FireWire(TM) 400 (1394A) connection, a user
can easily add K2Xtreme DVD+RW burning capability to a PC or Mac laptop
or desktop," Young continued. "PC users opting for the internal
model can connect with an IDE interface."
The extremely compatible "+R" format allows the K4Xtreme
to create home movies that play in most set-top DVD players. K4Xtreme
PC models use Roxio(TM) DVD Creator 6 to quickly create photo and
video archives, business training videos, and promotional videos on
DVD. Roxio features drag-and-drop video, menu backgrounds, video transitions
and titles. The PC models also use WinDVD4 for DVD video playback
on a PC desktop. The K4Xtreme Mac model includes Roxio Toast Lite
for audio and video recording and playback.
All K4Xtreme models have the ability to schedule automated backups.
The PC models offer award-winning NTI(TM) Backup NOW! and Mac models
feature Dantz Retrospect for data backup.
The K4Xtreme drive comes complete including cables for the external
models, drive mount screws, DVD+R and DVD+RW media, and an instruction
manual. MSRPs are: $199 for the K5240RI-WHT internal model for Windows;
and $299 for the K5240RU external USB 2.0 Windows model and the K5240RF
external FireWire Mac model. All models are available now from Kano
storage-solution providers. A list of local providers is at www.kanotechnologies.com.
Jul 21 - Formac Unveils New 19.0'' LCD.
Formac Electronic Inc., a leading manufacturer of performance enhancing
peripherals and advanced visualization solutions, today announced
the Gallery(TM) 1900 OX, a new flat panel display with 19.0"
viewable screen and SXGA resolution of 1,280 by 1,024.
The latest member of Formac's award-winning LCD line displays the
identical digital information of a standard 17" SXGA LCD on a
25% larger screen area, which is beneficial for text intensive applications
such as word processing, web browsers, databases and spreadsheets.
Featuring a 5:4 screen ratio, the physical screen size of the Gallery
1900 is comparable to a 20" wide-screen LCD. The ultra-slim bezel
design makes the Gallery 1900 OX ideal for dual-monitor environments
often used in financial, medical, call center, or other office applications.
The Gallery 1900 OX comes with a DVI or ADC interface, and is Macintosh
and PC compatible.
"The new Gallery 1900 introduces Formac's award-winning LCD
technology to a range of new applications," said Oliver Bergmann,
Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer and President of Formac Inc. "It
offers a maximized screen area while maintaining the progressive design
that characterizes the Gallery display family."
In addition to its increased image size, the new Gallery 1900 OX
incorporates Formac's proprietary ColorProof VA technology with industry-leading
brightness (250 cd/m(2)) and contrast ratio (500:1), producing razor-sharp
images with vivid colors. The display's conical viewing angle technology
minimizes color-shift and eliminates gray-scale inversion at extreme
viewing angles. Video applications will benefit from the ultra-fast
pixel response time of 25ms, delivering smooth full-motion digital
video playback, and eliminating the ghosting effect often found on
flat panel displays.
Formac's Gallery 1900 OX comes with Formac's Display Connector (FDC),
combining USB, power and DVI in one cable to minimize cable clutter
on the desktop. The display features an integrated two-port powered
USB hub at the backside for plug-and-play connections to peripherals
The design of the new Gallery 1900 OX is based on the Gallery 1740,
Formac's 17.4" LCD. Featuring the identical ultra-slim desktop
footprint, the Gallery 1900 OX uses a slim-bezel design to incorporate
the increased viewing area. The new bezel design makes the Gallery
1900 OX the perfect display for dual-monitor environments.
Pricing and Availability
The Formac Gallery 1900 OX is available immediately through Formac
Certified Resellers and Shop Formac! (www.formac.com).
The display has an estimated retail price of U.S. $799.
Jul 20 - Sunday Shopping
Watch.
Best Sunday Deals - See our Best Sunday
Ad Deals Table below for specific system prices.
Weekly Comparison. While prices are not as good
as last week's, there are still some good deals to be found.
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 $100-$150 mail-in rebates on all desktop
packages, $150 mail-in rebates on all laptops, and 18 month no-interest
financing on all desktop package and laptop purchases.
Circuit City is offering
12 month no-interest financing, and $100 mail-in rebates, on advertised
desktop packages and notebooks.
Office
Depot
is offering 6 months no payment, no interest financing on new computer
purchases $299 and higher.
CompUSA has another Unadvertised
Specials ad this Sunday which you need to print out and take into
the store to receive the sales price.
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
|
$469
|
-
|
Circuit City
|
|
2. Best Celeron Deal
|
Compaq 2.5 GHz complete system with 17"
monitor
|
$569
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
1. Best Pentium 4 System
|
Sony 2.4 GHz complete system with 15"
flat panel, DVD-R/W, and HT Technology
|
$949
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
2. Best Pentium 4 System
|
Sony 2.6 GHz complete system with 15"
flat panel, DVD multiformat, and HT Technology
|
$1529
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
3. Best Pentium 4 System
|
HP 2.6 GHz Media Center complete system
with 15" flat panel, DVD -RW, and HT Technology
|
$1529
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
4. Best Pentium 4 System
|
Sony 2.8 GHz complete system with 15"
flat panel, DVD multiformat, and HT Technology
|
$1829
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
1. Best AMD Athlon XP System
|
eMachines 2300+ complete system
|
$429
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
2. Best AMD Athlon XP System
|
HP 2800+ complete system with DVD-RW
|
$859
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
1. Best Low-cost Laptop
|
HP Athlon XP 2200+ with DVD/CD-RW
|
$899
|
|
Circuit City
|
|
2. Best Low-cost Laptop
|
Toshiba 2.2 GHz Celeron with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1049
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best High-end Notebook
|
Sony 2.66 GHz Pentium 4 with DVD/CD-RW
|
$1249
|
-
|
Best Buy
|
|
|
|
Peripherals and Software
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
Western Digital 7200 RPM 160 GB hard
drive with 8 MB buffer
|
$129
(after rebates)
|
|
Circuit City
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
Asylum GeForce FX 5900 128 MB DDR
|
$399
(after rebates)
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
Sony 4X multiformat DVD-RW
|
$269
(after rebates)
|
|
Circuit City
|
|
Best Sunday Deal
|
Verbatim 52X CD-RW
|
$15
(after rebates)
|
|
Best Buy
|
|
|
Additional Information. For additional technical
information, advice on how to buy a laptop or desktop, and vendor
and manufacturer links, please see our Computer
Buying Advice page.
About Sunday Shopping Watch. Sunday Shopping
Watch appears every Sunday (except some holidays like Easter and Christmas)
in our News and Rumors column. It is a review of local (Dayton, Ohio)
computer chain store advertisements. While we can not guarantee your
local chain store has the same items, this article can help you make
informed buying decisions.
July 18 - AMD Reports Second
Quarter Results. AMD (NYSE:AMD) today reported sales of $645 million
and a net loss of $140 million for the quarter ended June 29, 2003.
The net loss amounted to $0.40 per share.
Second quarter sales increased by seven percent from the second quarter
of 2002 and decreased by 10 percent from the first quarter of 2003.
In the second quarter of 2002, AMD reported total sales of $600 million
and a net loss of $185 million, or $0.54 per share. In the first quarter
of 2003, AMD reported sales of $715 million and a net loss of $146
million, or $0.42 per share.
"We are pleased we lowered our operating breakeven point to
below $800 million and continued to realize improvements that better
position us for growth and a return to profitability," said Robert
J. Rivet, chief financial officer. "Despite the effects of the
SARS epidemic and weaker than anticipated channel sales in some of
our international markets, we reduced our net loss by 24 percent and
increased our gross margin as a result of year-on-year sales growth
and effective cost management. Quarter-on-quarter, in spite of a sales
decline of $69 million, we still managed to reduce our loss and improve
our gross margin.
"Our second quarter operating costs of $769 million compared
favorably to $897 million in the second quarter of 2002 and to $840
million in the first quarter of 2003. We increased our positive EBITDA
quarter-to-quarter and ended the second quarter with a cash balance
of $739 million. In addition, we extended our $200 million revolving
line of credit, currently untapped, for four years.
"Our recently introduced AMD Opteron(TM) processor for servers
and workstations is gaining traction in the marketplace. We look forward
to the introduction of AMD Opteron processor-based systems from IBM,
Fujitsu Siemens and others in the near future. In addition, our AMD
Athlon(TM) 64 processor for the desktop and mobile PC sectors remains
on schedule for a September launch.
"With the successful launch of a single entity that integrates
Fujitsu's and AMD's Flash memory operations, we believe we are on
target to become the number one provider of Flash memory solutions
and are focused on establishing Spansion(TM) Flash memory as the pre-eminent
brand in the Flash memory market."
For more information, visit www.amd.com.
July 18 - VoodooPC Chooses
ATI's MOBILITY RADEON 9600 for Gaming Notebook. Dramatic visual
effects, unmatched performance and vibrant cinematic realism are now
available to notebook users for the first time in North America, as
ATI Technologies Inc. (TSX:ATY)(Nasdaq:ATYT) today announced that
Voodoo Computers Ltd. ("VoodooPC") has chosen ATI's MOBILITY(TM)
RADEON(TM) 9600 mobile visual processor for the VoodooPC Envy M460
Gamebook.
The VoodooPC Envy M460 Gamebook features a modular graphics subsystem,
which will allow users to upgrade to next generation graphics processors
as they become available in the future.
The MOBILITY RADEON 9600 is the first mobile graphics processor to
ship with full hardware support for Microsoft DirectX(TM) 9.0. It
runs DirectX(TM) 9.0 graphics at full-speed, with full image quality
and color precision at all times -- a requirement for true-to-life
cinematic special effects.
In a performance league of its own, the Voodoo Envy M460 Gamebook
with MOBILITY RADEON 9600 delivers more than four times the gaming
performance of the fastest competing DirectX(TM) 9.0 notebooks in
key benchmarks such as the industry-standard Pixel Shader 2.0 test
by Futuremark.
"VoodooPC has chosen ATI to supply video chipsets for our current
line of Envy Gamebooks. ATI's MOBILITY RADEON 9600 is an amazing GPU,
and easily meets our strict performance and thermal requirements.
By using ATI's MOBILITY(TM) RADEON(TM) 9600 mobile visual processor,
we are able to offer our customers the most realistic cinematic gaming
experience ever. ATI was able to step up to the plate by supplying
VoodooPC with the most compelling technology available today,"
said Rahul Sood, President, Voodoo Computers Ltd.
"VoodooPC has created a notebook that offers incredible cinematic
imagery, performance and features superior to many high-end desktop
PCs, and is the first to promote a truly upgradeable solution with
a modular graphics subsystem," said Phil Eisler, Vice President
and General Manager, Mobile and Integrated Business Unit, ATI Technologies
Inc. "MOBILITY RADEON 9600 once again demonstrates ATI's ability
to bring dramatically superior new technologies to market in award-winning
designs."
VoodooPC's Envy M460 Gamebook is powered by ATI's MOBILITY RADEON
9600 mobile visual processor with 64MB DDR-333 RAM, an Intel(R) Pentium(R)
4 Processor-M running at 2.6 GHz, 512MB RAM, a 60GB hard drive, a
DVD/CD-R/RW drive, WIFI 802.11 A&B, and a 15" SXGA+ panel
display.
MOBILITY RADEON 9600 uses an extraordinarily efficient 3D core delivering
12 pixel shader operations per clock cycle, and is a multimedia powerhouse
with comprehensive hardware acceleration for encode, decode and de-blocking
of MPEG-2 and streaming video formats. The MOBILITY RADEON 9600 also
extends ATI's leadership in notebook graphics power management, giving
users both the longest battery life and highest performance.
With the availability of MOBILITY RADEON 9600, ATI has extended its
leadership by bringing the highest performance, cinematic realism
and DirectX 9.0 graphics to all segments of the PC market - high-end
and mainstream desktop, IGP and notebook PCs.
VoodooPC can be found online at www.voodoopc.com.
ATI can be found online at www.ati.com.
July 18 - Vendors Will Push Embedded-WLAN
to 90 Percent of Notebooks by 2008. The latest Strategy Analytics
Wireless Device Strategies report, "Wireless Connectivity Options
Beyond Cellular: WLAN & Notebook PCs," concludes that 90
percent of notebook PCs sold worldwide will contain embedded WLAN
in 2008, up from 24 percent in 2003, to reach an installed base of
141M WLAN-connected laptop computers.
"An industry-wide technology push from Cisco, Intel, Intersil
and other enabling technology vendors will be one critical driver
of WLAN notebook PC sales," states Neil Mawston, Senior Analyst
in the Global Wireless Practice at Strategy Analytics. "Notebook
vendor desperation to stem average selling price declines in the next
3 years will be the other key catalyst."
"WLAN, and its potential to enable relatively simple, wire-free
Internet, Intranet and remote data access, will be a key driver of
new and replacement notebook PC sales through 2008," notes David
Kerr, Vice President of the Global Wireless Practice at Strategy Analytics.
Kerr adds, "Security concerns will, of course, remain a key issue,
particularly in the on-campus enterprise segment. However, security
concerns will inhibit wireless data usage rather than actual notebook
sales, as powerful chip and PC vendors look to force WLAN connectivity
into the enterprise channel."
Other findings from this report include the following conclusions:
-- North America will be the largest market for embedded-WLAN
notebook PCs for at least the next 5 years;
-- Notebook vendors Toshiba, IBM and HP, are best positioned to
capitalize on the enterprise WLAN market; and
-- Global notebook PC penetration is currently very low, at just
1 percent, compared with 6 percent desktop PC penetration, in
2003. This underscores the potential for further strong growth
through 2008.
For more information, see www.strategyanalytics.com.
July 18 - FirewireDirect Unleashes Latest
Portable FireWire USB 2.0 Hard Drive System. FirewireDirect.com
Inc. today announced the introduction of their newest series of 2.5"
hard drive based storage devices, the MachIV. The very latest in portables,
the MachIV boasts the most current FireWire and USB2 components in
an incredibly small and sleek Titanium-style form factor only half
an inch thick.
FirewireDirect's product line is constantly evolving to address the
needs of its clients. These requirements include transferring documents
and files easily between systems, boosting the capacity of notebook
or desktop computers, backing up programs and files you can't live
without and creating bootable backup images. The MachIV is designed
to fill all of these roles.
Like all of FirewireDirect's hard drive products, the MachIV employs
premium mechanisms and boasts the latest edition of the speedy Oxford
911 FireWire chipset. It has one 1394a port and a high speed USB 2.0
(backwards compatible with USB 1.1). The MachIV ships with FireWire
and USB cables, a full range (110-240V) power supply and includes
a stylish and compact carrying case.
Available as a finished product with capacities from 20 to a massive
80GB of storage or as an enclosure kit, the MachIV provides a wide
range of solutions for the discerning user.
Those ordering for Mac will receive the SpeedTools Utility Suite
which includes DeviceTuner, Disk Defrag, Integrity, QuickBack and
QuickBench.
Detailed product information is available and for sale now at: www.firewiredirect.com.
July 18 - SecurSoftware Unveils SecurLock
Version 1.3 for PCs. SecurSoftware -- a leading global provider
of information security solutions for desktop, network and e-business
applications --announces the release of SecurLock(TM) Version 1.3,
a desktop security application that ensures safe transferring and
sharing of data. The new version includes the ability to shred electronic
documents so they can never be recovered.
The new shredding feature allows the secure disposal of confidential
data. Dragging files or folders to the shredder icon on the desktop
permanently shreds electronic data. Files deleted with SecurLock cannot
be recuperated by data recovery tools and low-level disk utilities.
The shredder feature also allows data cleanup on the system by securely
deleting commonly known temporary files, making sure no cached copy
of confidential data is accessible.
SecurLock Version 1.3 protects confidential data from unauthorized
access by requiring the user's identity to be verified with the use
of the SecurCard(TM) for authentication, a Smartcard key and its corresponding
PIN before allowing workstation access.
SecurLock Version 1.3 features include:
-- Secure Login for log on using a strong two-factor
authentication process (USB token + PIN code). Security is
enhanced by the fact that the required data is encrypted and
saved on the USB token.
-- Encryption for ensuring confidentiality of private information
through encryption of files, folders, and email attachments
using either a powerful algorithm (Blowfish) or a faster one
(RC4). For absolute security, the encryption/decryption
process can only be achieved with the presence of the USB
token and its corresponding PIN.
-- SSO (Single Sign On) for storing and managing profiles
(username/password combinations) in a flexible and organized
list. When needed, profiles are dragged and dropped from the
SSO window onto the respective application or web site.
-- Shredder for permanently disposing files. Files deleted with
the shredder cannot be recuperated by data recovery tools and
low-level disk utilities.
Superior security is attained by saving all critical and confidential
information such as PIN code, encryption key, profiles, etc. on the
USB token itself rather than on the hard drive. As a result, sensitive
data is utterly protected from unauthorized access making SecurLock
an extremely reliable security solution.
SecurLock Version 1.3 is compatible with Microsoft Windows 98(R),
Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional(R), MS Windows XP Professional(R)
and MS Windows XP Home Edition(R).
With a retail price of $125, SecurLock 1.3 is now available through
SecurSoftware's distribution partners and online. For more information,
visit www.secursoftware.com.
July 17 - Nikon® Announces Three
New Coolpix® Digital Cameras. Nikon Inc., the world leader
in photography, recently introduced three dynamic new 3x Optical Zoom-Nikkor
digital cameras - the Nikon Coolpix 2100, Nikon Coolpix 3100 and the
Nikon Coolpix SQ - to its popular Coolpix consumer line. The Nikon
Coolpix 2100 and Coolpix 3100, Nikon's "dynamic digital duo"
share the smallest Coolpix body design, fast operation and are the
first with Nikon's new Scene Assist function to guide users toward
the ideal shot and make picture-taking faster and easier for beginning
digital photographers -
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