Channel 0201 Computer and Accessories

Kingston Digital Launches New Ultra-Secure USB Flash Drive

2010-02-07T04:12:00.001-08:00

Kingston Digital Launches New Ultra-Secure USB Flash Drive DataTraveler 5000 Certified for Government-Approved Secure Data Protection

Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the release of the DataTraveler 5000 USB Flash drive. The DataTraveler 5000 is FIPS 140-2 Level 2 certified with Level 3 pending, and features 256-bit AES hardware-based encryption. It uses XTS cipher mode and also uses elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) algorithms to meet Suite B standards approved by the U.S. government.

“The DataTraveler 5000 delivers unsurpassed levels of security and encryption to government and enterprise customers,” said Nathan Su, Flash Memory Sales Director, APAC Region, Kingston. “This portable data solution represents state-of-the-art data protection while providing end users with the simplicity of plug and play.”

The DataTraveler 5000 utilizes patented Secured by SPYRUS technology which supports hardware-based 256-bit AES-XTS and Suite B cryptography, including ECC. Suite B algorithms were specifically selected and approved by the U.S. government and the Department of Defense for use in multinational data sharing environments including both classified and unclassified applications. XTS-AES mode is a cipher mode for encryption that is much stronger than CBC, ECB and other modes. SPYRUS, Inc., is the leader in the development of advanced hardware-based encryption, authentication and digital content security products.

FIPS 140-2 certification requires a validation process that meets federal requirements set by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). This is critical because many governmental agencies in the United States mandate that sensitive “data at rest” (i.e., all information not in the network) must be encrypted with the FIPS 140-2 standard. Level 2 means the DataTraveler 5000 has a tamper-evident construction which acts to notify any users if their drive has been tampered with. It also has a power-on self test that verifies the encryption mechanism is running properly each time the drive is plugged into a USB port. The drive is expected to receive a FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certificate soon.

The DataTraveler 5000 is available in 2-, 4-, 8- and 16GB capacities. It will also be available with an onboard Malware scanning application via Kingston’s extensive customization program.
Compatibility Table
Operating System File Transfer Password Protection
Windows 7 Yes Yes
Windows Vista5 (SP1, SP2) Yes Yes
Windows XP (SP1, SP2, SP3) Yes Yes
Kingston DataTraveler 5000 USB Flash Drive
Part Number Capacity and Features
DT5000/2GB DataTraveler 5000 2GB
DT5000/4GB DataTraveler 5000 4GB
DT5000/8GB DataTraveler 5000 8GB
DT5000/16GB DataTraveler 5000 16GB
DataTraveler 5000 Features and Specifications:
• Dimensions: 3.06" x 0.9" x 0.47" (77.9mm x 22mm x 12.05mm)
• Capacities1: 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB
• Compatibility: designed to USB 2.0 specifications
• Operating Temperature: 32ฐF to 140ฐF (0ฐC to 60ฐC)
• Storage Temperature: -4ฐF to 185ฐF (-20ฐto 85ฐC)
• Minimum System Requirements2:
– USB 2.0 compliant and 1.1 compatible
– Two (2) free consecutive drive letters required for use
• FIPS 140-2 Level 2 Certified

• Secure: drive locks down after 10 intrusion attempts and encryption key is destroyed

– Enforced complex password protection: password is user set with minimum characteristics to prevent unauthorized access
– Passwords never stored on device
– Hardware designed and assembled in the U.S.
– SPYRUS Suite B on Board
– Elliptic curve cryptography
– Secure channel communication
– Digitally signed firmware updates using Suite B SHA-384 and ECDSA P-384
– DT5000 can operate with AutoRun disabled
– Enforces tamper-free AutoRun files
– Fully customizable Malware scanning option3
• Cryptography: Made in the U.S.

• Full Privacy: 100 percent of stored data is protected by 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) hardware-based encryption ฏ master key recreated at logon

• Customizable3: preload content, full security policy customization, casing options
• Tamper Evident: tamper-evident coating/seal for physical security
• Waterproof4: protected against water damage
• Guaranteed: five-year warranty with free customer support
• Ruggedized: waterproof and titanium-coated stainless steel casing

1 Some of the listed capacity is used for formatting and other functions and thus is not available for data storage. For more information, please consult Kingston’s Flash Memory Guide at Kingston.com/Flash_Memory_Guide.

2 First free drive letters after physical devices such as system partition, optical drives, etc.
3 Available via customization program.
4 Up to 4 ft.
5 Does not support ReadyBoost

HP StorageWorks X9000 Network Storage Systems Family

2010-02-05T21:39:00.001-08:00

HP led by (from left to right) Mr. Ong Swee Lye, Regional Sales Manager, StorageWorks Division, HP Enterprise Business, Mr. Humprey Sy, South East Asia Business Manager StorageWorks Division, HP Enterprise Business, Mr. Wu Wen Yong, Technology Consultant – NAS, StorageWorks Division, HP Enterprise Business and Mr. Wongviwat Siritasanakul, Product Manager, StorageWorks Division, HP Enterprise Business, Hewlett-Packard (Thailand) Ltd. recently held the seminar on “HP StorageWorks 2010” to update Thai business executives and IT professionals on today’s enterprise storage trends and to introduce the new HP StorageWorks X9000 Network Storage Systems for enterprise customers.

HP StorageWorks X9000 Network Storage Systems scale-out beyond traditional network attached storage systems in both capacity and performance. Designed to be extremely scalable, flexible, and cost-efficient, HP X9000 Network Storage Systems deliver excellent performance and a modular storage infrastructure to accommodate the unprecedented amount of data today’s enterprises need to cope with. Central management allows the administrator to manage not just terabytes but multi-petabyte environments at the highest density available from HP. The pay-as-you-grow architecture and an all-inclusive feature set eliminate storage over-provisioning or expensive add-ons. The X9000 increases capacity utilization and simplifies management with a single namespace that can scale to 16 petabytes. The X9000 is the right platform for customers designing a next generation data center.
About HP

HP creates new possibilities for technology to have a meaningful impact on people, businesses, governments and society. The world’s largest technology company, HP brings together a portfolio that spans printing, personal computing, software, services and IT infrastructure to solve customer problems. More information about HP (NYSE: HPQ) is available at http://www.hp.com.

Kingston Digital Releases Solid-State Boot Drive with TRIM Support

2010-01-29T23:47:00.001-08:00

Kingston Digital Releases Solid-State Boot Drive with TRIM Support 30GB SSD with TRIM Support Boosts Desktop Performance at Incredible Value

Kingston Digital, Inc., the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the independent world leader in memory products, today announced the SSDNow V Series 30GB Boot Drive, the latest addition to its V (Value) family of solid-state drives (SSD). The Kingston SSDNow V Series 30GB Boot Drive with TRIM support for Windows 7 is one of the best and most cost-effective ways to accelerate any desktop’s boot, shutdown and application load times.

“In our quest to bring SSDs into mainstream use, we’re aiming to deliver a lower price point while boosting performance. The new SSDNow V Series 30GB Boot Drive accomplishes those goals,” said Nathan Su, Flash Memory Sales Director, APAC Region, Kingston. “Desktop users can extend the life cycle of their systems with this drive and IT managers in the enterprise space like it as there is less data for them to backup to the network. In addition, we will also release a 30GB SSD twin-pack for prosumers and enthusiasts who want to take performance to the next level.”

The SSDNow V Series 30GB Boot Drive also offers Windows 7 TRIM support, which helps the SSD maintain high performance through the life of the drive. Using the industry-standard PCMark Vantage Advanced HDD Suite, the 30GB Boot Drive received a score of 20257 on a Windows 7 system, whereas a 7200RPM hard-disk drive reached 3294**. Using PCMark 05 for a Windows XP system, the 30GB Boot Drive received a score of 22519 compared with the hard-disk drive score of 6508**. PCMark Vantage Advanced HDD Suite and PCMark 05 runs a series of tests such as Windows 7 and XP startup, importing photos, adding music to Windows Media Center and application loading. The score is an indicator of how many bytes are moved per second.

Kingston’s SSDNow V Series 30GB Boot Drive is the perfect enhancement for users looking to increase their current desktop performance. It is designed to be used in conjunction with an existing hard-disk drive (HDD). A PC operating system and key applications reside on the SSD while all data such as documents, music, files and photos remain on the HDD.

As part of Kingston’s goal to provide a low-cost SSD solution and an easy upgrade path, the drive is also available with a bundle that includes cloning software, 2.5" to 3.5" mounting brackets and SATA data and power cable extenders. Kingston will also offer a solution for performance-minded enthusiasts looking to install a RAID configuration consisting of two 30GB SSD Boot Drives and extra cables.

The Kingston SSDNow V Series 30GB Boot Drive will begin shipping in February. It is backed by a three-year warranty, free tech support and legendary Kingston reliability. For more information please visit: www.kingston.com/thailand.
Kingston SSDNow 30GB Boot Drive Features and Specifications:
- Sequential Speed**: up to 180MB/sec. read; 50MB/sec. write
- Performance: enhances productivity; makes users more efficient
- Innovative: 2.5" form factor; uses NAND Flash memory components
- Silent: runs silent and cool with no moving parts
- Reliable: less likely to fail than a standard hard drive
- Shock Resistant: no moving parts; handles rougher conditions than a hard drive
- Supports S.M.A.R.T.: Self-Monitoring, Analysis and Reporting Technology
- Guaranteed: three-year Kingston warranty, free tech support
- Capacity1: 30GB
- Storage Temperatures: -40° C to 85° C
- Operating Temperatures: 0° C to 70° C
- Vibration Operating: 20G Peak, 10-2000Hz, (20min/Axis)x3 Axis
- Vibration Non-operating: 20G Peak, 10-2000Hz, (12Cycle/Axis)x3 Axis, x 20min.
- Power Specs: Read: 1.4W (TYP), 2.5W (MAX)
Write: 1.7W(TYP), 4.2W (MAX)
Idle, Standby, Sleep: 55mw (TYP)
- Life Expectancy: 500,000 hours MTBF

* Test system: Intel DG945ID Desktop Motherboard; Intel Quad Core Q9550; 4GB DDR2 800MHz system memory; on-board SATA 3Gbps with ACHI enabled in BIOS; OS: Windows 7 Professional x64 or Windows XP Pro x86 SP3 (Intel IMSM installed in both operating systems).
** Based on internal testing. Performance may vary based on system settings.

1Some of the listed capacity is used for formatting and other functions and thus is not available for data storage. For more information, please consult Kingston’s Flash Memory Guide at Kingston.com/Flash_Memory_Guide.
Kingston SSDNow 30GB Boot Drive
Part Number Capacity and Features
SNV125-S2/30GB 30GB 2.5″ SATA SSD (stand-alone drive)
SNV125-S2BD/30GB 30GB 2.5″ SATA SSD (desktop bundle)
SNV125-S2BD/30GB-2P 30GB 2.5″ SATA SSD (desktop twin-pack)

For detailed information please visit the Kingston Web site at (www.kingston.com/thailand). The experience the adventures of Rex, please visit: www.theadventuresofrex.com. To get the freshest information on Kingston, please go to http://twitter.com/KingstonFEPR.

Local distributors, please contact American Best T: 662-231-6452. Ingram Micro (Thailand) T: 662-793-1888. Silicon Data Co., Ltd. T: 662-219-2012. Synnex (Thailand) Co., Ltd. T: 662-553-8888
To discuss this product on Kingston Blog, please go to www.kingston-blog.com.

To try the game “Challenge Your Memory”, please go to www.kingston-blog.com/challenge_your_memory/th/. The experience the adventures of Rex, please visit: www.theadventuresofrex.com.

To find out if your Kingston product is genuine, Kingston also provides an online verification site: http://www.kingston.com/thailand/verify/default.asp.

To try the game “Search for Genuine Kingston”, please go to http://anti-counterfeit.kingston-blog.com/th_index.jsp
About Kingston Digital, Inc.

Kingston Digital, Inc. (“KDI”) is the Flash memory affiliate of Kingston Technology Company, Inc., the world’s largest independent manufacturer of memory products. Established in 2008, KDI is headquartered in Fountain Valley, California, USA. For more information, please visit: www.kingston.com/thailand.

Kingston and the Kingston logo are registered trademarks of Kingston Technology Corporation. All rights reserved. All other marks may be the property of their respective titleholders.

Acer rolls out 30 new models of Intel’s Core i powered notebook and PC

2010-01-29T22:36:00.000-08:00

Associates Consulting

Acer Computer Co., Ltd., Thailand’s No. 1 computer vendor, joined forces with Intel Microelectronics (Thailand) Co., Ltd., celebrating the roaring year of tiger introducing a full-line of up to 30 models, the latest 12 series of notebooks and PC computers. Come with Intel's powerful Core i processors: Core i3, Core i5, and Core i7, the full lines of notebooks and personal computers are now available in Thailand.

Mr. Nitipat Praweenwongwuthi, Senior Marketing Manager, Acer Computer Co., Ltd., said that as a part of efforts to emphasize its leadership, Acer is launching its latest 12 series, 30 models covering multiple product families i.e. Aspire, Veriton, and eMachine brands which are powered by Intel Core processor technology. All of which come with appealing prices. Powered by Intel's technology, the performance of Acer's notebooks and PCs is doubled in processing speed to accelerate files and video download, and graphics display while designed to save energy. These new models are expected to heat up the market and are available now in Thailand at all retailers nationwide.

NETGEAR Collaborates with Intel to Launch TV Adapter for Intel Wireless Display, an Intuitive and Easy Way to View Entire Laptop Screen

2010-01-24T02:41:00.001-08:00

NETGEAR Collaborates with Intel to Launch TV Adapter for Intel Wireless Display, an Intuitive and Easy Way to View Entire Laptop Screen on HDTV Wirelessly

Networking Leader Introduces Push2TV, Device that Transforms How Consumers View, Share and Enjoy Digital Content on the Big Screen TV

LAS VEGAS - January 11, 2010 - NETGEAR, Inc. (NASDAQGM: NTGR), a worldwide provider of technologically innovative, branded networking solutions, today announced the launch of NETGEAR Push2TV (PTV1000), a small device that enables consumers to display their entire laptop computer screens on their big screen HDTVs - wirelessly, effortlessly and intuitively.

Compatible with select laptops featuring Intel Wireless Display and powered by the all new 2010 Intel Core Processor Family, Push2TV (http://www.netgear.com/ptv) transforms the living room HDTV into a huge, remote monitor without the need for any unsightly cables stretching across the room. Slightly larger than a deck of cards, Push2TV enables consumers to wirelessly beam practically everything from their notebook computer to the big screen TV, including media stored on the laptop, content from the home network, and videos streamed from the most popular websites.

"Our customers are increasingly dependent on their laptops, and they tell us they're looking for easy ways to migrate the content of their computers to their TVs more freely," said Jason Bonfig, vice president of computing at Best Buy. "NETGEAR Push2TV is unique in how it seamlessly scales the viewing and browsing experience of the notebook PC to the TV along with an easy, intuitive way to connect and operate."

The industry has taken several approaches to connect the TV to the Internet: network-enabled TVs and Blu-ray players; Digital Media Adapters (DMAs) and set-top boxes that connect to the Internet via the home network; dedicated home theater PCs or notebooks connected to the TV via HDMI or other cables; and other PC-to-TV applications. However, these solutions have multiple limitations, such as the websites they can access and the video codecs and file formats that they can play.

"Consumers have been frustrated by the existing solutions so we focused on ease of use during the design and collaboration process with NETGEAR," said Erik Reid, director mobile marketing, Intel. "The result is that Intel Wireless Display, available on select laptops featuring Intel's all new 2010 Core family processors, and the NETGEAR Push2TV adapter have taken the hassle out of sharing content, so consumers can sit back, relax and enjoy the content on their large screen TVs."

The NETGEAR Push2TV adapter combined with Intel Wireless Display is a very simple extension of the browsing and viewing experience on the PC, significantly reducing the website restrictions that consumers currently experience with competing solutions. Consumers will be able to access the vast majority of the content on their computer or from the Internet and view it on their TV. Connecting a laptop to Push2TV is as simple as point and click. The easy and intuitive interface enables a protected connection and hides all the networking complexity found in currently available solutions. Thus, the consumer benefits from a fully integrated PC-to-TV solution without having to plug any external components or dongles into their new notebook computer, becoming a networking expert, or learning any new user interface.

The total solution consists of NETGEAR Push2TV connected to the TV and Intel Wireless Display preloaded on new-generation notebooks powered Processor Family. Intel Wireless DisplayÔby the 2010 Intel Core captures fully rendered display frames in real-time and sends the compressed video and audio directly to Push2TV via Intel My WiFi technology, the industry's first commercially available Wi-Fi Personal Area Network (PAN) or Wi-Fi Direct solution, creating a protected short-hop high-bandwidth wireless connection between the laptop and Push2TV. When compared to other solutions where the TV adapter connects to the home network or gateway, Push2TV reduces the wireless bandwidth overhead by up to 50 percent.

"We are delighted to partner with Intel to be the first to bring Intel Wireless Display to the living room, providing customers with what is truly the easiest way to extend the PC viewing experience to the TV - wirelessly, seamlessly and over a protected link," said Vivek Pathela, vice president and general manager of NETGEAR home and consumer products. "The combination of our Push2TV with a new-generation PC with Intel Wireless Display means consumers no longer have to crowd around their PCs to experience the infinite stream of Internet content with their friends and family."

With a sleek black minimalist design, a very intuitive setup and Wi-Fi technology, Push2TV quickly beams the laptop screen to the HDTV over a protected link. Therefore, customers are able to easily access almost any content they would normally be able to access on their PCs.* More specifically, with Push2TV and a new generation notebook powered by the 2010 Intel Core Processor Family connected to the Internet and/or home network, consumers can:

Sit back, relax and enjoy music, pictures and videos from their laptop, home network or the Internet in HD on their big screen TVs and home entertainment systems; Surf the web from the comfort of their couches, accessing many of today's online movies and TV shows and going anywhere a web browser will take them; Easily move from room to room or take Push2TV on vacation or business trips due to its small, lightweight form factor. Pricing and Availability

Backed by a one-year warranty and 24/7 technical support, the new NETGEAR Push2TV (PTV1000) will be available in the US later this month. Intel and NETGEAR are also working together to deliver this exciting new technology to additional geographies and distribution channels later in 2010. Product details on NETGEAR Push2TV can be found at http://www.netgear.com/ptv.

Hitachi Data Systems Unveils Top Storage Investment Priorities for 2010

2010-01-21T05:46:00.000-08:00

Virtualization, Storage and Security Lead the IT Agenda in Thailand

Hitachi Data Systems Corporation, a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi, Ltd. (NYSE: HIT) and the only provider of Services Oriented Storage Solutions, today announced the top storage investment priorities for IT professionals in 2010.

“Data centre virtualization, cloud storage and data security continue to be top priorities in Thailand as companies seek to drive competitive advantage. At Hitachi Data Systems, we believe that our role is to help our customers build cost-effective and sustainable storage solutions that help them build the business now, yet scale up and out to meet future challenges,” said Watcharasit Santisuknirun, Thailand Country Manager , Hitachi Data Systems.
Storage Investment Priorities in 2010

- Data Center Virtualization: Virtualization is a critical enabler of the dynamic data center of tomorrow. In 2009, we saw a trend towards lower cost modular storage that scaled out, through switch technologies like Ethernet or RapidIO. The shortcoming of scale-out modular storage is the inability to scale up. In 2010, we expect to see demand for storage systems that both have the ability to scale-up as well as scale-out depending on performance and capacity requirements. This will help companies meet the increasing demands of faster networks, processors, and virtual operating systems such as VMware and Hyper V.

- Cloud Storage: Cloud computing is often used as a metaphor for the Internet. Cloud storage serves to mask the complexity of IT infrastructure and enables access to storage capacity as “a pay as you grow” service. The cloud will continue to grow in awareness into 2010 with a continued focus by private cloud builders and public cloud service providers on elasticity, reliability, multi-tenancy and security. We expect an increasing adoption of cloud storage as advancements are made on key capabilities such as security, multi-tenancy, and payment models.

- Automated Tiered Storage: Many IT organizations are moving towards tiered storage management automation that is policy-based to achieve economic efficiency while maintaining service level objectives for the business. Combining automated tiered storage management with storage virtualization and dynamic, thin provisioning will provide the greatest reduction in capital and operational costs.

- Greater Adoption of Dynamic (thin) Provisioning: The single greatest tool for reducing operational costs is dynamic (thin) provisioning. Thin provisioning can: eliminate the waste of allocated unused space; reduce the cost of moving and copying fat volumes by eliminating unused space; reclaim up to 40% or more capacity from existing fat volumes; reduce the provisioning of storage from hours to minutes; facilitate wide striping to increase performance by spreading the I/O across more disk spindles. Given all of these advantages, we expect dynamic (thin) provisioning technology to be a top investment priority for customers.

- Sustainable IT: 2010 will see greater rationalization of green IT projects. IT managers face internal competition for limited investment available, and will find that green IT projects are gaining more support from corporate programs. There will also be a new role within IT organizations – the Sustainable IT manager – responsible for identifying and managing Green IT programs.

- Continued Growth for Content Archive Platforms: IDC estimates that content data will be the fastest growth area of data with a compounded annual growth rate of 121%. Since this is the fastest growing type of data, a content platform must be able to scale to tens of Petabytes and be able to support multiple data formats, and we expect to see growing demand for Content Archive Platforms that meet these requirements.

- Security: IT managers must strike a balance between mitigating security risks and delivering the best infrastructures in terms of throughput, availability, scalability, cost and complexity. Each organization must make its own trade-off decisions based on its unique situation and the importance of its data. In 2010, IT managers planning storage investments or use of third party services will need to take into account key priorities like data confidentiality, privacy, sanitization/eradication and security.

- Managed Services: In today’s IT organizations, provisioning for new apps or SAN performance reporting are now being managed through remote managed services. As this demand grows, expect new service offerings to be adopted as an efficient and cost effective alternative for fully managed, 24/7 real time storage expertise where resource skill sets gap or head count constraints exist. Utilizing services also eliminates the need to pull experienced staff away from revenue generating projects for critical, yet administrative tasks.

- Improved Performance with Flash-based Drives or Solid State Drives (SSD): While flash-based drives are considered cost-prohibitive compared to traditional hard disk drives, they do offer advantages in performance – specifically very low latency and very fast I/Os[i] -- and have the added advantage of superior energy efficiency. We expect to see more flash-based technologies integrated into solutions portfolios as customer awareness and potential demand grows, but adopters should look for the added security of data encryption capabilities at the SSD drive level before moving forward.

- Ethernet Convergence in the Data Center (FCOE[ii]/DCIB[iii]): We expect to see adoption on the storage side of the switch pick up as additional industry standards are formed to enable multi-pathing and network decongestion. There is also a huge investment in Fibre Chanel (FC) infrastructure which will be transitioning to 8 Gbps [iv]FC. Since transition to 8 Gbps FC is less disruptive than the transition to 10 Gbps FCoE, we expect the adoption of FCoE for storage may take longer.

Dell Selects BankServ’s TurboSwift Solution

2010-01-17T03:50:00.001-08:00

BankServ, worldwide experts in electronic payments, today announced that Dell, a leading provider of information technology and solutions, has selected the BankServ TurboSwift® Service Bureau to enable the straight-through processing of financial payments and messages with its banks worldwide. The solution will be fully managed by BankServ’s service bureau and provides a comprehensive suite of software, hardware and services Dell needs now and in the future.

With TurboSwift, Dell can streamline the multiple systems and protocols used to transmit payment and financial transactions to its banks worldwide. According to Gary Bischoping, Jr., VP and Treasurer at Dell, “the SWIFT network is an ideal way to consolidate multiple systems and will enable us to reduce costs and enable future integration with our back-office treasury systems that provide us with critical cash position visibility.”

The BankServ TurboSwift solution includes connectivity to two SWIFT services, FIN and FileAct, with essential operations and support services that Dell needs immediately. Professional project management and implementation services will be provided throughout the project, as well as 24/7 technical support for ongoing upgrades, disaster recovery and essential maintenance requirements.

“Access to SWIFT for multi-bank connectivity has become essential for multinational corporations. BankServ’s TurboSwift solution provides a comprehensive solution that will make it easier and quicker for Dell to realize the benefits of using SWIFT, while providing a secure and reliable platform that eliminates the need for multiple systems and reduces ongoing operational costs” comments Mary Ellen Putnam, BankServ’s Vice President and General Manager, International.

Supercharge Your iPhone With icloud and 100 GB Storage

2009-12-16T19:44:00.000-08:00

icloud, the Online Computer, Today Rolls Out icloud Premium -- a Massive 100 GB of Secure Cloud Storage for Only $39.99 / Year

Everybody Can Now Access All Their Content Anytime and Anywhere

icloud Basic With 3 GB is Available for Free, and Open for Sign-Ups at http://icloud.com

Today's launch of icloud Premium and the 100 GB Super Drive will greatly extend all the amazing capabilities of icloud to the iPhone. The new premium service lets everyone store, access and easily share files through any smart phone or browser. It gives you 100 GB of storage right in your pocket. You will never again feel that you have forgotten to bring important files with you. icloud securely stores files like music, photos, videos, documents, and provides a full management interface and virtual desktop through a browser to organize and share all your content.
icloud launch movie: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQgdceh66EQ

Daniel Arthursson, icloud's Founder and CEO, says, "Having 100 GB directly accessible in your pocket through an iPhone or smartphone will definitely change how we use and interact with data. With the massive storage of the icloud Super Drive, everything will always be accessible, no need to bring your computer to do a quick PowerPoint presentation, just present it straight out of the cloud."
Facts about the icloud online computer:
* Secure cloud storage with backup accessible from any computer,
iPhone, Android or Windows Mobile phone
* Free basic version includes 50 applications like Office, Mail,
Music, Video, Instant Messaging and Games
* icloud Premium with 100 GB Super Drive now available for $39.99/year
* Community (my.icloud.com) and email @icloud.com
* Zero installation, runs within browsers
* Available worldwide in 26 languages and used in 170 countries
About icloud

Founded in 2001 by Daniel Arthursson, Xcerion provides the free icloud.com service, the world's leading "Cloud OS", a groundbreaking technology with 22 pending patents. Developers have API and tools to build their own cloud applications.

Xcerion is based in Sweden, privately held and funded by Northzone Ventures. Investors include Lou Perazzoli, architect of Windows NT and former Manager Microsoft Core OS and John Connors former CFO Microsoft. Xcerion is a Red Herring Global 100 winner.

Philips re-defines picture performance with its latest LED TV 9000 series (models: 40PFL9704H, 46PFL9704H, 52PFL9704H).

2009-12-16T18:57:00.001-08:00

Philips Electronics (Thailand) Ltd., introduces its latest truly LED TV 9000 series, a full HD LCD display, with a 1920x1080p resolution featuring with direct-lit LED backlighting technology and offering pure performance in picture sharpness, motion and contrast and features the latest innovations in LCD technology – including the latest in internet TV.

Consumers enjoy breathtaking pictures and use up to 40% less energy with Philips award winning LED Pro. Over 1000 LED's are operated selectively in a grid as a backlight for the display. They generate brilliant light in bright image areas, and are dimmed completely in dark areas, saving energy. Combined with the powerful Perfect Pixel HD Engine, the result is a stunning picture with extreme contrast, sharpness and vibrant color. With LED Pro black is black and white is bright.

The Perfect Pixel HD engine deliver unrivalled sharpness and detail. It is also the world’s fastest LCD courtesy of 200Hz Clear LCD and an unbeatable 1 millisecond response time which banishes the motion blur problem common with LCD TVs. 200Hz Clear LCD creates extreme motion sharpness for clear and vibrant images even with fast on-screen motion. It results in a powerful dynamic contrast ratio up to 5,000,000:1.

Perfect Colors is the combination of new color sources, advanced color processing for both existing and new sources, and a Wide Color Gamut display. The powerful 17-bit Color Booster technology pumps out a mesmerizing 2,250 trillion colors, producing brilliant life-like images with natural skin and white tones.

Perfect Natural Motion results in smoother and quieter pictures with excellent sharpness surpassing even the motion performance in a cinema.

Philips immersive Ambilight Spectra 3 technology, which accurately identifies dominant on-screen colors and generates accurately-matched ambient lighting from three sides of the screen onto a rear wall.

As pure performance includes both sound quality as well as the picture quality, the 9700 series sports 2x15W high-efficiency speakers. This provides leading sound performance.

Another highlighted feature is Net TV, which enables simple and quick internet access to a wide range of sites from a start page on the TV screen.

It is also equipped with both Ethernet and WiFi connectivity, allowing them to stream data directly from a DLNA-compliant computer. Additional features include give HDMI 1.3 inputs, integrated subwoofers and tweeters, and full 1080p video output.

SEAGATE UNVEILS WORLD’S THINNEST 2.5-INCH HARD DRIVE FOR SLIM LAPTOP COMPUTERS

2009-12-15T03:56:00.001-08:00

Seagate Technology (NASDAQ:STX) today announced the Momentus® Thin drive, the world’s thinnest 2.5-inch hard disk drive for ultra-portable and entry-level laptops, high-end netbooks, backup devices and consumer electronics. At a wafer-thin 7mm in height – 25 percent slimmer than traditional 9.5mm 2.5-inch laptop hard drives – the Momentus Thin drive gives original equipment manufacturers (OEM) and system integrators significantly lower cost-per-gigabyte storage than solid state and 1.8-inch drives, enabling a new breed of entry-level thin laptops.

Of all netbook computers available today, 90 percent feature 9.5mm 2.5-inch laptop drives because solid state and 1.8-inch hard drives are largely cost-prohibitive for this market. The Momentus Thin drive provides the affordable, thin storage for netbooks and slim laptops, enabling computer makers to offer systems that reach a broader market.

“The Momentus® Thin drive promises to help computer makers differentiate on mobile-computing form factor and better compete in the fast-growing markets for thin laptop PCs and netbooks,” said Dave Mosley, executive vice president of Sales, Marketing and Product Line Management at Seagate. “Seagate is committed to helping its OEM and system integrator partners meet market demand for thinner laptop PCs and plans to expand storage capabilities for thin laptops as demand for these slimmer models continues to grow.”

The Momentus Thin drive rivals traditional 2.5-inch laptop drives in performance and power-efficiency, enabling thin-chassis designs in all segments of notebook computing and allowing OEMs both to design in greater value on high-end netbooks for easier upselling and to create a wider value differentiation between consumer and commercial laptop PCs. The Momentus Thin drive features two capacity points – 250GB and 160GB – an 8MB cache, a Serial ATA 3Gb/second interface and a 5400RPM spin speed. The drive is scheduled to ship to Seagate’s OEM and integrator partners in January 2010.

The Seagate® Momentus® family now helps laptop makers give home and business users a sweeping upgrade path – from netbooks, often purchased as introductory, low-cost laptop PCs strictly for emailing and Internet surfing, to notebooks offering mainstream business and consumer applications, to feature-rich, high-performance laptops, all in standard-size and the increasingly popular thin models. Seagate Momentus 5400RPM and 7200RPM hard drives in the traditional 9.5mm height combine the industry’s broadest feature set – including self-encryption, FIPS 140-2 certification and free-fall sensors – with up to 640GB of capacity, fast 3Gb/second Serial ATA interface speeds, cache sizes as large as 16MB, and among the highest hard drive shock-tolerance, acoustics and reliability specifications for entry-level, mainstream and high-performance laptops.

ASUS Joins Hand with AMD to Launch ASUS Eee PC 1201T with Ultra Thin CPU

2009-12-15T03:48:00.001-08:00

Reaching another Level of Performance with Luxury and Stylish Design

ASUS is the world’s first inventor and creator of innovative ASUS Eee PC. Nowadays, ASUS still keeps on developing its performance and design in order to make all models of Eee PC ultramodern and suitable for all lifestyles.

Recently, ASUS unveils ASUS Eee PC 1201T with AMD Congo MV40 Ultra Thin CPU to support high-performance graphics and improved multimedia system use. Also, the ASUS Eee PC 1201T has modern and luxury appearance in order to suit highly-flexible working lifestyle.

Mr. Chukkrit Watcharasaksilp, country manager of AMD Far East Ltd. (Thailand Branch), stated that “AMD always seeks to deliver the most advanced, yet relevant technology to our customer as you can see in our AMD 2nd Generation Ultra Thin (2GUT) platform. Our solution delivers a rich computing experience on a stable, consistent platform and I’m very confident that on ASUS Eee PC 1201T model consumers and businesses running Windows 7 on AMD technology-based PCs can achieve an advanced visually dynamic, powerful, and rich computing experience on a stable and consistent platform. More importantly, we congratulate with ASUS who is one of the first partners to roll out VISION Technology with AMD in Thailand to launch ASUS Eee PC 1201T today.”

At the same time, Mr. Pornthep Watchara-Amnouy, Managing Director of ASUSTek Computer (Thailand) Co., Ltd., commented that “At present, ASUS is able to completely fulfill demands from all level of Thai customers with Eee Pc product line. It contains range of screen sizes from 9-12 inches and prices from Baht 9,900-15,900 within modern, light and thin appearance, such as ASUS Eee Seashell or twistable-touch screen ASUS Eee PC T91T.”

“Lately, ASUS Eee PC 1201T with AMD CPU chipset is a performance combination of the 2 innovations. It has a bigger screen, which is 12-inch sized, together with AMD Congo MV40 Ultra Thin CPU, which consumes lower energy and work faster, in affordable price. I believe its attribute will reactivate netbook market”

ASUS Eee PC 1201T is developed to be thinner than 1 inch and light at only 1.46 kg for more comfort in portability. It contains a 12.1-inch (1366x768 mm) LED Backlight screen with Color-Shine technology and a Chiclet keyboard to make simple typing as notebook. Moreover, its appearance reflects luxuriousness and original style with 2 selectable colors, black and silver, on glossy surface. In order to support more type of usage, the ASUS Eee PC 1201T is powered by AMD Congo MV40 (1.6GHz) chipset to boast higher capability than any other netbooks, along with Superior HD-based graphics attribute and greater multimedia system than one has ever experience. It is valued-for-money at price Baht 15,900 only.
About AMD

Advanced Micro Devices (NYSE: AMD) is an innovative technology company dedicated to collaborating with customers and technology partners to ignite the next generation of computing and graphics solutions at work, home and play. For more information, visit http://www.amd.com.
About ASUS

ASUS is a leading company in the new digital era, with an extensive product portfolio that includes notebooks, netbooks, motherboards, graphics cards, displays, optical drives, desktop PCs, servers, wireless solutions, mobile phones and networking devices. Driven by innovation and committed to quality, ASUS designs and manufactures products that perfectly meet the needs of today's digital home, office and person. ASUS won 3,056 awards in 2008, and is widely credited with revolutionizing the PC industry with the Eee PC. With a global staff of more than ten thousand and a world-class R&D design team, the company's revenue for 2008 was 8.1 billion U.S. dollars. ASUS ranks among BusinessWeek's InfoTech 100, and has been on the listing for 12 consecutive years.

WD? INTRODUCES NEW MY BOOK? ELITE? EXTERNAL HARD DRIVES WITH CUSTOMIZABLE E-LABEL

2009-11-20T22:48:00.001-08:00

E-Label Smart Display Makes Drives Personal

WD® (NYSE: WDC), the world’s leader in external storage solutions, today introduced its new My Book® Elite™ desktop external drives featuring a customizable e-label that’s always visible, even when the drive is unplugged, making it easy to know what’s on the drive and how much space is left. The new My Book Elite also features automatic and continuous backup with WD SmartWare™ software and 256-bit hardware-based encryption. Available now at select retailers and shopwd.com, the new My Book Elite drives are offered in capacities of 1 TB, 1.5 TB and 2 TB.

The e-label smart display on the spine of the My Book drives can be changed easily and as often as desired. It utilizes e-paper technology which reads like ink on paper. With the included WD SmartWare software, users can easily create a label to name their drive or remind themselves of its contents. The e-label also shows available capacity and whether the drive is locked via WD SmartWare software’s powerful password protection and hardware-based encryption. Utilizing e-paper technology, the information on the display remains clearly visible, even when the drive is unplugged, and the customized label can be changed easily as often as desired.

According to research firm Parks Associates, the average U.S. broadband household currently has over 120 GB of digital media and files which is projected to grow to over 1 TB of data by 2013. Many consumers store this content on multiple external drives which often makes it difficult to know what or whose content is on which drive. During the development process, WD researchers visited with consumers and frequently noted a variety of ad hoc solutions to the “what’s on the drive?” or the “whose drive is this?” problems, ranging from hand-written notes to machine printed sticky labels. The e-label smart display was conceived as an elegant and practical solution to address this consumer need.

The new My Book Elite drives come with integrated WD SmartWare software. When the My Book Elite drive is plugged in for the first time, the simple and intuitive first backup process launches automatically. The real-time visual interface of WD SmartWare software gives users a reassuring view of their backup as it happens. After the first backup, users’ files are backed up automatically every time they change or add a file.

My Book Elite drives also feature user-selected password protection combined with 256-bit hardware-based encryption, which scrambles files before they are stored. Typically found only on much more expensive drive systems, the encryption acts as a virtual padlock to keep users’ data safe.

“The new My Book Elite drives’ unique new e-label smart display and integrated WD SmartWare software give consumers an elegant and practical way to organize their content while enjoying the peace of mind that their data is backed up and secure,” said Dale Pistilli, vice president of marketing for WD’s branded products group. “Even when the My Book Elite drive is unplugged, consumers can easily see at-a-glance what is stored on their drive, how much capacity is available and whether the drive is locked.”
Price and Availability

The new My Book Elite drives are offered in capacities of 1 TB, 1.5 TB and 2 TB and have a 3-year limited warranty. My Book Elite drives are available now at select retailers and online at shopwd.com. MSRP for the My Book Elite drives ranges from 4,990 baht depending on
capacity.
My Book Elite
The new WD My Book Elite drives feature:

- Smart display – a customizable e-label that reminds users of what is stored on the drive and provides available capacity and security status at-a-glance even when the drive is unplugged;

- Smaller, sleeker, more streamlined design and elegant book-like shape that takes up minimal space and allows multiple My Book drives to nestle together neatly like volumes on a shelf;

- WD SmartWare software that visually present consumers' data in a software control center;

- 256-bit hardware-based encryption and password protection for peace of mind knowing that data is protected from unauthorized access;

- USB 2.0 interface – for convenience and compatibility among multiple computers;

- WD GreenPower Technology™ lowers internal drive power consumption by up to 30 percent, a sleep mode reduces power during idle times, and a power-saving feature turns the drive on and off with your computer;
- Planet-friendly packaging derived from recycled materials to minimize waste;

- NTFS[1] formatting and are compatible with Windows® XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7;
- 3-year limited warranty.
WD SmartWare Software
WD SmartWare software features:

- Visual backup displays that show content in categories and shows the progress of backup;

- Automatic, continuous data backup will instantly make a second copy whenever you add or change a file;

- Retrieve valuable data to its original location whether it’s lost data or the file has been overwritten; and,

- Customizable data backup that allows users to set drive security, run diagnostics, manage the power settings, and more from the WD SmartWare control center.
About WD

WD, one of the storage industry's pioneers and long-time leaders, provides products and services for people and organizations that collect, manage and use digital information. The company produces reliable, high-performance hard drives that keep users' data accessible and secure from loss. WD applies its storage expertise to consumer products for external, portable and shared storage applications. WD was founded in 1970. The company's storage products are marketed to leading systems manufacturers, selected resellers and retailers under the Western Digital® and WD brand names. Visit the Investor section of the company's Web site (www.westerndigital.com) to access a variety of financial and investor information.

Western Digital, WD, My Book and the WD logo are registered trademarks; My Book Elite, WD GreenPower Technology and WD SmartWare are trademarks of Western Digital Technologies, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. Other marks may be mentioned herein that belong to other companies. All other brand and product names mentioned herein are the property of their respective companies. As used for storage capacity, one gigabyte (GB) = 1 billion bytes. One terabyte (TB) = one trillion bytes. Total accessible capacity varies depending on operating environment.

ELECTRONICS, IT FIRMS GEAR UP FOR RISING DEMAND

2009-11-12T23:42:00.000-08:00

       Thai electronics and information-technology firms are planning to expand their businesses as the global economic recovery gathers pace, which will boost the need for higher capacity and more outlets.
       Stars Microelectronics (Thailand), an electronics-maker, plans to invest Bt150 million next year to increase capacity at its two business lines, microelectronic manufacturing assembly (MMA) and integrated circuitry (IC).
       CEO and co-founder Polsak Lertputipinyo yesterday said the company would increase IC capacity from 800 million units per year to around 1.4 billion by the end of 2010. Meanwhile, it will raise MMA production capacity to 90 million units per annum from 80 million units per annum from 80 million this year.
       At present, IC products contribute 20 per cent of Stars' revenue, with the majority generated from MMA products. The company expects revenue from IC products to increase to around 30 per cent next and be on a par with MMA within three years.
       The company aims to maintain revenue growth at around 15 per cent per annum.
       Polsak said the key product driver for the company's IC business was its Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, which the company supplies to leading auto-parts customers around the world. Orders have increased by 60 per cent from last year. Stars plans to raise production capacity to more than 3 million units per month from the current 2 million.
       Regarding the company's MMA business, orders of hard disks for laptop computers have increased by 70 per cent.
       Western Digital, the world's second-largest manufacturer of hard disk drives, has confirmed increased orders of 60 per cent until the middle of next year.
       Stars has also seen a rise in orders from smart-phone manufacturers as worldwide sales climb. The company generated revenue of Bt7.6 billion and net profit of Bt189 million in the first nine months of the year. For this year, it predicts net profit will slightly exceed the Bt210 million reported last year.
       Meanwhile, Supant Mongkolsuthree, CEO of Synex (Thailand), a leading importer and distributor of computers and IT-related equipment, said the company had upped its revenue growth target for this year to 15 per cent from 5 per cent, after signing a contract to become the sole distributor of Seagate's hard disk drives.
       The move was despite industry forecasts that the value of the computer hardware market this year would drop 5 per cent from last year to Bt70 billion.

IBM Thailand launches LotusLive

2009-11-12T23:41:00.000-08:00

       IBM Thailand has launched its latest cloud-based offerings called LotusLive that brings web-based email, instant messaging, meetings, collaboration, social networking and project management to users over the Internet while keeping the best of enterprise grade security and privacy.
       Jadesada Kraisingkorn, country manager IBM Software Group in Thailand,explained that IBM is playing at many levels in the cloud, from the actual hardware infrastructure, its CloudBurst management with flexible allocation and the top layer of solutions which is Lotus Live.
       Unlike pure software-as-a-service vendors, IBM Lotus can deliver traditional on-premise,appliance (hardware preloaded with software) or cloud services.
       Lotus Live delivers solutions in three key areas. The first group is messaging (email and instant messaging, called SameTime) and content management;second is communication and social networking, the art of linking people to people within a big organisation not just through work flow; and third is integration with corporate applications.
       IBM stresses that while Lotus Live is not the first cloud email service, it is an enterprise-grade cloud email service with a strong focus on ownership of data,security and integration with the rest of the organisation.
       Lotus Live Engage allows users to log in for meetings over the Internet where they can share screens and dashboards.Engage is a development of IBM's internal BlueHouse which was once showcased as a Facebook for the enterprise.
       One of its strengths is the concept of guests. It is possible to give access to certain pages to outsiders without having to pay if they work on the project where they can share in collaboration and activities related to the project. Engage is integrated into work flow with meeting details kept along with transcripts and to-do lists on what was agreed from the meeting.
       Then there is Lotus Live Events which is more one-way and focused on training and seminars.
       The modules are built around Lotus Live Notes/iNotes which has email and calendaring and is integrate with all the other modules.
       The big difference compared to other web-based office solutions is that Lotus Live has the concept of roles. In a typical organisation, the secretary of the boss will have her boss's password, which is very dangerous. In Lotus Live it is possible to delegate to the secretary such that she can read and create only but cannot delete, and any email sent out will be tagged sent on behalf of.
       Unlike the paid-for competition, Lotus Live does not do data mining on user data and one of the spokespersons urged anyone using a certain free for up to 25 user competitor (clearly Google Apps)to check their fine print.
       In January, IBM announced a partnership with salesforce.com that will turn Lotus Live activities into Salesforce opportunities where the progress of a sales lead can me monitored from Lotus Live's dashboards. Other partnerships exist with Skype for click to call and LinkedIn where files can be shared with people on linked in easily.
       IBM Thailand is aiming the package at SMEs, selling it through partners and offering them IBM technology at an affordable price.

NY ATTORNEY-GENERAL FILES SUIT AGAINST INTEL

2009-11-08T05:44:00.002-08:00

       The attorney - general of New York state filed an antitrust lawsuit against Intel on Wednesday alleging the US computer chip giant engaged in illegal practices to dominate the market.
       "Rather than compete fairly, Intel used bribery and coercion to maintain a stranglehold on the market," attorney - General Andrew Cuomo said in a statement.
       "Intel's actions not only unfairly restricted potential competitors, but also hurt average consumers who were robbed of better products and lower prices," Cuomo said.
       "These illegal tactics must stop and competition must be restored to this vital marketplace," he added.
       The lawsuit acused Intel of engaging in "a systematic worldwide campaign of illegal, exclusionary conduct to maintain its monopoly power and prices in the market for x86 microprocessors", the "brains" of personal computers.
       It accusedc the company of "exacting exclusive or near-exclusive agreements from large computer makers in exchange for payments totalling billions of dollars" and threat ening retaliation against firms that did not fall into line.
       REtaliatory threats allegedly included cutting off payments from Intel, funding competitors, and ending joint development ventures.
       To obtain exclusive agreements, Intel was accused of paying so-called "rebates" to computer makers of billions of dollars in some years.
       "These rebates were actually just payoffs with no legitimate business purpose that Intel invented to disguise their anti-competitive nature," the Cuomo statement said.
       The lawsuit accused Intel of paying US computer maker Dell nearly $2 billion (Bt66.9 billion) in "rebates" in 2006.
       Another US computer maker Hewlett Packard, was allegedly paid hundreds of millions of dollars in rebates in return for an agreement to cap HP's sales of Advanced Micro Devices (AMD)-based products at five per cent of its business desktop personal computers.
       US computer giant IBM was allegedly paid $130 million not to launch an AMD-based computer server product, according to the lawsuit.
       EU antitrust regulators fined Intel a record 1.06 billion(Bt52.5 billion) in May, claiming the company abused its stranglehold on the semiconductor market to crush AMD.
       Intel spokesman Chuck Molloy rejected the latest allegations.
       "We disagree with the New York attorney-general," he said. "Neither consumers, who have consistently benefited from lower prices and innovation, nor justice are being served by a decision to file a case now."

GPS to save time - and the world

2009-11-08T05:44:00.001-08:00

       GPS is helping to save the world with its latest innovation, ecoRoute, which helps drivers find more fuel-efficient routes and be more aware of fuel consumption.
       The latest Garmin Nuvi 1460 GPS announced by ESRI (Thailand) comes with an updated database and new features,including ecoRoute, which calculates fuel use and the driver's carbon footprint.
       The ecoRoute program helps improve driver behaviour because the driver is likely to compete with himself to achieve better "scores", said Channarong Teerarojanarat, the company's telematics department manager.
       It helps optimise drivers' fuel economy and boost their green score, he said.This figure considers factors including acceleration, deceleration and speed and is marked out of 100- the higher the score, the better.
       ESRI (Thailand) general manager Krairop Luanguthai said the Nuvi 1460 comes with a Thai keyboard, 2GB flash and Bluetooth wireless.
       It is preloaded with the latest ESRI detail map TSM (Thailand Street Map)version10, including more than 1,000 junction views in Bangkok with additional views to indicate proper lane directions.The program also shows speed limits and notifies the driver when they are exceeded.
       There are five selectable Thai voices and a new point of interest page, up to 10 route plans, and automatic routing to show the most direct journey.
       Meanwhile, the company also announced the Garmin Oregon 550, which combines rugged outdoor touchscreen navigation with a 3.2-megapixel digital camera. The Oregon 550 features add high-sensitivity GPS, barometric altimeter, 3-axis electronic compass and microSD card slot.
       Krairop added that the company and its partners have been testing the TMC (Traffic Messaging Centre) system which reports traffic conditions and known accidents. The TMC service is expected to be launched next year.
       Channarong noted that the GPS market this year increased by 50 percent and the company expects to see 500 million baht of sales revenue.
       He noted that the company will launch a website, www.gpssociety.com, a community for GPS users that encompasses dynamic features and information."This will encourage users to take part in more activities as there are also route recommendations for special festivals."
       Recently, ASUS allies with Garmin announced, Novifone, a navigator phone under the brand garmin-asus.
       garmin-asus Nuvifone M20 is equipped with Windows Mobile 6.1 operating system, LBS (Location Based Services), mobile web browser, and navigation tools.
       The phone features call function,search function and view map function which comes with preloaded Thai map.

Magnificent seven

2009-11-08T05:43:00.001-08:00

       In the most important, most revered event since the invention of the brontosaurus trap,Microsoft shipped the most incredibly fabulous operating system ever made; the release of Windows 7 also spurred a new generation of personal computers of all sizes at prices well below last month's offers.The top reason Windows 7 does not suck: There is no registered website called Windows7Sucks.com
       Kindle e-book reader maker Amazon.com and new Nook e-book reader vendor Barnes and Noble got it on; B&N got great reviews for the "Kindle killer"Nook, with dual screens and touch controls so you can "turn" pages, plays MP3s and allows many non-B&N book formats, although not the Kindle one;Amazon then killed the US version of its Kindle in favour of the international one, reduced its price to $260(8,700 baht), same as the Nook; it's not yet clear what you can get in Thailand with a Nook, but you sure can't (yet) get much, relatively speaking, with a Kindle;but here's the biggest difference so far,which Amazon.com has ignored: the Nook lets you lend e-books to any other Nook owner, just as if they were paper books; the borrowed books expire on the borrower's Nook in two weeks.
       Phone maker Nokia of Finland announced it is suing iPhone maker Apple of America for being a copycat; lawyers said they figure Nokia can get at least one, probably two per cent (retail) for every iPhone sold by Steve "President for Life" Jobs and crew via the lawsuit,which sure beats working for it -$6 (200 baht) to $12(400 baht) on 30 million phones sold so far, works out to $400 million or 25 percent of the whole Apple empire profits during the last quarter;there were 10 patent thefts, the Finnish executives said, on everything from moving data to security and encryption.
       Nokia of Finland announced that it is one month behind on shipping its new flagship N900 phone, the first to run on Linux software; delay of the $750(25,000 baht) phone had absolutely no part in making Nokia so short that it had to sue Apple, slap yourself for such a thought.
       Tim Berners-Lee, who created the World Wide Web, said he had one regret:the double slash that follows the "http:"in standard web addresses; he estimated that 14.2 gazillion users have wasted 48.72 bazillion hours typing those two keystrokes, and he's sorry; of course there's no reason to ever type that, since your browser does it for you when you type "www.bangkokpost.com" but Tim needs to admit he made one error in his lifetime.
       The International Telecommunication Union of the United Nations, which doesn't sell any phones or services, announced that there should be a mobile phone charger that will work with any phone; now who would ever have thought of that, without a UN body to wind up a major study on the subject?;the GSM Association estimates that 51,000 tonnes of chargers are made each year in order to keep companies able to have their own unique ones.
       The Well, Doh Award of the Week was presented at arm's length to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development; the group's deputy secretary-general Petko Draganov said that developing countries will miss some of the stuff available on the Internet if they don't install more broadband infrastructure; a report that used your tax baht to compile said that quite a few people use mobile phones but companies are more likely to invest in countries with excellent broadband connections; no one ever had thought of this before, right?
       Sun Microsystems , as a result of the Oracle takeover, said it will allow 3,000 current workers never to bother coming to work again; Sun referred to the losses as "jobs," not people; now the fourth largest server maker in the world, Sun said it lost $2.2 billion in its last fiscal year; European regulators are holding up approval of the Oracle purchase in the hope of getting some money in exchange for not involving Oracle in court cases.
       The multi-gazillionaire and very annoying investor Carl Icahn resigned from the board at Yahoo ; he spun it as a vote of confidence, saying current directors are taking the formerly threatened company seriously; Yahoo reported increased profits but smaller revenues in the third quarter.
       The US House of Representatives voted to censure Vietnam for jailing bloggers; the non-binding resolution sponsored by southern California congresswoman Loretta Sanchez said the Internet is "a crucial tool for the citizens of Vietnam to be able to exercise their freedom of expression and association;"Hanoi has recently jailed at least nine activists for up to six years apiece for holding pro-democracy banners. Iran jailed blogger Hossein "Hoder" Derakshan for 10 months - in solitary confinement.

Microsoft hopes new OS will boost phone share

2009-10-30T23:33:00.000-07:00

       The rebranded Windows Phone will be made available in the Thai market, with 16 models from eight global brands on offer as Microsoft attempts to retain its share in the smart phone market.
       Lisa Lam, Business & Marketing Organisation Director, Microsoft (Thailand), said the company has rebranded Windows Mobile as Windows Phone to build consistency and common experience in using the world's foremost operating system, whether on PC, server or phone.
       Moreover, the company has also launched its handset OS Windows Mobile 6.5 in conjunction with several global brand manufacturers.
       By the end of this year, the company expects to have eight mobile phone brands running Windows 6.5, with HTC,Samsung, Acer, Asus, LG, Motorola, Sony Ericsson and Toshiba on board, offering 16 models covering a variety of styles and price ranges to fit customer needs.
       Windows Phone has been designed to be interoperable with many device brands and platforms to respond to the different needs and demands of users, for both work and play, and creating experiences through a variety of hardware, applications and services.
       "Choice is a big differentiating factor when considering competitors which offer a limited range of models, and this has helped us sell more than 35 million Windows Mobiles from 140 Top OEMs," said Lam.
       She continued that Windows Mobile 6.5's key features include a newlydesigned home screen, an improved touch-sensitive user interface and Mobile Internet Explorer with built in Adobe Flash Lite, which enables websites to be displayed on phones in the same way they appear on a PC. Outlook Mo-bile/Exchange sync will be available at no additional charge if users hold an Exchange corporate license.
       In addition, Windows Phones will feature two new services: My Phone, to sync text messages, photos, video, contacts and more to the web; and Windows Marketplace for Mobile, which will offer over 30,000 applications. Popular mobile internet applications such as Facebook,MySpace, Netflix, Twikini, WunderRadio and Zagat will be available alongside a selection of games.
       According to IDC, the smart phone market in 2009 is estimated at around 197 million units worldwide, and is expected to reach 350 million unit by 2012. This is a growth rate of 77 percent,which is higher than that of feature phones, which have grown around 13 percent year-on-year.
       According to Gartner, in the smart phone operating system (OS) market,Symbian held s 51 percent share, down from 57 percent a year ago, while RIM and Apple shares grew year-on-year.
       Android's share was just under 2 per cent of the market and more Androidbased devices will come to market in the fourth quarter of 2009, intensifying competition in the smart phone OS market, particularly for Symbian and Windows.
       Microsoft's share continued to drop year-on-year to account for 9 per cent of the market in the second quarter of 2009.
       Recently, HTC (Thailand) introduced HTC Touch2, the first model built on the Windows Mobile 6.5 platform available in the Thai Market. The phone supports 3.5G, Wi-Fi and GPS, including a 3.2 MP camera at 16,900 baht.
       Meanwhile, Research in Motion's BlackBerry Curve 8520 smart phone has a touch-sensitive trackpad and is the first BlackBerry to feature dedicated media keys, giving customers greater control of their music and videos.
       Advance Info Service offers the product, which will be available next month,at 13,900 baht.

Amazon takes Kindle global

2009-10-30T23:32:00.001-07:00

       Amazon.com Inc is introducing Kindle, its wireless electronic reader, for over 100 countries, including China and most of Europe, intensifying a battle for the burgeoning digital book market.
       The move, announced on Tuesday,gives the world's largest online retailer the widest global reach among its competitors, including chief rival Sony Corp.
       The Kindle will sell for $279 in other countries.
       Amazon also said it would cut prices for its US-only Kindle by 13% to $259 from $299, bringing its cost closer to its rivals. The new price is $100 lower than it was a year ago.
       Amazon - which regards the Kindle as a pivotal growth driver - said over 200,000 English-language books from a host of publishers as well as more than 85 international and US newspapers and magazines would be available on the international device, which begins shipping October 19.
       "Our vision for Kindle is every book ever printed, in print or out of print, in every language, all available within 60 seconds," chief executive Jeff Bezos told Reuters.
       "That's a multi-decade vision," he said.
       Analysts have pondered the likelihood of Amazon developing the Kindle into a tablet-like device for tasks like e-mailing,texting and surfing the Web, thus competing with devices reportedly being developed by Apple Inc.
       But Bezos reiterated his intention to optimise the reading experience, saying the company rejected compromise,whether it be a touchscreen that affects legibility or computer displays that eat up too much power.
       At the same time, Amazon is working on making Kindle digital books available on more devices. Besides the Kindle,those books can now be accessed on the iPhone or iPod Touch.
       "We want you to read your Kindle books on laptops and smartphones, anything with an installed base," Bezos said.
       The Amazon CEO said he was not "in principle" against making the works available on rival devices like Sony's,but was focused on platforms with "large installed bases."
       E-readers are expected by some to be the hottest gadget this holiday season and Bezos said he had "a lot of confidence" that it would be a "great holiday quarter for Kindle."
       Forrester Research estimated three million e-reader devices would be sold in the United States in 2009, up from an earlier estimate of two million. That could double in 2010, bringing cumulative sales to 10 million by end-2010.
       The research group predicts that Amazon will take 60% market share in 2009,followed by Sony at 35%.
       Amazon, which introduced the Kindle in 2007, has until now made it only available in the United States, where it sold a basic version for $299 and a larger one geared toward newspapers for $489.The Kindle is only sold on Amazon.com.
       The international version includes technology allowing it to operate in each market, but is otherwise identical to the second iteration of the Kindle - which can store up to 1,500 books, has a textto-speech feature, and can read PDF files and allow users to make annotations.
       "There is a big demand for English language books all over the world," said Bezos, adding that it would be available in every continent except Antarctica.
       "We apologise for that omission. We'll work on that."

Low price notebooks challenge Microsoft

2009-10-20T22:10:00.000-07:00

       High competition in the low cost notebook market has forced global computer vendors to stop offering notebooks with genuine Microsoft Vista operating systems to reduce prices. Such a move may become the next challenge for Microsoft to gain ground for its new OS.
       Prasert Charoonpaisal General Manager, Personal Systems Group (PSG) HP Thailand, said that every Pavilion notebook is preloaded with Microsoft software but the Presario notebook, which is priced below 20,000 baht, may not have preinstalled software.
       This segment contributes 25 percent of the overall HP revenue and has fierce competition when combined with software priced around 3,000 baht, which is a significant amount to consumers who have limited budgets.
       The sum of 3,000 baht which is equivalent to $100 is not much in the US but in Thailand, which has an average per capita income of 8,000 baht per month,it is significant. If Microsoft would like to address this market when it launches Windows 7 the price should be more attractive and consumers should be educated about the difference between Vista and Windows 7.
       Meanwhile senior marketing manager for Acer Thailand, Nitipat Praweenwongwuthia said that Acer will not preinstall Windows in notebook models under 20,000 baht for quite a long time because this segment is price-sensitive. If it offers preinstalled software while other competitors offer it at the same price but add more hardware specifications without preinstalled software, consumers will tend to buy better hardware features.
       The answer is to boost the use of genuine software in this segment depending on how well Microsoft can educate consumers about the benefits of Windows 7 and make most vendors preload software.
       Another source from the industry said if Microsoft would like to regain the market in the segment below 25,000 baht it should price the Windows 7 Home Basic or Premium at no more 1,500 baht per licence.
       Consumers do not prefer Windows Starter Edition and today the under-25,000 baht notebook segment contributes between 30-40 percent of the overall notebook market.
       Pairoj Amatamahutana, vice president at IT City, said preloading software in notebooks will help Microsoft to boost its value lost to piracy because big players in the market do not preload software in entry level notebook models to offer more attractive price and make it more price competitive.
       Conversion of software costs around 3,000-4,000 baht which is a significant percentage of the total unit cost.
       He estimates that currently, in the retail market Microsoft product has a piracy rate of around 80 percent. If the company can reduce this ratio with more attractive pricing which is suitable for the country's per capita income it will help to reduce the problem.
       Over the last few days Microsoft and IT City have offered Microsoft Office Home & Student Edition at only 2,690 baht with three license users which has helped to boost sales by three to four times.
       "If consumers buy more genuine software this will help us to reduce the problem of maintaining the computer because 80 percent of computer problems come from pirated software which makes it hard for us to handle or fix the problem.Moreover, when users start to buy genuine OS software it will persuade them to buy more antivirus software or others,"he said.
       The company will also take part in the official launch of Windows 7 in on October 31, offering Home Premium edition of Windows 7 at 2,777 baht for the first 777 people.

Intel profit lifts industry hopes

2009-10-15T00:16:00.000-07:00

       Intel, the world's largest semiconductor maker, offered further evidence on Tuesday that the global economy was indeed on the mend.
       The company reported a third-quarter profit that easily surpassed Wall Street's estimates, and its revenue was well ahead of the projection that Intel offered investors at the end of August.
       "The current quarter looks promising as well," Intel said, and the company lifted its revenue forecast to about $500 million above analysts' estimates.
       Intel is a bellwether for trends in the technology industry and the economy as a whole. Its computer chips are the logic engines in most personal computers and in larger computers in data centers that power e-mail, electronic commerce and the Internet.
       So Intel's performance suggests that economic prospects are brightening,analysts said.
       "Technology should benefit first and foremost in a global economic recovery,"said Edward Yardeni, an independent economist and investment strategist.
       Intel, based in Santa Clara, California,reported third-quarter revenue of $9.4 billion, well ahead of the analysts' consensus of $9 billion, as compiled by Thomson Reuters. Still, Intel's sales remained 8% below last year.
       Yet Intel executives emphasised the unfolding trend. The third quarter's revenue was 17% higher than in the second quarter, the largest rate of improvement over those quarters in more than 30 years.
       Net income was nearly $1.9 billion,or 33 cents a share. The Wall Street estimate was 28 cents a share, and that was after analysts had steadily lifted their earnings forecasts in recent months. In July, the consensus estimate was 15 cents a share, according to Thomson Reuters.In the year-earlier quarter, Intel reported earnings of $2 billion, or 35 cents a share.
       Intel's recovery has been most robust in fast-growing, developing economies like China. But even the mature economies of the United States and Western Europe are showing signs of real improvement, with America slightly ahead of Europe, Stacy J. Smith, Intel's chief financial officer, said in an interview.
       "The personal computer market is decisively recovering, although con-sumers, not companies, are doing most of the buying," Smith noted.
       The upbeat third-quarter report is the latest evidence of growing optimism at the big chip maker. In July, Intel reported that its second-quarter results were stronger than it had expected, even though sales were down 15% from the previous year.
       Yet the downward trend seemed to be broken, cheering both Wall Street and the technology industry.
       Then, at the end of August, Intel pointed to stronger demand for its microprocessors and chipsets and raised its revenue projection for the third quarter by $500 million, to about $9 billion.
       Investors anticipate that technology companies, led by Intel, will lead the way out of the recovery. Earnings estimates for all the companies in the Standard & Poor's 500-stock index are projected to be down 25% in the third quarter,compared with a year earlier, according to Thomson Reuters. But technology company profits are expected to be down only 14%.
       In July, analysts had expected technology sector profits to be off 20% in the third quarter.

Electronics sector to change strategy

2009-10-13T22:18:00.001-07:00

       The electric and electronics industry wil use the Bt4-billion budget proposed under the government's second stimulus package to enhance its competitiveness by upgrading from original-equipment to original-design manufacturing.
       The three-year model scheme starting next year will concentrate on developing four important areas, which are product design, the supply chain, design-skilled staff and infrastructure, Katiya Greigarn, president of the Thai Association of Electrical and Electronics Industries, said yesterday.
       To do original-design manufacturing,the industry needs to adopt advanced technology and improve the skills of its workforce to create high-value and differentiated products.
       The industry normally requires 10,000 new workers per year, assuming annual growth of 10 per cent.
       "We have to avoid the tough competition in common products because our wages are not cheap anymore. However, the government's support is needed to encourage manufacturers to do their own research and develoment as well as train skillled workers to support leading-edge technology," he said.
       The association will collaborate with the National Electronics and Comuter Technology Centre and universitie to help local manufacturers conduct R&D to serve three main functions-user-centre desig n, universal design and eco-design.
       Forming a cluster for the industry will help reduce maufacturers' logistics costs and facilitate their developing the necessary infrastructure together including modern laboratories.
       Without state support ffor the industry's development, it will be difficult to maintain exports like now because of the tough global competition, he said.
       "These steps require time. If we still do notheing, I can't see how we can survive in the futrue," he added.

STYLE OVER SUBSTANCE

2009-10-11T02:00:00.000-07:00

       New Asus notebook rouses the tech style council By Richard Mcleish
       There has been no shortage of ultra thin notebooks on shop shelves lately, and Asus has joined the action with the release of the UX50V. With its strong emphasis on style, the model shakes up the low-voltage class of notebooks, jostling competitively with Acer's Timelines and Lenovo's ThinkPads. Asus seems to be upping the style ante, but the question remains as to whether this is what consumers want. Let's take a closer look at the new offering.
       Visually, the unit seduces on first sight.Its clean piano-black lines taper to a pinch around the edges, making it appear more svelte than its 33mm thickness, and at 2.6kg, it's like a bulkier version of the recently released Asus Eee PC 1005HC netbook. The glossy top screams "fingerprints", even before it is taken out of the box. The matt bottom half might have been a less stylish, but more practical option for the whole case.
       Inside, however, the unit is less dazzling.The Intel Core2 Solo mobile SU3500 processor brags low-voltage usage but barely pips the Atom processors found in newer netbooks, and is considerably less powerful than Core2 Duo processors.
       The 15.6-inch LCD screen with a 16:9 aspect ratio is very watchable, especially for movies, bettering 15.4-inch models that offer a 16:10 ratio.
       The model gains ground with the inclusion of an nVidia Geforce G 105M graphics card that offers smooth 1080p HD playback, but a Blu-ray drive is not included. The benefit of a discrete GPU is that it can be switched off in the system tray to save battery life, but it seems out of place among this model's other more midrange components.
       WORKING
       There's no denying the slick usability of the model. The full-size "MosaicGlow"keyboard has a nice big Enter key and a full numeric pad, and illuminates in lowlight.
       The well-designed hinge holds the screen in position nicely, but the glossy finish can make it hard to read with the reflections it picks up, especially during outdoor daytime usage.
       The large touchpad easily facilitates vertical and horizontal scrolling, making web browsing and document editing simple.The good looking button below the touchpad is badly positioned and hard to press,which is disappointing considering the calibre of the design elsewhere on the unit. The drive release button and the WiFi on/off are also a little tacky and detracting.
       Connectivity ports are largely housed at the rear of the unit, maintaining the clean tapered lines. A memory card port and USB socket are hidden under a flexible plastic lid on the left for easy access, but a headphone jack would be useful there,or even better still, at the front.
       The Altec Lansing SRS speakers offer decent sound in a small room, coping with both the bass of electro and the soaring treble of classical music.
       The press kit claims the unit has six hours of battery life on low energy settings,which comes closer to four with more normal usage, below standard netbook battery life. The extended battery life that would justify the choice of the low-voltage CPU is non-existant, tilting the performance to cost ratio out of favour. The unit stays cool, and runs quietly, which is important for users in tropical locations.
       CONCLUSION
       With an optimistic asking price of just under 40,000 baht, the unit is targeted at standard home users who are willing to pay extra for good design. That said, the clean lines and slick black finish are quite seductive. However, when compared with other models in its class, even the MacBook Air, it wanes in the performance stakes. If aesthetics are your weakness, the UX50V may well entice you, but the rest of us may keep our wallets in our pockets.
       The Asus UX50V, priced at 39,900 baht, is available from Hardware House, Pantip Plaza, Phetchaburi Road,call 02-685-8936.

THAI IT SECTOR SLIPS IN COMPLETITIVENESS RANKINGS

2009-10-08T21:02:00.000-07:00

       Thailand's IT industry slipped to 49th in the 2009 IT Industry Competitiveness Index from 42nd last year, due to declines in both its foreign-investment policy ranking and PC ownership ranking, which are heavily weighted indicators.
       Within Asia, Thailand ranked 11th, behind India, 44th in the world, and ahead of the Philippines, 51st, and Vietnam, 56th.
       In the study issued by the Economist Intelligence Unit on a BSA sponsorship, Thailand's foreign-investment policy ranking dipped to 35th, from 29th last year. Despite an improvement in personal computer ownership, its relative ranking declined five places, from 47th in 2008 to 52nd this year.
       Thailand's overall business environment was ranked 30th in the world, a slight drop from 28th last year. Thailand is ranked 29th in the world on support for IT development. The ranking for IT human capital moved up from 46th to 43rd, while the R&D environment ranking also rose from 59th to 58th.
       However, the ranking for legal environment dropped from 56th to 57th.
       Australia, Singapore, Japan, Taiwan and South Korea are among the top 20 countries globally for having the most competitive IT industries, according to the study.
       "In today's economic climate, it is critical that governments in Asia-Pacific continue to support the growth of a strong technology sector. The IT sector remains an important engine of economic growth, and economies in the region that are supporting innovation and taking steps to stimulate technology sector output are placing themselves in a strong position to accelerate economic recovery," Carlo Parlade, BSA's director of software policy for Asia-Pacific, said yesterday.
       "The study shows that economies that have strong legal frameworks for the protection of intellectual property [IP] are generally the IT leaders and score higher in the index.
       "In contrast, economies where IP protection has not been well enforced are not traditionally seen as innovators. Some rely instead on their low-cost labour markets to remain competitive but this is hard to sustain over time.
       "By improving on the factors that contribute to IT competitiveness, Asian economies will not only improve their ranking but also generate long-term economic growth."

       "The study shows that economies that have strong legal frameworks for the protection of intellectual property [IP] are generally the IT leaders and score higher in the index."

Consult the sommelier in your pocket

2009-10-02T21:20:00.001-07:00

       Shopping for wine is a lot like parenting a teenager. You feel stupid when you're in the middle of it,and when you finally emerge, you're desperately ready for a drink.
       There is, alas, no app for raising teenagers. But mobile software developers have begun aiming at oenophiles, and in so doing, they have established one of the more useful categories of wireless apps.
       Appropriately enough, choosing the right one can be puzzling and tedious.Some of the refined entries in the current vintage include Cor.kz, Wine Enthusiast Guide, Nat Decants Food & Wine Matcher and Pair It!. I'd give them a rating of 85,with an asterisk. They're fairly good now,and they should age nicely.
       Before digging into the details, though,consider the overall value of these services for a moment. Let's say you're at your favourite wine shop with about 15 minutes to spare, and you want a bottle that will make your dinner guests coo,without maxing out your credit card.
       The shop owner is helping someone near the Mouton Rothschild, and the other employees are 23-year-olds with extensive beer-stocking skills. Rather than choosing a random bottle or asking the beer guys, you can now just reach for the sommelier in your cell phone.
       From there you have a couple of options. Some apps, like Wine Enthusiast,let you find the most highly rated wines at specific price levels, so you can quickly browse the store - or, if you're in a restaurant, the wine list - for suitable matches.
       If you have Cor.kz or, to a lesser extent,Nat Decants, you can reverse the process,and look through the wine list or shelves until you find a promising label. Then it's a matter of doing a quick check on its rating.
       The second approach has limits, simply because it takes too long to type in,say,"2003 Hochheimer Koenigin Victoriaberg Riesling Beerenauslese," to say nothing of the time it might take to click through the ratings and then move onto another bottle.
       Smartphone mavens are already wondering why you can't just use the phone's camera to scan the bottle's bar code and have the app display the wine's rating? In the coming weeks, you'll be able to get fairly close to that bit of grape-soaked geekery, thanks to a new feature from Cor.kz.
       But first, more about the core features of this app, which will soon be available to BlackBerry users and owners of Android devices like T-Mobile's MyTouch 3G.
       Cor.kz stands on the shoulders of an Internet giant, cellartracker.com, which houses more than a million reviews by roughly 82,000 wine aficionados. Cor.kz can also help users manage their wine cellar inventory, but it is perhaps best used by those who just want to buy more intelligently.
       Type in the name of the wine you are considering - Del Dotto, say - and Cor.kz retrieves everything in CellarTracker's data base about the wine.
       This can be a blessing and a curse.Wines from Del Dotto, a small but muchbeloved vintner in Napa Valley, California, yield 581 tasting notes. If you type something more specific into your iPhone, like "2005 Del Dotto Cabernet,"Cor.kz returns 95 matches.
       Some of these results include a numerical rating. To save yourself wasted clicks, choose those listings. The rating represents the average from CellarTracker's reviewers, and those entries will also include detailed reviews and retail prices.

CLARIFICATION OF INCONSISTENT INFORMATION ORDERED

2009-10-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

       The Stock Exchange of Thailand yesterday ordered Solution Corner (1998), or SLC, to provide more information regarding the takeover of its shares by an information-technology business group.
       The company initially informed the SET it had not been contacted by any group regarding the takeover but later said its major shareholders had agreed to sell all of their shares, amounting to a 65-per-cent stake, to Derake Vongchinsri on Wednesday. The two major shareholders are Nitat and Wantanee Maneesilasan, who are also managing director and deputy managing director, respectively.
       The SET therefore ordered SLC, which is listed with the Market for Alternative Investment, to provide additional details and strictly comply with disclosure guidelines. SLC's stock yesterday was posted with an "Alert" sign, warning investors the company was required to provide sufficient information.
       Later, SLC said the shares were sold to three investors instead of a single buyer, details of which were shown in the SET Market Analysis and Reporting Tool on Tuesday, Wednesday and yesterday.
       The information disclosed to the SET and investors was inconsistent, with significant details changed in a short period of time. As the information regarding the takeover is considered significant information and can have a significant effect on the share price and investors' decisions, a listed company and its management team have a duty and responsibility to disclose correct, complete and sufficient information to investors.
       In order for shareholders and investors to have more information regarding a takeover, the SET is requiring SLC to provide more details by next Thursday, as follows:
       First, why SLC informed the SET on Monday that it had not been contacted by any group regarding a takeover but then later informed the SET that Nitat and Wantanee had agreed to sell all of their shares, equal to 65 per cent of paid-up capital, to Derake.
       Second, why SLC informed the SET on Wednesday that Derake was the only buyer of SLC shares from the Maneesilasan Group but then yesterday said there were three buyers: Thanapan Vongchinsri, Thanaporn Piyavetvirat and Polasit Pumiwasana.
       The SET wants SLC to explain this in case SLC changed material information in a short time and to understand why SLC did not disclose all of the information to the SET at one time.
       Third, SLC informed the SET that Thanaporn was a dermatologist at Asoke Skin Hospital and Polasit Pumiwasana was self-employed as a golf-equipment trader. However, the SET has learned Polasit is actually a director and executive at Aqua, a subsidiary of Sunshine.
       The SET wants clear information about the occupations, professional experience and job positions of the aforementioned investors.
       Fourth, SLC informed the SET that all three buyers were independent and not connected persons. However, the SET has found that Derake and Thanapan, both surnamed Vongchinsri, may be related to Sunshine's major shareholder and executive, who is also a major shareholder in Aqua, where Polasit is a director and executive.
       The SET wants SLC to confirm that all three buyers are independent and not connected.
       Fifth, SLC informed the SET that after the disposition of shares, the major shareholders would continue with the company in the same positions. However, SLC later disclosed that these shareholders had agreed to continue in their management positions at SLC for not less than three months, for the sake of an orderly transfer of work to the new management.
       The SET wants SLC to explain why it disclosed incomplete and inconsistent information and clarify who the new management team will be or which group of shareholders the new management team will represent.
       SLC yesterday closed at Bt5.30, up 6 per cent from Wednesday.

Take utmost care with BIOS update

2009-09-29T22:12:00.000-07:00

       Lurking deep in the motherboard of every PC is a small program known as the Basic Input Output System (BIOS), a vital component to the computer's ability to boot up.
       Before any computer can run an operating system, it needs to first run BIOS.It's commonplace these days to update standard operating systems, but fairly rare to do anything of the sort with BIOS.
       However, there are times when a BIOS update is needed: for example, if your computer isn't capable of recognising hardware additions. But that upgrade comes with risks. If done incorrectly, it can wipe a motherboard.
       Thus, a BIOS update should only be undertaken after careful consideration and in certain circumstances, such as when there are hardware problems or compatibility issues between a computer's energy-saving mode and a new operating system, says Christian Helmiss ofPC Welt magazine.Gigabyte, a Germany-based motherboard manufacturer, recommends approaching any update carefully and never interrupting one once started. The update involves overwriting information fundamental to the computer's ability to start. If things go wrong, the computer may no longer be able to boot up.
       That will happen if an update is interrupted and the new BIOS program is only partially written onto the computer,says Thomas Littschwager of Chip magazine. If that happens, a computer user needs to send the motherboard back to the manufacturer so the BIOS chip can be swapped out.
       To avoid that problem, make sure a computer has a steady power supply before starting any BIOS upgrade and never shut down while the upgrade is underway.
       Another basic: pick the right version of BIOS to download. Helmiss says the exact model number is usually needed to pick out the right upgrade. That number can usually be found in the motherboard's handbook or on the hardware itself. During the boot-up process, computers usually display information about the manufacturer, the model number and the BIOS version in use.
       Updates themselves are usually available from either the computer or motherboard manufacturer.
       Littschwager says conducting the update using old-fashioned DOS is the only tried and true method. Using Windows runs the risk of a setting not matching and the whole process going awry.
       Helmiss recommends backing up a computer's memory and storing all data on external drives before a BIOS upgrade.A mistake might not lose all a computer's stored data, but could make it inaccessible.

IT markets encouraged despite low GDP growth

2009-09-29T22:10:00.000-07:00

       Although Thailand's slumping economy means it is currently experiencing the lowest GDP growth in the Asean region, its purchasing power remains strong, with the kingdom ranking second behind only Malaysia, according toGFK Retail and Technology (Thailand) Country Manager Chaiyarit Piyabootr.
       Chaiyarit said Thai consumer spending on IT remains strong because of the market size and quick adoption of new technology.
       However consumers remain cautious about spending while they wait to see if the economy will improve.This is expected to begin in this year's fourth quarter and the government's stimulus package should boost consumer spending confidence.
       In the first seven months of this year, compared with 2009, sales of IT products in the retail channel declined 13 percent, while prices have increased 9.5 percent. The price rises have failed to offset the dip in sales, leading to a sales value decrease of 4.7 percent.
       But in the same time frame, the notebook in retail market did enjoy growth - the only IT product to do so.Sales increased 14.9 percent in January to July of this year, compared to the same period in 2008, although the sales value growth was just 3.2 percent, due to a 10.1 percent price drop as a result of fierce competition.
       Veerasak Chaiyaroj, Division Manager, IT Division at GFK, added that this year, for the overall Mobile PC market (Retail + B to B+ Event sale) is about 800,000 units. This is a growth of 7 percent in unit terms and 5percent in value terms, with the best-selling low-end models retailing for 20,000-22,000 baht.
       Last year, the mobile computer market grew 20 percent, which shows the extent of the economic decline.
       The situation, while unpredictable,is expected to see a modest improvement next year, with a projected 10 percent growth in unit sales.
       Veerasak continued that in the first six months of 2010, netbooks should make up 20 percent of the overall mobile computer market.
       However unit prices for netbooks are now overlapping with budget notebook models, at around 13,000 to 14,000 baht, which is expected to reduce the overall market share of mobile computers to 15 percent.
       The desktop market, meanwhile, remains stable.
       Unit sales are expected to grow 1 percent next year, with a negative sales value growth of 2 to 3 percent.
       In January-July in retail outlets, compared with the same period in 2008,desktop sales value declined 5.9 percent, while units sales dropped 5.3 percent and prices reduced 0.5 percent.
       The price plunge was due to fierce competition, with some models available for as little as 5,900 to 6,900 baht without monitors. However the average selling price was 15,000 baht.
       For the total Desktop PC market demand 2009(Retail + B to B + Event sale) is about 1,010,000 units. Growth 1 percent in unit terms and -2 percent in value terms.
       Veerasak said:"We believe there is still a demand for desktops from upcountry users and in schools.
       "Furthermore, new technology and developments such as Windows 7 will help create momentum, leading to market growth in the first quarter of 2010."

More users getting the instant message

2009-09-29T22:08:00.000-07:00

       Thailand is the world's seventh-ranked user of Windows Live Messenger, which points to high revenue potential for the mobile version once 3G is fully rolled out.
       The ranking relates to the number of instant messages sent per month, per user, with Thais sending an average of 839 messages each month through Windows Live Messenger, said Craig LawSmith, Southeast Asia Marketing Director,Online Service Group at Microsoft.
       The six countries ahead of Thailand are Mexico, where users send an average of 978 messages per month, followed by Brazil with 963 messages, Taiwan (927),Spain (903), Netherlands (867) and Italy (846).
       Microsoft was quick to localise Windows Live Messenger in Thailand,offering geographically relevant content on top of continuing worldwide innovations such as the nudge - introduced with MSN Messenger 7.0 in 2005- enabling users to get the attention of, and interact with, their favourite chat partners.
       Law-Smith noted that Windows Live Messenger already has 5.3 million subscribers, and this figure is growing at a rate of 25 percent year-on-year.
       "As of May, on average, each Windows Live user spends 533 minutes per month using the programme. This shows a high user engagement.
       "High-engagement users with mass volume will help us monetise by offering a better return on investment foradvertisers.
       Furthermore, once 3G is up and running in Thailand, an increase in people using Windows Live Messenger on there mobiles is expected, bringing yet more revenue from advertising and network operators.
       Competition among operators and handset manufacturers should lower prices for consumers, which in turn will help make Messenger more affordable and thus accessible.
       "In Jakarta, more and more people are using Messenger on their mobiles as a cheaper alternative to the normal short message service [SMS]," said LawSmith.
       He continued that the growth of social networking sites - which help people to connect and share photos, videos,music, documents, links and so on has increased the amount of channels and accounts requiring login, so integration between instant messaging and social networking is attractive.
       Already Windows Live Messenger has more than 20 web partners, including Facebook, Twitter, Digg, Flickr, and others. Data shows that Facebook notifications account for 3 percent of all Hotmail messages.
       "To survive in this business, we have to add value for users and integrate with other web partners to simplify connections for customers," said Law-Smith.
       "This goes beyond instant messaging or emailing or social networking; it's about making everything as simple as possible for consumers.
       "Even in the economic crisis, the users also use IM more to connect with their friends and family or for finding jobs, so it show how IM plays an important role for communication tools."

Intel boss confident of market rise

2009-09-29T22:07:00.001-07:00

       The worldwide personal computer market is pulling out of its slump quickly and could defy predictions by growing this year, Intel Corp CEO Paul Otellini said last week.
       Otellini's comments were more bullish than many analysts. Market research firms IDC and Gartner have both predicted a year-over-year decline in PC shipments in 2009, which would be the first such drop since 2001.
       The market has been hindered by a clampdown in corporate spending on new PCs, and some computer companies are already looking to next year for an upturn. Sales of cheap netbook computers have been a bright spot, but those machines ring up low profits for PC and chip makers. Intel is the world's top maker of microprocessors.
       Otellini said he expects PC sales to be "flat to slightly up" this year from last.He said the rebound is fueled by the fact computers are "indispensable; something people need in their daily lives."
       "I think that the market is poised for a resurgence," he said.
       Researchers at Gartner Inc predict a 2 percent decline in PC shipments for 2009, though that's better than a few months ago, when the group was forecasting a drop of 6 percent.
       "Things are looking much better in the second half," Gartner research director George Shiffler said.
       But Shiffler wasn't quite willing to go as far as Otellini did. He expects secondhalf shipments to be flat from last year,not strong enough to push the entire year into positive territory.
       "It wouldn't surprise me if we did see positive growth, but that's not our call at the moment," Shiffler said."I think that's more of a best-case scenario."
       The October arrival of Windows 7 is one wild card that could push PC shipments higher than expected. Retailers could see a surge of interest in Microsoft's updated operating system. The improving economy may also bolster the PC industry over the next few months.
       In either case, stronger PC shipments may mean fewer bargains for consumers than during last year's dire holiday season, Shiffler said. But deals won't disappear altogether. Rival manufacturer still slash prices to stay competitive.
       Intel shares rose 8c to $19.62 in afternoon trading. Shares of rival Advanced Micro Devices Inc gained 30 cents,5.2 percent, to $6.11.
       Among PC makers, Dell Inc fell 28 cents,1.8 percent, to $15.73, while Hewlett-Packard Co. gained 68 cents,1.5 percent, to $47.03.
       Since Otellini proclaimed in April that PC sales had "bottomed out" after a miserable holiday season, he has been more aggressive in his forecasts than even Intel's biggest customers. This has raised questions about how much of the recovery in Intel's sales has been caused by computer makers restocking depleted chip supplies and how much has come from end users buying more machines.
       Still, Otellini's remarks Tuesday help explain Intel's decision last month to raise its third-quarter revenue guidance to $8.8 billion (296 billion baht) to $9.2 billion (309 billion baht). The previous range was $8.1 billion (272 billion baht)to $8.9 billion (299 billion baht).
       Otellini also used his presentation at the Intel Developers' Forum to show off chips built on so-called 22-nanometer technology, which refers to the evershrinking size of circuitry on the most advanced chips.
       Those chips are still being developed in Intel's factories and won't go into production until 2011.

Smart city makes sci-fi fantasies come true

2009-09-29T22:05:00.000-07:00

       LifeinIncheon, South Korea, embraces technology to the fullest, creating a more efficient and environmentally-friendly society. Story and pictures by Borisuthiboun Dasaneyavaja
       If you have ever watched the sci-fi movies, no doubt you will have seen visions of life where all technology is put to use with a single remote control. But such scenes may no longer be the stuff of movies, especially if you live in Incheon city.
       Incheon, the newly-built Korea city,offers its residents a high-tech lifestyle with online community services, hightech schools and green energy.
       Incheon Metropolitan City Mayor Sang-Soo Ahn said:"Future cities that operate with cutting-edge IT will improve public safety and security, commerce,healthcare, manufacturing and education and benefit consumers.
       "We are certain that this initiative will significantly enhance the quality of people's lives, build a stronger governance model and attract more business and investment to Incheon."
       To fulfil this dream, Incheon has teamed up with Cisco to lay out its IT infrastructure network and implement Cisco Smart+Connected Communities solutions that helped utilise the network and its devices capabilities accordingly.
       In transforming the Incheon Free Economic Zone (IFEZ), Cisco has provided its experience, expertise and networking technologies for the globalisation of Incheon Metropolitan City.
       A key element of the project was the development of advanced "u-City" technologies, designed to create a unified,common Internet Protocol (IP) network platform for the project.
       In order to carry out this initiative, a Cisco u-City Global Centre will be established in Songdo. This service centre also offers comprehensive integrated solutions to help citizens experience a technology-enabled lifestyle in work,health care, education and at home.
       Cisco has deployed video networking technology and energy management software tools city-wide and melded municipal systems, such as education, health care, transportation and hospitality, into a common network.
       Its Smart+Connected Communities software has been used to address the growing need for sustainable energy by providing a network-enabled blueprint for successful, smart cities of the future that run on networked information, according to a Cisco executive who gave a brief tour of the fully equipped the Founder's Club, a penthouse apartment in Songdo.
       He added that one of the key components of the solutions was Smart Connected Buildings that provided the intelligence to interconnect and enable building systems such as heating, ven-tilation and cooling (HVAC), lighting,electrical, security, and renewables over the IP network to build smart and energyefficient buildings of the future.
       This provides operators and owners of these buildings with new ways of managing how energy is used.
       Smart buildings are equipped with an integrated array of sensors that can also monitor such things as the amount of sunlight coming into a room and adjust indoor lighting accordingly. It can turn on the appropriate lights, equipment and environmental controls.
       Residents will be able to chat with their children's teachers, consult doctors and apply for city permits and licenses via monitors in their apartments.
       Besides smart buildings, the Songdo International School also offers a smart school. Children will be offered Internet and tele-present solutions and the locations of the students will be known at all times as part of the school's safety and security policy - although.Old city vs new city
       As Incheon is a new city, the data network and IT infrastructure should be easy to implement and install - which would not be the case for an old city like Bangkok, said Metropolis secretary-general Josep Roig.
       However, he said old cities could still be smart but they would require collaboration between the city council and private sector to study and utilise existing IT networks.
       He added:"Information technology has become the fourth utility in cities.
       "City leaders and urban planners need to consider the critical contribution that information and communication technology provides to the solution of urban challenges.
       "The products and services are in place; the challenge is to get people to use them."The future city
       Wim Elfrink, chief globalisation officer and executive vice president,
       Cisco Services,said:"The Internet is quickly expanding from mobile devices and computers as it begins to encompass not only the consumer and business internet,but now the industrialisation of the Internet.
       "Cities that are run on information will transform the quality of life for citizens, drive economic growth and improve city services and management.
       "Particularly in these tough economic times, cities that use the network to accelerate and multiply their infrastructure investments will be those who not only survive challenges,but thrive and lead into the future."
       Elfrink added:"The network is also key to addressing one of the 21st century's most significant issues environmental sustainability.
       "While technology contributes to about 2 percent of the world's carbon emissions, it can be a substantial part of the solution.
       "It is estimated that technology can reduce carbon emissions by 15 percent by 2020; an environmental savings of 1 ton of CO2 per capita that translates into $946 billion (31.8 trillion baht) in financial savings.
       "Additionally, cities that run on information can improve energy efficiency by 30 percent in 20 years."

Tariff cut to spark new investment in 2010

2009-09-29T22:03:00.000-07:00

       Thailand is in line for more investment in the electrical and electronics industry early next year, when Southeast Asian economies are due to become a single production base.
       The elimination of import tariffs within the region and trade facilitation under the Asean Free Trade Area (Afta) will allow freer flows of electrical and electronic parts and components, said Charuek Hengrasmee, the president of the Electrical and Electronics Institute.
       "The Thai industry has already been strong in products such as hard disk drives (HDD) and several home appliances," said Mr Charuek.
       "(International) players will look at Asean as a single production base with Thailand positioned as the manufacturing centre of the region."
       Katiya Greigarn, chairman of the Electrical, Electronics Industry Club at the Federation of Thai Industries, agreed but said Thai officials must work with Asean counterparts to simplify standards and eliminate non-tariff barriers.
       For instance, exports of electronic and electrical products to Singapore face about 100 industrial standards, he said.
       "Certainly, Asean integration into a sole production base will benefit Thailand, especially for products we are competitive in - HDD, air-conditioners, refrigerators and microwaves," said Dr Katiya.
       Asean has become the second-largest export market for Thai-made electrical and electronic goods - after Europe replacing the US and Japan, which have seen shipments plunge, he added.
       Meanwhile, the Board of Investment (BoI) has outlined strategies to propel Thailand as a parts provider for Asean by launching initiatives such as networking, business matching and trade show subsidies, said Chanin Khaochan, director of the BoI Unit for Industrial Linkage Development (Build).
       "[But] local producers should be more active in building their reputation and expanding marketing networks with Asean. The expansion would increase their customer base and develop strengths to be the region's top player,"he said."Our weakness is insufficient R&D and limited co-operation with education institutions for human resource development."
       The sector has recovered from a steep slump, when demand sank by 70%.
       "Capacity utilisation now averages 50-60%. We hope to see further improvement next year from inventory restocking,the improving global economy and effects of the government's economic stimulus package," said Mr Chanin.
       New investment is expected to arrive with the improving business environment. The industry generally attracts more than 100 billion baht a year, but investment has dipped to 30 billion this year to date.
       The stronger yen will encourage Japanese companies to invest abroad - including in Thailand, where production is cheaper, he added.
       About 150 Japanese manufacturers are expected to join Metalex 2009 from Nov 19-22 at Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre.

Xerox makes a big services bet

2009-09-29T22:02:00.000-07:00

       Xerox Corp has agreed to buy Affiliated Computer Services Inc for about $5.75 billion in cash and stock, the companies announced yesterday.
       The deal calls for Xerox to pay $63.11 for each ACS shares and will create a $22-billion business that will mesh both printing and copying services with the information technology and outsourcing components of Dallas-based ACS.
       "Acquiring ACS helps us expand our business and benefit from stronger revenue and earnings growth," Xerox CEO Ursula Burns said in a statement.
       ACS, a $6.5 billion company, had fiscal 2009 revenue growth of 6%and new business signings of $1 billion in annual recurring revenue.
       ACS stockholders will receive $18.60 per share in cash plus 4.935 Xerox shares for each ACS share they own.
       Xerox, based in Norwalk, Connecticut, will also take on $2 billion of ACS's debt and issue $300 million of convertible preferred stock to ACS's Class B shareholders.

Hewlett-Packard dumps EDS brand

2009-09-29T22:00:00.000-07:00

       The US computer giant Hewlett-Packard announced on Wednesday that business services titan EDS, which it acquired a year ago, has been renamed HP Enterprise Services.
       "The name change marks the next major step in a year-long integration of EDS into HP and emphasises the growing global role of enterprise technology services in HP's portfolio," HP said.
       HP also said its Technology Solutions Group, responsible for servers, storage,software, networking and technology services for businesses and government organisations, would be renamed the HP Enterprise Business.
       HP bought the Texas-based business services outsourcing giant EDS in August as part of a $13.9 billion deal aimed at creating a global powerhouse in the computer services sector to compete against IBM.

New rules a boost to tech companies

2009-09-29T21:59:00.000-07:00

       US accounting rule makers approved a change in reporting regulations on Wednesday that might benefit technology companies such as Apple Inc, allowing them to recognise more revenue when products are sold.
       The change, which analysts expect to provide a more accurate financial snapshot of companies such as Apple, Palm Inc and Cisco Systems Inc, was approved in a 5-0 vote by the Financial Accounting Standards Board.
       The change relates to the way revenue is recognised for products - such as smartphones - that combine hardware and software. Previously, such devices were governed by accounting rules that applied to software.
       Under accounting guidelines for software, revenue is recorded over a product's expected life cycle, typically years.
       "If you had a product that had both a hardware element to it and a software element ... if the software was critical to it, then you had to follow the software rules," said Brian Minnihan, a partner in the technology practice of accounting firm BDO Seidman.
       The change takes effect for fiscal years beginning on or after June 15,2010, but earlier application is permitted.
       Minnihan said some companies might choose adopt the new rule as early as the current quarter.
       Analysts say the accounting change will likely have the most impact on Apple,whose sales of the popular iPhone has not been fully reflected in its quarterly results.
       Under existing rules, Apple booked sales of the iPhone over two years. Similar treatment was used for Apple TV.
       But Apple had begun reporting nonGAAP results to provide a better picture of its sales and profit. For example, in the June quarter, the company reported GAAP revenue of $8.3 billion and nonGAAP revenue of $9.7 billion. It reported a GAAP profit of $1.35 a share and a non-GAAP profit of $2.14 a share.
       Apple, which supported the rule change, declined to comment. But analysts expect the new guidelines to allow Apple to recognise far more revenue from the iPhone.
       "I don't know if we're going to get 100%, but it's certainly going to be higher than it is now," said Kaufman Bros analyst Shaw Wu.
       But he does not expect the rule change to significantly impact the valuation of the company."Most professional investors were already valuing this thing off non-GAAP or free cash flow."

DELL EXPANDS INTO TECHNOLOGY SERVICES

2009-09-25T00:42:00.000-07:00

       Giant computer-maker Dell will spend US$3.9 billion (Bt131 billion) to acquire technology-services company Perot Systems in a bid to expand beyond the PC business and compete more aggressively with Hewlett-Packard, which recently bought another tech-services company founded by Texas billionaire H Ross Perot.
       Dell on Monday said it would offer $30 a share in cash for Perot Systems, a 68-per-cent premium over its closing prices last Friday.
       Former presidential candidate H Ross Perot Sr, 79, serves as chairman emeritus of Perot Systems, which he founded in 1988. An April regulatory filing showed Perot and related trusts controlled at least 25 per cent of the company's stock, although the beneficiary of those shares was not clear. The company did not respond to a request for comment on Perot's stake.
       Perot made a fortune from founding Electronic Data Systems in 1962 and selling it to General Motors in a 1984 deal worth $2.5 billion. Hewlett-Packard bought EDS last year for $13.9 billion as it, too, tried to augment its services offerings and diversity beyond hardware.
       In a conference call with analysts, Dell founder and CEO Michael Dell said Perot Systems would serve as an "anchor" acquisition for a global informationa-technology-services business.
       Perot Systems, which is based in Texas, would bring Dell more than 1,000 customers, including the United States military and the Homeland Security Department. About 48 per cent of Perot Systems' revenue comes from the healthcare industry and 25 per cent from the government. Last year, Perot Systems earned $117 million from sales totalling $2.8 billion.
       Dell's services business is more basic than those of its larher competitors, and its revenue comes mainly from the hard-hit PC business. As a result, Dell's profits have been slumping and were down 23 per cent year on year in the second quarter.
       Perot Systems would add consulting and other kinds of computing services, such as "systems integration", to Dell's line-up.
       "This would, at least from a product standpoint, make them definitely more competitive with HP and IBM," said Kaufman Brothers analyst Shaw Wu. "It's a step in the right direction."
       Wu said Dell's hardware business could benefit from exposure to Perot Systems' customers seeking one provider for multiple technology needs. Combining the businesses could also help Dell find new ways to cut costs.
       However, Dell's technical services business would still be relatively small; EDS has revenue of $21 billion before HP bought it, while IBM's services revenue was $59 billion last year.

Intel CEO looks beyond the PC

2009-09-25T00:41:00.001-07:00

       Intel Corp rolled out a software developers' platform on Tuesday and stressed it would step up efforts to boost revenue from consumer electronics and other markets beyond its core, maturing personal computer business.
       Chief executive Paul Otellini expects personal computer sales volume this year to "likely" at least match 2008's,underscoring growing expectations that consumer spending is driving a mild recovery for the depressed market.
       But with analysts expecting much of the fastest future growth for Intel to come from non-PC arenas, Otellini said on Tuesday that cell phones, software and so-called "embedded" chips would be crucial.
       "We're flushing out the software side,"Otellini told reporters in a briefing."In these new spaces, in CE (consumer electronics) and in handhelds in particular,and to some extent in netbooks, the Intel side of the world is lacking the viral apps development that you see, say, on the iPhone."
       The potential handset market is huge.Mobile phone unit shipments are expected to hit 1.1 billion in 2009 and be worth $217.2 billion, according to IDC analyst Francisco Jeronimo.
       Intel, which in June announced a mobile partnership with Nokia, is targeting small, Internet-connected devices and handsets with an Atom-based platform code-named "Moorestown", due out in 2010, and another, smaller Atom-based platform code-named "Medfield", due out in 2011.
       Otellini on Tuesday also talked about embedded electronics: microchips in everything from car audio and communications systems to refrigerators that can hoop up to and synchronise with computers and smartphones.
       Intel says that market represents a $15 billion opportunity.
       Otellini said BMW and Daimler would use a version of its Atom chip for invehicle information and entertainment devices beginning 2012.
       And the company plans to host a software applications development platform for its lower-end Atom microprocessor, which will allow developers to write programs that work across different devices and operating systems.
       Otellini, who said the apps initiative would take more than a year to really get going, said Taiwan's Acer and Asus,and PC maker Dell Inc, would support the platform.
       Intel itself has no plans to get into the apps store business. The company instead will provide the framework for developers to write software that can then be sold through others' stores.
       But some analysts were sceptical, and said that software was not Intel's core competency.
       "The jury's out. The challenge for anyone doing an app store is to get developers to say this is a platform worth developing for, because you've got Apple,you've got Palm, everybody's got an app store and software developers only have so much bandwidth," said Insight 64 analyst Nathan Brookwood.
       Intel has made 10 software acquisitions over the past two years, including its most recent, June acquisition of Wind River Systems, a company focused on mobile software.
       On Intel's core business, Otellini seemed to echo industry expectations of a flat to potentially better 2009 compared with last year, when PC sales fell off a cliff.
       He said the PC industry "remains alive and well in the middle of the worst US recession in 70 years, with unit sales seen at flat to slightly higher this year versus last."

A piece of the action

2009-09-25T00:39:00.000-07:00

       And the crowd went wild as Steve "President for Life" Jobs of Apple Computer came out on the stage to emcee the now-annual September music sales pitch, with loads of new stuff; in the biggest news, the iPod Nano got a video camera and FM radio, and Steve showed off the new iTunes Ver 9 management software; he also showed off the iPhone OS 3.1, available for download, which actually recommends apps you might like, has better synching for music and video, and lets you save video from email attachments into your playlist, aka Camera Roll.
       Apple cut the prices of its old iPod models just hours ahead of announcing new iPod models; the price of the 32-gigabyte iPod Touch was cut $120 to $279, or 9,500 baht in real money; a 120-gig iPod Classic now costs $229, a $20 cut by the generous folks who run Apple. Palm introduced a smaller,cheaper smartphone than the successful Pre; the Pixi, as it's called, is aimed at younger users; it's slimmer, has a smaller screen, but features a Qwerty keyboard,8GB of memory and a two-megapixel camera.
       US President Barack Obama, in a controversial school-time speech to most US children, advised them to be careful about what they put on Facebook and other social networks;"Whatever you do, it will be pulled up again later somewhere in your life," he warned.
       First Solar of America signed a contract with the Chinese government to build the world's largest solar power plant in Inner Mongolia; assuming it is built, the Ordos City plant will push out 2,000 megawatts of electricity,around four times the size of the projects being built by the US Army in the Mojave Desert and by First Solar in California;the China project isn't near anything much; Ordos City is a coal-producing,eight-year-old, planned low-carbon development with about 1.5 million residents, roughly 800km west of Beijing.
       Networking firm Huawei of China,which has suffered a scandal or two in its Thailand work, was stung to the quick by mean stories in the Australian media that it might be tied to the Chinese espionage services; Guo Fulin, managing director of Huawei in Australia, was hurt by the insensitive stories that his company was under investigation by the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation; Huawei is a public-owned company, he said, and it is unthinkable that any government agency would be using Huawei to conduct spying.
       The government of Cuba took a huge security gamble, and authorised post offices to provide Internet access to the public - just in case the Cuban government ever authorises the public to use the Internet at some point in the future; the only public access currently allowed is to an inside-Cuba intranet for email, provided by post offices at a cost of the equivalent of 55 baht an hour, in a country where the average wage is 680 baht a month.
       Japan fired an unmanned cargo craft into orbit; the 16.5-tonne unmanned H-II Transfer Vehicle (HTV) is on a mission to re-supply the space station;it will stay up there to continue ferrying stuff to the US shuttle fleet next year.
       Prime Minister Gordon Brown publicly apologised for the way that people treated World War Two code-breaker and extraordinary computer geek Alan Turing for being gay; Turing was prosecuted for homosexual conduct in 1952,and a mere two years later, he committed suicide;"I am pleased to have the chance how deeply sorry I and we all are," said Mr Brown.
       Google , which plans to give away grazillions of books in order to get the (commercial) goods on its customers,offered to let all its opponents have a piece of the action;Amazon.com , which wants to sell grazillions of books to make tonnes of money directly, scoffed.Rupert Murdoch, the American media mogul, began collecting money at the tollgate to his news sites, in an interesting experiment to see if people will actually pay for news on the Net.
       IBM, Microsoft, Oracle Corp and Google all responded to a plaintive "Help" from the Newspaper Association of America on how to get money from customers who don't want to pay for news; Randy Bennett, who is the senior president for vice in newspapers, said he's looking over 11 different proposals on how to squeeze money out of you;Google, to no one's surprise, offered to put all newspapers behind one vast,semi-expensive firewall, because that would be so convenient for everyone to just pay one company one time, and then Google would spread the money around; sure, that ought to work.
       South African technology firm Unlimited IT dispatched Winston, a pigeon,from its office in Pietermaritzburg, with some data for its main hub in Durban strapped to the bird's leg; it took Winston one hour and eight minutes to fly the data card; meanwhile, Unlimited IT tried to send the same data via the speedchallenged Internet connections provided by leading Internet Telkom , and that download was four percent finished by the time Winston arrived; so it's not only countries that start with "T" that have Internet problems.
       T-Mobile of Germany and Orange of France merged their yuppiephone operations in Britain, creating a new $13.5 billion company with 28.4 mobile phone customers; the Deutsche Telekom-France Telecom venture will be the biggest provider in the UK, with a 37 percent market share, larger than O2 of Telefonica.

Mac security threats on increase

2009-09-25T00:38:00.001-07:00

       It all used to be simpler for Mac users:viruses and other malicious software affected Windows computers, not them. That is slowly changing."The threats have intensified," says Candid Wuest from anti-virus maker Symantec.
       The biggest threat comes from hackers trying to sneak viruses onto computers.OSX.RSPlug.A is the name of one that preys on Mac users. It claims to be a video codec required to watch certain porno films, but in fact tries to redirect the surfer to a website forged to look like an eBay page. An attempt is then made to phish for the access data to the user's real eBay account.
       "This trojan hasn't drawn much attention," says Walter Mehl from Germany's Macwelt magazine. That may have to do with the fact that it is spread only through porn sites. It was also shoddily programmed.
       Another trojan assumed control of Macs earlier this year, harnessing them into a "Botnet," Wuest says. A botnet is a remote-controlled network of computers employed by hackers to send out spam. Some 10,000 to 20,000 computers have been infected to date. That number,however, pales in comparison with the countless Windows PCs infected by the Conficker worm.
       Windows is a more common target for attacks partially because it's the user base is much larger."There is still less malware for the Mac," Mehl says. Yet more and more people are working with the Mac OS and turning up vulnerabilities that have not yet been exploited. The threat potential has grown."That's why I feel that protection software is now important on Mac OS as well."

Slimline external burners

2009-09-25T00:36:00.000-07:00

       If there's a bright spot on the balance sheet of computer makers right now,it's the netbook. Some 21.6 million of the extra-small units are expected to have been sold by the end of the year,report German industry consultants IDC.
       The mobility and low cost come at a price, though: no bells and whistles. That usually means that no DVD drive or burner is included. There are two options for getting around that missing equipment: burn CDs or DVDs using a network drive, or purchase an external burner.
       Slimline models are well suited for netbooks, says Sven Schulz from Germany's Computer Bild magazine. They are very small -"about as large as two or three CD cases stacked on top of one another," he says. And they draw their power from the computer's USB port that means you don't have to carry along an extra power adaptor for them.
       External burners draw so little power than the extra consumption will hardly register on the netbook's battery."It won't go empty significantly quicker than normal," Schulz says. Most burners only require a connection to one USB port.
       If problems arise with the unit, though,they may be power related. That's because one single port does not necessarily provide enough juice for an external burner."Practically speaking, it's enough for most units," says Schulz, who tested a variety of burners in that class.
       Otherwise, try plugging in the Y cable included with many models. It is split to plug into two USB ports at the same time, since many netbooks include USB ports on the right and left sides. In some cases even the Y cable isn't long enough to reach both. In that case, use a USB extender for one side or the other.
       Users are advised to test out the interplay between the burner and computer immediately after purchase. That leaves time to return the device if the two don't get along.

Thailand urged to get tough on pirates

2009-09-25T00:35:00.000-07:00

       The Business Software Alliance (BSA)has identified Thailand as one of nine priority countries in the fight against piracy, and is encouraging the Government to meet international standards in copyright law.
       BSA President and CEO Robert Holleyman told Database that on this year's Asian trip he only visited China and Thailand to show how important it is to the market that the issue of software piracy is tackled.
       The BSA, which covers more than 80 countries, identified China, Brazil, Russia,India, Indonesia, Mexico, Poland, Turkey and Thailand as having the highest rates of piracy.
       Furthermore, Thailand is a priority also because both its home PC market and business IT usage are experiencing rapid growth.
       Even through the Government has made progress in the bid to reduce software piracy over the past few years, its rate of 76 percent of software sold in 2008 being pirated is still higher than the Asia Pacific average of 61 percent.
       Moreover, the drop in the value of the dollar is further adding to the losses caused by software piracy, with the 2008 figure rising to $609 million (20.5 billion baht), compared to $468 million (15.8 billion baht) in 2007.
       Jeffrey Hardee, BSA vice president and regional director Asia Pacific added that Thailand does have an intellectual property policy but the Government needs to do more to persuade business users to respect the law and to educate them in better software management,to not only protect the local software industry but also promote growth and productivity.
       He added that Thailand's Copyright Act should match the international benchmark in keeping with WIPO Treaties to promote online business and digital rights management to protect software available in legitimate form,including new environment distribution platforms such as Cloud Computing.
       Moreover, the law should also apply to Internet Service Providers who fail to take action against illegal websites after being notified of them.
       Hardee said:"It's important to note Thailand's neighbours, such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, have already implemented - or are nearing readiness for - solutions to piracy."
       Holleyman continued that the plan is for the Asean nations to harmonise their Intellectual Property (IP) laws by 2015, to ensure a free flow of trade in the region and fully implement WIPO Treaties.
       The region should learn from the European Union, the world's largest common market, in how it protects software, digital content and e-commerce, as well as battles cyber crime.
       The IP issue is growing in importance as social and economic infrastructures including health care and environmental issues are increasingly reliant on software,both nationally and globally.
       "The questions that any government should ask is how well we are going to use IT and software to reduce those problems," said Holleyman.
       Moreover, the recent announcement of the Creative Thailand initiative shows the value of Intellectual Property rights,as copyrighted products help to build innovation, boost the economy and increase the country's competitiveness internationally.
       If Thailand can show it is successfully tackling software piracy, the benefits will be felt not only locally but also in terms of its global reputation.
       This will make boost recognition for Thailand as an attractive investment destination more than mere advertising, as foreign investors will see strong Intellectual Property protection laws as an asset.
       Holleyman concluded:"Although piracy is hard to deal with, it is possible Thailand can significantly reduce piracy rates in a short period and ensure that businesses use legitimate software.
       "Some countries have already done this successfully. For example, Russia has reduced its piracy rate by 10 percent in two years, while Italy has reduced by more than 10 percent within one year.
       "Even in a recession, I am optimistic that piracy will continue to decrease if the Government and businesses stay focused on the value of clean software."

Intel urges PM to boost rural web

2009-09-25T00:33:00.000-07:00

       ICT is helping the Government in its economic stimulus package by encouraging smarter spending, paving the future for Thailand in a competitive global environment, said Navin Shenoy,Vice President, Sales and Marketing Group and general manager Asia Pacific region, Intel Corporation.
       Navin shared his view during a visit from Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva,during which he praised the stimulus package as a bold and progressive initiative, especially as it has an IT-centric focus in the area of education. Spending on computer usage has been increased,so that there is now a ratio of 20 students per computer, up from the previous average of 40 to 1.
       Navin said the Government should consider investing in a nationwide digital infrastructure."Broadband is a basic utility of the 21st century and the future of Thai society and the economy depends on this because 1 percent of broadband penetration drives 1 percent of the GDP," he said. IT creates smarter infrastructure
       The executive who used to work as technical assistant to Intel President and CEO Paul Otellini, continued that IT can also help the government transform many business sectors.
       For example, implementing a wireless network on the railways or modernising the energy distribution system would create a "smart grid" from where electricity waste could be monitored,encouraging consumers to be more efficient in their electric usage at home,bringing down energy consumption and easing the strain on the environment. This could also help modernise heath care services and public hospital facilities.
       "I have seen the Chinese and US governments invest in an IT smart grid for health care and I sees opportunities here in Thailand as well," added Navin.Wi-Max crucial for rural development
       The digital divide is another important aspect and further investment in IT can aid rural development, which is crucial for Thailand. Getting broadband into rural areas with Wi-Max (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) technology will help lower the cost of internet usage upcountry.
       The National Telecommunication Commission of Thailand said it is important Thailand does not delay because Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines have already implemented Wi-Max, while Vietnam and Indonesia are working on it.
       Several countries offer funding and tax incentive to accelerate use of IT in rural areas. For example, China offers tax rebates to farmers who buy computers, while India has set a target to bring Internet access to 6,000 villages within three years.
       Navin continued:"Intel invests in forms of equity in service operators in many countries like Malaysia, Japan,Russia and USA. There are many issues to consider, including government commitment, return on investment and size of the market.
       "At this stage, Thailand's first priority should be to make frequency available and then open it to auction, with a vision to have five million broadband users by the end of 2010."ICT rebound back on track
       The Vice President also anticipates that a recovery in the global economy and a more stable political environment in Thailand will boost confidence and encourage IT spending.
       Over the next 12 months, many businesses are expected to renew their existing computers to reduce their manageability costs and increase security.
       Navin said:"We think that 4 or 5 years is the optimal cycle for PCs because maintenance costs in the fifth year and beyond can hit $1,000(34,000 baht), which is more than the cost of buying a new computer.
       "The laptop market in Thailand has grown 25 percent this year, which shows the continuing demand for computers and ICT despite economic difficulties."

Extra-long battery life

2009-09-25T00:32:00.001-07:00

       Acer used the IFA consumer electronics show in Berlin to present a new laptop that features an extra-long battery life.
       The Aspire Timeline 1810T offers over eight hours of unplugged operation in an 11.6 inch package, the manufacturer reports. The device is one of a group of computers outfitted with an ultra-low voltage processor that permits a comparably long battery life and a flat construction.
       The Timeline 1810T is no more than 30 millimetres thick. The laptop weighs 1.4 kilograms, including the six cell battery, and offers up to 4 gigabytes (GB) of RAM and a 250 GB hard drive.

Plan to accelerate open source usage

2009-09-25T00:31:00.001-07:00

       The next three years will be a golden time for open source providers while users will have viable applications and certified Linux-Open Office users will help create an economic impact by reducing imported software with local related business worth at least 1.5 billion baht.
       With the approval of economic stimulus package 2 to open source worth 180 million baht over the next three years,this will help to accelerate open source usage in Thailand, contributing between 1.2 to 1.5 billion baht, representing an increase of four to five times from the average 300 million baht each year, according to Dr Virach Sornlertlamvanich,Assistant Executive Director of the National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre.
       The agency will push more aggressive mode expanding adoption of "Ecolonux"modification Linux operating system from Ubuntu in Thai context for bundling in local brand PCs which currently includes five companies - D Computer,SVOA, Synnex, IT Bakery and Powell.
       Moreover, there is a plan to target some user groups through joint partnerships with education institutions.Starting with Silpakorn University which has expertise in open source 2D and 3D animation to train local businesses such as printing service companies, Maejo University in Chiang Mai will offer Learn Square, an open source learning system from Nectec.
       Prince of Songkla University will focus on open source mobile development like Android and iPhone.
       In addition, the agency will encourage more flagship open source business solutions. Apart from healthcare solution "Hospital OS", financial solutions also have potential.
       Meanwhile, Nectec will develop local certified Linux operating system at administerial and users levels for both advanced and standard degrees and certified Open Office users to create open source career paths and reduce expenses from international certified as well as increase confidence from businesses for available human resources who can support open source usage.
       It expects to have 4,000 local certified users within three years from the overall 27,000 participating trainees and 60 open source providers.
       Paitoon Butri, Software Industry Promotion Agency's open-source software manager, said this Government fiscal year which started in September, the agency will get a 35 million baht budget to promote open source - up from 26 million baht last year.
       The agency will allocate 25 million baht funding to develop Opensource in Enterprise Resource Planning by select Kernel from Compiere, Open ERP and Apache Open For Business (OFBiz) to customise for Thailand.
       "This is not redundancy with existing market because it will address companies which have 50-100 million baht revenue per year but local Thai ERP today address companies with revenue less than 50 million baht and global ERP vendor focus customers who has revenue of one billion baht."
       However, SIPA still not finalise whether it will use bidding or joint-venture model to allow local open source providers to develop this open source ERP as a National ERP to help small medium sized to use ERP solution to improve business productivity and open more opportunity in implementation service for open source providers.
       SIPA also promotes Open Office and graphic tools like Inkscape, GIMP,Blender to specific user groups like the Thai Printing Association and the Federation of Thai Industries.

Sourcefire offers new services

2009-09-25T00:29:00.000-07:00

       Cyber security firm Sourcefire is moving security into virtualisation while preparing to offer a core base pricing model to capture new opportunities in cloud computing.
       Seeing a green field market in the virtualisation environment driving the company's latest update Enterprise Threat Management solution which is coming out in the fourth quarter,"Sourcefire 3D System 4.9" can run on VMware Hypervisor, according to Tom McDonough, President and Chief Operating Officer of Sourcefire which is a Snort creator and a leader in cyber security.
       The product will have the same functionality with a look and feel similar to the traditional product that run on Intel base platform and it can help lower customers' additional hardware costs. The price point will be lower by approximately 10-15 percent.
       This can help business customers implement security as part of their virtualisation and cloud computing strategy.Moreover, it still maintains its unique advantage technology as a holistic solution that integrates Intrusion Prevention System, Real time Network Awareness and Real time User Awareness to reduce the total cost of ownership and increase productivity.
       For example, one of big customers in Fortune 100 migrated from Snort open source, which was invented by Sourcefire's founder, to commercial product 3D solution which helped to reduce track events from 21 million down to 2,000 events and reduced the number of security people from nine to two people to allocate staff in other security areas.
       This unique technology helped it grow faster in the IPS market by around 2.5 times. In a recent revenue announcement, the company reported growth of 28 percent compared with IPS market growth of 15-16 percent.
       Meanwhile the company is in the process of offering a new pricing model called "Core base pricing" to charge depending on the number of core CPUs which will help to maximise benefits for customers. The new pricing model is an alternative to existing models which charge by line speed of the network.
       "We see this as a new market. Currently, many companies focus on moving their applications on virtualisation computing but for security issues are still not in the top of their mind like in clientserver days when everyone moved applications out of mainframe until it caused security problems. This pricing model will make security go with the virtualisation environment,"McDonough said.
       Mark Nakrop Niamnamtham, Managing Director for nForce Security, an exclusive Sourcefire distributor in Thailand, added that the company is in discussion with some Internet data centre providers as partners to security products under the new core base pricing model.

DELL TO BUY PEROT FOR $3.9 BN

2009-09-25T00:27:00.000-07:00

       Wants to expand beyond the PC business and compete more aggressively with rival HP
       Dell Inc plans to buy technology-serives company Perot Systems Corp for about US$3.9 billion (Bt131.2 billion) as it tries to expand beyond the PC business and compete more agressively with Hewlett-Packard, which also recently picked up a tech-services company founded by H Ross Perot.
       Dell said on Monday that it would offer $30 per share in cash for Perot Systems - a 68-per-cent premium over its closing price on Friday. Perot Systems' shares rose $11.69, or 65 per cent, to $29.60 in afternoon trading.
       Dell shares fell 67 cents, or 4 per cent, to $16.01.
       Former presidential candidate H Ross Perot Sr, now 79, serves as chairman emeritus of Perot Systems, which he founded in 1988.
       He had already made a fortune from founding Electronic Data Systems (EDS) in 1962 and selling the company to General Motors in a 1984 deal worth $2.5 billion. Hewlett-Packard bought EDS last year for $13.9 billion as it, too, tried to augment its services offering and diversify beyond hardware.
       In a conference call with analysts, Dell's founder and CEO Michael Dell said the deal will serve as an "anchor" acquisition for a global information-technology services business.
       Plano, Texas-based Perot Systems would bring Dell more than 1,000 customers in a wide range of sectors; about 48 per cent of its revenue comes from the healthcare industry and 25 per cent from government. Its customers include the US Department of Homeland Security and the military. Last year Perot Systems earned $117 million on sales of $2.8 billion.
       Dell's services business is more basic than those of its larger competitors; Perot Systems would add more lucrative consulting and systems-integration services to Dell's line-up.
       "This would, at least from a product standpoint, make them definitely more competitive with HP and IBM," said Kaufman Bros analyst Shaw Wu. "It's a step in the right direction."
       Wu said Dell's hardware business could benefit from exposure to Perot System's customers, while Dell's broader services line may look more attractive to more customers. Combining the businesses could also help Dell find new ways to cut costs.
       However, Dell's tech-services business would still be relatively small; EDS had revenue of $21 billion before HP bought it. IBM's services revenue was $59 billion last year.
       Analysts have been expecting acquisitions from Round Rock, Texas-based Dell, which hired IBM's former mergers and acquisitions chief this year and has raised almost $1 billion by selling debt securities since March.
       The company's revenue comes mainly from the hard-hit PC business, while competitors such as HP have a wider set of products and services. As a result Dell's profits have been slumping, down 23 per cent in the second quarter.
       Following the acquisition, which is expected to close by the end of January, Perot Systems would become Dell's service unit. Dell said it expects additional acquisitions to expand on the business but emphasised that it is looking to hold on to Perot management, including CEO Peter Altabef.
       Ross Perot Jr, the chairman of Perot's board, will be considered for a director slot at Dell, the company said.

       AT A GLANCE
       - Dell said it would offer $30 per share in cash for Perot Systems - a 68% premium over its closing price on Friday. Perot System's shares rose $11.69, or 65%, to $29.60 in afternoon trading.
       Dell shares fell 67 cents, or 4%, to $16.01.
       - Perot Systems would bring Dell more than 1,000 customers in a wide range of sectors; about 48% of its revenue comes from the healthcare industry and 25% from government.
       - Kaufman Bros analyst Shaw Wu said Dell's hardware business could benefit from exposure to Perot Systems' customers, while Dell's broader services line may look more attractive to more customers. Combining the businesses could also help Dell find new ways to cut costs.

HP launches sixth server generation

2009-09-25T00:26:00.001-07:00

       Hewlett-Packard Thailand has launched its sixth generation of servers that for the first time brings enterprise class management to the SMB market in an easy to use, easy to understand way.
       Ekkarat Klinbubpa, product marketing manager for industry standard servers at HP Thailand said the Proliant 100 series used to be aimed at competing with no-name, white-box servers at the SMB (small to medium business) end of the market and lacked the sophistication of the 300-series servers. However, with SMBs becoming more advanced and using more IT not just for back office processing but front office productivity advances, that segment now needs management features to keep the business going even when the CIO is out of town.
       The G6 Proliant 100 series has three features that is not present in the typical white box commodity server: An easy setup CD, the Proliant On-board Administrator chip and SNMP support.
       Most Thai people think they can do without a Setup CD, but when it comes to Servers, things can be a bit different from desktops. Most servers do not use SATA (Serial ATA), but SAS (serial attached SCSI) for storage and each vendor has its own drivers. Only half the users know how to press F6 at the right time in Windows Setup to install the driver.The rest spend three days fumbling before they give up and call Technical Support.With the easy setup CD and the Windows CD, all you do is fill in the fields and keep clicking next, he said.
       Apart from easing the pain of setting up Windows Server and its drivers, the CD can be used to re-do RAID (redundant arrays of inexpensive disks) groups when new drives are added or to wipe the machine totally before handing it over to someone else. It also lists support for each OS and version that HP officially supports. He said that in the enterprise space, the choice of OS can affect the warranty status of the server.
       The second feature, the HP Proliant On-board Administration is what Ekkarat described as a ghost on your shoulder looking after your every move and taking control of you when needed.
       It consists of the ILO 100(Integrated Lights Out) chip on the motherboard that is a small computer contained in itself with its own separate LAN port at the back of the server. By logging in, not only can a remote user power on and off a server, they can look at the system's vital signs, myriad of heat and voltage sensors (such as one temperature sensor each after each memory slot). The OA can also remote-control the system and even install a new OS remotely with the remote CD or USB drive attached over the Internet as if it was a local drive. It has text mode for going into the BIOS or Linux and can even capture and replay the boot screen to find any errors.
       Most of the features are standard except the virtual graphical console and remote virtual media that costs extra.
       Finally, the G6 Proliant 100 series now supports SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) for the first time. Many small companies already use SNMP to control and log their network switches and router and thus are familiar and now they can monitor their servers with the same tools too.
       Ekkarat said that IDC puts the total server market at around 8,000 units this year. HP Thailand is pinning its hopes on the public sector and the SMB market for a recovery as the rest of the economy is still weary about resuming spending.

A picture speaks a thousand text-only search results?

2009-09-25T00:24:00.000-07:00

       Microsoft unveiled a twist on the Internet search experience last week with a new feature which allows web surfers to search using image galleries instead of text links.
       Microsoft, which teamed up with Yahoo! in July in a bid to challenge Google,rolled out a beta version of the feature at the TechCrunch50 technology con-ference in San Francisco.
       Microsoft senior vice president Yusuf Mehdi described "Visual Search", which is being built into the company's search engine Bing, as a "more graphical way to search and discover information".
       "Visual Search" allows users to conduct certain searches faster than the traditional image search offered by rival Google and other search engines.
       Microsoft said a study found that consumers can process results with images 20 percent faster than text-only results.
       "It's like searching through a large online catalogue," Microsoft said.
       The feature currently offers galleries in nearly 50 categories from consumer products to holidays to movies to music.
       A search at bing.com/visualsearch for "digital cameras," for example, returns a gallery of thumbnails of digital cameras which can then be filtered by manufacturer or price.
       A search for books displays an image gallery which can be refined with filters such as author or category.
       Google is the overwhelming leader in a web search and advertising market which the research firm Forrester estimates will grow by 15 percent a year to more than 30 billion dollars in 2014 in the United States alone.
       But with their tie-up announced in July, Microsoft and Yahoo! are hoping to steal market share - and advertising dollars - from Google.

Web users to help digitise faded books

2009-09-25T00:23:00.001-07:00

       Google has acquired a Carnegie Mellon University spin-off that seeks to cut down on spam and fraud at websites while digitising books.
       ReCAPTCHA offers simple word puzzles that users must solve when registering at a website or completing an online purchase.
       Computers can't decipher the twisted letters and numbers, ensuring that real people and not automated programs are at the keyboard.
       Unlike other word puzzles, however,ReCAPTCHA's text comes from actual books, letting the system create a digitised version in the process.
       Google Inc is already behind a major project to digitise books and put them online, mostly by scanning pages and using optical character recognition, or OCR, to make the texts searchable.
       OCR doesn't always work on text that is older, faded or distorted. In such cases,often the only way to digitise the works is to manually type them in.
       ReCAPTCHA provides an alternative.Snippets that the computer doesn't recognize are split up into single words that can be used as human tests at sites all over the Internet.
       The ReCAPTCHA system reassembles the text of the book from those responses.
       Carnegie Mellon computer science professor Luis von Ahn, who developed the tool and launched the ReCAPTCHA company in 2008 said:"From the start,people assumed the project was connected to Google, so it only makes sense that ReCAPTCHA Inc ultimately would find a home within Google."

Digitising Thailand's cultural attractions

2009-09-25T00:19:00.000-07:00

       System aims to ease access to treasures and boost tourism, reports Sasiwimon Boonruang
       This will empower villagers to generate revenue
       Wandering through cultural attractions and museums will become more rewarding once you are able to view items and locations over the web to aid trip-planning.
       The Culture Ministry and Science and Technology Ministry have collaborated to digitise cultural and art content to enhance access to and preservation of cultural heritage resources.
       Ayutthaya is the first province in which the Culture Ministry has integrated historical information and presented it to visitors, in both still photographs and videos.
       Visitors can also look around the surrounding area via geographical information system (GIS) over the Internet, by computer or mobile phone. The website will be launched soon.
       At the Chao Sam Praya museum, in stead of receiving a conventional paper ticket, visitors will get a wristband with radio frequency identification (RFID) tag to identify the registered visitors.
       The RFID-embedded wristband also guides the visitors by presenting information on exhibits and proposing further interesting visitor destinations in the area.
       The province can keep a database of which tourist destinations these people have visited, as well as the route they used to get there.
       "This information will benefit the province as it will be able to provide information and promote destinations to the prospective visitors," said Virach Sornlertlamvanich, assistant executive director of National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre (Nectec).
       For the Museum, RFID has been used to systematically manage the items in the museum so that the position of each visitor can be identified so as to keep track of what they have and have not yet seen, as well as to help prevent the loss of any items or exhibits.
       Culture Ministry deputy permanent secretary Somchai Seanglai said there are some 120,000 digital files of the cultural and art content which the ministry will transfer to video clips, with Nectec's help.
       The digital files have been developed and added to Google Maps of popular places in Ayutthaya province, such as Wat Yai Chaimongkol.
       "We will collect places of national and religious importance, along with descriptions of what styles of architecture they are, and the Buddha styles," Somchai said.
       Collecting information for the pilot project has taken three months.
       The Culture Ministry has added to the digital archives system information on Khon, the Thai classical dance.
       The software program, developed by Chulalongkorn University, has simulated the Khon costume to help shortcut the production process, as the designer and tailors can view the costume model before choosing materials, patterns and styles according to their requirements.
       This reduces the time and total cost of tailoring as they can reduce material waste.
       It is therefore anticipated that the software program will save the Fine Art Department a great deal of money.
       The museum management system supports the maintenance and borrowing system of the Khon costume, reducing deterioration and the risk of loss or theft.
       The digital archives system also promotes sustainable education and development of Khon.
       The Khon knowledge dissemination via computer network should ease educational access as the persons and experts involved with the performance can collect and develop it more efficiently, while the public and academics can use the same information for reference.
       While Ayutthaya Historical Park is the highlight of Ayutthaya, the living culture of Suphan Buri will be the next province to benefit from the digitisation of its arts and cultural content.
       Suphan Buri has the most complete mapping system in Thailand, as the province has already collected its data in a co-ordinates system, the deputy permanent secretary said, noting that the its premier visitor attractions include Wat Pra Noan and Wat Pai Rong Wua.
       The Culture Ministry will integrate cultural collections of digitised resources and improve access for the wider public.
       "This will also empower the villagers and small community groups to share their local wisdom and heritage, such as the design patterns of clothes, and from this they can generate revenue due to tourism, homestays and the sale of handicrafts," Somchai said.
       He added that this can help the communities to further develop businesses,for example in the visual arts, by giving artists an opportunity to showcase their works in an e-gallery or e-marketplace.
       "There will be information of the local performance such as Li-Kae , the musical folk drama and Lam-Tad , the performing art, with information and contact details of the bands," Somchai said, noting that the current target audience is Thai, although the ministry plans to translate the content into English and Chinese.
       Citing the Tourism Authority of Thailand, he said only 24 percent of foreign tourists visit the kingdom for cultural purposes, so this initiative intends to encourage greater numbers of cultural tourists to the country.
       He noted that the Route E-sarn (the Northeastern course) promotion, which features World Heritage locations such as Phu Phrabat Historical Park in Udon Thani, will be the next project for digital archive.
       In addition, the ministry will present the living culture of eight Northern provinces including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai,Lampang, Lamphun, Phayao, Phrae,Nan and Mae Hong Son and historical and religious places.
       "It takes time for the process of digitising data and most of the budget has gone towards the data collection," he said.
       Virach said Nectec has set up the infrastructure and web portal for communities to collect photographs, video files, captions and keywords for searching.
       "We have designed the system to allows users, data owners and communities to simply deliver the data based on the social networking pattern," he said.
       The community database is comparable with a live encyclopedia that promotes cultural traditions, local wisdom and tourism and also presents crucial information about the communities in both of quantitative and comparative styles.
       Nectec has also developed the "Fiesta on Mobile" application that provides information on Thai festivals and other cultural events to users via mobile phone.
       The application helps users to search for information in various modes, such as automatic search, search with picture and search with GPS.
       The application can also define the locations and help guide users to the events.
       This information service will cover all five regions of Thailand, with Ayutthaya being the pilot project which is now is at the data-testing stage.
       "There are lists of popular tourist attractions such as Wat Yai Chaimongkol and local museums, as Nectec has developed the application to show tourists the top-hit spots by ranking," said Virach.
       All this technology will be showcased at Nectec's Annual Conference and Exhibition during September 23-25 at Science Park in Phatum Thani.
       According to Khunying Kalaya Sophonpanich, Science and Technology minister, the ultimate goal of the cooperative venture is to use science and technology capabilities as tools to enable people to easily access knowledge and information resources.
       It also strengthens the education,economic and social aspects of the country, she said.
       Culture minister Teera Slukpetch said the cultural content digitisation is a key strategy of the ministry in adding value to the cultural capital, as it has supported the creative economy and promoted cultural tourism at national and international level.
       The cultural information centre will collect the knowledge and wisdom of the rural communities and villages, and turn it into educational and economic resources.
       Based on the collaboration for cultural capital development, science and technology has been applied to public services such as libraries, civic halls,archeological sites, museums, historical parks, contemporary cultural arts, Thai performing arts and musical dance.

INTEL'S ADVICE FOR FOSTERING GROWTH IN FIELD OF ICT

2009-09-22T19:52:00.000-07:00

       Giant US-based chipmaker Intel sent a senior executive to meet Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva last week, to urge the Thai government to pay more attention to the improvement of information-and communications-technology education, digital-infrastructure investment and spending on WiMax to bridge the country's digital divide.
       Navin Shenoy, general manger for the Asia-Pacific, proposed the expenditure be sourced from the Thai Khemkhaeng project.
       He said the government should invest "smartly" in education to allow children throughout the country to have equal access to ICT, to enhance their learning experience.
       An improvement in the national digital infrastructure would help to bridge the digital divide by giving people living in rural areas an equal chance to access knowledge.
       Shenoy said WiMax, short for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, was a technology suitable for current investment that would help Thailand to move forward quickly.
       He said the government's new infrastructure investment should include investment in ICT infrastructure at the same time.
       Thailand could also benefit from lower WiMax-investment costs because many countries in the region have been investing in the technology, including the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia. This will bring the cost of WiMax infrastructure and equiopment down dramatically, he said.
       "Rural broadband is a fundamental need for the country's improvement as a whole, and WiMax can play a key role in bringing broadband to the rural areas of Thailand with effective investment," Shenoy said.
       However, to make rural broadband a reality, the government first had to make the WiMax spectrum available, with a clear directive. Then, private organisations could build business plans.
       "WiMax could be a key factor to drive an increase in Thailand's broadband penetration rate. Every 1 per cent of broadbank penetration equals one per cent of gross-domestic-product growth. Broadband will deliver the utilities [services] that everyone deserves," Shenoy said, adding that the country's economy will be larger if a WiMax infrastructure is laid down throughout rural areas.
       "There is an opportunity gap upcountry, and you can see it in the fact the most PC growth is upcountry," he said.
       Shenoy suggested that the Thai government could play an important role in making a rural broadband network available in the not-too-distant future by introducing policies, tax incentives and government purchases.
       "The availability of broadband infrastructure both in the cities and rural areas would improve Thailand's eduction by giving students equal access to ICT, would improve the country's competitiveness and bridge the digital divide."
       To get things moving, Intel has launched a mission it calls "5 by 10", aimed at pushing Thailand to achieve 5 million broadband ports by the end of next year. That goal is consistent with the government's goal to increase the PC penetration rate for students from 40:1 to 20:1 in the next three years.
       Shenoy said Intel would support the government's investments with its knowledge, experience and technology transfer. It is not yet committed to any financial investments.
       To date, Intel Capital has invested in WiMax in four Asia-Pacitic countries: Taiwan, Japan, Australia and Malaysia. Its investment totals US$ 20 million to $50 million (Bt676 million to Bt1.69 billion).

Accurate reading with IBM

2009-09-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

       Students may find reading lessons more enjoyable than before as IBM Thailand recently launched an online web-based reading programme,named "Reading Companion".
       The company has granted the programme to two schools: Chulalongkorn University Demonstration (CUD) Elementary School and Kasetsart University Laboratory School Center for Educational Research and Development (KUS).
       For Thais to be successful at the international level, it is important that they master their English-language skills, according to Thanwa Laohasiriwong, country general manager at IBM Thailand.However, many Thais are still facing the English-language barrier. This has led to the company initiating the use of its technology to advance the oral communicative excellence of Thai students. Features
       "Reading Companion" is an online virtual library, which currently offers over 200 books online. Users can read the reading materials aloud into the microphone and the programme will provide immediate audio comments on the accuracy of the pronunciation via its proprietary speech-recognition technology.
       Accurate readers receive positive reinforcement while readers who have difficulties will be provided with gentle reminders and corrections and are encouraged to read again. Readers can also listen to reading samples of the texts.
       As it is a online programme, users can access the programme at any time and place. All that is needed is an internet connection and a headset.
       The programme also enables teachers to create and add their own content to the library. It also generates an evaluation report on each reader's progress on the website for teachers and students to follow up on progress and achievements. Pilot schools
       "Initially, we will use the programme in Prathom 5 and 6(Grades 5 and 6) as a free elective course. Later, the application will be expanded to Prathom 3 and 4 students (Grades 3 and 4)," commented Assoc Prof Supranee Jiranarong,principal of CUD Elementary School.
       The programme will also be used by students who have difficulties in English reading and pronunciation, as well as by the teachers themselves, Prof Supranee added.
       "This is an interesting programme because after we read aloud, the system will respond back immediately. This is like an immediate evaluation, which students really like, unlike other assignments where teachers have to spend days checking the answers," she said.
       Assoc Prof Dr Daranee Utairatanakit,principle of KUS, said the programme will help students with pronunciation and sentence structure.
       "Although the programme does not provide comprehension features, students can hear correct pronunciations and see proper sentence structures. By repeating phrases while reading and learning pronunciation, students will create their own learning process, which they can apply to other lessons," Prof Daranee added.
       "Today, we encourage students to take a self-learning approach. This programme will inculcate more confidence in students to pursue their education through self-learning and to spur them to seek knowledge by themselves," she continued.
       KUS will apply the programme to gifted, average and weak students and conduct research on how the programme contributes to academic success among these three student groups. Teachers who seek to improve their English are also welcome to use the programme,according to Prof Daranee.
       IBM invites other schools to apply to participate in the programme.
       According to On-uma V. Rerkpattanapipat, IBM Thailand's country mar-keting and communications manager,the approved schools are required to put the programme into real use, and the company conducts an evaluation exercise every six months. Prospective schools that are interested to take part in the programme would need to have a sound lab and teachers with some English and computer skills.
       Schools that are interested in participating in IBM's 'Reading Companion' project are invited to contact IBM Thailand at 02-273-4633 or for more information, visit www.readingcompanion.org.

A HERO'S WELCOME

2009-09-20T20:33:00.001-07:00

       The latest offering from HTC, the Taiwan-based manufacturer of portable devices that's going from strength to strength, is the Hero smartphone. It's the third in the company's A Series, and is a big jump from the recent Dream and Magic (which it replaces) models in terms of design - both internally and externally. But can it rival the iPhone and the Palm Pre in the Thai smartphone market? Let's take a closer look.
       Visually, the model is instantly appealing with its chiselled clean lines and bevelled edges. It appears modern, stylish and durable; quite a jump from previous HTC models. The distinguishing feature is the angled base, or "chin", which has drawn both criticism and praise from gadget fondlers worldwide. While ruining the contoured flatness of the phone, it also protects the screen and tracking ball from scratching when you drop the phone or place it "flat" on its face. It also enables the phone to nestle nicely in the palm of your hand, and its robust 135g gives an overall feeling of strength.
       In terms of usability, the dimensions of the model enable single-handed operation. However, bad positioning of the back and search buttons will give right-handers thumb cramps or worse. The four buttons across the top of the chin are well placed, but could be a little bigger. Also on the chin is the slightly undersized but effective track ball that flashes nicely when you receive a call or text message.
       Feature-wise, the impressive 3.2-inch, 320x480 HVGA screen has an oleophobic coating, the same as its iPhone 3GS rival, that deters fingerprint smudging. It is also nicely sensitive, requiring only a light touch to activate. Although it boasts five megapixels, the camera takes dull and grainy photos, and the track ball works as a slippery shutter button. The speaker is adequate for a phone of this level, but falls short of the Nokia N97's speaker, although - finally - a 3.5mm headphone jack is included. The 1,350mAh battery requires daily charging without excessive usage - a similar performance to the iPhone 3GS but worse than the Palm Pre after battery tweaks.
       Inside, the specs of the Hero are almost the same as those of the model it replaces - the big difference is the software upgrade. HTC has stayed committed to open source software and has come up with Android 1.5, which it calls HTC Sense. The new and vastly improved operating system supports Adobe Flash and is compatible with social networks - namely Facebook, Twitter and Flickr - which are well integrated into the software and multimedia features of the phone. The keyboard is easy to use in landscape mode, and the predictive text function makes typing and web browsing very manageable, however, users must open and close the keyboard themselves. Searching for contacts is fast and intuitive, and the widgets are easy to manage and use, especially the toggle controls for network connectivity, which gets a big tick. The seven-panel homescreen might perhaps be a little excessive with the hardware limitations, but time will tell, as a firmware update has been promised. Another aspect that has been thrown around is the lag issue, which was apparent in the demo model, but others have reported much less lag.
       Overall, the HTC Hero is a wake-up call to major phone manufacturers who have enjoyed an oligopoly on the market for too long. The battle for phone operating systems is heating up, and Apple has traditionally dominated this with its iPhone software. But as the Android OS draws level, only the hardware in the models of the other manufacturers such as HTC holds them back now. With better hardware specs, the Hero could have gone ahead of the pack here, but it's still a strong sign of things to come from the HTC camp.
       The HTC Hero, priced at 22,900 baht, is available from Hardware House, Pantip Plaza, Phetchaburi Road, call 02-685-8936.

WII GOES TO COLLEGE, GRADUATES

2009-09-20T20:32:00.000-07:00

       Imagine a world in which college students can play Wii Fit and receive course credit for it. If you're enrolled at the University of Houston in the US state of Texas, you don't have to imagine it. You can do it.
       Chuck Layne is the forward-thinking chairman of the university's health-and-human-performance department who was partly responsible for brianstorming the idea of introducing Wii Fit as part of the elective physical-education curriculum.
       It made sense, he says, considering the campus' diversity and the department's affinity for using cutting-edge technology.
       "About five years ago we began to add a number of non-traditional physical-activity courses, such as tai chi and judo, because we have a lot of people here who didn't grow up playing basketball or tennis or volleyball.
       "Since they're electives, we made the decision to make it more customer-friendly."
       The innovative classes have been popular, but when Layne heard about the Wii Fit, he thought it would be - well - a good fit for the department.
       "It made sense, especially for people who aren't normally into exercise," he says.
       Layne says the for-credit pilot course, which he believes is the first of its kind, could be a gateway exercise programme for those who feel uncomfortable in a traditional class setting or uneasy about trying something new, like yoga.
       Depending on the programme, the Wii can be a good workout, elevating the heart rate and producing a sweat.
       A racquetball court was converted into a Wii studio with 10 systems that can be played simultaneously. The class filled up in who days despite it not being on the course schedule (it was conceived too late) and having no advertising.
       After three weeks, Layne says, student feedback is positive, and estimates that about half probably had some Wii Fit experience before taking this class. The class also inclused course work on nutrition and exercise.
       One thing Layne particularly likes about the Wii Fit is its ability to track things such as physical activity and body-mass index, making users more aware of their progress.
       Layne and his colleagues are already eyeing the programme as a source for research studies, and he's thaning of other applications as well, such as having families exercise together.
       "There's no reason why we can't use the studio almost all day. We're hoping the students have a positive experience with it."

THAILAND'S ANTI-PIRACY EFFORTS WORKING

2009-09-16T21:01:00.001-07:00

       Thailand's efforts to curb illicit copying of PC software have begun to bear fruit, with piracy rates falling for two straight years, but it remains high compared with the rest of the region and more needs to be done, the Business Software Alliance's chief said earlier this week."The reductions in the software piracy rate demonstrate how the government is serious about protecting intellectual property rights for software developers and reducing PC software piracy," Robert Holleyman, president and CEO of the BSA, said on his visit.
       The software piracy rate here is 76 per cent after falling two percentage points in both 2007 and 2008.
       A strong anti-software piracy effort through the first half of this year indicates the possibility of further reductions in the current software piracy rate.
       Holleyman held meetings with Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and government officials during his visit.
       "Software piracy remains a big challenge for the software industry and it is a worldwide problem that needs to be addressed through public and private collaboration.
       "We are encouraged to see that the Thai government has taken a series of steps to bring down software piracy and encouraging progress has been made," he said.
       While BSA's focus has been on corporate end-user piracy, BSA suggests greater efforts be made to end open retail trade of pirated PC software in IT malls.
       This would work to enhance Thailand's image in the eyes of international trade groups and governments, he said.
       Local software industry leaders said Holleyman's visit was a boost to the country's software development environment, and will help draw attention to Thailand as a country with a supportive environment for creators of intellectual property.
       "Holleyman's visit confirms that Thailand is on the right track with regard to software IP protection," said Somporn Maneeratanakul, managing director of Thai Software Enterprise and a BSA member.
       The success in stamping out fake software "gives confidence to creators and entrepreneurs in Thailand and around the world to see Thailand as a place that is good for innovation," he said.
       In recent weeks, Thailand's efforts to reduce PC software piracy have gained momentum through active police enforcement and court victories versus software pirates.
       In August, police had one of their strongest months on record, with 15 raids against companies that violated the Copyright Act.
       In July, software developers won a second case in civil court, gaining Bt1.8 million in damages for violation of their intellectual property rights.
       According to a study conducted by IDC, reducing software piracy in Thailand by just 10 percentage points over the next four years could generate 2,100 new jobs, more than US$1 billion (Bt33.78 billion) in economic growth and more than $55 million in tax revenue above current projections.

DELL REACHES OUT TO SMEs WITH MOBILE COMPUTERS

2009-09-16T21:00:00.000-07:00

       Global computer maker Dell plans to enter the small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) market in Thailand, and will soon introduce three new mobile computers.
       Dell Asia-Pacific's general manager for small and medium business, South Asia, Khoo Teng Guan, said the company was geared up to cater for SME customers with its Vostro range of office and small-business products, including the Dell Vostro 1014, Vostro 1015 and Vostro 1088 notebooks, which were designed specially for small businesses.
       The new notebooks are equipped with powerful Intel Core 2 processors, extended battery life and power-efficient WLED LCD screens. They also have a built in 5-in-1 media reader that allows users to transfer photos, video and data, an optional integrated web cam and Energy Star 5.0 compliance. There's also a choice of black and red colours. The products offer a full range of configurations that meet the everyday computing needs of small business customers.
       Khoo said Dell now distributed its products via online and telephone channels as well as through the retail shops of its channel partners.
       "We believe SMEs will recover from the economic recession faster because they generally respond faster to economic changes. Technology solutions do not require huge cash investments due to tight access to credit. Dell also offers technology with a low total cost of ownership," he said.
       Khoo said that although IT spending was down in 2009 due to the financial downturn, SMEs needed more from IT than ever before. This is primarily because
       they are increasingly dependent on technology to serve their customers better, run their businesses more efficiently and compete more effectively.

CONCERTED MOVE AGAINST PIRACY, COPYING, ILLEGAL USE

2009-09-16T20:59:00.002-07:00

       Effective IP protection basis for creative economy - department
       The Commerce Ministry has begun a large-scale crackdown on intellectual property violations in the software industry.
       The Ministry has been directed to protect both local software companies and overseas companies whose products are sold here from piracy, illegal use and copying. It is moving to fully protect intellectual property (IP), legal software, copyright and software developers' authority of ownership.
       It is also reviewing a draft of new copyright laws, developing an Asean Database on Patent Design and setting up a Patent Cooperation Treaty office for local businesses that want to apply for international patents.
       Deputy Commerce Minister Alongkorn Ponlaboot said the ministry had formed a National IP Policy Committee. Its function will be to protect IP of all kinds and promote this protection as a business benefit to companies operating in all fields, from traditional businesses to those operating on the Internet. Specifically, it will be fighting illegal operators who flout copyright laws.
       The committee's responsibilities are divided into two main areas: promoting and protecting intellectual property.
       In promoting IP, the committee will help individuals and businesses to develop products and services behind the shield of IP protection, so that these products and services can contribute to the government's creative-economy mission. It will work in 15 industrial sectors, including automotive, manufacturing and software.
       It also plans to set up a subcommittee on the creative economy, to encourage local businesses to become involved in the Creative Thailand initiative and to support the government's Thai Khemkhaeng (TKK) project.
       Meanwhile, in its role of protecting IP, the national committee is in the process of submitting draft changes to copyright laws for Cabinet approval. The draft law sets out to extend IP protection to businesses operating on the Internet or conducting e-commerce.
       The draft also proposes to punish Internet service providers involved in IP violations, landlords who provide locations and space to illegal Internet services and Internet Cafes that provide illegal services.
       Alongkorn said the committee had also set up three subcommittees and working groups to investigate individuals and businesses believed to be operating in violation of IP laws. These included a subcommittee on prevention and suspicion of IP violation, a working group on investigation and suspicion and a working group on education and publications related to IP.
       The deputy minister said his ministry was also planning to separate its IP Department and transform it into a service delivery unit, or intellectual property centre.
       The IP Department has also developed various strategies to support the creative-economy mission. The protection of intellectual property is seen as a vital part of the foundation on which a creative economy will be built. In the next two years, the department plans not only to raise the country's competitiveness by encouraging the use of IP protection and enforcing the laws, but also to protect local wisdom as intellectual property and to provide funding to allow individuals and businesses to use IP to develop commercial products and services.
       IP Department director-general Puangrat Asawaphisit said his department was also cooperating with authorities in the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore to set up a prototype Asean Database on Patent Design so that participating countries will be able to search patent design in the region. The department plans to set up a trial of a local patent-design database early next year.
       Puangrat said the department would also set up a Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) office by the end of this month. The office will act as an agent, preparing the necessary translations and paying national fees for local people and businesses applying for international patent protection. It aims to encourage Thai inventors to seek international protection for their innovations. The services of the PCT office will be available early next year.
       The department will also allow individuals and businesses to register and apply for local patents by Internet in the near future.
       Meanwhile, the Business Software Alliance says illegal software and software piracy in Thailand has been reduced by 76 per cent, compared with levels three years ago, when 80 per cent of software was the product of piracy.

Adobe snaps up web analytics specialist

2009-09-16T20:59:00.001-07:00

       Adobe Systems Inc said on Tuesday it would buy the Web analytic software company Omniture Inc for about $1.8 billion, giving the maker of content-creation software a way to let marketers measure the effectiveness of such content.
       San Jose, California-based Adobe,which makes Flash, Acrobat and Photoshop software, said it would buy Omniture for $21.50 per share in cash, a premium of 24% over Omnitures closing stock price Tuesday.
       The announcement came as Adobe said it earned $136 million, or 26 cents per share, in the fiscal third quarter that ended in August, down 29% from the same time a year earlier.
       Excluding one-time items, Adobe earned 35 cents per share, a penny above what analysts polled by Thomson Reuters were expecting.
       Revenue fell 21% to $697.5 million,inching past analyst expectations of $686.2 million.
       The recession has slowed demand for Creative Suite 4, the most recent version of the software package that brings in the bulk of the companys revenue. But analysts say this will likely mean more pent-up demand for Creative Suite 5 when it launches.
       For the fourth quarter, Adobe forecast earnings of 23 cents to 29 cents per share and adjusted earnings of 33 cents to 39 cents per share. The latter compares with analyst expectations of 37 cents per share.
       Adobe expects sales of $690 million to $740 million for the quarter, bracketing Wall Streets estimates of $719.2 million.
       Omniture, based in Orem, Utah, offers a variety of Web traffic analysis and other products for companies to improve their marketing over the Internet. Its customers include Apple Inc, Time Warner Inc and Walt Disney Co.
       The acquisition would marry Omnitures services for figuring how to best deliver messages with Flash and other Adobe tools for creating websites and ads. Omniture services could then be used to monitor how effective the messages are.
       Adobes Creative Suite products and Flash platform help customers create and deliver engaging experiences. The addition of Omnitures online marketing suite will help customers measure, analyse and optimise the impact and value of those experiences, said Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen in a conference call.
       Trip Chowdhry, an analyst with Global Equities Research, said the planned acquisition would allow Adobe to create new streams of revenue even as its existing businesses decline.
       Though he called the deal very timely, Chowdhry believes Adobe is overpaying for Omniture, especially because that companys paid products have been losing market share to Googles analytics service, which is free.
       He said $12 to $13 per share rather than $21.50 would have been a fair value for the company.
       Adobe expects the Omniture deal to close by November. The company will operate separately under Adobe as a new business unit, with Omniture CEO Josh James working as senior vice president reporting to Narayen.

LET'S GET ANIMATED!

2009-09-16T20:58:00.001-07:00

       Organisers of the first Bangkok International Animation Festival have plenty of reasons to smile
       With just two weeks left to go before the curtain rises on a new showcase under the overall umbrella of the Bangkok International Film Festival, organisers are sighing in relief that the budget has finally been approved and the Bangkok International Animation Film Festival will take place as planned from September 25 to 30.
       Organised by the Software Industry Promotion Agency in cooperation with the Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand, the project has been in hiatus while waiting for the government to okay the money.
       "Though we've been working on the festival for months, we couldn't announce it until we had the budget," says Lak Taechawanchai, chairman of the Thai Animation and Computer Graphics Association and festival director.
       More than 40 animations made between 2007 and 2009 were quickly selected for screening by the Annecy Film Festival team in France after the organisers called for help.
       "We want to thank all the companies that agreed to join us at the last minute," says Auchara Kijkanjanas, producer of the two "Khan Kluay" movies, who helped to make contact with the French festival.
       'Penguin' premiere
       The festival opens with the Japanese-French production "Yona Yona Penguin", the latest feature animation from "Metropolis" director Rintaro.
       The 68-year-old animation wizard, who was also behind such Japanese manga hits as "Galaxy Express 999", will be in Bangkok to attend the movie's world premiere.
       The Thai company Imagimax was also involved in the production process. "We've worked in just about every aspect of animation processing for the past three years," says Imagimax executive producer Sirisak Koshpasharin.
       "Yona Yona Penguin" tells the story of Coco, a little girl who wears a penguin suit every night believing that that one day she'll be able to fly.
       "Unlike other 3D animations that come with realistic pictures, these pictures are more like paintings," says Sirisak.
       The festival closes with "Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea", the latest work by Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki. It's been showing at local cinemas since last month.
       Thai toons
       There are two competition sections - Animation Feature and Short Animation. Up for awards are "Mary and Max", which won the Cristal for the best feature film at Annecy, and the short "El Empleo" from Argentina, which won the Annecy Fipresci award.
       With the Thai animation industry having only a few films to showcase, they've all been slated for screening. That includes both "Khan Kluay" movies as well as "Nak" and "Buddha".
       "The Adventure of Sudsakorn", Payut Ngaokrachang's 1979 animated feature - Thailand's first - will be shown on Payut Night at Paragon Cineplex on September 29 in a tribute to the pioneering 80-year-old director.

Thailand ups the ante on HDDs

2009-09-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

       Hitachi Global Storage Technologies has for the first time in the industry commissioned a Thai university to upgrade one of its production lines to the latest technology as part of a public private research partnership rather than have equipment sent over to Singapore for retrofitting and sent back.
       The upgrade project, the first by the new Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Industrial Prototyping Research Laboratory at Suranaree University of Technology in Nakhon Ratchasima province is an important step in fostering closer relationships between the hard drive industry and local researchers and SMEs to help Thailand move up the value chain.
       Hitachi GST is upgrading two of its four 1.8 HDD production lines to make new 2.5 drives as trends in demand shift to consumer electronics and even HDDs in the automotive sector. One line has been dismantled and sent to Singapore while the other is being retrofitted at Suranaree University of Technology at the cost of some 17 million baht. Initially, Hitachi GST was reluctant to save a few million baht, given the extra risk of trying something new and groundbreaking, but further negotiation and the offer of a research grant to subsidise the project from Nectec, the National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre, coupled with a local Hitachi GST management eager to source locally to reduce costs, changed their minds.
       Associate Professor Flight Lieutenant Dr Konthorn Chamniprasert, who heads the project, explained how Nectec is paying for the researchers working on the project to the tune of 5 million baht, while Hitachi GST is funding the 17 million worth of equipment and supplying engineers to help in the modifications. The project was approved last year and work started in January.
       Aside from the size, the main difference between the 1.8" drive and the 2.5" is that the 2.5 has two platters.This means two new machines for the old 12-step process, adding a hyperbalancing to tune the vibrations and a new pivot cover part.
       Another difference is that with more heads, the head stack assembly is now more complex and shipped with protection that needs to be removed.
       Hitachi GST provides the drawings of what is needed, but much of the software and programming of the tools has to be engineered locally.
       Capacity is expected to be at 600 drives an hour once the system has been installed at the factory at Prachin Buri and Konthorn said he and his team are trying to ensure the Thai-designed production line operates faster than the one done in Singapore.
       Konthorn said that he and his team have learned so much from the process and he is eager to transfer this knowledge to the industry. This has nothing to do with Hitachi GST's trade secrets, but general knowledge of technology and programming the robots.
       Earlier, Professor Dr Prasart Suebka,Rector of Suranaree University of Technology, said that Nectec funding has provided places for 8 undergraduates,19 masters and one doctorate student and three full-time research staff.
       "We must move from downstream to mid-stream, and with the right research facilities we can become part of the upstream industry," he said.
       Thailand must change from valueaddition to value creation, he said, pinning much of his hopes on the 1.4 trillionbaht Stimulus Package 2.
       Nectec Director Dr Pansak Siriruchatapong spoke of the HDD industry's importance to Thailand, which makes 40 percent of the world's drives, worth 500 billion baht annually. Today the challenge is not just to maintain number one status, but to engage in high-tech research and move up the value chain.
       Pansak said he hoped that the Stimulus Package 2 funds would start flowing as early as the beginning of next year.However, the details of what would filter down to Nectec or the HDD industry in particular have yet to be finalised. It was Nectec's parent organisation, the National Science and Technology Development Agency, requesting the budget from the Ministry of Finance and thus it would be the NSTDA board that decides how any stimulus package money they receive is spent, and how much of it given to Nectec. That said,Pansak said he expects to be able to fund many more researchers through the SP2 funds than in the past.
       Nakorn Tangsujaritpan, Deputy Managing Director of Hitachi Global Storage Technologies Thailand said that the opening of the laboratory would provide a great opportunity for students and SMEs to study and develop automation technology.
       Dr Djitt Laowattana, Director of Hard Disk Drive Programme, National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre said:"Today, we are in a state of war with Singapore and Malaysia. Our competitors are now doing research on upstream technology while we are still selling noodles on a rickshaw. But today we have help from partners like Hitachi telling us to add more pepper and cut down on the fish sauce.
       Our intention is to add just one percent to the industry. That would be an extra five billion baht to the country's GDP."

New Ovi Store to be part of Nokia's major makeover

2009-09-13T22:54:00.000-07:00

       Nokia is spearheading a new breed of its Ovi Applications Store in a hope of creating a one-stop digital application bazaar and supporting its own multimedia devices.
       The Finnish world market leader in handsets hopes the online media and software hub will be a boon for itself as well as consumers, content developers and operators.
       The move is a direct response to Apple's App Store for the iPhone, and is expected to spur a rapid evolution in the way people use mobile phones. The policy also reflects how the focus of the mobile-phone industry has shifted from devices to software and services.
       While Nokia will certainly face an uphill struggle in creating a next wave of its own mobile applications and services in competition with the Apple App Store,it is also taking up another challenge by introducing its spin on the laptop, called the Booklet 3G.
       The 10.1-inch HD-display mini laptop is priced at 575(28,500 baht), weighs one kilogramme and has a battery life of up to 12 hours.
       At the recent Nokia World 2009 in Stuttgart, Nokia announced a wide range of novelties including a Beta version of Ovi Maps for S605th Edition phones,the Ovi Lifecasting feature and Social Messaging Beta for Nokia Messaging.
       Ovi Maps gives users one-touch access to a variety of new content and services through maps.ovi.com. The new personalised services integrate the user's location and surroundings.
       An extension of Nokia Messaging called Social Messaging Beta, which can run on the N97 and Nokia 6700 classic,will enable users to tap into multicommunity social networking to share status updates and photos from the camera or gallery and share current locations or view friends' locations. Ovi Lifecasting enables users to share their locations with their Facebook friends.
       Ovi Store offers 4,500 applications including games, videos, widgets,location-based applications and personalised content under the Social Location (SoLo) concept. It allows users to download free and paid content and applications. Nokia also officially announced a lineup of new smartphones - the N900 and N97 Mini priced at 450- and the music phones Nokia X6 priced at 450 and X3 priced at 115.
       CEO Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo said Nokia expected 300 million Ovi subscribers by 2012, up from 55 million across 100 Nokia devices in 180 countries currently."Nokia Ovi was an incredible success, with up to 1 million accounts activated in the past six months," he said.
       "This economy of scale through web technology will level the playing field for Nokia, create 'ecosystems', and make Ovi Store a very compelling channel for developers and content publishers to enhance their service offering. It is critical for Nokia's future."
       Up to 1.1 billion people use Nokia phones out of 4 billion mobile-phone users globally. In comparison, about 1.6 billion people have bank accounts and 1 billion use credit cards.
       The Ovi Store is set to change the whole new digital application platform and spark a rapid evolution in the mobile industry, said Mr Kallasvuo.
       Nokia plans to develop more applications and services as well as compatible devices to accommodate downloading demand. It signalled the determination to catch up with Apple by hosting a global developer competition called Calling All Innovators at its Forum Nokia 2009 in Stuttgart. More than 1,700 submissions were received from developers and publishers in 85 countries.
       Categories include web applications and runtime widgets, Adobe Flash Litebased applications, emerging-market services and location-aware services utilising Ovi Maps.

Virtual PC firm upbeat about sales

2009-09-11T17:55:00.000-07:00

       NComputing Inc, a developer of virtual software and hardware, is bullish on sales and long-term growth outlook in Thailand.
       The US-based company expects to sell 25,000 units in the Thai market this year, with sales projected to double to 50,000 in 2010.
       It already sold 2 million of its units in 100 countries since its inception two years ago, including 20,000 in Thailand through its local authorised distributor,Siam Network & Computer.
       Half of the total sales were in emerging markets, mainly in retailing, manufacturing, schools and small and mediumsized enterprises.
       NComputing is moving aggressively to build greater awareness of its software products among companies in Thailand,said Manish Sharma, vice-president for sales in Asia Pacific.
       Only 1% to 2% of applications on personal computers are being used beyond a small fraction of their capacity.This unused capacity can be shared by up to 10 users simultaneously for about 3,000 baht per additional user.
       Each user's monitor, keyboard, and mouse connect to the shared PC through the company's small access device - it contains no CPU, memory or moving parts - making it a cheap addition.
       The software works by sharing a computer or server's excess processing power between the shared computer and each user.
       "The device could reduce equipment purchase costs by at least 50%, maintenance costs by 70% and electricity costs by 90%," Mr Sharma said yesterday in Bangkok.
       The company's sales in Thailand grew at a very fast pace, thanks to wider public awareness, he said. Local customers include Coca Cola, Tesco Lotus, Big C,Lactasoy and Orient Thai Airlines.
       The financial crisis has created a great opportunity for NComputing as companies are limiting budgets and controlling costs, he said.

IT industry growth on track

2009-09-08T22:23:00.000-07:00

       The "Thai Khemkhaeng"(Strong Thailand) scheme will spur the IT business and help keep growth on track unless there is political unrest this year, according to CDG Group CEO Nart Liuchareon.
       The global economic downturn has caused unemployment to rise in Thailand, especially in the manufacturing and tourism sectors, but the CEO believes that the outlook for Thailand's overall economy is still promising.
       "The impact due to the uncertain political condition has been more severe than the impact of the global economic crisis," he said.
       However, he added, the IT business has not been badly hit.
       The IT growth, which was forecast earlier this year at 6 percent, will be on target unless there is political uncertainty."But if there is an incident, it will definitely affect the industry as organisations will delay their investment in IT."
       Nart noted that the government's "Thai Khemkhaeng" project, which is mainly designed to create infrastructure to help make the country more competitive, will be a key factor to encourage the IT business because those projects under "Thai Khemkhaeng" require IT,both directly and indirectly.
       The result will not show immediately,but only by the year end, he said.
       The CEO of the oldest Thai IT firm added that even though CDG may win some projects of the government, it will not boost the company's revenue this year.
       "We work this year for earning next year because the government projects basically take time to process, from contract signing to the project implementation and delivery," he said.
       The company aims to achieve some 10 percent growth this year, or 5.5 billion baht.
       The CDG Group has taken the present situation to seriously conduct an internal performance improvement. This is the right time to do it now rather than doing it during the upturn period, said Nart who is also the chairman of the Young President Organisation.
       It now comes to another big change as the group has done five years ago in organisation restructuring by splitting CDG and G-Able, but this time it is entirely about human resources management, the CEO said, pointing out that the group has aligned people to match up with their abilities.
       "We have improved those people who lack something or put them into the right job and paid more benefits for the high potential staff, there is a dimension of compensation," he said, admitting that it is a tough situation as every process is involved with people, with around 2,000 employees.

NOKIA HITS BACK AT "SMART" RIVALS

2009-09-06T22:01:00.000-07:00

       Company's ageing product line is finding less favour with customers
       Faced with increased competition from up-and-coming rivals, Finnish telecom giant Nokia plans to launch a slew of new products this year, but analysts say it position as the world's number one mobile-phone manufacturer.
       To fight back against Apple's iPhone and RIM's Blackberry, Nokia announced plans to launch three new smartphones with touch screens, a portable notebook PC, and a tie up with microsoft to use its popular Office software on its handsets.
       Industry observers criticised the Finnish giant for its ageing product line and for not bringing smartphones to market quickly enough to take on their up-and-coming rivals.
       Analysts interviewed by AFP agreed that Nokia had not yet found a product to chalenge the iPhone as most new Nokia devices use an outdated operating system to drive their phones.
       "It is going to be 2011 before they have the right software to make a really competitive product," said Richard Windsor, a London-based technology analyst for Nomura Securities.
       It slatest smartphone, the N97, has achieved modest sales so far compared to the iPhone.
       Technology consultancy Gartner estimates Nokia has sold just 500,000 of them worldwide since its launch in June. Apples new third-generation iPhone sold one million units in its first weekend on sale.
       Nokia needs its new models to be a success, smartphones, handsets with high-speed Internet access, are are the fastest growing segmant in the mobile phone market and their higher price tags mean they carry higher profit margins than cheaper, more basic models.
       The Finnish giant's share of this lucrative segment has ebbed away in recent months. In the second quarter of 2009, it sold 45 per cent of all 40 million smartphones sold worldwide.
       That compares to 47.4 per cent of 32 million handsets at the same time last year, accordiing to Gartner data.
       "The right high-end product and an increased focus on services and content are vital for Nokia if it wants to both revamp its brand and please investors," wrote Gartner analyst Carolina Milanesi in a research not to clients.
       In addition to its partnershiip with Mocrosoft, Nokia with social networking site Facebook to develop new services.
       "They have ralised that for certain things it makes sense to partner," said Ben Wood, reserach director at CCS Insight.
       Apple also beat Nokia in drawing in additional revenue from the sale of online applications: ringtones, videos, games and other Internet gadgets.
       "Nokia cannot create one kiler product to beat Apple or Google. Nokia has to creat an experience or a solution that is so compelling that a consumer says 'I like the whole proposition,"" said Wood.
       Nikia's chief executive Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo told reporters on Wednesday that these and-on sevices were "critical to our future" and that his company wanted to make smartphones more affordable to a wider range of people.
       But that will be a hard sell in the current economic climate.
       The global financial crisis has weakened demand for mobile phone sales after six years of uninterrupted growth.
       Nokia, which has 1.1 billion customers worldwdie, posted a 66-per-cent drop in net profit in the second quarter of 2009 and a nearly 25-per-cent decline in revenues on a 12-month basis.
       In a bid to restore the company to profitability, a cost-cutting programme was launched in January aimed at reducing Nokia's workforce by some 4,000.

THE PROS AND CONS OF FREE DOWNLOADABLE SOFTWARE

2009-09-06T05:44:00.000-07:00

       IS FREE software really free? The answer depends, of course, on how you define the term.
       But if aggravation and wasted time are tantamount to money lost for you, then the answer is often-but not always - "you pay for free software in some way". Read on to learn why.
       My anti-virus software wants money to renew my subsciption. Before I hand the money over, though, I was wondering whether the free anti-virus programs on the market are just as good. What do you think?
       There are several reputable, free antivirus programs on the market. The ones usually considered the best are Avast (www.avast.com), AVG (free.avg.com), Avira (www.avira.com) and PC Tools (www.pctools.com). They all do a respectable job of protecting you against viruses, malware and spyware, with Avira claiming the best protection in some recent tests.
       These differ from fee-based anti-virus software in two areas: frequency of updates and the number of annoyances you have to put up with during installation. Generally, the signature files, which allow these packages to recognise the latest threats, are updated less frequently than with commercial packages. The result can be a wider window of opportunity for malware. Typically the free packages also contain fewer scanning and configuration options than packages for which you pay a subscription fee.
       Perhaps of greater concern, however, is that the free anti-virus tools invariably contain some type of commercial tie-in-either the installation of software from business partners or advertisements that pop up during the day. AVG, for instance, installs social-networking browser toolbars by default, while Avira, Avast, AVG and PC Tools all include some type of advertising annoyance during the day.
       So with anti-virus software, there's really no such thing as totally free software. It costs monney to create and maintain software such as this, so as a consumer you shouldn't be fooled into thinking that you'll find some team of programmers willing to work every day to keep their software current while receiving no money for the effort.
       It should be noted, however, that Microsoft is about to shake up the anti-virus market when it introduces its Security Essentials anti-virus and anti-malware package later this year. This package will be free to registered Windows users, and a look at the pre-release (beta) version of the software suggests that it will be both effective and unobtrusive. Microsoft's capable OneCare anti-spyware program has been discontinued, but it would appear that Security Essentials will inherit many of the strengths of that software.
       Security Essentials is due to be released at about the same time that Windows 7 hits the market in late October. If you'd like to give that package a try, you may want to use one of the free anti-virus toiols until then.
       Is open-source software more trustworthy than freeware?
       In the case of both open source and source and free ware, you need to rely upon trusted reviews and user reviews to determine which software best meets your needs. There can be no relialbe generalisation regarding which type of software is more trustworthy. The source from which the software comes can also be as critical in determining whether viruses have been introduced into software as any other single factor. Be certain that you dewnload software from trusted sources.
       For open-source software, SourceForge.net is best place to download software.
       If you find open-source software at other locations, be cautious. For freeware, the sites Tucows(www.tucows.com), No-Nags (www.nonags.com) and ZDNet Downloads (downloads.zdnet.com) have been around a long while and are used by many.
       Regardless of where you download your software from, always scan the files first before opening them. Your anti-virus software should install a shell extension, which would allow you to right-click any downloaded file and perform a file-based scan. Take the time to do this for peace of mind.
       I've used the freeware WinKey for years on my XP computer. It does not seem to be compatible with Vista. Is there an upgraded version?
       WinKey was a useful little to tool that allowed you to use the otherwise underutilised Windows key on your keyboard. You could create shortcuts that open programs or folders. Windows Key plus the letter I, for instance, could be set up to open your Internet browser. Alas, as with most free-ware, support and upgrades end when the developer decides to call it quits.
       Fortunately, another application has stepped in to fill the void left by WinKey: HotKeyz (www.skynergy.com/hotkeyz.html). Like WinKey, HotKeyz lets you map the Windows Key to almost any key combination you'd like. The tool is better than WinKey, however, for a number of reasons. First, it's not just a glorified program launcher. With HotKeyz, you can set up a series of actions and map them all to a single shortcut key. The possibilities are vast.

IBM offers new technologies

2009-09-03T22:44:00.000-07:00

       IBM Thailand is aggressively introducing new technologies and a wide range of business solutions to companies of all sizes to boost its leadership in the server market from its share of 38 per cent last year. "With the impact from the current economy, many enterprises need the powerful tools to help them overcome various challenges including the need to reduce cost and enhance operating efficiency," Tanapong Ittisakulchai, country manager for systems and technology at IBM Thailand, said yesterday.
       The move is supported by an array of local business partners nationwide, which are ready to help enhance clients' confidence to migrate to and use IBM's technologies to reduce cost, improve operations and ultimately achieve their business objectives.
       "With this requirement in place, we strongly believe that IT could be the right vehicle to help them achieve their business requirements and also strengthen their competitiveness," he said.
       "With the new technologies introduced today, the strong support from our business partners across the country plus a wide range of business solutions to choose from, we are confident that this would help make Power Systems the platform of choice for many businesses." he added.
       The IDC Asia/Pacific Quarterly Enterprise Server Tracker confirmed IBM Thailand's No-1 ranking in the server market for the five years since 2004.

Crisis hurts Acer profit

2009-08-27T21:14:00.000-07:00

       Acer, the world's No.3 PC brand, barely matched market expectations for its second-quarter results, hit by fast-eroding profit margins in its lowcost netbook PC stronghold.
       The results underscored how Acer's consumer-driven focus is riddled with risks, although it remains relatively better off compared with peers Dell Inc and Lenovo Group, which are suffering due to their reliance on corporate demand.
       Acer leads the pack in the netbook PC segment - one of the brightest spots in the technology sector this year with research firm IDC expecting shipments to jump about 127% this year in a largely steady overall PC market.
       "Honestly, the results are very ordinary and even look like they missed it somewhat," said Vincent Chen, an analyst at Yuanta Securities."The key right now is how they perform in the coming months,especially with Windows 7 coming up."
       Windows 7 is Microsoft's nextgeneration operating system, and the launch of any such software has typically led to a jump in PC sales.
       Acer did not provide any outlook in its statement released after close of trading hours, but it has previously said it expects this year's second-half shipments to jump up to 40% from the first half.
       Acer's net profit fell to NT$2.3 billion (US$70 million) in April-June versus NT$2.9 billion a year ago, hit by the economic crisis as consumers and companies rein in on their spending, and also the lower profits associated with low-cost netbooks.
       A Reuters Estimates poll had expected an average net profit of NT$2.34 billion in the second quarter.
       Revenue also fell, slipping 5% to NT$119 billion as Acer needs to sell as many as six netbook PCs to make the same amount of money as it would from a single regular notebook PC.
       On a shipments basis, Acer was the strongest performer among the world's top five PC brands in the second quarter,with IDC estimating its shipments to have risen nearly 24% from a year ago,stronger than HP and Toshiba Corp.

INDUSTRIAL INDESXES SHOW IMPROVEMENT SINCE JANUARY

2009-08-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

       Thailand's industrial indexes have improved significantly since the start of the year, with the July manufacturing index contracting only 9 per cent year on year compared to 25.6 per cent in January, according to the Industrial Economics Office.
       The index in February contracted 23.1 per cent year on year, March by 23.1 per cent, April by 12.8 per cent, May by 12.4 per cent and June by 6.8 per cent.
       Arthit Wuthikaro, director-general of the office, yesterday said the month-on-month figures had also shown improvement since February, when the index rose 0.5 per cent from January.
       In March, the index expanded 14.2 per cent month on month. Due to political violence, the April figure contracted 8.7 per cent, before expanding 9.2 per cent and 6.6 per cent in May and June respectively.
       The July index, however, dropped 1.3 per cent from June.
       Arthit said that despite the July reversal, the index should return to positive territory soon due to new orders in several industries and many plants having to increase capacity as a result.
       July capacity utilisation stayed at 57 per cent, well above the trough of 50 per cent in February.
       Hard disk drives are one sector for which the manufacturing index has increased for three consecutive months, as manufacturers have been able to offer new products to customers. They are, however, concerned about a labour shortage.
       In the first seven months of the year, the sector's output and distribution dropped 6.3 per cent and 6.5 per cent respectively from the same period last year. The sector is expected to show positive growth in the fourth quarter.
       The frozen-food sector in July also enjoyed growth in manufacturing and sales.

MICROSOFT, AMAZON, YAHOO! ATTACK GOOGLE BOOK MOVE

2009-08-27T21:12:00.000-07:00

       Amazon, Microsoft and Yahoo! joined an alliance on Wednesday oppoing the legal settlement which would allow Google to digitise and sell millions of books in a move the Internet giant dismissed as "sour grapes".
       The three technology heavy-weights are maong the members of a coalition called the Open Book Alliance which expressed concern about "serious legal, competitive, and policy issues" surrounding Google's book-scanning project.
       In a statement, the alliance said its members, which include the nonprofit the Internet Archive, publishers and library associations, will counter the Google book settlement "in its current form".
       Google reached a class action settlement in October of last year with the Authors Guild and the Association of American Publishers to a copyright infringement suit they filed against the company in 2005.
       Under the settlement, Google agreed to pay US$125 million (Bt4.3 billion) to resove outstanding claims and establish an independent "Book Rights Registry", which will provide revenue from sales and advertising to authors and publishers who agree to digitise their books.
       Alliance co-chairs Peter Brantley and Gary Reback said in a blog post that the settlented monopoly and price fixing cartel".
       Google, whose book project is already facing anti-trust scrutiny from the US Justice Department, a court review and privacy concerns, dismissed the move by the coalition.
       "This sounds like the Sour Grapes Alliance," it said in a statement. "The Google Books settlement is injecting more competition into the digital books space, so it's understandable why our competitors might fight hard to prevent more competition."

Sony's e-reader goes wireless

2009-08-26T21:31:00.000-07:00

       Sony Corp plans to offer an e-book reader with the ability to wirelessly download books, injecting more competition in a small but fast-growing market by adopting a key feature of the rival Kindle from Amazon.com.
       Sony's $399 Daily Edition would go on sale by December, Sony executives said Tuesday at an event at the New York Public Library.
       The device has a seven-inch (17.5-centimetre) touch screen and will be able to get books, daily newspapers and other reading material over AT&T Inc's cellular network.
       Sony has sold e-book reading devices with "electronic ink" displays in the United States since 2006, but has seen most of the attention stolen by Amazon.com Inc, which launched the Kindle with similar e-ink technology a year later.The latest version of the Kindle - which is not controlled by touching the screen - costs $299 and uses Sprint Nextel Corp's wireless network for downloads.
       On Tuesday, Sony also began selling a "Pocket Edition" e-book reader with a five-inch (12.5-centimetre) screen, for $199, and a larger $299 touch-screen model. Neither has wireless capability,so both have to be connected to a computer to acquire books.
       Though Sony is following in Amazon's footsteps by adding wireless capability,its e-book strategy differs in crucial respects.
       The only copy-protected books the Kindle can display are from Amazon's store, and the only devices the store supports are the Kindle, the iPhone and the iPod Touch.
       Sony, on the other hand, has committed to an open e-book standard,meaning its readers can show copyprotected books from a variety of stores,and the books can be moved to and read on a variety of devices, including cell phones.
       Sony also announced on Tuesday that the readers will be able to load e-books "loaned" from local libraries. A library card will provide access to free books that expire after 21 days.
       The library connection "would seem to be something Amazon would never embrace, so that could be a key differentiator," said Richard Doherty, director of research firm The Envisioneering Group.
       The alliance with AT&T helps the Dallas-based carrier further expand the use of its wireless network beyond cell phones. Like other carriers, AT&T is looking for new avenues of growth now that almost every adult has a cell phone. In July, it announced that it would provide the connection to another upcoming e-book reader from Plastic Logic Ltd,which will use the e-book store of Barnes & Noble Inc.
       "Reader owners won't be charged a subscription fee for wireless access,"said Steve Haber, head of Sony's US reading division.
       Instead, the bookseller will likely have to pay AT&T for the wireless access, out of money it charges for the books, similar to the way Amazon pays Sprint. Sony's multi-store strategy makes that challenging."The Daily Edition will initially have wireless access only to Sony's e-book store," Haber said.
       Sony said the names of the newspapers that will be available on the device will be announced later. The Kindle already offers 46 newspapers, including the New York Times , the Wall Street Journal and USA Today.

Game of denial

2009-08-25T23:58:00.000-07:00

       The Malaysian government announced then denied it intends to set up filters to block undesirable Internet content like its northern neighbour; on Friday morning, Information Minister Rais Yatim told newsmen he planned to put in filters to block all that "undesirable content";the following Thursday, after talking with Prime Minister, Najib Razak, Mr Yatim announced that existing laws were plenty strong enough to find and to prosecute actual sedition, fraud and child pornography, and he cancelled the country's calls for bids to supply an Internet filter system. China announced that it no longer planned to demand that all personal computers must have the flawed and official censorware program Green Dam ; Li Yizhong, minister of industry and information technology,said only schools and Internet cafes would be compelled to install the software; he actually said with a straight face it was only "to protect the children".
       A week after fixing 18 security holes in Mac OS X,Apple Inc issued a security patch for the Bind Internet server standard, which allowed remote hackers to crash servers; Apple also issued a passel of security patches for the hackerfriendly Safari browser, Apple and Windows editions, including a nasty bug whereby a hacker could get Safari to list his malicious website as a Top Site.
       Number 1 operating system peddlers Microsoft of America and No 1 yuppiephone tinkers Nokia of Finland announced a joint venture to port Microsoft Office to Nokia phones under the Symbian operating system; it's hard to imagine why anyone would want an office suite on a 2-inch screen, but apparently Nokia executives have convinced Microsoft they need the system to stomp and kick the nice BlackBerry maker Research In Motion .Microsoft announced that Office 2010 for the Apple Mac was on schedule,sort of, and should be ready for sale for the New Year's Eve shopping season next year ; well, that's 2010, right?A judge in Texas told Microsoft tostop selling editions of Word that use custom XML tagging technology; Microsoft lost a patent lawsuit over the XML format to the nice I4i firm, but it will appeal the ruling and won't stop selling Word for a day.Microsoft showed some photos of its new Zune HD, the music player that will certainly crush the Apple iPod; in a huge, shock surprise, the Zune prices will be held under iPod prices; it will have a web browser and the ability to copy high-def video to an HDTV (dock not included).
       A British politician who would be prime minister wants to fine every person sharing a file illegally on the Internet to be find ฃ50,000, or 2.8 million baht in real money; Business Secretary Lord Mandelson of the Labour Party said he was "persuaded by the argument for tough laws" against all that piracy that's going on by seven million of his countrymen - after a dinner at the Greek island of Corfu, paid entirely by his close entertainment buddy David Geffen and the Rothschild bank.US President Barack Obama and his government ordered government-run Internet sites to resume dealing cookies to surfers, spurring major privacy concerns from serious civil liberties groups including the Electronic Privacy Information Center and Electronic Frontier Foundation; the groups also blamed private companies, principally Google ,for forcing government sites to use cookies in exchange for permission for the government to use its sites, such as posting videos on YouTube ; Vivek Kundra, the government's chief information officer, explained that the new policy is to improve customer service,but he was in such a hurry he forgot to explain what advantages the government was getting out of suddenly resuming its tracking of users.
       Sara Morishige Williams, wife of Twitter CEO Evan Williams, provided graphic examples of "too much information"when she tweeted the birth of her child,minute by minute to 14,000 followers;things we didn't really have to know included "My water broke. It wasn't like Charlotte in Sex and the City . Now,timing contractions on an iPhone app"and "The Contraction Tracker was fun until the contractions got painful";thankfully her husband tweeted nothing.
       The World Trade Organisation told China it had to stop censoring films,DVDs and books by funnelling all imports through state agencies; ruling on a suit brought by the United States, the WTO ordered China to open market access; the US claimed that by controlling such imports, China was increasing the demand for pirated goods.
       In a report by OECD, the "developed"countries named and shamed the countries with the world's highest mobile phone charges: Canada, Spain and the United States, in that order; the lowest charges among the 30-member OECD were in Finland, with Holland and Sweden a tad higher.Toshiba moved to the dark side; after years spent inventing and championing the losing HD DVD format for high-density disks,Toshiba became a gracious loser and started making Blu-Ray players, now the standard but not yet fabulously popular.

Thai government gets creative

2009-08-25T23:57:00.000-07:00

       With the ambition of boosting the country's revenue from creative industry,the Government plans to allocate 18 billion baht to a "Creative Thailand"project strategy.
       The budget will come from the Government's economic stimulus package 2.The Software Industry Promotion Agency (Sipa) and National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre (Nectec) will draft plans to use IT to add value and promote Thai culture, art and performance, entertainment and fashion design, covering 15 industries worth nearly 800 billion baht, or 10-11 percent of Thailand's Gross Domestic Product.
       There are several key ministries involved in Creative Thailand, ranging from the commerce ministry, industry ministry, science and technology ministry, to the information and communication technology ministry and the culture ministry, said Sipa Director Rungruang Limchoopatipa.
       Digital content and software play an important role not only in creative industry itself but also as tools for transforming and uplifting the 15 industries.
       There are strategic areas that Sipa will execute to achieve the government's policy push towards creative economy.The first area is research and development (R&D), which will see several hun-dreds million baht invested in a cloud computing centre to support all creative industries.
       The agency will increase its capability in entrepreneurship and establish a Digital Creative Centre, with a budget of 600-800 million baht, to be a one-stop shop providing all necessary hardware and software to support creative industries that use IT in their core business.
       The centre will also build networking,with 30 related domestic associations including government agencies such as Nectec, Software Park under National Science and Technology Development Agency, and others.
       Interms of international cooperation, Sipa will launch the Association of Asia Creative Industry, featuring 10 member countries from the Asia Pacific region. This association will form an Asia Fund to invest in the coproduction of software and digital content.
       For example, Japan and Korea may be responsible for story development and techniques, while Thailand could cover production processes and Singapore might be responsible for marketing.
       The agency has discussed with Carnegie Mellon University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and IBM about joining hands on a new degree called "Creative Science Engineering Management" to build a new workforce of creative professionals blending science, engineering, art and management skills. The budget for the bachelor degree curriculum is set at 180 million baht.
       Sipa will submit the project proposals and budget for 2 billion baht over the next three years to support its plan. For the fiscal year ending 2010, Sipa has already secured 200 million baht.
       Meanwhile Nectec Director Pansak Siriruchatapong added that the agency,under Creative Thailand, will support R&D, especially in cloud computing, to facilitate digital content and animation as well as other creative industries.
       Moreover, Nectec will use its technological expertise to add more valued to Otop products and Thai history and culture via digitised content.
       For example, it will develop an e-museum and e-library to showcase the evolution and history of Thai culture.
       If tourists views profile of a locally made product, including how it is made and its historical and cultural significance, its attractiveness to the potential buyer will increase.

Windows 7 Thai release announced

2009-08-25T23:56:00.000-07:00

       Microsoft (Thailand) will launch the Thai version of Windows 7 on October 24,with the operating system pre-installed on 40 computer brands at 10 major IT chain stores.
       Managing Director Patama Chantaruck said the company expects the formal launch of Windows 7 in Thailand is slightly behind the US launch die to development of Thai language support.
       The 40 brands offering the preinstalled software will be both local and international models.
       The 10 stores will also offer Windows 7 as separate software.
       Staff at these outlets are already trained in compatibility testing, system upgrades and other Windows 7 concerns.
       The company expects Windows 7 will be heavily subscribed-to even in the economic downturn because the new OS can run on netbooks, which are enjoying popularity.
       Another key feature is security, such as BitLocker Drive Encryption, which gives system administrators control over how removable storage devices can be used and the strength of protection required.
       These two features are especially attractive to banks, especially as Thailand's major banks are expected to migrate to Windows 7 within three months of the launch.
       Microsoft has launched www.windows7thailand.com to demonstrate to users how to use the new OS. The site also connects with Facebook and Twitter,harnessing the potential of digital marketing through social networks.
       The previous Windows release, Vista,currently commands around 30 percent of the Windows customer base, with its predecessor XP still much-preferred, with a 70 percent share.
       The company has increased its marketing budget by 10 percent for the new fiscal year, which started last month, to support its major new product launches,and is targeting a revenue growth of 10 percent. The last fiscal year ended with a 22 percent growth for Microsoft, well above the industry average of 11 percent.
       "Thailand is one of the five countries that has seen the highest growth, apart from Bangladesh, Vietnam, Argentina and Egypt," said Patama.
       "The Thailand office has also subsidised internal expenses worth $600,000 (20.4 million baht) to localise support to channel partner-in-credit extension terms from 60 to 90 days and offer exchange rate protection."

IT lifestyle centre opened in Siam Square

2009-08-25T23:55:00.000-07:00

       Trendy tech-savvy users coupled with advanced IT technologies are driving the newest digital lifestyle centre in Thailand. Meanwhile, however, the majority of consumers are sticking with traditional computer stores that offer more affordable products.
       The potential growth of IT products among the digital generation was the key factor behind the newly opened 500-million-baht "Digital Gateway" at Center Point in Siam Square, said Soammaphat Traisorat, Executive Director of TCC Land, at the official launch.
       Its location connected with the mass transit system is an important indication that the centre sees a bright future despite the current economic circumstances that may have a minor affect on tourists visiting in the centre.
       Over the next three years the company plans to allocate one or two trolleys for IT lifestyle products in a project called "Gateway Ekamai" connected to Ekamai skytrain station.
       Wallapa Traisorat, Executive Director,said that the 8,000-square-metre Digital Gateway combined digital technology,entertainment and learning for a new generation. It is also the first IT lifestyle centre in its group portfolio of computer centres which includes Pantip Plaza in Pratunam.
       The building itself looks like a space tunnel which links the present with the future. The centre showcases the latest interactive media.
       The centre has also partnered with Microsoft to become the first "Clean Mall"- an IT centre without any pirated software.
       There are other IT flagship stores like iStudio, which is the second largest in Thailand, and the biggest True Lifestyle Shop. In addition, Oakley has also opened its second largest outlet in Asia.
       Wisanu Wangwisut, Managing Director of Thippatana Arcade, the developer and property manager of Digital Gateway,a subsidiary of TCC Land Group, said that the centre's visitor profile ranged from 13 to 29-year olds, the dominant age group in Siam Square, and expected 100,000 visitors per day.
       The company's expansion plan includes Pantip Plaza Bangkapi, a traditional computer centre which will open this September. It also intends to find other potential areas for computer centres such as Bang Yai district and Charoen Krung Road.
       Accharas Ouysinprasert, Intel Microelectronics (Thailand) Country Manager,said the establishment of digital lifestyle centres and specialist stores showed how developed and mature the computer market here had become.
       For trendy users in the centre, price is not main issue in making decisions but the users are more interested in styles and designs which reflect their personalities. For instance, the prices of notebooks with the same speed CPU may differ because of the other features they offer which serve a variety of consumer lifestyles. For example, Atom processor that can be used in normal netbooks or gadgets, and Asus HTPC keyboard with a five-inch small screen display with built-in HDMI port.
       The recent consumer ultra-low voltage platform which helps to produce new ultra thin and light notebooks ranges from 20,000-80,000 baht depending on the material, design and other unique features.
       From a design perspective shape, colour and materials, even in dustless key-boards or automotive power light safe display can attract experienced users or second-time buyers.
       Pornthep Watchara-Amnouy, Managing Director of ASUSTek Computer,said that the company has to help its retail partners to select mid to high end notebooks and gadgets to fit in with the profile of the centre.
       Chan Chaovanich, Managing Director of Speed Computer which has three brand shops in the centre, said because of higher rental costs from others, this is the first time that its big three suppliers - Asus, HP and Intel- have supported the space cost.
       Meanwhile Ekachai Sirijirapatana,President of IT City, one of the largest IT superstores in Thailand, said that within the next three years, IT centres should have space of more than 10,000 square metres in order to support a variety of products for customer needs.
       IT is a highly competitive market which has lowmargins ranging from 6-13 percent, so the volume of sales is important.If this sells in high cost rental area it means more premium products to sell even it has a greater margin, the volume will not cover the expenses.
       "I think the upcountry areas, especially those with local department stores that still do not have IT shops and growing demand from consumer as well as low rental price more attractive," Ekachai said.

Oracle-Sun deal gets green light

2009-08-25T23:54:00.000-07:00

       Software giant Oracle Corp has won US antitrust approval to buy computer maker Sun Microsystems,clearing a key hurdle in the companies'plan to close the $7.4 billion deal before the end of this month.
       Oracle said last week that the deal cleared the US Justice Department with no restrictions.
       The takeover also requires approval by the European Commission.
       US officials in June said they wanted to scrutinise the deal over questions about Oracle's plans for licensing Sun's Java software, one of the world's most widely used computer languages. Since then, investors have been waiting to see how long that might delay the deal.
       Analysts have said that the delay has worked to the advantage of Sun's two chief rivals in the server market, IBM and Hewlett Packard Co.
       They have been courting Sun's customers during the past few months, trying to persuade them to change suppliers amid uncertainty about Oracle's plans for running the server business. Until Oracle closes the acquisition, it cannot say much about its strategy for Sun's hardware division.

BSA to launch online campaign

2009-08-25T23:53:00.000-07:00

       In an attempt to reach the younger generation and IT savvy users, the Business Software Alliance will launch Super Hero online video campaign via YouTube throughout the Asia Pacific region including Thailand next month.
       The video campaign aims to motivate the people to inform the authorities about illegal usage of software, according to Roland Chan, Business Software Alliance (BSA) Senior Director of Marketing, AsiaPacific.
       Meanwhile the BSA will raise awareness through online and offline channels to attract more users calls to the BSA hotline (02-714-1010) for legal action against copyright violators to receive an award of up to 250,000 baht.
       "Clearly, the recession has led some people to call the hotline as a way to make up for lost income and to ease economic pressures and cash rewards for anonymous tips about software piracy are gaining favour among corporate managers and employees," said Chan.
       Each year Thailand has 500-1,000 calls to hotline numbers and this year expects to get more from the new activities. In the first eight months of this year police raided more than 60 companies suspected of netting more than 150 million baht in unlicensed software.
       "Among the hotline tips we receive are those about companies using unlicensed dictionaries without paying fees to the Thai Software Enterprise. Utilities software such as antivirus software is still the most popular for illegal use."
       Moreover, there is a new viable option for copyright holders to sue illegal users though the Thai Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court to compensate their losses.
       In a recent case, the court awarded the maker of design and engineering software 1.8 million baht in damages.The decision was based on evidence that the defendant infringed the software developer's copyright.
       The court arrived at damages of 1.8 million in consideration of the value of the software, plus interest owed the plain-tiff starting from the date on which the defendant began using the unlicensed software.
       The case began in late 2005 when a police investigation and subsequent police raid at the company's offices discovered unlicensed software being used by employees. Following a conviction in the criminal courts, lawyers for the plaintiff brought a civil case against the defendant, which culminated in victory last month.
       The defendant, a 100 percent Thaiowned company, has registered capital of approximately 150 million baht and annual revenue of approximately 250 million baht.
       Leonard Yeung, Autodesk's Asean Licence Compliance Manager, said that the court's opinion demonstrates once again that there are criminal and civil liabilities to be faced by companies in Thailand that use counterfeit or unlicensed copies of software in their business practices.
       This case represents the second decision in favour of software developers.In January,2009, Autodesk won a milestone case as the first software development company to bring legal action against a company accused of using its software without licensing. In that case,Autodesk was awarded 3.5 million baht by the Thai Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court.
       Chan continues that it is possible that these two cases will encourage more software developers to take action at a civil level. However, fighting to this has high legal is costly and takes long process,which is why more than 50 percent of cases are settled out of court.
       There are several positive signs to make Thailand piracy rate in 2009 reduce from central government policy and strong police enforcement and compensation to copyright holders.
       A BSA-IDC study revealed that Thailand's PC piracy rate in 2008 was around 76 percent with a value loss of US$609 million, dropping two points from 2007 and 80 percent in 2006. Thailand ranks eight out of 19 Asia Pacific economies.

MS reveals power surge for cheaper handsets

2009-08-25T23:52:00.000-07:00

       Microsoft on Monday unveiled software that lets Twitter, Facebook and other hot Internet services be delivered to low-cost "feature phones" common in developing countries.
       The US technology giant will debut OneApp in South Africa and hopes to swiftly roll it out in India, China and other countries where millions of people use feature phones instead of powerful smartphones.
       Meanwhile, Finnish telecoms giant Nokia, the world's largest mobile phone manufacturer, announced in Helsinki on Monday it would launch its firstever mini laptop.
       The "Booklet 3G" will weigh just 1.25 kilogrammes and will measure just two centimetres wide, Nokia said in a statement.
       It will use Microsoft's Windows operating system and have a battery life of up to 12 hours, the company added.
       Nokia said it would announce the price and availability of its new pocket computer next month.
       Amit Mital, corporate vice president of the Unlimited Potential Group and Startup Business Accelerator at Microsoft said "We designed OneApp from the ground up on feature phones with very limited memory and processing capabilities."
       "OneApp will be able to help people do things they couldn't do before with their feature phone - anything from paying their bills to helping diagnose their health issues or just staying connected with friends and family."
       Feature phones typically combine calling capabilities with one or two other functions such as playing music or games.
       Such devices rely on General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) networks with users unable to browse the Internet and typically paying as they go to download data.
       In contrast, smartphones are essentially pocket-sized computers with wireless Internet connectivity.
       "With a GPRS-enabled cell phone,consumers can now be part of the app experience, which is taking the world by storm," said Mark Levy, joint chief executive of Blue Label Telecoms.
       Microsoft teamed with Blue Label Telecoms to make OneApp part of a new "mibli" mobile service to be offered free in South Africa, according to Mital.
       "We're particularly excited by the technology's capacity to transform near-ly any cell phone into a highly sophisticated, cost-effective and user-friendly transactional device," Levy said.
       Feature phones are far more common than smartphones in emerging markets,according to Microsoft.
       "Right now you have smartphones that are really expensive and feature phones that are free or near-free, and there is a grey area in the middle," said analyst Rob Enderle of Enderle Group in Silicon Valley.
       "This could close the grey area. It's a win for folks who didn't think feature phones were capable enough for them but didn't want to spend the money on a smartphone."
       The rate of mobile telephone adoption in places such as India and China is meteoric, with a clear hunger for access to popular Internet services such as social networks and microblogging,Mital said.
       OneApp hosts software "in the cloud"- as a service on the Internet - so a feature phone's scant power can be devoted temporarily to whichever applications people opt for, according to Microsoft.
       "Think of it as a caching mechanism where the Internet is the place your data is stored and then, when needed,downloaded to the phone," Mital said.
       "It means resources are only being used for a single application at any moment, lowering data charges, which is especially important in markets where people don't have all-you-can-eat data plans."
       A standardised OneApp platform for applications should let developers take advantage of economies of scale, opening flood gates for new programs for feature phones, according to Enderle.
       Currently, applications need to be customised for each model of feature phone. OneApp offers a standard for crafting applications.
       Microsoft is talking with potential OneApp partners worldwide and did not disclose how it plans to make money from the feature-phone platform.

Hitachi Data Systems to focus on long-term sustainability

2009-08-25T23:51:00.000-07:00

       When it comes to enterprise-class data storage, doing more with less through virtualisation, data de-duplication and tiered storage now sounds more attractive than ever. The leader in storage virtualisation, Hitachi Data Systems is now taking that message beyond the data centre and has created models in a language that the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) can actually understand.
       Speaking at a press release at the HDS user conference in Bangkok, HDS Chief Technical Officer Hubert Yoshida said that rather than simply cutting costs of equipment to make it possible for customers to continue buying during the slump, the focus is now on long term sustainability and providing the customer with the tools to measure and reduce the total cost of ownership.
       He explained the now well known virtues of virtualisation (separating the application from physical hardware so it can move around), de-duplication (getting rid of copies and replacing them with a pointer to one set of data), dynamic provisioning (allocating only what is used and sharing the unused but promised storage space in a pool), and archiving (storing old, non-changing data that is rarely accessed on tier-three slow storage)before talking about how much of the focus this year is on getting that message across to the CFO.
       One of HDS's researchers, David Merrill has a framework, a series of spreadsheets and documentation, that teaches the accountants how to understand the cost elements in storage and monitor them, known as Storage Economics.Today many costs such as power and cooling still go unmeasured and if they are not monitored, how then can the cost structure be optimised.
       Merrill's framework consists of 33 different types of cost, how to set a target and how technology can help to reach that target. Once the target is attained,the model goes further to address sustainability.
       "In this type of economy, we cannot wait three years, we need payback within the budget year and there are some quick payback things we can look for," Yoshida said.
       At the top of the list is virtualisation.Implementing virtualisation has a direct impact on the cost of migrating applications. Instead of taking six to nine months to migrate a legacy application that is hard coded to its storage, this means it can be done over a weekend or two.
       Away from the usual case studies of savings through virtualisation, Yoshida gave the audience a glimpse of how new technology was actually changing the game and bringing along huge savings.PayFormance, a US healthcare billing company, has used the HDS active ar-chive technology to run its billing application straight off the archive without using a database.
       Archived information cannot be changed by definition. Healthcare information must not be changed by law,thus the complexity, cost and flexibility of a proper database was not needed.The system design, admittedly quite unique, saved PayFormance the cost of database licenses and trained database administrators.
       One of the bigger savings in the model is the cost of risk. Here, Yoshida explained that virtualisation brings with redundancy and in a 128-way processor system,nothing would be affected if three or four processors were to fail. Conversely,traditional modular storage is akin to a pair of legs. If one is shot, nothing can be done until it has been fixed. The figures for downtime are also formalised and not a matter of guesswork, with risk managers in the financial services and trading industries carefully calculating how many millions of dollars each hour of downtime would cost the company.
       Virtualisation also helps disaster recovery and business continuity as everything can be transferred to the DR site in one pipe rather than a dozen apps using a dozen different conduits with deference technologies.
       HDS Senior Vice-President and General Manager for Asia-Pacific Kevin Egglestrom said that after the last 18 months of significant downturn, the economy is now showing signs of recovery as reflected in the equity indices and that he expects the Asia-Pacific region to lead the world recovery. That said, he noted that HDS has always done well in both good and bad times. For 2008, IDC figures said that the market in Thailand declined by six percent, but that HDS' market share was, more than six and less than,say,20 percent. One of his colleagues later confirmed that HDS had actually grown eight percent in the declining market last year, a double-digit delta.
       In 2008, HDS also became the leader in the high end global storage market,ahead of EMC and IBM.
       HDS country manager Thaweesak Saengthong spoke of how he was seeing an explosion in data needs from the government sector especially in security monitoring and mobile. For the first time in a generation, the economic situation is forcing banks to compete for customers and now they are launching campaigns to woo customers. The challenge here is flexibility and how to get the campaign to market soonest.
       He also noted that HDS has won a contract with the Bank of Thailand and how HDS active archive solutions could have prevented the recent scandals regarding the tampering with the political party member register and making the servers stolen from government house worthless.

Geographic system services open up

2009-08-25T23:50:00.002-07:00

       The world of Geographic Information System (GIS) is promisingly opening up so users can enjoy using a range of software products, as ESRI has announced free web service of ArcGIS.
       It is somewhat a new dimension in the industry, with ArcGIS offering the web service opening as an alternative for GIS professionals so they can create programs and develop add-ons for existing data and applications, according to ESRI (Thailand) general manager Krairop Luanguthai.
       Speaking at Thai GIS User Conference 2009 last week, Krairop said rich Internet applications are going to be a new trend. Platforms like Javascript and Silverlight are new technologies for creating these interesting mashups; intuitive lightweight applications. These rich Internet applications are also going to be free for non-commercial users, NGOs,education and government agencies.
       This will boost the GIS society and encourage a number of users to further develop and share applications. The Thai version of ArcGis Online is scheduled to launch in October.
       "This offers many opportunities for creativity with this new media environment, with creative carto-graphy, spreading geographic knowledge everywhere," said Krairop.
       "Many creative people can take those APIs and create interesting new approaches to create maps that are prolific on the Web."
       He added that the result of Web APIs in Thailand would be more apparent a year from now.
       ArcGIS Online, which is so far known only for content services, introduced a facility to have users share their layer packages and services in an integrated,free, online storage site in the cloud.They can take their data and define how it belongs to their group. Or they can choose to share it over the open Internet.
       Krairop added that the ArcGIS online will probably not affect Google Earth because the user groups are distinct.Google does not concentrate GIS and users just view the map, while GIS online will evolve the GIS society leading the users and professionals to be GIS creators as they can thoroughly deal with the data. Those professionals can develop such programs as land management, natural resource management, goods delivery, and so forth, for free on the Web.
       Krairop added that the GIS market continues to expand, with 20 percent growth this year. The company has a target this year of 12 billion baht, with GIS database system services being the major revenue generator. So far ESRI Thailand has developed GIS database for the public sector. Most customers -70 percent - are government agencies.
       Having dealt with GIS systems in the public sector for 20 years, Krairop noted that they are often "on and off",leading to a problem of data accuracy.The policy has always changed in accordance with the shift of heads of organisations. Consequently, the operation lacks continuity."Databases are the most important of GIS systems and they need to be updated all the time so that data remains accurate,"he said.
       ESRI Thailand, meanwhile, will file a lawsuit against two companies at MBK shopping centre who violated the company's software copyright.

Apple to unleash Snow Leopard on Friday

2009-08-25T23:50:00.001-07:00

       Apple Inc's latest operating system software,Snow Leopard, will go on sale this Friday.
       The Mac OS X version 10.6 software will debut at Apple's retail stores and authorised resellers nationwide. Apple's online store is now taking pre-orders.
       Snow Leopard's release comes days before its promised September launch.It precedes by two months the launch of Microsoft Corp's next operating system, Windows 7.
       Among Snow Leopard's improvements is built-in support for Microsoft's Exchange Server software, so Apple programs for e-mail, calendars and contacts could become more useful in corporate settings.
       Apple said Snow Leopard is half the size of the previous version, freeing up to seven gigabytes of storage space when installed. It requires a minimum of one gigabyte of RAM and runs on Macs using an Intel processor.
       Users of Mac OS X Leopard, or version 10.5, can upgrade to the latest version for $29 for single users and $49 for a family pack of five users. For Apple owners using the Tiger operating system,or version 10.4, on an Intel-based Mac,switching to Snow Leopard costs $169 for single users and $229 for a family pack.
       Consumers who buy a qualifying Mac from June 8 to Dec 26 can purchase the Snow Leopard upgrade for $9.95.

Province leads the way in mapping out the future

2009-08-25T23:48:00.000-07:00

       Suphan Burihas won an award for its effective implementation of GIS, writes Sasiwimon Boonruang
       Many public organisations have adopted the geographical information system (GIS)as a tool for city planning and administration, with Suphan Buri being particularly successful.
       This is due to its complete database system and network integration through every agency, according to Somsak Pureesrisak, the governor of Suphan Buri, Thailand's most successful province in terms of utilising GIS and MIS (management information system).
       The principle is that the data must be updated by the data owners, said Somsak, adding that GIS has been implemented in every agency in the province.
       Somsak suggested public agencies adopt the data carried out by the Public Health Ministry because village health volunteers have to collect both household and personal data. With a population of some 800,000, Suphan Buri has 174 health stations, where some 15,000 village health volunteers work.
       "The village health volunteers' primary job is to visit the people, and they are close to the public. The data research carried out by these staff is extremely relevant because they really work in the field," he said.
       Prior to 2005, Suphan Buri used the Health Centre Information System (HCIS) as the population database survey. Ten hospitals in the province have used five different hospital systems: Hos XP, Hospital OS, Khon Kaen , Mit Net and Stat Dispence. The big problem is the database systems cannot interoperate between hospitals and the health centres.
       The system then changed to E-Care in 2006, with the focus on developing the database system of the health centres and covering information on patients and medicine. The GIS database of people and households has now been added to E-Care and the system has been used in the provincial health centres and district health centres.
       "In the rural area, all data can be collected and the treatment and village visiting schedule can be checked over the web service," Somsak said, noting that the administrator can also view medicines are available, in what quantities, at each health centre.
       However, another problem is that each health centre uses a different code for the same medicines. The computer programs of hospitals and health centres also are not integrated, which presents problems in data sharing between them.E-Care, which was used until 2008, has now been replaced by E-Health.
       The governor, who has a background in engineering, has ordered the government agencies to consolidate all databases to solve the problem of data integration. The Hos XP has been chosen,allowing data integration among the agencies to become workable, whereby the health centres are the primary care units.
       Besides checking the data via the web service, E-Health also allows the government to verify personal records through the data centre. Provincial health centres take care of he data of public health service reports, while the provincial hospitals collect medical records of patients.
       Over the next year, the province plans to implement a patient fingerprint system. This will be useful for many bureaux such as the police as it can double up as a source to aid criminal investigations.
       The governor pointed out that Thai people hold several multi-purpose cards:ID card, driving license, tax card, ATM card, social security card, and so on.
       "Wouldn't it be smarter to have one person with one record, rather than one person with too many records," he suggested, noting that in the future,the data integration of those organisations - Provincial Administration department, Revenue department, Transport department, Social Security Office,Public Health Ministry, and so on will enable officials to work more efficiently, through the approach of "one person, one record".
       The governor pointed out that the Land department has the data of landowners and deeds, and the province has further developed the data by applying GIS. The system enables officials to view details of houses, the data of family members and their occupations,because the residents in that home some case may be not the land owners.
       MIS has been working with GIS through the matching-up of databases and pictures of household locations and the members of the families. Here, they apply GIS to link with the farmer database.
       "We can connect further between the data of locations and the MIS and make use of them in many aspects,"said the governor.
       However, he admitted that the GIS here is not yet perfect. There is the farming land data of the entire province and all the farming land locations, but it is not yet thoroughly understood what kinds of crops are grown at each.
       Making use of the technology in Suphan Buri can answer many problems that the government today is dealing with. One example is to keep records of foreign workers; who they are and where they live. The global positioning system (GPS), aerial photographs,3D technology, and photos of the land location have been used to help verify alien workers, both legal and illegal.
       The Labour Ministry needs measures to manage alien labour, by registering them and their family members. Somsak pointed out that Suphan Buri has some 8,000 registered alien workers. Including their family members, this means a total of around 20,000 foreigners legally living in the province. The health centres have records of these people and their data is stored on web application, which the immigration office has access to. Police can check alien records via mobile phone or computer, and the system can report to them via SMS, MMS or web service.
       Suphan Buri is now working with Samut Sakhon province to implement the alien labourers' examination system with smart cards and fingerprint technology. The system is expected to be in place by next year."We are now studying if both technologies can be combined,"said Somsak.
       To prove the persons' right to the land, Suphan Buri has applied aerial photography and then set the GPS. The system can therefore match house locations with owners, and how many households are in each location.
       The province has already covered more than 500,000 plots of land.
       This will help Suphan Buri to prove whether or not government policies such as rice pricing insurance and crop insurance are working.
       Suphan Buri is now working with the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry to add to the database of public land of different types, such as national parks, mangrove forests and wildlife sanctuaries.
       So far, the province's GIS system and aerial photographs have served the ministry in coping with the problem of water shade areas, forest areas and national reservation areas.
       These will be used to prove the right of land occupation and examine incidences of public land invasion.
       The governor pointed out the government's policy of land and property tax and community title deeds can be performed with less effort and greater accuracy once the public agencies have a good database to refer to and have use of GIS and MIS.
       Suphan Buri province was recently honoured with the Special Achievement Award in GIS (SAG)2009, at the ESRI International User Conference, as it has made extraordinary contributions to the global society and set new precedents throughout the GIS community.
       Several organisations have implemented GIS, but not as effectively as Suphan Buri, where the system has been integrated into day-to-day operations.
       The GIS utilisation here leads to benefits for the public and the overall local administration, said ESRI (Thailand)general manager Krairop Luanguthai.

Nokia enters PC industry with netbook

2009-08-25T23:47:00.000-07:00

       The world's top mobilephone maker Nokia said on Monday it would start to make laptops, entering a fiercely competitive but fast-growing market with a netbook running Microsoft's Windows operating system.
       Nokia had earlier this year said it was considering entering the laptop industry,crossing the border between two converging industries in the opposite direction to Apple, which entered the phone industry in 2007 with the iPhone.
       Nokia has seen its profit margins drop over the last quarters as handset demand has slumped, and analysts have worried that entering the PC industry, where margins are traditionally razor-thin, could hurt Nokia's profits further.
       "We are fully aware what has the margin level been in the PC world. We have gone into this with our eyes wide open," Kai Oistamo, the head of Nokia's phone unit, told Reuters.
       "There's really an opportunity to bring fresh perspective to the PC world," he said, adding that Nokia would introduce extended battery life and continuous connectivity.
       Nokia has produced PCs before, but divested the unit in 1991 when it started to focus on the mobile phone industry.
       But Nokia's first netbook, the Nokia Booklet 3G, will use Microsoft's Windows software and Intel's Atom processor to offer up to 12 hours of battery life while weighing 1.25 kilogrammes.
       Netbooks are low-cost laptops optimised for surfing the Internet and performing other basic functions. Pioneered by Asustek with the hit Eee PC in 2007,netbooks have since been rolled out by other brands such as HP and Dell.
       "The question is: How will Nokia differentiate? This is already a crowded market. If they manage to differentiate it's going to give them competitive ad-vantage," said Gartner analyst Carolina Milanesi.
       Research firm IDC expects netbook shipments this year to grow more than 127% from 2008 to over 26 million units,outperforming the overall PC market that is expected to remain flat and a phone market which is shrinking some 10%.
       "Nokia will be hoping that its brand and knowledge of cellular channels will play to its strengths as it addresses this crowded, cut-throat segment," said Ben Wood, director of research at CCS Insight.
       "At present we see Nokia's foray into the netbook market as a niche exercise in the context of its broader business."
       Nokia's choice of Windows software surprised some analysts who had expected the company to use Linux in its first laptop.
       Analyst Neil Mawston from Strategy Analytics said the technology choices were a good win for the US companies.
       "We believe ARM and Symbian are among the main losers from the Nokia Booklet announcement," he said.
       Nokia said it would unveil detailed specifications, market availability and pricing of its new device on Sept 2.
       A source close to Nokia said the new netbook would use the upcoming Windows 7 operating system. Microsoft says a stripped-down version of Windows 7 will be introduced to netbooks the same time as its general release on October 22.
       Local media reports in Taiwan have said that Compal, the world's No.2 contract laptop PC maker, has pitched netbook models to Nokia, but there has been no official confirmation from either side.
       Nokia declined to comment on the manufacturer it uses.
       Most of the world's top electronics brands typically do their own design work, but outsource the manufacturing process to contract manufacturers such as Compal and its larger rival Quanta.

HTC, China Mobile in smartphone deal

2009-08-24T22:58:00.000-07:00

       Taiwan's High Tech Computer Corp signed a memorandum yesterday with China Mobile Ltd, the world's largest mobile carrier, to jointly develop smartphones and tap the mainland's rapidly growing telecoms market.
       Wang Jianzhou, China Mobile's chairman, said the Chinese carrier would invest 47 million yuan ($6.9 million) in the joint project and expects to develop at least seven models by 2010.
       HTC, as the Taiwanese company is known, will design and develop the models, while China Mobile will provide customer service and support, according to Wang.
       State-owned China Mobile has called its smartphones OPhone, an apparent attempt to compete with Apple Inc's hugely popular iPhone.
       "China Mobile has for years purchased cell phones made by HTC to run with its second-generation network, and the new models will be for the cutting-edge third generation network," Wang said.
       China is the world's most populous mobile phone market while Taiwan is a leading supplier of computers and semiconductors. China Mobile has tapped into the nascent 3G phone market using the home-grown TD-SCDMA standard.
       The co-operation might benefit both sides, given China's vast market. But China Mobile must keep its smartphone prices down in order to attract more 3G users and that would cut into HTC's profit margin, said Vincent Chen, an analyst with Taiwan's Yuanta Core Pacific Securities Inc.
       "China Mobile is apparently executing the mainland government's Taiwan friendly policy, but the real benefits to Taiwan remain to be seen," Chen said.
       Wang said he would seek closer cooperation with other Taiwanese makers,including MediaTek Inc, a leading chipset designer, and will also buy laptops and e-books from Taiwan.
       Wang arrived Taiwan on Friday for a nine-day visit amid a thaw in relations of the longtime foes, which split amid civil war in 1949.
       The two sides have cemented closer business ties since Ma Ying-jeou became Taiwan's president 15 months ago. Seeking greater engagement with China, Ma has relaxed control on two-way investment and ended a ban on direct air and shipping links.
       In April, China Mobile agreed to buy 12% of Taiwan's Far EasTone Telecommunications Co for NT$17.8 billion (US$529 million), but the deal has yet to receive approval from the Taiwanese government.

Canon to restructure stepper division

2009-08-24T22:57:00.000-07:00

       Japan's Canon Inc said it planned to restructure its loss-making microchip stepper division by December,a move aimed at helping it better compete with ASML and Nikon Corp.
       "Canon also aims to return to a trend of increasing profits each year in 2010,"Masahiro Osawa, a managing director,said in an interview yesterday.
       The company, the world's largest digital camera maker ahead of Sony Corp and Nikon and a major manufacturer of copiers and printers that competes with Xerox Corp and Ricoh Co Ltd, posted its first annual operating profit decline in nine years in 2008.
       "We have begun to see some encouraging signs here and there. We would like to make 2009 the floor for our earnings," Osawa said.
       Following Osawa's comments, shares in Canon closed up 6.3% at 3,720 yen,its high for the day and outperforming the Tokyo stock market's electrical ma-chinery index which gained 3.7%.
       Canon's microchip stepper division,which also manufactures LCD-making equipment and accounts for around 14%of revenue, posted an operating loss of 6.4 billion yen ($67 million) in AprilJune as chip makers reined in capital investment.
       "The chip and LCD industries are in the midst of drastic changes ... we ourselves are starting to move to transform our business structure," he said, but declined to elaborate.
       Canon trails ASML of the Netherlands and Nikon in chip steppers, multi-million dollar machines used to etch circuitry on to silicon wafers to make chips.
       Canon last month posted a 72% fall in quarterly operating profit, also hit by sluggish demand for office machines and a firmer yen, but raised its full-year forecast by 6% to reflect more aggressive restructuring steps and a stronger-thanexpected demand for high-end digital cameras.
       The restructuring moves included cutting 700 jobs at its chip-making equipment business and absorbing Canon Marketing Japan Inc's chip stepper sales and maintenance operations.
       Osawa also said Canon plans to continue development of surface-conduction electron-emitter display (SED) technology despite sharp falls in LCD prices,although more time will be needed for a commercial launch.
       SEDs were once seen as promising next-generation flat displays, but steep price falls in LCD and plasma panels have raised concerns over the viability of the commercially untested technology.
       "I believe SEDs have technological competitiveness. But LCD prices have fallen at a much quicker clip than we had anticipated," Owasa said."When it comes to costs and technological expertise for commercial production, we need some time to catch up."

WORK CAN WAIT...YOU TRIED THE LOBSTER?

2009-08-24T00:15:00.000-07:00

       For India's hungry hordes of office workers, the old-fashioned work canteen is past its sell-by date. In the brave new world of IT and business outsourcing companies, sophisticated cafeterias now rule.
       Salary slaves are set free at lunchtime with live kitchens, multi-cuisine offerings, brightly themed colour schemes with furniture and fixturs to match, vending machines, music system, TVs and the all-machines, music system, TVs and the all-important Internet connectivity.
       "The availability of cafeterias and the upgrade fo services is like moving from Web 1.0 to 2.0," says Romit Dasgupta, director of Globsyn Business School. He adds that like many upgrades on the Net, it's also community driven.
       Over at Google's India headquarters the story is the same. Here, the philosophy is "no employee pays for food" and the food served is often raved about, reviewed and compared to reputed restaurants.
       According to Dasgupta, "These are basic innovations for providing psycholgical comfort to the talent pool. In a scenario where software experts anre spending long hours at their computers, it is a bbout providing them with the playround that allows themto come back and write those priceless codes."
       And a superior cafe cn play a role in attracting that talent to a company in the first place. Though an IT professional's criteria for a preferred company to work for will include good projects, pay structure, interpersonal relationships and career opportunities, infrastructure facilities like cafeteries definitely appear on the list.
       According to IBM's Rajeev Mathur, regional manager of site operations for South Asia, cafeterias "act as a retention policy and enable the organisation to keep employee moral and motivation igh".
       The glass-domed cafeteria on IT giant Wipro's sprawling Kolkata complex is designed to satisfy everythingk from short snacking breaks to serious gastronomic urges. Brands like Baskin Robbins, Barista, Expresso and Java Green offer 24-hour service.
       And with the vast choice comes subsidised prices. A peek into the IBM cafeteria at lunchtime reveals software workaholics catching up on a spread consisting of South Indian thalis, snacks of samosas and bhajis, soups, grilled sandwiches, pasta, pizza and noodles.
       If the deliciously cold air-conditioning is not enough, you can beat the sweltering summer heat or the sultry monsoon by heading for the ice-cream parlour or the juice bars.
       The counters at the cafeteria attract queues for feshly prepared food, with employees helping themselves to across-the-counter breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, dinner. Alternatively, they can order the regular berad and breakfast or items prepared at the onsite kitchen such as pizzas, dosas and meals of Indian, Chinese or fusion food, vegtarian or non vegetarian.
       But, as Dasgupta notes, the choice and comfort has a higher objective than satis fying the appetities of workers: "In the case of IT giants like IBM and Wipro where there is a disconnect between various rungs, add-ons like cafeterias are the intermediaries that help keep the show ticking."

Are you hungry for change?

2009-08-22T18:36:00.000-07:00

       In my last article, I shared the outcome of IBM's 2008 Global CEO Study. It seems, from this, that the business world has taken a 180-degree turn, and the world is becoming instrumented, interconnected and intelligent. So, how can organisations of different sizes, across different industries and geographies, become enterprises of the future?
       The enterprise of the future has been identified as one capable of changing quickly and successfully. Instead of merely responding to trends, it shapes and leads them. It sees market and industry shifts as a chance to move ahead of its competition.
       In fact, the enterprise of the future is hungry for change.
       In IBM's 2008 Global CEO Study, eight out of 10 CEOs said their organisations were facing substantial change over the next three years. But their confidence in their ability to manage that change was not nearly as high. So how will CEOs fare in an increasingly frenetic environment? Will they be able to respond effectively?
       The main changes highlighted by the study include:
       Changes in world markets: The economices of developing nations are growing rapidly, driven by historic investments in fundamental business infrastructure. Enterprises are looking to tap skills and capabilities available all ovenr the world and to integrate their operations globally.
       Changes in information technology: A new computing architecture enables pervasive instrumentation, unprecedented computing power and advanced analytics to transform oceans of data into insight and intelligence.
       Changes in client needs: Companies are seeking to integrate advanced technology into their business processes and operations, not only to reduce costs, but also to enable innovation and growth.
       In Thailand, I have seen dramatic changes in some organisations over the past few years. They have wanted not only to change themselves, but also to lead change. Thaoland Post is a good example. It is well known for having an efficient mail delivery service. But, being innovative, they've added anothekr service - Yummy Post- to deliver Thai food from all over the country. All customers have to do is call a special Yummy Post phone number and place their order. The company can generate higher revenue from this new service.
       CP All is another interesting case. It runs Thailand's largest convenience-store chain, with more than 5,000 7Eleven stores around the country. As it operates in an increasinly "paperless" world, CP All decided to implement a new IT system to enhance the efficiency of its content-management system. The results? Its storage costs have dropped, helping CP All to reduce paper consumption. It is expected that the company will save Bt150 million within five years. The move also helps the company to save the environment, an important part of its vision as a responsible member of the Thai community.
       Clearly, an ability to lead change is becoming more critical than ever. So are you ready? Is you organisation hungry for change?
       THANWA LAOHASIRIWONG is country general manager at IBM Thailand. His articles appear in Hi! Managers on the third Friday of each month.

DNA DESIGN BASIS FOR FUTURE MICROCHIPS

2009-08-21T23:45:00.001-07:00

       IBM says it is looking to "DNA origami" for a powerful new generation of ultra-tiny microchips.
       The US computer giant has collaborated with California Institute of Technology researchers to develop a design for microchips that mimic the way chains of DNA molecules fold, allowing for processors far smaller and denser than any seen today.
       "This is a way to assemble an electronics device of the future," said Bill Hinsberg, manage of the lithography group at IBM's Almaden Research Centre in California.
       "It offers a potential way to construct nano-scale devices. The industry has always gone in the direction of making things smaller, because that opens the realm of possibilities.
       A tenet of the chip industry is Moore's Law, a history-backed belief that the number of transistors that can be placed on a computer circuit doubles every two years, enabling smaller but increasingly powerful computing devices.
       Lithography is a common method of making computer chips that have shrunk to contain technology measuring a mere 22 nanometres, or 22 one-thousand-millionths of a metre.
       The DNA origami method can allow for chip features as small as 6 nanometres, IBM said.
       "At some point, it gets more difficult to get smaller," Barnett said. "We've pursued DNA origami as a way to assemble an electronic device of the future."
       DNA origami chips would have vastly increased data storage capacity, leading to smaller, faster and smarter devices, IBM said.
       "It took a couple of years, but once you figure out how to do it, it's easy," said lead IBM researcher Greg Wallraff.

Sluggish PC, printer ink sales hurt HP

2009-08-21T23:43:00.000-07:00

       Hewlett-Packard Cos 19% drop in quarterly profit shows that the company still relies heavily on printer ink and the troubled personal computer market, despite the aggressive transformation its undertaking to branch out and encroach more on rival IBM Corps turf.
       IBM, which ditched its PC division as part of a major facelift over the past 15 years, now makes most of its money from software and services. With its $13.9 billion acquisition last year of technology services company Electronic Data Systems, HP now too is heavily invested in services they are its biggest revenue and profit generator.
       But HPs latest quarterly numbers,reported on Tuesday after the market closed, show the companies are still very different.
       HPs profit dropped in large part due to ongoing weakness in sales of PCs and printer ink two areas IBM isnt in.Still, HP edged past Wall Streets profit and sales forecasts something CEO Mark Hurd has done most quarters in his 412years at HPs helm.Expectations were high going into Tuesdays report: HPs stock has risen 75% since March. Although the results edged out analysts estimates, investors sent shares down 96 cents, or 2.2%, to $43 in extended trading. The stock closed Tuesdays regular session up 85 cents,or 2%, at $43.96.
       The numbers were good and the guidance is a relief, said Jayson Noland,an analyst with Robert W. Baird & Co Their commentary though is what I would focus on: conditions are stabilising,and some of the cyclical businesses should show a rebound next year.
       But HP offered no big surprises, ho hum, he added.I dont expect the stock to do much one way or the other.(The stock) has been very strong.
       Ink has long been HPs cash cow, but is coming under pressure from generic,cheaper brands. HPs revenue from printing supplies, which includes ink, was down 13% in the three months ended July 31.
       HPs PC division posted an 18% sales decline, despite improvement in consumer spending, strength in China, and a 2% increase in unit shipments.
       The discrepancy is explained by the fact that PC makers have been slashing prices, a trend that has also hurt HPs rivals.
       HP has been reluctant to call a bottom in the PC market, as chip maker Intel Corp did in April one of the first bullish signs about a turnaround in that sector.
       Were encouraged I think by the stability that were beginning to see in the market, but were not yet at a point where were ready to call it a turn,Hurd said on a conference call with analysts Tuesday evening.
       Cathie Lesjak, HPs chief financial officer, said in an interview that PC demand appears to have stabilised.
       She said the decline in printing supplies revenue was mostly caused by currency fluctuations and changes in the way HP manages inventory at resellers.
       HPs printer division makes up 21%of its overall revenue. The PC division makes up 31%.
       In the latest quarter, HP earned $1.64 billion, or 67 cents per share, compared with $2.03 billion, or 80 cents per share,a year earlier.
       Excluding one-time items, HP earned 91 cents per share, a penny better than the average estimate of analysts polled by Thomson Reuters.
       Sales fell 2% to $27.45 billion, slightly ahead of analysts projections for $27.26 billion. Sales would have risen 4% were it not for currency fluctuations.
       The combined HP-EDS had $8.47 billion in services revenue in the latest quarter. Its hard to compare that to last year, though, because the numbers HP has released dont compare directly yearto-year.
       HP says thats because EDS wasnt a part of HP at this time last year, and the companies are still being integrated.

HP'S Q3 PROFIT MEETS TARGET

2009-08-21T23:42:00.000-07:00

       Hewlett-Packard's CEO gives bullish outlook as economy improves
       Hewlett-Packard, the world's largest personal-computer maker, reported tjhird-quarter profit tha tmet analysts' estimates after job cuts and other expense reductions helped make up for sluggish technoloy demand.
       Excluding some costs, profit was 91 cents a share in teh quarter end July 31, Hewlett-packard said in a statement yesterday. Analysts surveyed by Bloomberg anticipated 90 cents.
       Chief executive officer Mark Hurd cut salaries, eliminated workers and reduced marketing expenses to counter the slump n technology spending.
       Revenue from computer services grew, boosted by Hewlett-Packard's US$13.2 billion (Bt450.5 billion) acquisition of Electronic Data Systems.
       "Services revenue is up big, and that shows me that heyy will constinue to grow that business an the integration is growing well," said James Brehm, an analyst at the research firm Frost and Sullivan in San Antonio. "If HP is any indication, we may be turning the corner economically."
       Third-quarter net income dropped 19 per cent to $1.64 billion, or 67 cents a share, from $2.03 billion, or 80 cents, a year earlier. Sales fell 2.1 per cent to $27.5 billion in the period. Analysts had estimatd $27.3 billion.
       "It's just a bunch of good numbers, we beat the revenue and we beat the EPS[earnigns per share]," Hurd said in an interview. "When you look at the companies that have been reporting, it's good news to see someone beat a revenue number in general." Revenue this quarter will grwow about 8 oer cebt frin tge orevuiys three months, the company said, suggesting about $29.6 billion.
       Excluding some costs, profit will be about $1.12 a share. Analysts on average anticipated sales of $29.8 billion.
       Revenue from printers and supplies, such as ink, fell 20 per cent to $5.7 billion. Printer shipments dropped 23 per cent. Profit from that business was $960 million, yielding a margin of 17 per cent.
       Third-quarter revenuein Hewlett-Packards' server and storage business declined 23 per cent to $3.7 billion. Sale in the PC u nit fell 18 per cent to $8.4 billion last quarter. Unit shipments climbed 2 per cent.
       The operating profit margin in the business narrowed to 4.6 per cent, fromo 5.7 per cent a year earlier.
       Hewlett-Packard took the PC market lead from Dell in 2006, and has expanded that edge every quarter since then.
       The company relies on a network of 80,000 retailers, including the Best Buy and Wal-Mart Stors chains.
       To attract more price-conscious shoppers, the company has expanded into netbooks, stripped-down laptops that typically sell for less than $400.
       In the calendar, second quarter Hewlett-Packard's PC shipments rose 2.8 per cennt, giving it a 19.6 - per -cent share of the worldwide market, according to gartner. That contrasted with a 17-per-cent drop in PC shipments for dell, which reports its earnings on August 27.
       EDS helped Hewlett-Packard increase services revenue 93 per cent last quarter to $8.5 billion. The profit margin was 15 per cent, up from 13 per cent a year earlier.
       The business, which accounts for about 30 per cent of sales, earns higher profit margins than Hewlett-Packard's hardware divisions.
       The company ranks second to International Business Machines in that market.
       Hurd is expanding in other areas as well. Teh company's ProCurve is challenging Cisco Systems in the newtworking-equipment field.
       "I feel very good about HP being the beneficiary of great tings when this economy turns aroudn," hurd said.
       "In these kind of economies, good companies can perform."
       AT A GLANCE
       Chief executive officer Mark Hurd cut salaries, eliminated workers and reduced marketing expenses to counter the slump in technology spending.
       Revenue from computer services grew, boosted by Hewlett-Packard's $13.2 bilion (Bt450.5-billion) acquisition of Electronic Data Systems.
       "It's just a bunch of good numbers, we beat the revenue and we beat the EPS [earnings per share]," Hurd said in an interview. "When you look at the companies that have been reporting, it's good news to see someone beat a revenue number in general."
       "I feel very good about HP being the benficiary of great things when this economy turns aroud," Hurd said.

Social security

2009-08-21T23:41:00.000-07:00

       Whoever called them "social networks" must be having a second and third thought after a week of decidedly un-social activity around them; Russians... well, all right people at machines that seemed to be in Russia launched sustained denialof-service attacks that literally knocked Twitter off the air entirely for several hours, and almost did the same to Facebook and the blogging site Live Journal ,which become so slow they were almost unuseable; Georgian blogger Cyxymu said credibly it was all about him- the Russians hate that he tells the truth about the Russian-Georgian spats and war so much, that their e-vigilantes tried to close down all his platforms;the hackers used botnets to launch the attacks; those are machines (possibly yours) that have been hijacked by hackers by a variety of methods including fake email and malicious websites; used typically to mail billions of spam, they are so powerful that they only can be used for good, for evil or for being decidedly unsocial.
       Then there are the US Marines, not known as a group to be all that sociable anyhow; their officers ordered all Marines off Twitter and Facebook ; in their typically diplomatic manner, the Marine commanders explained:"These Internet sites in general are a proven haven for malicious actors and content and are particularly high risk due to information exposure, user-generated content, and targeting by adversaries."
       That could be why the National Football League , comprising the major US gridiron clubs, ordered all US professional football players not to use Twitter ;the multi-millionaire sportsmen will be fined $1,701, or 58,054 baht,(it's the NFL's maximum) per Tweet; or maybe NFL officials simply want to flaunt their control of content. The same could be said for the international sports network ESPN , which informed its employees they are banned from sending any sports-related news over Twitter and Facebook without written permission;violators can be fired on the spot.
       Apple Inc has done a lot to make the name iPhone a synonym for phone,but the spiffy appliance actually only has an 8 percent share of the smartphone market; just as impressive as the propaganda machine, however, is the accounting office; Bernstein Research reported that in the second quarter of the year, the iPhone and its 65,000 apps (1.5 billion downloaded) had accumulated 32 percent of all profits in the smartphone niche. Google CEO Eric "I Know Jack" Schmidt resigned as a director of Apple Inc ; US regulators said they might well sue Schmidt and Apple for a conflict of interest and attempted monopoly anyhow.
       Google announced yet another microscopic upgrade to its quick but faltering Google Chrome web browser;this time, Chrome comes with 29 skins to compete with the 20,000 for Firefox .Apple Inc released Mac OS X 10.5.8,which marginally increased security for Appleholics and makes the AirPort networks work.
       Google bought the Internet video specialists On2 Technologies for $106.5 million; the purpose of the deal is to use On2's technology which allow better quality video, all part of the Google hope it can improve YouTube enough to make money from it. US media tycoon Rupert Murdoch of News Corp said he was just kidding about how news wants to be free; beginning almost immediately, you will pay to see the Times (of London) online, or you won't see it;Murdoch said he also will add charges to websites for his other newspapers;it's hard to figure why anyone would pay to see news on the Internet, and not as hard as it is to figure why Murdoch and others believe we will.
       Microsoft paid enough money to feed all the world's orphans for weeks in order to make Patrick De Schutter and French friends at Office.com go away and move their website to ContactOffice.com, because Microsoft needs Office.com more than the orphans; in fact Microsoft wouldn't say what it paid for the domain name, and pretended there was some sort of mystery over what product it might promote there;hint: Office 2010 will be partly based on the web, and is in final development at the moment.
       Publicis Groupe of France, one of the world's largest advertising companies, paid Microsoft $530 million in cash and stock for Razorfish , Microsoft's "preferred provider" for Internet advertising; the purchase, however, was more significantly an advertising deal,where Publicis agreed to spend grazillions on advertising through Microsoft over the next five years.
       Microsoft held its chin up and its upper lip stiff as it came to Asia to promote the abysmally unpopular hosted messaging and small-business aid Business Productivity Online Suite,which some argue does not need the "B" in the initials BPOS; Allison Watson,corporate vice president for Microsoft's worldwide partner group, said in Singapore than Asians will be much faster than farangs in seeing the greatness of BPOS and joining on; the service actually offers free domain names, websites and more for small and medium businesses,and it will likely be a key part of Microsoft's plans to offer more online services like Microsoft Office.
       Florida resident Keith R. Griffin told the judge that he did not download 1,000 images of child pornography; he said his cat would jump on the keyboard and by accident hit the keys to download the photos; the detectives knew he was lying, wrote a Wall Street Journal columnist, because cats never use the keyboard commands - they prefer the mouse.

World title for Thai

2009-08-21T23:40:00.000-07:00

       A Thai student has triumphed over the largest field of competitors ever in the annual Worldwide Competition on Microsoft Office
       Kankawin Kowsrihawat, 17, was the winner of this year's World Champion in Word 2007 contest. In its eighth year, the 2009 Worldwide Competition on Microsoft Office boasted more than 80,000 student competitors from 53 countries, who participated in local, national and regional rounds before culminating in the world championship in Toronto, Canada.
       "After I heard I was the winner, I was very glad," said Kankawint, who received a grand-prize scholarship fund of US$6,500 (221,000 baht).
       After graduating from high school, he plans to continue his education and study computer science.
       The Worldwide Competition on Microsoft Office has grown steadily since its inauguration in 2002 as a regional event in Asia. All told, more than 250,000 students from all over the world have competed for the coveted title of World Champ in its eight-year history.

Microsoft, Nokia collaborate

2009-08-21T23:36:00.000-07:00

       Microsoft and Nokia,in a challenge to Research in Motion's Blackberry, announced Wednesday that Microsoft Office software will be available on smartphones made by the Finnish company.
       The software and mobile phone giants said that from next year, Nokia would include Microsoft Office Communicator Mobile on its smartphones, followed by other Office applications.
       "This agreement represents an important milestone for both companies and the industry," Stephen Elop, the president of Microsoft Business Division,said in a conference call with reporters.
       "It's the first time Microsoft will develop rich Office Mobile applications for another smartphone platform," he noted, adding that the two companies have identified several other areas for future joint collaboration.
       "With more than 200 million smartphone customers globally, Nokia is the world's largest smartphone manufacturer and a natural partner for us," Elop added in a statement.
       "Today's announcement will enable us to expand Microsoft Office Mobile to Nokia smartphone owners worldwide and allow them to collaborate on Office documents from anywhere," he said.
       Microsoft and Nokia said the agreement will allow Nokia smartphone users to view, edit, create and share Office documents and use such popular Microsoft programs as Word, PowerPoint, Excel and OneNote.
       "Together with Microsoft, we will develop new and innovative user experiences for employees of small and large businesses alike," said Kai Oistamo, Nokia's executive vice president for devices.
       Microsoft and Nokia both stressed their commitment to their rival mobile telephone operating systems, Windows Mobile and Symbian.
       "Nokia and Microsoft do compete in some areas and we will continue to do so," said Elop."At Microsoft we remain deeply committed to Windows Mobile."
       Oistamo emphasized his company's commitment to Symbian and said Microsoft's productivity applications will add "tremendous value to Symbian."
       Asked whether the alliance was intended to counter the growing popularity of Apple's iPhone, Oistamo said it was aimed more at the Blackberry, whose email capability is a favourite of office workers worldwide.
       "It is really about creating a formidable challenge for RIM rather than anybody else," the Nokia executive said.
       Nokia is the world's leading manufacturer of mobile phones and holds a 45 percent share of the smartphone market, according to the latest figures from research firm Gartner.
       But the Finnish company has been facing increased competition in the smartphone business from the iPhone and Blackberry.
       Microsoft also faces competition in the mobile phone operating system sector from Google's open-source Android software and free Web-based programs.
       Gartner analyst Nick Jones said the agreement was good for Microsoft.