Ofcom Website | Mobile Call Termination - Market Review
Ofcom is holding a consultation about Mobile Call Termination. Currently 2G (GSM) networks are regulated in the pricing that they may charge to terminate calls and Ofcom are looking to extend this to 3G as well.
Currently the view is that termination should be regulated and continue to be so.
2006/04/03
Digit news - First HD-DVD player launched in Japan
Digit news - First HD-DVD player launched in Japan
Toshiba have launched the first HD-DVD player in Japan. It's a chunky beast known as the HD-XA1. It should go on sale in the US in April.
It uses the Advanced Access Content System (AACS) which was only finalised last month.
Currently there aren't any HD disks available yet (due to go one sale April 7th).
The battle is now starting, HDDVD or BluRay ... only time will tell who wins.
Toshiba have launched the first HD-DVD player in Japan. It's a chunky beast known as the HD-XA1. It should go on sale in the US in April.
It uses the Advanced Access Content System (AACS) which was only finalised last month.
Currently there aren't any HD disks available yet (due to go one sale April 7th).
The battle is now starting, HDDVD or BluRay ... only time will tell who wins.
Digit news - NuVJ video controller introduced
Digit news - NuVJ video controller introduced
ArKaos and Numark have teamed up to produce a VJ console that works woth both PCs and Macs. It utilises the video card in the host computer to do the video processing so with newer cards allows for high resolution real-time effects.
It comes with various videos, stills and graphics and can sync to an external audio source or an internal beats per minute generator.
The unit has two banks of nine trigger pads for video and two wheels to manage scratch, effect and speed control and is MIDI compliant.
Could be a fun unit.
The Numark iPod DJ mixer looks nice too, though it's limited by the iPod's capabilties (and what Apple allow through the dock connector) so can only really mix tracks without allowing speed control or other advanced features that DJ's like.
ArKaos and Numark have teamed up to produce a VJ console that works woth both PCs and Macs. It utilises the video card in the host computer to do the video processing so with newer cards allows for high resolution real-time effects.
It comes with various videos, stills and graphics and can sync to an external audio source or an internal beats per minute generator.
The unit has two banks of nine trigger pads for video and two wheels to manage scratch, effect and speed control and is MIDI compliant.
Could be a fun unit.
The Numark iPod DJ mixer looks nice too, though it's limited by the iPod's capabilties (and what Apple allow through the dock connector) so can only really mix tracks without allowing speed control or other advanced features that DJ's like.
2006/03/28
Ofcom Website | Ofcom proposal to deregulate BT retail phone cost controls
Ofcom Website | Ofcom proposal to deregulate BT retail phone cost controls
Ofcom are proposing degregulating retail price controls on BT line rentals and calls.
This is a blessing for consumers as BT can now bundle all sorts of services together (i.e. free calls with line rental, or no line rental and higher call charges), however competitors are going to struggle. It also may provd the death knell for wireless broadband operators.
Ofcom's reasoning is that there are significant VoIP users utilising broadband (circa 500,000), there are now competing providers and other local loop operators.
Changes will takes place from August 1, 2006 which doesn't give competitors long to get their grip on the market.
Ofcom are proposing degregulating retail price controls on BT line rentals and calls.
This is a blessing for consumers as BT can now bundle all sorts of services together (i.e. free calls with line rental, or no line rental and higher call charges), however competitors are going to struggle. It also may provd the death knell for wireless broadband operators.
Ofcom's reasoning is that there are significant VoIP users utilising broadband (circa 500,000), there are now competing providers and other local loop operators.
Changes will takes place from August 1, 2006 which doesn't give competitors long to get their grip on the market.
Ofcom Website | Assessing the impact of NGNs on interconnection tariffs’ distance gradients
Ofcom Website | Assessing the impact of NGNs on interconnection tariffs’ distance gradients
DotEcon have produced a report about distance gradient pricing for NGNs (Next Generation Networks i.e. networks that have migrated to IP like BT's 21CN).
NGNs are likely to change the face of telecoms in the UK and though the report does not necessarily reflect the views of Ofcom it may give an indicative view of how gradients will function.
DotEcon have produced a report about distance gradient pricing for NGNs (Next Generation Networks i.e. networks that have migrated to IP like BT's 21CN).
NGNs are likely to change the face of telecoms in the UK and though the report does not necessarily reflect the views of Ofcom it may give an indicative view of how gradients will function.
Ofcom Website | Disaggregated Markets - Leased Lines
Ofcom Website | Disaggregated Markets - Leased Lines
Ofcom is conducting a consultation on the geographic variance of leased lines.
It's quite technical, but will probably show that London has a healthy market and elsewhere more and more people are migrating to DSL as the economics are much worse for direct circuits.
Ofcom is conducting a consultation on the geographic variance of leased lines.
It's quite technical, but will probably show that London has a healthy market and elsewhere more and more people are migrating to DSL as the economics are much worse for direct circuits.
GSM Guard Band licenses
Rumours are that Ofcom have announced who is in the bidding for the GSM Guard Band licenses. Information on who's in there isn't public.
It'll be interesting to see if the mobile operators have jumped in, or a load of new entrants.
There are going to be between 7 and 12 low power national licenses awarded.
It'll be interesting to see if the mobile operators have jumped in, or a load of new entrants.
There are going to be between 7 and 12 low power national licenses awarded.
Digit news - Samsung offers 32GB SSD drive
Digit news - Samsung offers 32GB SSD drive
At CeBIT Samsung demonstrated a 32GB solid state disk, that booted an XP machine is about half the time compared to that of a disk based workstation. They've also packaged the memory into a 1.8" form factor so making it a direct swap for conventional drives.
Though there will be speed/weight and possible power improvements, solid state disks are very expensive compared to the conventional magnetic platter type. If demand is high enough the price could drop.
CeBit also saw the launch of a 200GB conventional notebook disk.
At CeBIT Samsung demonstrated a 32GB solid state disk, that booted an XP machine is about half the time compared to that of a disk based workstation. They've also packaged the memory into a 1.8" form factor so making it a direct swap for conventional drives.
Though there will be speed/weight and possible power improvements, solid state disks are very expensive compared to the conventional magnetic platter type. If demand is high enough the price could drop.
CeBit also saw the launch of a 200GB conventional notebook disk.
Digit news - Apple lashes out at proposed French law
Digit news - Apple lashes out at proposed French law
Apple aren't happy that the French Government are proposing to allow users to put Apple content on to any type of media player. iTunes sells iPods (and the other way around), and Apple like that monopoly.
Real Networks worked out how to break Apple's DRM, but Apple stopped Real doing anything with the technology.
It doesn't just affect Apple, the law would affect any DRM'ed content, it's just Apple has the most to lose.
Apple aren't happy that the French Government are proposing to allow users to put Apple content on to any type of media player. iTunes sells iPods (and the other way around), and Apple like that monopoly.
Real Networks worked out how to break Apple's DRM, but Apple stopped Real doing anything with the technology.
It doesn't just affect Apple, the law would affect any DRM'ed content, it's just Apple has the most to lose.
Digit news - Dell snaps up Alienware
Digit news - Dell snaps up Alienware
Alienware have a reputation for making high power games machines. Dell have tried to enter that market with their own XPS range, so there's a good possibility Dell will move out of specific games market and leave that to their acquisition.
Alienware meanwhile gets Dell's supply chain.
Dell has been a staunch supporter of Intel, while Alienware have supported both Intel and AMD. Dell says they have no plans to stop Alienware running with their own product lines. Maybe this is a way to sneak AMD processors into Dell.
Alienware have a reputation for making high power games machines. Dell have tried to enter that market with their own XPS range, so there's a good possibility Dell will move out of specific games market and leave that to their acquisition.
Alienware meanwhile gets Dell's supply chain.
Dell has been a staunch supporter of Intel, while Alienware have supported both Intel and AMD. Dell says they have no plans to stop Alienware running with their own product lines. Maybe this is a way to sneak AMD processors into Dell.
2006/03/17
Ofcom Website | 1781.7-1785 MHz paired with 1876.7-1880 MHz
Ofcom Website | 1781.7-1785 MHz paired with 1876.7-1880 MHz
Want to run a GSM network in the UK, there are between 7 and 12 licenses available. They're only low power licenses (200mW) and there are only 16 channels, but that would suit someone who wants to offer localised or in-building services. The license doesn't specify what services are to be offered, they don't even have to be GSM so it could be used for broadband (as long as GSM spectral masks are maintained).
A deposit of £25,000 has to be transferred into Ofcom's account on the 21st of March between 10am and 5.30 and an intent to bid HAND delivered to Ofcom also on that date. Ofcom will then release the names of the intended bidders.
About 3 weeks later a sealed bid process takes place, whereby a bidder can put an ammount in for any of the 7 to 12 licenses and at some point later Ofcom release the winners.
Losers get their deposits back (without interest).
So far interest seems low, but that could be just a ploy so bidding remains low and there's no competition for licenses, it also mean people are just keeping their cards close to their chests and next Weds there's going to be a lot of bidders exposed.
Want to run a GSM network in the UK, there are between 7 and 12 licenses available. They're only low power licenses (200mW) and there are only 16 channels, but that would suit someone who wants to offer localised or in-building services. The license doesn't specify what services are to be offered, they don't even have to be GSM so it could be used for broadband (as long as GSM spectral masks are maintained).
A deposit of £25,000 has to be transferred into Ofcom's account on the 21st of March between 10am and 5.30 and an intent to bid HAND delivered to Ofcom also on that date. Ofcom will then release the names of the intended bidders.
About 3 weeks later a sealed bid process takes place, whereby a bidder can put an ammount in for any of the 7 to 12 licenses and at some point later Ofcom release the winners.
Losers get their deposits back (without interest).
So far interest seems low, but that could be just a ploy so bidding remains low and there's no competition for licenses, it also mean people are just keeping their cards close to their chests and next Weds there's going to be a lot of bidders exposed.
Ofcom Website | Ofcom completes Universal Service Review
Ofcom Website | Ofcom completes Universal Service Review
A company having Univeral Service Obligations generally has significant market power which in the UK applies to Kingston Communications (who runs telephony services in the Hull area) and BT Group (elsewhere in the UK).
USO relate to providing phone boxes, telephone lines, low cost schemes for consumers on low incomes etc. Not much has changed and USO still apply, and will be funded by BT and Kingston.
A company having Univeral Service Obligations generally has significant market power which in the UK applies to Kingston Communications (who runs telephony services in the Hull area) and BT Group (elsewhere in the UK).
USO relate to providing phone boxes, telephone lines, low cost schemes for consumers on low incomes etc. Not much has changed and USO still apply, and will be funded by BT and Kingston.
Ofcom Website | Ofcom targets competitive Next Generation Networks
Ofcom Website | Ofcom targets competitive Next Generation Networks:
NGN UK will be led by Peter Black as Executive Chairman, in addition to his ongoing role overseeing the independent Office of the Telecommunications Adjudicator and Local Loop Unbundling. Eight companies have already committed to NGN UK. These include: BT Group plc; Cable & Wireless; Easynet; Kingston Communications; NTL; Thus; Vodafone; Wanadoo UK.
NGNs are where traditional telephony networks are replaced by IP networks and voice transported as VoIP. This will change the face of telephony in the UK. However there are major issues, like how do you hand-over calls to another telephony operator.
BT is the biggest player and first encumbant to completely move their network to IP as part of their 21st Century Network (21CN) roll-out. Without control, everyone will once again become a BT reseller, which is why NGN UK has been set-up.
Whether they have the teeth to effective curb BT's ambitious plans is to be seen.
NGN UK will be led by Peter Black as Executive Chairman, in addition to his ongoing role overseeing the independent Office of the Telecommunications Adjudicator and Local Loop Unbundling. Eight companies have already committed to NGN UK. These include: BT Group plc; Cable & Wireless; Easynet; Kingston Communications; NTL; Thus; Vodafone; Wanadoo UK.
NGNs are where traditional telephony networks are replaced by IP networks and voice transported as VoIP. This will change the face of telephony in the UK. However there are major issues, like how do you hand-over calls to another telephony operator.
BT is the biggest player and first encumbant to completely move their network to IP as part of their 21st Century Network (21CN) roll-out. Without control, everyone will once again become a BT reseller, which is why NGN UK has been set-up.
Whether they have the teeth to effective curb BT's ambitious plans is to be seen.
Digit news - PlayStation 3 delayed until November
Digit news - PlayStation 3 delayed until November
Sony have delayed the launch of the PS3 (PlayStation 3) until November. This could be more related to software being available for the platform as the Cell chip seems to be going well.
Unfortunately writing software for the Cell chip and it's 8 CPU cores isn't easy (to use all 8 of them in a co-operative manner). Tools are being written that will help programmers and do the hard work of optimising the code for the Cell, but they are still in early stages of development.
It's likely early games wont maximuse core use and gamers will have to wait a while before they do.
Cell isn't just being used in the PS3 though as it has the capability to be a CPU work horse so will find its way into HD TV's, DVD players etc. It's the other uses which are likely to stimulate tool design which will then filter to the games designers.
Sony have delayed the launch of the PS3 (PlayStation 3) until November. This could be more related to software being available for the platform as the Cell chip seems to be going well.
Unfortunately writing software for the Cell chip and it's 8 CPU cores isn't easy (to use all 8 of them in a co-operative manner). Tools are being written that will help programmers and do the hard work of optimising the code for the Cell, but they are still in early stages of development.
It's likely early games wont maximuse core use and gamers will have to wait a while before they do.
Cell isn't just being used in the PS3 though as it has the capability to be a CPU work horse so will find its way into HD TV's, DVD players etc. It's the other uses which are likely to stimulate tool design which will then filter to the games designers.
Digit news - Google buys SketchUp maker
Digit news - Google buys SketchUp maker
Google has bought a company that makes 3D software, though at present there are no plans to change their pricing model (SketchUp sells for about £285). The product seems to be geared for the lower to mid range of the 3D market, and has import and export capabilities for most of the common 3D (and 2D) pacakges, including Google Earth.
Maybe in the future Google will make it free?
Google has bought a company that makes 3D software, though at present there are no plans to change their pricing model (SketchUp sells for about £285). The product seems to be geared for the lower to mid range of the 3D market, and has import and export capabilities for most of the common 3D (and 2D) pacakges, including Google Earth.
Maybe in the future Google will make it free?
2006/03/10
Digit news - Gadgets: First Origami device shown
Digit news - Gadgets: First Origami device shown
Well it's XP tablet Edition 2005 running on a small form factor tablet PC. It looks like the only difference between a normal tablet PC is that it can instant-on boot to a cut down XP just to run videos and other media.
Just got and buy an OQO, they're available now and work.
Well it's XP tablet Edition 2005 running on a small form factor tablet PC. It looks like the only difference between a normal tablet PC is that it can instant-on boot to a cut down XP just to run videos and other media.
Just got and buy an OQO, they're available now and work.
2006/03/08
Ofcom Website | Ofcom agrees to Home Office request for 101 as single non-emergency number
Ofcom Website | Ofcom agrees to Home Office request for 101 as single non-emergency number
Ofcom have agreed to allocate 101 as a non-emergency number as requested by the Home Office.
This will be used to report criminal or anti-social behaviour in situations not considered an emergency.
Ofcom has not set a tarrif, but the Home Office is trying to secure a rate of 10p per call from all networks, subject to ongoing talks with the networks to ensure they can implement the tarrif.
Ofcom have agreed to allocate 101 as a non-emergency number as requested by the Home Office.
This will be used to report criminal or anti-social behaviour in situations not considered an emergency.
Ofcom has not set a tarrif, but the Home Office is trying to secure a rate of 10p per call from all networks, subject to ongoing talks with the networks to ensure they can implement the tarrif.
2006/03/06
Infrant Technologies
Infrant Technologies
The Infrant ReadyNAS NV is a very neat piece of kit. It supports 4 drives, gig Ethernet, 6 USB ports. The internal drives are SATA.
The system came configured using Infrant's X-RAID system, though it can be changed to use RAID 0, 1 or 5. It's definately designed for "home" or small business use, and has the concept of shares which can be exported via CIFS (Windows file sharing), NFS, AFP (Apple) and web. The system runs Debian GNU/Linux under the hood, though on a dedicated network processor. CIFS seems to be Samba v3, and it's definately designed with CIFS in mind, though hopefully certain features that are available under CIFS will be made available via the other protocols too.
It's a very small box, and keeps very cool (and quiet).
So far it seems to perform well, though only limited testing has so far been completed. Trying to join a Samba domain on a UNIX system didn't work (well partially - but overall the process failed), this could be a Samba issue on the remote UNIX system rather than an Infrant problem.
CIFS sharing just works and the system just appears as a remote disk.
It's possible to load in a SLIMServer which will search for MP3's and such like and share them to remote systems supporting the SLIM devices protocol. It's also a uP&P media server so remote devices supporting that protocol will automagically pick it up too.
More to follow.
The Infrant ReadyNAS NV is a very neat piece of kit. It supports 4 drives, gig Ethernet, 6 USB ports. The internal drives are SATA.
The system came configured using Infrant's X-RAID system, though it can be changed to use RAID 0, 1 or 5. It's definately designed for "home" or small business use, and has the concept of shares which can be exported via CIFS (Windows file sharing), NFS, AFP (Apple) and web. The system runs Debian GNU/Linux under the hood, though on a dedicated network processor. CIFS seems to be Samba v3, and it's definately designed with CIFS in mind, though hopefully certain features that are available under CIFS will be made available via the other protocols too.
It's a very small box, and keeps very cool (and quiet).
So far it seems to perform well, though only limited testing has so far been completed. Trying to join a Samba domain on a UNIX system didn't work (well partially - but overall the process failed), this could be a Samba issue on the remote UNIX system rather than an Infrant problem.
CIFS sharing just works and the system just appears as a remote disk.
It's possible to load in a SLIMServer which will search for MP3's and such like and share them to remote systems supporting the SLIM devices protocol. It's also a uP&P media server so remote devices supporting that protocol will automagically pick it up too.
More to follow.
Digit news - Intel plans June dual-core processors launch
Digit news - Intel plans June dual-core processors launch
Intel are launching new dual core Xeons. These are 64 bit chips and currently support 2 cores, though 4 or more cores are planned in the future.
Though nothing has been announced, it's likely Apple are waiting on these new chips to replace the G5 PowerMacs which are already dual core and support up to 2.5GHz. Intel chips are likely to run up to 3.4GHz. With faster Intel chips and a 64 architechture, they have the chance to up the stakes in the power computing sector, though it will still rely on Apple and other software vendors to get their pro applications into Universal Binary format to realise the speed increases.
Intel are launching new dual core Xeons. These are 64 bit chips and currently support 2 cores, though 4 or more cores are planned in the future.
Though nothing has been announced, it's likely Apple are waiting on these new chips to replace the G5 PowerMacs which are already dual core and support up to 2.5GHz. Intel chips are likely to run up to 3.4GHz. With faster Intel chips and a 64 architechture, they have the chance to up the stakes in the power computing sector, though it will still rely on Apple and other software vendors to get their pro applications into Universal Binary format to realise the speed increases.
Pioneer unveils first 25GB Blu-ray drive - IT Week
Pioneer unveils first 25GB Blu-ray drive - IT Week
Pioneer has unveiled a Blu-Ray drive for PC's. It will read and write all DVD formats (current ones) except DVD-RAM. It doesn't support CDs. The BDR-101A will retail somewhere between £340 and £400 so isn't cheap, but a single layer Blu-Ray disks supports 25GB (the drive only supports writing single layer disks, but can read dual-layer). A single layer rewritable disk will cost around £10.
In future capacity should increase to about 200GB. The next generation drive will support DVD-RAM as well as CDs.
The BDR-101A should be available this month.
Though the battle is still raging between Blu-Ray and HD-DVD, having drives available will push users to this format, and Blu-Ray does offer poential higher capacities.
Pioneer has unveiled a Blu-Ray drive for PC's. It will read and write all DVD formats (current ones) except DVD-RAM. It doesn't support CDs. The BDR-101A will retail somewhere between £340 and £400 so isn't cheap, but a single layer Blu-Ray disks supports 25GB (the drive only supports writing single layer disks, but can read dual-layer). A single layer rewritable disk will cost around £10.
In future capacity should increase to about 200GB. The next generation drive will support DVD-RAM as well as CDs.
The BDR-101A should be available this month.
Though the battle is still raging between Blu-Ray and HD-DVD, having drives available will push users to this format, and Blu-Ray does offer poential higher capacities.
Digit news - Gadgets: 3.2mp blogging phone unwrapped
Digit news - Gadgets: 3.2mp blogging phone unwrapped
Sony's new phones aren't cheap (around £240) but the K800 and K790 phones come with Google's blogging software built-in so users can create a blog through the phone (if they don;t already have one) and pictures taken can be automatically uploaded to the blog. They also have Google as the search engine.
The cameras are autofocus, support red-eye reduction, digital-zoom and 3.2MP sensors. They also feature BestPic where the camera takes 9 pictures and the user can select the one(s) to save. They can also print straight to a printer via a USB cable. They also feature a muic player, video player, FM radio, push Email, Bluetooth, a memory stick slot and 64MB of internal RAM.
A lower end camera the W300 costing about £100 is in their Walkman range, can play MP3 and AAC files, has 20MB internal memory and a removable 256MB memory stick.
Sony's new phones aren't cheap (around £240) but the K800 and K790 phones come with Google's blogging software built-in so users can create a blog through the phone (if they don;t already have one) and pictures taken can be automatically uploaded to the blog. They also have Google as the search engine.
The cameras are autofocus, support red-eye reduction, digital-zoom and 3.2MP sensors. They also feature BestPic where the camera takes 9 pictures and the user can select the one(s) to save. They can also print straight to a printer via a USB cable. They also feature a muic player, video player, FM radio, push Email, Bluetooth, a memory stick slot and 64MB of internal RAM.
A lower end camera the W300 costing about £100 is in their Walkman range, can play MP3 and AAC files, has 20MB internal memory and a removable 256MB memory stick.
Apple release Intel Mac Mini
The new Mac mini comes in two versions, eith a single core (Intel Core Solo) running at 1.5GHz or a dual core (Intel Core Duo) running at 1.67GHz. The tenry level single core costs £499 (inc VAT) with 512MB of RAM, CD-ROM/RW combo and a 60GB hard disk. The £599 dual core comes with 512MB RAM, Superdrive and 80GB disk.
Both models have Gigabit Ethernet, 4 USB 2.0 ports, DVI (display) adapter, Firewire and an infrared port so they can run Front Row (Apple's multimedia program that can be controlled with the Apple remote).
Inside it uses an Intel graphic chip, which some say is a step down from the ATI chip in the old G4 Mac Minis.
Since the G4 is only 32 bit, even the single core design should give an improvement in speed, while the dual core will noticably speed up. Of course this relies on the applications to be universal or they still have to go through Apple's Rosetta technology which interprets the PowerPC code (applications like Office will probably run ok, though Photoshop is still the benchmark as it runs considerably slower under emulation).
If you're looking for a small unit to sit next to your TV/HiFi then the Mac Mini is a good choice as it still looks the business and the standard iLife apps are now all universal binaries so they're completely usable and will run fast.
Both models have Gigabit Ethernet, 4 USB 2.0 ports, DVI (display) adapter, Firewire and an infrared port so they can run Front Row (Apple's multimedia program that can be controlled with the Apple remote).
Inside it uses an Intel graphic chip, which some say is a step down from the ATI chip in the old G4 Mac Minis.
Since the G4 is only 32 bit, even the single core design should give an improvement in speed, while the dual core will noticably speed up. Of course this relies on the applications to be universal or they still have to go through Apple's Rosetta technology which interprets the PowerPC code (applications like Office will probably run ok, though Photoshop is still the benchmark as it runs considerably slower under emulation).
If you're looking for a small unit to sit next to your TV/HiFi then the Mac Mini is a good choice as it still looks the business and the standard iLife apps are now all universal binaries so they're completely usable and will run fast.
2006/02/28
Ofcom Website | Ofcom sets out approach on VoIP services
Ofcom Website | Ofcom sets out approach on VoIP services
Ofcom have announced a consultation on regulation of VoIP services. So far it looks promising, supporting new entrants rather than the traditional telcos with hints that it will allow easier porting of numbers to VoIP players.
VoIP providers are encouraged to support 999 services (known as E911 in the US), and there are seperate initiatives to allow for the look-up of IP addresses and convert these to locations (relatively easy for DSL and fixed lines, but much harder when it comes to people using WiFi nodes etc).
In a seperate announcement Ofcom have also released details of the new UK numbering plan which calls for a non-geographic 03 range which will allow businesses to offer a UK number (not tied to a location), but it will be charged locally. 07 personal numbers are to be moved into a premium rate range and 07 will become mobile only.
Ofcom have announced a consultation on regulation of VoIP services. So far it looks promising, supporting new entrants rather than the traditional telcos with hints that it will allow easier porting of numbers to VoIP players.
VoIP providers are encouraged to support 999 services (known as E911 in the US), and there are seperate initiatives to allow for the look-up of IP addresses and convert these to locations (relatively easy for DSL and fixed lines, but much harder when it comes to people using WiFi nodes etc).
In a seperate announcement Ofcom have also released details of the new UK numbering plan which calls for a non-geographic 03 range which will allow businesses to offer a UK number (not tied to a location), but it will be charged locally. 07 personal numbers are to be moved into a premium rate range and 07 will become mobile only.
2006/02/23
Canon UK - Digital Compact Cameras
Canon UK - Digital Compact Cameras
Canon have introduced 3 new Digital Ixus cameras.
The new Ixus 800 IS which is due in April has a 6MP sensor, but 4x optical zoom and image stabilisation, but in the standard sized Ixus case. It also allows up to ISO800 speeds which is good for low light situations. It also uses a 16:9 aspect ratio (widescreen). It will cost £340 +VAT.
There's also a Ixus 60 and 65, bith sporting 6MP sensors and 3x optical zoom, again they support up to ISO800 sensitivity and widescreen. The 60 has a 2.5" screen and the 65 a 3" screen, they cost "55 and £299 +VAT respectivly.
At the high end there's now an EOS 30D which will replace the 20D, it offers a longer lasting shutter (100,000 operations) and a bigger LCD of 2.5", but retains the same 8MP sensor. It has a lag of only 0.15 seconds from hitting the shoot button. I can also shoot in two modes of 3 and 5fps, with the 1st allowing more pictures to be stored before it runs out of internal memory.
This must be the year of the 8MP sensor, so 12MP next year.
Canon have introduced 3 new Digital Ixus cameras.
The new Ixus 800 IS which is due in April has a 6MP sensor, but 4x optical zoom and image stabilisation, but in the standard sized Ixus case. It also allows up to ISO800 speeds which is good for low light situations. It also uses a 16:9 aspect ratio (widescreen). It will cost £340 +VAT.
There's also a Ixus 60 and 65, bith sporting 6MP sensors and 3x optical zoom, again they support up to ISO800 sensitivity and widescreen. The 60 has a 2.5" screen and the 65 a 3" screen, they cost "55 and £299 +VAT respectivly.
At the high end there's now an EOS 30D which will replace the 20D, it offers a longer lasting shutter (100,000 operations) and a bigger LCD of 2.5", but retains the same 8MP sensor. It has a lag of only 0.15 seconds from hitting the shoot button. I can also shoot in two modes of 3 and 5fps, with the 1st allowing more pictures to be stored before it runs out of internal memory.
This must be the year of the 8MP sensor, so 12MP next year.
Digit news - Canon launches ‘Pro’ A3+ photo printers
Digit news - Canon launches ‘Pro’ A3+ photo printers
Canon has launced two new printers the Pixma Pro9500 and Pro9000, both A3+ output and the 9500 supporting 10 inks and the 9000 8 inks.
They say they are suitable for printing saleable art straight from the printer.
They come with plug-ins for Photoshop CS and CS2 which allow for colour management.
The Pro9500 will retail for £550 +VAT and the 9000 for £425 +VAT, unfortunately they wont be available until the autumn of 2006.
10 inks might sound excessive, but the more colours available actually reduce the ink usage (on a per ink basis) and they generally work out more efficient than lesser numbers.
Though generic photo printers, they seem to be designed to work with Canon's EOS range of cameras, allowing decent photo printing.
Canon has launced two new printers the Pixma Pro9500 and Pro9000, both A3+ output and the 9500 supporting 10 inks and the 9000 8 inks.
They say they are suitable for printing saleable art straight from the printer.
They come with plug-ins for Photoshop CS and CS2 which allow for colour management.
The Pro9500 will retail for £550 +VAT and the 9000 for £425 +VAT, unfortunately they wont be available until the autumn of 2006.
10 inks might sound excessive, but the more colours available actually reduce the ink usage (on a per ink basis) and they generally work out more efficient than lesser numbers.
Though generic photo printers, they seem to be designed to work with Canon's EOS range of cameras, allowing decent photo printing.
2006/02/21
Digit news - Mac OS X worm surfaces
Digit news - Mac OS X worm surfaces:
This is the first real reported work for Macs (MacOS X but only PowerPC, it doesn't affect the new Intel variants). Known as Leap.A, it spreads as an attachment throuch iChat though it's been reported to spread through Bluetooth too.
Though it's meant to be pretty easy to remove, Symantec are recommending infected users re-install the OS.
There's meant to be a flaw in Safari too, but Apple as yet have not released any security fixes or patches.
This is the first real reported work for Macs (MacOS X but only PowerPC, it doesn't affect the new Intel variants). Known as Leap.A, it spreads as an attachment throuch iChat though it's been reported to spread through Bluetooth too.
Though it's meant to be pretty easy to remove, Symantec are recommending infected users re-install the OS.
There's meant to be a flaw in Safari too, but Apple as yet have not released any security fixes or patches.
2006/02/08
Skype and Google invest in universal Wi-Fi - Network IT Week
Skype and Google invest in universal Wi-Fi - Network IT Week
FON isn't new, it's just achieved noteriety by attracting the attention of big player investors such as Skype and Google.
This idea has been around for a while, there was a (now defunct) service called MyZone which tried this a few years ago in the UK. It never gained traction even though they'd supply the WiFi router and a revenue share. It also broke most ISP T&C's.
One thing FON will have to do is ensure they can authenticate users properly, or people sharing their broadband connections are likely to fall foul of the law if somebody accesses their connection to participate in some illegal activity. If they cant prove it was someone else then the authorities are likely to imply it was the broadband connection user which can lead to some serious headaches.
If it does work out and they can get the service going ensuring compliance with the law and ISP T&C's and it gains a market (which they might well do) then it could offer a valuable service, threatening organisations such as the Cloud or Openzone who have based a business on trying to proivde this kind of service.
If it all fails (and even it doesn't) it's a cheap way of obtaining a Linksys WRT54G WiFi router.
FON isn't new, it's just achieved noteriety by attracting the attention of big player investors such as Skype and Google.
This idea has been around for a while, there was a (now defunct) service called MyZone which tried this a few years ago in the UK. It never gained traction even though they'd supply the WiFi router and a revenue share. It also broke most ISP T&C's.
One thing FON will have to do is ensure they can authenticate users properly, or people sharing their broadband connections are likely to fall foul of the law if somebody accesses their connection to participate in some illegal activity. If they cant prove it was someone else then the authorities are likely to imply it was the broadband connection user which can lead to some serious headaches.
If it does work out and they can get the service going ensuring compliance with the law and ISP T&C's and it gains a market (which they might well do) then it could offer a valuable service, threatening organisations such as the Cloud or Openzone who have based a business on trying to proivde this kind of service.
If it all fails (and even it doesn't) it's a cheap way of obtaining a Linksys WRT54G WiFi router.
2006/01/30
Digit LIVE news - Sony to sell hard disk camcorder
Digit LIVE news - Sony to sell hard disk camcorder
Sony's new DCR-SR100 will cost $1,100 in the US when introduced in March. It has a 30GB hard disk and stores in MPEG2 format.
All cameras will eventually use hard disks, especially with disk capacities increasing and the availability of decent editing packages for both PC and Mac users.
There are 3 modes, HP, SP and LP storing at 9, 6 and 3Mbps respectively allowing between 7hrs 20 mins and 20hrs 50 mins of recording time.
UK availability hasn't been announced.
Sony's new DCR-SR100 will cost $1,100 in the US when introduced in March. It has a 30GB hard disk and stores in MPEG2 format.
All cameras will eventually use hard disks, especially with disk capacities increasing and the availability of decent editing packages for both PC and Mac users.
There are 3 modes, HP, SP and LP storing at 9, 6 and 3Mbps respectively allowing between 7hrs 20 mins and 20hrs 50 mins of recording time.
UK availability hasn't been announced.
Manga Studio 3.0 Debut Full Version - e frontier Global
Manga Studio 3.0 Debut Full Version - e frontier Global
Want to be a Manga Artist, now's your chance with the release of Manga Studio. There are two versions, Debut for 41.07 Euros and EX for 246.46 Euros, the EX version has more features and templates.
Budding comic authors get going.
Want to be a Manga Artist, now's your chance with the release of Manga Studio. There are two versions, Debut for 41.07 Euros and EX for 246.46 Euros, the EX version has more features and templates.
Budding comic authors get going.
Digit LIVE news - Sony puts down Aibo robot dog
Digit LIVE news - Sony puts down Aibo robot dog
Sony is killing of it's AIBO range as well as the future homonoid QRIO.
Though they were expensive toys, it's a shame that economic pressure has forced them to concentrate on more mainstream products.
It just shows that big gants are feeling the pressure.
Sony is killing of it's AIBO range as well as the future homonoid QRIO.
Though they were expensive toys, it's a shame that economic pressure has forced them to concentrate on more mainstream products.
It just shows that big gants are feeling the pressure.
Ofcom Website | Report on the implementation of BT's Undertakings
Ofcom Website | Report on the implementation of BT's Undertakings
Ofcom have released their second in a series of quarterly reports on BT's progress towards implementions of its Undertakings.
It only contains up to date info and historical information should be taken from previous reports.
Ofcom will in February publish a statement on how it intends t evaluate the outcome of the Undertakings and shortly and the Stratgic Review of Telecommunications.
Any statements within the reports may not be definative as Ofcom needs to utilise the full process of enforcement action to put them into context.
Ofcom have released their second in a series of quarterly reports on BT's progress towards implementions of its Undertakings.
It only contains up to date info and historical information should be taken from previous reports.
Ofcom will in February publish a statement on how it intends t evaluate the outcome of the Undertakings and shortly and the Stratgic Review of Telecommunications.
Any statements within the reports may not be definative as Ofcom needs to utilise the full process of enforcement action to put them into context.
2006/01/25
IEEE gives up on UWB standard - Network IT Week
IEEE gives up on UWB standard - Network IT Week
The IEEE standards group known as 802.15.3a Task Group (TG3a) held two votes, one to give up trying find a standard and the second to dissolve itself. They've left it to industry to decide which way to go.
Initially there were 23 competing standards which was reduced to two, MultiBand Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing UWB, supported by the WiMedia Alliance, and Direct Sequence-UWB, supported by the UWB Forum.
Unfortunately the two standards are completely non-interoperable.
This means that each group will push their own specifications and manufacturers in the groups will produce hardware based on that standard.
It doesn't mean UWB wont succeed, just that they'll be a VHS/Betamax war for a while.
The IEEE standards group known as 802.15.3a Task Group (TG3a) held two votes, one to give up trying find a standard and the second to dissolve itself. They've left it to industry to decide which way to go.
Initially there were 23 competing standards which was reduced to two, MultiBand Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing UWB, supported by the WiMedia Alliance, and Direct Sequence-UWB, supported by the UWB Forum.
Unfortunately the two standards are completely non-interoperable.
This means that each group will push their own specifications and manufacturers in the groups will produce hardware based on that standard.
It doesn't mean UWB wont succeed, just that they'll be a VHS/Betamax war for a while.
2006/01/24
RIM loses High Court Appeal
RIM the maker of the ubiquotous Blackberry devices has lost an appeal to overturn the injunction that could take Blackberries off the air.
If the injunction is upheld (RIM are alleged to have infringed patents) then they could be forced to suspend their service, so turning millions of devices into expensive bits of plastic.
They can still be used as phones, but all the Email/Calendaring/etc functionality will go.
Something is bound to give and it's probably just a matter of money, but 3m Blackberry users wont be happy if it doesn't.
Microsoft and others who are in the push Email market must be chomping at bit to woo customers away from RIM.
If the injunction is upheld (RIM are alleged to have infringed patents) then they could be forced to suspend their service, so turning millions of devices into expensive bits of plastic.
They can still be used as phones, but all the Email/Calendaring/etc functionality will go.
Something is bound to give and it's probably just a matter of money, but 3m Blackberry users wont be happy if it doesn't.
Microsoft and others who are in the push Email market must be chomping at bit to woo customers away from RIM.
Ofcom Website | Using your mobile abroad
Ofcom Website | Using your mobile abroad
Ofcom have produced their consumer guide to using your mobile abroad. It shows roaming tarriffs and various examples on various networks, even recommending people buy a local SIM and get their phone unlocked.
Hopefully this will encourage operators to standardise roaming and make it simple and not charge huge premiums.
The document covers voice tarrifs, but data tarrifs are even worse.
Ofcom have produced their consumer guide to using your mobile abroad. It shows roaming tarriffs and various examples on various networks, even recommending people buy a local SIM and get their phone unlocked.
Hopefully this will encourage operators to standardise roaming and make it simple and not charge huge premiums.
The document covers voice tarrifs, but data tarrifs are even worse.
Ofcom Website | Wholesale Line Rental: Reviewing and setting charge ceilings for WLR services
Ofcom Website | Wholesale Line Rental: Reviewing and setting charge ceilings for WLR services
Ofcom has set new Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) charges for business lines, these are now in-line with residential lines and cover ISDN services.
Residential WLR Business WLR
Install Ceiling £ 88.00 £ 88.00
Transfer Charge £ 2.00 £ 2.00
Annual Charge £100.68 £110.00
This should please many carriers who have resisted offering business services as the price differential was too great, which will put even more pressure on BT's declining market until they launch their 21CN.
Ofcom has set new Wholesale Line Rental (WLR) charges for business lines, these are now in-line with residential lines and cover ISDN services.
Residential WLR Business WLR
Install Ceiling £ 88.00 £ 88.00
Transfer Charge £ 2.00 £ 2.00
Annual Charge £100.68 £110.00
This should please many carriers who have resisted offering business services as the price differential was too great, which will put even more pressure on BT's declining market until they launch their 21CN.
2006/01/18
Apple & Microsoft extend Office software contract. - Jan. 13, 2006
Apple & Microsoft extend Office software contract. - Jan. 13, 2006
Why is this such a suprise, even though Apple have moved to Intel they are still using MacOS X which only runs on Apple hardware.
Microsoft's Mac Business Unit is still the largest provider of software for MacOS and though they've killed of IE (which is free and all Macs come with the Safari browser) and more recently Media Player (though there's still the current one available which they wont kill) many Mac users still want to use Microsoft Office.
Office for Mac is undoubtable better than Office for Windows, and the new version of Messenger is also an improvement over the PC variant.
Killing off such a large part of Microsoft's revenue is plain dumb.
Signing a 5 year agreement just means more money for the MS empire, which makes even more sense since MS bought into Apple (with a $250m cash injection when they were going through a very bad patch and MS thought they might become the single OS for personal computers - this was before Linux rose to popularity).
If Apple do gain more market share in laptops and desktops, then it's still more money for MS.
Why is this such a suprise, even though Apple have moved to Intel they are still using MacOS X which only runs on Apple hardware.
Microsoft's Mac Business Unit is still the largest provider of software for MacOS and though they've killed of IE (which is free and all Macs come with the Safari browser) and more recently Media Player (though there's still the current one available which they wont kill) many Mac users still want to use Microsoft Office.
Office for Mac is undoubtable better than Office for Windows, and the new version of Messenger is also an improvement over the PC variant.
Killing off such a large part of Microsoft's revenue is plain dumb.
Signing a 5 year agreement just means more money for the MS empire, which makes even more sense since MS bought into Apple (with a $250m cash injection when they were going through a very bad patch and MS thought they might become the single OS for personal computers - this was before Linux rose to popularity).
If Apple do gain more market share in laptops and desktops, then it's still more money for MS.
Digit LIVE news - Adobe upgrades video tools
Digit LIVE news - Adobe upgrades video tools
Adobe has upgraded it's video suite as Ceative Suite Production Studio in both standard and pro verions which include new versions of of After Effects, Premiere Pro, Encore DVD and Audition.
The standard collection contains After Effects 7.0 standard, Premiere Pro 2.0, Photoshop CS2 and Adobe Bridge, while the pro version also contains Audition 2.0, Encore DVD 2.0, Illustrator CS2 as well as After Effects 7.0 Pro.
The bundles utilise Adobe's new Synamic Link technhology allowing After Effects compositions in Premiere and Encore without pre-rendering.
The bundles allow direct HDTV editing and support for both 720p and 1080i formats, as well as directly supporting newer cameras which support HDTV. Premiere will also drive standard editing decks through RS-232.
Encore DVD now supports a flow-chart system for navigating DVDs and supports DTS audio (including the 6.1 channel ES format).
All the packages now utilise the After Effects interface.
Adobe has upgraded it's video suite as Ceative Suite Production Studio in both standard and pro verions which include new versions of of After Effects, Premiere Pro, Encore DVD and Audition.
The standard collection contains After Effects 7.0 standard, Premiere Pro 2.0, Photoshop CS2 and Adobe Bridge, while the pro version also contains Audition 2.0, Encore DVD 2.0, Illustrator CS2 as well as After Effects 7.0 Pro.
The bundles utilise Adobe's new Synamic Link technhology allowing After Effects compositions in Premiere and Encore without pre-rendering.
The bundles allow direct HDTV editing and support for both 720p and 1080i formats, as well as directly supporting newer cameras which support HDTV. Premiere will also drive standard editing decks through RS-232.
Encore DVD now supports a flow-chart system for navigating DVDs and supports DTS audio (including the 6.1 channel ES format).
All the packages now utilise the After Effects interface.
2006/01/16
Google bundles up desktop tools - IT Week
Google bundles up desktop tools - IT Week
Google has bundled various packages together, it includes Google Earth, Google Talk, Google Toolbar, Google desktop, Mozilla Firefox, Norton AntiVirus and Adobe Reader 7. There's also an update system that keeps all the packages updates.
Though these are all indivually available, the Google Pack makes it easy to install them and ensure they are up to date.
This is potentially a direct move against Microsoft by moving into the traditional desktop envirtonment. It's likely Google are looking for an "office" environment, though they may wait until they have a hosted version.
This is likely to raise the profile of Google in both the consumer and maybe enterprise markets.
Google has bundled various packages together, it includes Google Earth, Google Talk, Google Toolbar, Google desktop, Mozilla Firefox, Norton AntiVirus and Adobe Reader 7. There's also an update system that keeps all the packages updates.
Though these are all indivually available, the Google Pack makes it easy to install them and ensure they are up to date.
This is potentially a direct move against Microsoft by moving into the traditional desktop envirtonment. It's likely Google are looking for an "office" environment, though they may wait until they have a hosted version.
This is likely to raise the profile of Google in both the consumer and maybe enterprise markets.
2006/01/11
MPs demand wi-fi access in Houses of Parliament - Public Sector - Breaking Business and Technology News at silicon.com
MPs demand wi-fi access in Houses of Parliament - Public Sector - Breaking Business and Technology News at silicon.com
MP's want Wireless networking in the Houses of Parliament. Apart from the obvious security issues, the main difficulty in installing networking equipment is that the main Parliament building is listed (and to the highest level) which means installing anything is a complete PITA.
Portcullis House would be easier as it's a new building and almost certainly has networking installed that could easily be tapped and access points installed.
MP's want Wireless networking in the Houses of Parliament. Apart from the obvious security issues, the main difficulty in installing networking equipment is that the main Parliament building is listed (and to the highest level) which means installing anything is a complete PITA.
Portcullis House would be easier as it's a new building and almost certainly has networking installed that could easily be tapped and access points installed.
Wired News: Ultrawideband's Macworld Twirl
Wired News: Ultrawideband's Macworld Twirl
UWB is here, well almost - consumer devices are starting to appear in the US where the FCC has allowed the use or low power short range (wire replacement) UWB.
Of course in the UK it's a different story and UWB isn't allowed yet, though Ofcom have submitted proposals to CEPT (The EU radio standards lot) - but they are different from the US standards, so US kit isn't legal.
One day the EU will catch-up, but it might be a while, but by that time there may be various manufacturers of UWB chips and some conformance tests from the WiMeda Alliance (currently only Freescale have a UWB chipset).
UWB is here, well almost - consumer devices are starting to appear in the US where the FCC has allowed the use or low power short range (wire replacement) UWB.
Of course in the UK it's a different story and UWB isn't allowed yet, though Ofcom have submitted proposals to CEPT (The EU radio standards lot) - but they are different from the US standards, so US kit isn't legal.
One day the EU will catch-up, but it might be a while, but by that time there may be various manufacturers of UWB chips and some conformance tests from the WiMeda Alliance (currently only Freescale have a UWB chipset).
Exchange moves to 64bit path - Network IT Week
Exchange moves to 64bit path - Network IT Week
Now that support for Exchange 5.5 has ended many people will be thinking of upgrading (there's a lot of 5.5 users out there), should they upgrade to Exchange 2003 or wait for 12?
Version 12 will ONLY run on 64bit architechtures which may be a good thing in terms of server software, but users will also be forced to upgrade their hardware.
It should mean a much more scalable platform. MS were thinking of replacing the datastore that Exchange users to MS SQL (or a derivative) - which may still happen, the current store uses the JET database engine (like Access), however with the move to 64bit the speed and other advantages aren't so apparent, which means they are likely to stick with what they've got for a while.
So it might be worth waiting and just jump to Exchange 12 on upgraded hardware.
Now that support for Exchange 5.5 has ended many people will be thinking of upgrading (there's a lot of 5.5 users out there), should they upgrade to Exchange 2003 or wait for 12?
Version 12 will ONLY run on 64bit architechtures which may be a good thing in terms of server software, but users will also be forced to upgrade their hardware.
It should mean a much more scalable platform. MS were thinking of replacing the datastore that Exchange users to MS SQL (or a derivative) - which may still happen, the current store uses the JET database engine (like Access), however with the move to 64bit the speed and other advantages aren't so apparent, which means they are likely to stick with what they've got for a while.
So it might be worth waiting and just jump to Exchange 12 on upgraded hardware.
2006/01/05
Ofcom Website | Scoping an NGN industry body - an independent report by Spectrum Strategy Consultants
Ofcom Website | Scoping an NGN industry body - an independent report by Spectrum Strategy Consultants:
Ofcom commissioned Spectrum Strategy Consultants to help develop the scope for a new New Generation Networks industry body. Based on the report Ofcom have recommended setting up an NGN body.
They propose
The body’s purpose should be to develop a joint vision and framework for the transition to NGNs that encompasses commercial, technical and operational issues.
It will issue recommendations to the industry
In order to function effectively, the body will require a stringent governance and organisational structure:
its membership should be inclusive; stakeholders will be able to participate in workgroups on specific issues independent of size and degree of infrastructure ownership
in order to function effectively, the NGN body will need a strong figurehead as a chairman supported by a well-resourced management team equipped with strategic, technical and programme management expertise
a board consisting of 8-10 industry representatives needs to be appointed to approve the body�s recommendations and to drive its agenda forward
the organisation will be independent, accountable only to its members
Ofcom should adopt the role of an active observer
The body should be owned and funded by industry in order to enable its independence. However, Ofcom will need to play a leading role during the set-up phase
The body is required as soon as possible and should be set up within the next six to seven months; it is expected to have a lifetime of 3-4 years
Why is Ofcom proposing this? Well yes the industry is moving to NGN, but it's BT they are really worried about. BT's 21CN will completely change the face of telecoms in the UK and Ofcom need to be able to ensure that the rest of the industry doesn't get left behind and suddenly everyone becomes a BT reseller once again.
This way they can support an industry body - steered by Ofcom initially that actually understands what's going on and the future implications for the industry.
Ofcom commissioned Spectrum Strategy Consultants to help develop the scope for a new New Generation Networks industry body. Based on the report Ofcom have recommended setting up an NGN body.
They propose
The body’s purpose should be to develop a joint vision and framework for the transition to NGNs that encompasses commercial, technical and operational issues.
It will issue recommendations to the industry
In order to function effectively, the body will require a stringent governance and organisational structure:
its membership should be inclusive; stakeholders will be able to participate in workgroups on specific issues independent of size and degree of infrastructure ownership
in order to function effectively, the NGN body will need a strong figurehead as a chairman supported by a well-resourced management team equipped with strategic, technical and programme management expertise
a board consisting of 8-10 industry representatives needs to be appointed to approve the body�s recommendations and to drive its agenda forward
the organisation will be independent, accountable only to its members
Ofcom should adopt the role of an active observer
The body should be owned and funded by industry in order to enable its independence. However, Ofcom will need to play a leading role during the set-up phase
The body is required as soon as possible and should be set up within the next six to seven months; it is expected to have a lifetime of 3-4 years
Why is Ofcom proposing this? Well yes the industry is moving to NGN, but it's BT they are really worried about. BT's 21CN will completely change the face of telecoms in the UK and Ofcom need to be able to ensure that the rest of the industry doesn't get left behind and suddenly everyone becomes a BT reseller once again.
This way they can support an industry body - steered by Ofcom initially that actually understands what's going on and the future implications for the industry.
IBM buys into network management - Network IT Week
IBM buys into network management - Network IT Week
The acquistion of Micromuse by IBM will probably see Micromuse being saved and also extending IBM's Tivoli managanent system by incorporating NetCool, Micromuse's product.
NetCool is quite sophisticated in that it has active agents which can not just detect whether a server is there or not, but how the applications running on it are performing i.e. say how a web server is performing.
As the world moves to converged networks, being able to monitor how the networks and services are performing is going to be very important rather than in today's world were you know if the network is working or not.
The acquistion of Micromuse by IBM will probably see Micromuse being saved and also extending IBM's Tivoli managanent system by incorporating NetCool, Micromuse's product.
NetCool is quite sophisticated in that it has active agents which can not just detect whether a server is there or not, but how the applications running on it are performing i.e. say how a web server is performing.
As the world moves to converged networks, being able to monitor how the networks and services are performing is going to be very important rather than in today's world were you know if the network is working or not.
2006/01/03
BBC NEWS | Technology | City-wide wi-fi rolls out in UK
BBC NEWS | Technology | City-wide wi-fi rolls out in UK
The Cloud is rolling out WiFi Hotzones in London, Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, Oxford and Cambridge.
In London the 3 boroughs of Islington, Kensington and Camden will get WiFi'd. The Cloud has already WiFi'd Canary Wharf (in Docklands) and is using the success of this to move to other areas.
Anyone with a BT Openzone, O2, SkypeZones or Nintendo WiFi but the Cloud are hopeing to attract other operators.
Hopefully WiFi pricing will come down as it is still too expensive - but it may appeal to business users.
The Cloud is rolling out WiFi Hotzones in London, Edinburgh, Leeds, Manchester, Birmingham, Oxford and Cambridge.
In London the 3 boroughs of Islington, Kensington and Camden will get WiFi'd. The Cloud has already WiFi'd Canary Wharf (in Docklands) and is using the success of this to move to other areas.
Anyone with a BT Openzone, O2, SkypeZones or Nintendo WiFi but the Cloud are hopeing to attract other operators.
Hopefully WiFi pricing will come down as it is still too expensive - but it may appeal to business users.
Skype targets mainstream consumers | CNET News.com
Skype targets mainstream consumers | CNET News.com
Skype has launched various new products to make it easier for consumers to use the service and to make it appeal to customers who might normally go for a service like Vonage or other VoIP provider.
The new products range from handsets that can work away from the PC, to a standalone unit from D-Link that allows a normal phone to be plugged-in and just has an Ethernet connection.
The investment from Ebay is obviously paying off, but Skype need to increase their market from their 70m existing users.
Skype has launched various new products to make it easier for consumers to use the service and to make it appeal to customers who might normally go for a service like Vonage or other VoIP provider.
The new products range from handsets that can work away from the PC, to a standalone unit from D-Link that allows a normal phone to be plugged-in and just has an Ethernet connection.
The investment from Ebay is obviously paying off, but Skype need to increase their market from their 70m existing users.
2005/12/30
Digit LIVE news - Wireless USB creeps nearer
Digit LIVE news - Wireless USB creeps nearer
Wireless USB, which will work at 480Mbps using short-range ultra-wide band (UWB) radio has been specified by a group led by Intel, and has its standards published online.
Wisair has produced a device which plugs a dongle into the PC and has a hub that connects wirelessly to the dongle, in future there wont be a need for dongles at all and USB devices with have the UWB technology built-into the devices themselves and PC manafactures will put the UWB technology into the PCs or motherboards.
This all assumes UWB gets regulatory approval, and though the UK (Ofcom) has put forward a spec for UWB, it differs from the US version. It also needs to go through the EU approvals process so it's an EU harmonised standard, which could take a while.
Wireless USB, which will work at 480Mbps using short-range ultra-wide band (UWB) radio has been specified by a group led by Intel, and has its standards published online.
Wisair has produced a device which plugs a dongle into the PC and has a hub that connects wirelessly to the dongle, in future there wont be a need for dongles at all and USB devices with have the UWB technology built-into the devices themselves and PC manafactures will put the UWB technology into the PCs or motherboards.
This all assumes UWB gets regulatory approval, and though the UK (Ofcom) has put forward a spec for UWB, it differs from the US version. It also needs to go through the EU approvals process so it's an EU harmonised standard, which could take a while.
Digit LIVE news - IE gains Firefox RSS icon, loses Mac version
Digit LIVE news - IE gains Firefox RSS icon, loses Mac version
Microsoft is jumping on the open source bandwagon, well maybe not, they're just using the orange Firefox icon to show RSS feeds, though MS do point out they have exchanged technology with the Mozilla lot in the past and will no doubt in the future.
They've also announce dthe dealth-bell for IE on Mac and recommend users upgrade to newer browsers such as Safari.
Microsoft is jumping on the open source bandwagon, well maybe not, they're just using the orange Firefox icon to show RSS feeds, though MS do point out they have exchanged technology with the Mozilla lot in the past and will no doubt in the future.
They've also announce dthe dealth-bell for IE on Mac and recommend users upgrade to newer browsers such as Safari.
Digit LIVE news - Opera Mini browser quietly released
Digit LIVE news - Opera Mini browser quietly released
Opera have released a "mini browser" for mobile phones, it's only 100K in size and runs as a Java application.
It works on any Java enabled phone and communicates with servers run by Opera which strip out and compress content making it suitable for the browser real-estate.
Though meant to be launched next year, Opera have made the browser available for download now.
Opera have released a "mini browser" for mobile phones, it's only 100K in size and runs as a Java application.
It works on any Java enabled phone and communicates with servers run by Opera which strip out and compress content making it suitable for the browser real-estate.
Though meant to be launched next year, Opera have made the browser available for download now.
Digit LIVE news - Sony, BSkyB jointly promote HDTV
Digit LIVE news - Sony, BSkyB jointly promote HDTV
Sony and BSkyB promoting HDTV, nothing really exciting there (apart from the actual service when it launches next year).
BSkyB have already announced a deal with Thomson to manufacture the set-top box, so things may actually happen.
Now NTL has acquired Telewest it will be interesting to see if Telewest's HDTV service launches or they have to wait until NTL can catch-up with their network.
Sony and BSkyB promoting HDTV, nothing really exciting there (apart from the actual service when it launches next year).
BSkyB have already announced a deal with Thomson to manufacture the set-top box, so things may actually happen.
Now NTL has acquired Telewest it will be interesting to see if Telewest's HDTV service launches or they have to wait until NTL can catch-up with their network.
Digit LIVE news - Orange to launch Wi-Fi in UK
Digit LIVE news - Orange to launch Wi-Fi in UK
Orange launched a WiFo hotspot service, catching up with the other operators who have already launched in the UK.
They are not installing their own hotspots, but have just done a roaming deal with Openzone and others including Accor Hotels (provided by Orange France). Users have to send a text to the service and they'll be sent back a username and password which is valid for 24 hours (it also triggers the billing, which is £6.50 per hour).
Orange will launch combined 3G/GPRS and WiFi tarrifs in January known as Business Everywhere. Though not many details are available, one can guess this is part of the fixed mobile convergence strategy as all of France Telecomms non fixed business moves under the Orange brand (i.e. Wanadoo).
Orange launched a WiFo hotspot service, catching up with the other operators who have already launched in the UK.
They are not installing their own hotspots, but have just done a roaming deal with Openzone and others including Accor Hotels (provided by Orange France). Users have to send a text to the service and they'll be sent back a username and password which is valid for 24 hours (it also triggers the billing, which is £6.50 per hour).
Orange will launch combined 3G/GPRS and WiFi tarrifs in January known as Business Everywhere. Though not many details are available, one can guess this is part of the fixed mobile convergence strategy as all of France Telecomms non fixed business moves under the Orange brand (i.e. Wanadoo).
2005/12/23
Department of Trade and Industry - Consultation
The DTI is holding a consultation on whether to use fixed penalties for infractions of the Wireless Telegraohy Act 1949.
The act covers broadcasting and receiving of radio waves and equipment.
Currently anyone transmitting (or receiving) in the UK needs a license, though some bands are license exempt (which means as long as you stick to the license published by Ofcom, you don't need a specific license).
Though serious offenders will still be prosecuted, this allows enforcement officers to give spot fines for things like transmitting using excess power (or using high gain attenae) in the 2.4GHz band. Previously most of these infractions have been ignored as it is too expensive to prosecute.
Though some people may see this as an extra tax, it may actually give Ofcom some teeth to stop offenders where in the past they haven't had the will or the resources to do so, which may be a good thing in the long term as spectrum is very crowded and this possibly will allow better management.
The consultation closes on 31st March 2006.
The act covers broadcasting and receiving of radio waves and equipment.
Currently anyone transmitting (or receiving) in the UK needs a license, though some bands are license exempt (which means as long as you stick to the license published by Ofcom, you don't need a specific license).
Though serious offenders will still be prosecuted, this allows enforcement officers to give spot fines for things like transmitting using excess power (or using high gain attenae) in the 2.4GHz band. Previously most of these infractions have been ignored as it is too expensive to prosecute.
Though some people may see this as an extra tax, it may actually give Ofcom some teeth to stop offenders where in the past they haven't had the will or the resources to do so, which may be a good thing in the long term as spectrum is very crowded and this possibly will allow better management.
The consultation closes on 31st March 2006.
2005/12/21
TomTom GO 700
The TomTom GO 700 us the top model from TomTom with complete maps of UK and Western Europe installed on a hard disk internally.
It's a neat unit, the navigation is very precise and worked flawlessly it even picked up a private road which was "unnamed" but once down the road it's possible to set a mark there, so you can get back to it.
The Speed Camera database is an optional extra for about £40 per year - but worthwhile, TomTom keep it up to date.
There are other TomTom PLUS services such as weather (at your destination) and traffic conditions. These can both be downloaded in real-time using Bluetooth through your mobile phone (data charges may apply). If the route you've planned happens to hit the road conditions, the GO will navigate another route to avoid them.
It's a slight pain fitting the system to the car and dangling wires out the cigarette lighter, but it all worked very well and the built-in aerial picked up the satellites with ease. Unfortunately it is worth removing all the bits when you leave the car, as they've become a target for thieves.
When the permanent docking station arrives that should makes things easier.
It's a neat unit, the navigation is very precise and worked flawlessly it even picked up a private road which was "unnamed" but once down the road it's possible to set a mark there, so you can get back to it.
The Speed Camera database is an optional extra for about £40 per year - but worthwhile, TomTom keep it up to date.
There are other TomTom PLUS services such as weather (at your destination) and traffic conditions. These can both be downloaded in real-time using Bluetooth through your mobile phone (data charges may apply). If the route you've planned happens to hit the road conditions, the GO will navigate another route to avoid them.
It's a slight pain fitting the system to the car and dangling wires out the cigarette lighter, but it all worked very well and the built-in aerial picked up the satellites with ease. Unfortunately it is worth removing all the bits when you leave the car, as they've become a target for thieves.
When the permanent docking station arrives that should makes things easier.
Carphone Wares buys Onetel and Tele2
Yesterday Carphone Warehouse (CPW) agreed a deal with Centrica to purchase Onetel, they also bought the business (UK and Ireland) of Tele2.
This gives CPW around 2.4m carrier pre-select (CPS) customers making them the 3rd largest residential voice carrier in the UK (BT is largest with about 15m, followed by NTL with about 4m).
The acquisitions makes senses considering the CPW are moving into the Local Loop Unbundling (LLU) market which is all about economies of scale and having large ammounts of customers per unbundled exchange. Having a greater number of customers means that there are more likely to be some on any given exchange. CPW have stated they want to go into 1,000 exchanges in the UK.
CPW will offer combined broadband, voice and mobile which should allow them to be very competetive and in future if they can find a content provider they'll be sure to offer a broadband TV service too.
Centrica will continue to push CPW (TalkTalk) services to their own customers for 3 years.
The big losers in this are BT who gain to lose even more residential customers to TalkTalk, and probably business customers too as TalkTalk Business is now being offered.
However it's also the current providers of services to Onetel and Tele2 as CPW migrate all their services on to their own infrastructure.
This gives CPW around 2.4m carrier pre-select (CPS) customers making them the 3rd largest residential voice carrier in the UK (BT is largest with about 15m, followed by NTL with about 4m).
The acquisitions makes senses considering the CPW are moving into the Local Loop Unbundling (LLU) market which is all about economies of scale and having large ammounts of customers per unbundled exchange. Having a greater number of customers means that there are more likely to be some on any given exchange. CPW have stated they want to go into 1,000 exchanges in the UK.
CPW will offer combined broadband, voice and mobile which should allow them to be very competetive and in future if they can find a content provider they'll be sure to offer a broadband TV service too.
Centrica will continue to push CPW (TalkTalk) services to their own customers for 3 years.
The big losers in this are BT who gain to lose even more residential customers to TalkTalk, and probably business customers too as TalkTalk Business is now being offered.
However it's also the current providers of services to Onetel and Tele2 as CPW migrate all their services on to their own infrastructure.
2005/12/16
Ofcom Website | Statement and notification extending the charge controls
Ofcom Website | Statement and notification extending the charge controls
Ofcom have extended the wholesale rate mobile operators can charge for temrination until March 07. O2 and Vodafone are set at 5.63ppm and Orange and T-Mobile at 6.51ppm.
Though this is good news, the rates are still high compared to retail deals that end-users can get directly from the operators themselves, it's one of the only industries where wholesale rates are higher than retail.
Ofcom have extended the wholesale rate mobile operators can charge for temrination until March 07. O2 and Vodafone are set at 5.63ppm and Orange and T-Mobile at 6.51ppm.
Though this is good news, the rates are still high compared to retail deals that end-users can get directly from the operators themselves, it's one of the only industries where wholesale rates are higher than retail.
2005/12/15
Ofcom Website | Award of Available Spectrum - 1785 - 1805MHz
Ofcom Website | Award of Available Spectrum - 1785 - 1805MHz
Ofcom in association with ComReg (the Irish regulator) are proposing to make available a 20MHz piece of spectrum in the 1785 - 1805 MHz range. There will be one license awarded in Ireland and one in Northern Ireland. The consultation closes on March 2nd 2006.
There will be a sealed bid approach with Ireland's being offered first and shortly after Northern Ireland. Reserve price is 150,000 Euros and £50,000 respectively. The NI license will be fully tradable as soon as it's been won.
The spectrum may be used for any purpose, but must meet the radiated power and spectral masks defined by the regulators. Max radiated power (EIRP) is 56dBm per MHz so larger channels means higer power (i.e. if the spectrum is broken down to 1MHz channels then the max EIRP is 56dBm, while one 20MHz channel would allow 1120dBm).
Allows for reasonable links for short-distance mulitple channels or longer distances with smaller number of channels.
Ofcom in association with ComReg (the Irish regulator) are proposing to make available a 20MHz piece of spectrum in the 1785 - 1805 MHz range. There will be one license awarded in Ireland and one in Northern Ireland. The consultation closes on March 2nd 2006.
There will be a sealed bid approach with Ireland's being offered first and shortly after Northern Ireland. Reserve price is 150,000 Euros and £50,000 respectively. The NI license will be fully tradable as soon as it's been won.
The spectrum may be used for any purpose, but must meet the radiated power and spectral masks defined by the regulators. Max radiated power (EIRP) is 56dBm per MHz so larger channels means higer power (i.e. if the spectrum is broken down to 1MHz channels then the max EIRP is 56dBm, while one 20MHz channel would allow 1120dBm).
Allows for reasonable links for short-distance mulitple channels or longer distances with smaller number of channels.
2005/12/14
Intel calls for IEEE to drop UWB - Network IT Week
Intel calls for IEEE to drop UWB - Network IT Week
Intel is trying to get the IEEE (a US based International standards body) to adopt their UWM standard known as WiMedia rather than the current approach which uses Direct Sequence-UWB.
UWB is suited for short-range wire replacement services allowing for data rates in the order of 500Mb/s, it does this by splitting the data up and encoding it on a large range of frequencies. As the power of the transmissions is so low, other non-UWB equipment just hears it as background noise and if there is interference on various frequencies the UWB kit will just ignore it as it can just re-constitute the data from other frequencies.
There has already been arguments in the UWB group with the Multi-Band OFDM Alliance (MBOA) giving up as using their technology as the basis for UWB.
Intel obviously have a vested interest in people using their technology, but they potentially may just be causing delays in what promises to revolutionise how devices "talk" to each other.
Intel is trying to get the IEEE (a US based International standards body) to adopt their UWM standard known as WiMedia rather than the current approach which uses Direct Sequence-UWB.
UWB is suited for short-range wire replacement services allowing for data rates in the order of 500Mb/s, it does this by splitting the data up and encoding it on a large range of frequencies. As the power of the transmissions is so low, other non-UWB equipment just hears it as background noise and if there is interference on various frequencies the UWB kit will just ignore it as it can just re-constitute the data from other frequencies.
There has already been arguments in the UWB group with the Multi-Band OFDM Alliance (MBOA) giving up as using their technology as the basis for UWB.
Intel obviously have a vested interest in people using their technology, but they potentially may just be causing delays in what promises to revolutionise how devices "talk" to each other.
3G may beat WiMax to the punch - Network IT Week
3G may beat WiMax to the punch - Network IT Week
Though the mobile version of WiMAX has now been ratfied (802.16e) it will be a while before manufacturers have silicon supporting in, though companies like Intel have said they will produce chips next year - integrated on to laptop motherboards.
Unfortunately even though the standard may now be real and mobile WiMAX may become a reality in terms of hardware, there's still the question of what spectrum is available for people to use.
In the UK the only possible spectrum that could be used (currently) is 5.8GHz in Band B which will give limited bandwidth.
Even the licensed operators who have spectrum available in 3.4 and 3.5GHz are NOT (currently) allowed to offer mobile services over it and they can only offer permanent fixed links.
It wont be the technology that slows WiMAX but the regulatory hurdles.
Though the mobile version of WiMAX has now been ratfied (802.16e) it will be a while before manufacturers have silicon supporting in, though companies like Intel have said they will produce chips next year - integrated on to laptop motherboards.
Unfortunately even though the standard may now be real and mobile WiMAX may become a reality in terms of hardware, there's still the question of what spectrum is available for people to use.
In the UK the only possible spectrum that could be used (currently) is 5.8GHz in Band B which will give limited bandwidth.
Even the licensed operators who have spectrum available in 3.4 and 3.5GHz are NOT (currently) allowed to offer mobile services over it and they can only offer permanent fixed links.
It wont be the technology that slows WiMAX but the regulatory hurdles.
2005/12/13
Microsoft and MCI jump on VoIP bandwagon - Network IT Week
Microsoft and MCI jump on VoIP bandwagon - Network IT Week
Microsoft and MCI have joined forces to offer a VoIP service to compete with Skype and such like.
Currently in beta and only available to US customers it's part of a new version of Messenger, Microsoft's IM client.
Users will be able to dial 220 countries, with prices starting at $.023 (at current rates, that's about 1.5p) per minute to the US, Canada, UK and Western Europe which is cheaper than Skype.
This is the start of a trend which is sounding the death-knoll for per minute charging, any Telco relying on voice minutes has a short lifetime to look forward to.
Microsoft and MCI have joined forces to offer a VoIP service to compete with Skype and such like.
Currently in beta and only available to US customers it's part of a new version of Messenger, Microsoft's IM client.
Users will be able to dial 220 countries, with prices starting at $.023 (at current rates, that's about 1.5p) per minute to the US, Canada, UK and Western Europe which is cheaper than Skype.
This is the start of a trend which is sounding the death-knoll for per minute charging, any Telco relying on voice minutes has a short lifetime to look forward to.
2005/12/09
RIM faces uncertain future - vnunet.com
RIM faces uncertain future - vnunet.com
A judge has ruled that RIM's patent agreement with NTP Software is invalid, which could mean they are forced to stop sales of Blackberries at least in the US which accounts for two-thrids of their sales.
Shares of RIM were suspended on NASDAQ.
RIM are by far the dominant player in the "push Email" market, and this could allow others to get a foot-hold, but they are so far ahead it would still be difficult. It does give others the opportunity to get new customers who may be thinking that RIM have a difficult future, especially companies like Microsoft who have push-Email client in Windows Mobile 5 (and Exchange 2003 SP2) and Nokia who've embedded at least one client in their Series 60 phones.
A judge has ruled that RIM's patent agreement with NTP Software is invalid, which could mean they are forced to stop sales of Blackberries at least in the US which accounts for two-thrids of their sales.
Shares of RIM were suspended on NASDAQ.
RIM are by far the dominant player in the "push Email" market, and this could allow others to get a foot-hold, but they are so far ahead it would still be difficult. It does give others the opportunity to get new customers who may be thinking that RIM have a difficult future, especially companies like Microsoft who have push-Email client in Windows Mobile 5 (and Exchange 2003 SP2) and Nokia who've embedded at least one client in their Series 60 phones.
Digit LIVE news - First Adobe and Macromedia bundles debut
Digit LIVE news - First Adobe and Macromedia bundles debut
The first fruits of Adobe's Macromedia takeover have just been announced, the new Design bundle which really just Creative Suite 2 and Flash 8, and the Web bundle which includes the full Macromedia Studio 8 set. Design bundles costs £1,175 +VAT and Web bundle £1,409 +VAT.
However the web bundle contains a lot of overlap as it has two web authoring packages (GoLive and Dreamweaver) and two web image packages (Imageready and FireWorks). It will take a while for Adobe to consolidate them as they're not allowed to work on that until the merger has fully completed. It's likely Adobe will utilise Dreamweaver as the basis for things going forward as that's definately the market leader.
They are expected to launch a video bundle next year, which will contain Flash, but no mention of what else.
The first fruits of Adobe's Macromedia takeover have just been announced, the new Design bundle which really just Creative Suite 2 and Flash 8, and the Web bundle which includes the full Macromedia Studio 8 set. Design bundles costs £1,175 +VAT and Web bundle £1,409 +VAT.
However the web bundle contains a lot of overlap as it has two web authoring packages (GoLive and Dreamweaver) and two web image packages (Imageready and FireWorks). It will take a while for Adobe to consolidate them as they're not allowed to work on that until the merger has fully completed. It's likely Adobe will utilise Dreamweaver as the basis for things going forward as that's definately the market leader.
They are expected to launch a video bundle next year, which will contain Flash, but no mention of what else.
Digit LIVE news - Panasonic adds dual-layer to Blu-ray
Digit LIVE news - Panasonic adds dual-layer to Blu-ray:
Panasonic Disc Manufacturing of America has added the ability to produce dual-layer Blu-ray Discs to a test production line the company is operating at its factory in California, Panasonic said this week.
Single layer BluRay disks have a capacity of 25GB and dual disks will store 50GB, current dual layer DVD's store 8.5GB.
Unfortunately the format wars are still in full swing with no winner yet, BluRay or HD-DVD.
HD-DVD is based on the current DVD format but supports 15GB per layer. HD-DVD is currently winning on the "good yield" rating with good yields approaching 90% while BluRay only manages 80%.
Players based on these formats aren't expected until next year.
Panasonic Disc Manufacturing of America has added the ability to produce dual-layer Blu-ray Discs to a test production line the company is operating at its factory in California, Panasonic said this week.
Single layer BluRay disks have a capacity of 25GB and dual disks will store 50GB, current dual layer DVD's store 8.5GB.
Unfortunately the format wars are still in full swing with no winner yet, BluRay or HD-DVD.
HD-DVD is based on the current DVD format but supports 15GB per layer. HD-DVD is currently winning on the "good yield" rating with good yields approaching 90% while BluRay only manages 80%.
Players based on these formats aren't expected until next year.
2005/12/05
Digit LIVE news - New .eu domain 'as important as .com'
Digit LIVE news - New .eu domain 'as important as .com'
The .eu domain opens for business this week but only for EU trademark holders and public bodies. In February registered companies (with office in EU) can apply, and in April anyone (in the EU) can apply.
EURid are the registry for .eu registations, though many existing registrars will becomes EURid regisitrars as well.
There is expected to be a large take-up of .eu registrations, though it's unlikely to get to the size of .com.
ICANN (who oversee the DNS systems) dropped plans for the .xxx top level domain (which would have been used for sex sites) last week.
The .eu domain opens for business this week but only for EU trademark holders and public bodies. In February registered companies (with office in EU) can apply, and in April anyone (in the EU) can apply.
EURid are the registry for .eu registations, though many existing registrars will becomes EURid regisitrars as well.
There is expected to be a large take-up of .eu registrations, though it's unlikely to get to the size of .com.
ICANN (who oversee the DNS systems) dropped plans for the .xxx top level domain (which would have been used for sex sites) last week.
Digit LIVE news - RealNetworks opens Rhapsody for Mac
Digit LIVE news - RealNetworks opens Rhapsody for Mac
Well Real aren't completely opening Rhapsody to Linux and Mac users, only the new website which gives access to streaming music. Download will still only be available to Windows users through the Rhapsody client which uses Real's DRM technology.
Real haven't when or even if they'll produce Mac/Linux clients for the DRM system, so it's just access to streaming content for the foreseable future.
Well Real aren't completely opening Rhapsody to Linux and Mac users, only the new website which gives access to streaming music. Download will still only be available to Windows users through the Rhapsody client which uses Real's DRM technology.
Real haven't when or even if they'll produce Mac/Linux clients for the DRM system, so it's just access to streaming content for the foreseable future.
2005/12/02
Ofcom Website | Local loop unbundling: setting the fully unbundled rental charge ceiling and minor amendment to SMP conditions FA6 and FB6
Ofcom Website | Local loop unbundling: setting the fully unbundled rental charge ceiling and minor amendment to SMP conditions FA6 and FB6
Ofcom has capped BT's charges for a fully unbundled line to £81.69 from Jan 1st 2006. This puts it in line with WLR (wholesale line rental) charges.
This should stimulate LLU operators to offer a fully unbundled service (rather than the shared metallic path option whereby BT retain the voice element). BT will no longer have the opportunity to geta b lue-bill through the door and market their services to customers.
Ofcom has capped BT's charges for a fully unbundled line to £81.69 from Jan 1st 2006. This puts it in line with WLR (wholesale line rental) charges.
This should stimulate LLU operators to offer a fully unbundled service (rather than the shared metallic path option whereby BT retain the voice element). BT will no longer have the opportunity to geta b lue-bill through the door and market their services to customers.
Microsoft launches anti-virus service - IT Week
Microsoft launches anti-virus service - IT Week
The other security companies must be worried about their future. Microsoft has announced Windows One Care Live Security beta which supports anti-virus and anti-spyware offerings, firewall, remote back-up etc.
It's currently free, but there's likely to be a charge later.
It's all part of their Live offering which centrally hosts MS services, including Office offerings and Communications options.
The service is currently only for consumers, but an enterprise version is expected later.
The other security companies must be worried about their future. Microsoft has announced Windows One Care Live Security beta which supports anti-virus and anti-spyware offerings, firewall, remote back-up etc.
It's currently free, but there's likely to be a charge later.
It's all part of their Live offering which centrally hosts MS services, including Office offerings and Communications options.
The service is currently only for consumers, but an enterprise version is expected later.
Skype adds video with Skype 2.0 - IT Week
Skype adds video with Skype 2.0 - IT Week
Skype has released Skype v2 (beta) which introduces video capability as well as supporting moods and indicating the time zone of the person you're trying to call.
Though video calling can be useful, mainly it's a gimmick and uses more bandwidth.
If they're using the same P2P methods for video as well as audio, then anyone on non-NATed connections will get even more of their bandwidth used as they become a super-node for other users who are NAT'ed or behind agressive firewalls.
Skype has released Skype v2 (beta) which introduces video capability as well as supporting moods and indicating the time zone of the person you're trying to call.
Though video calling can be useful, mainly it's a gimmick and uses more bandwidth.
If they're using the same P2P methods for video as well as audio, then anyone on non-NATed connections will get even more of their bandwidth used as they become a super-node for other users who are NAT'ed or behind agressive firewalls.
Gmail adds virus scanning - IT Week
Gmail adds virus scanning - IT Week
Google Mail now check for infected attachments and stop people downloading them if it cant remove them (as well as checking outgoing attachments too).
Though Email is an important part of an office environment it's not the only part. Google have done a deal with Sun and point users at OpenOffice for an alternative to Microsoft products. However they surely must be looking at offering a hosted version of the suite.
In the past Sun has shown hosted versions of StarOffice, which utilise computing power in the browser much like Google do with Google Earth and other AJAX applications, but they also had versions which just used the browser as a rendering engine suitable for PDAs etc.
The software looked the same whatever platform it ran on and though files could be stored locally, they were best placed on the server (that run the application).
It wouldn't be suprising if Sun re-vitalised those efforts which would allow Google to offer a fully hosted Office environment.
Google Mail now check for infected attachments and stop people downloading them if it cant remove them (as well as checking outgoing attachments too).
Though Email is an important part of an office environment it's not the only part. Google have done a deal with Sun and point users at OpenOffice for an alternative to Microsoft products. However they surely must be looking at offering a hosted version of the suite.
In the past Sun has shown hosted versions of StarOffice, which utilise computing power in the browser much like Google do with Google Earth and other AJAX applications, but they also had versions which just used the browser as a rendering engine suitable for PDAs etc.
The software looked the same whatever platform it ran on and though files could be stored locally, they were best placed on the server (that run the application).
It wouldn't be suprising if Sun re-vitalised those efforts which would allow Google to offer a fully hosted Office environment.
2005/12/01
Digit LIVE news - Sky reports mobile TV success
Digit LIVE news - Sky reports mobile TV success
TV on your mobile phone? It seems it's taking off. Sky have done a deal with Vodafone so customers can access Sky content through their !Live service.
Currently it's free, which is probably why so many people are using it, however when Vodafone charge £5 per month per Sky package (there's 3 of them), then things might change.
TV on your mobile phone? It seems it's taking off. Sky have done a deal with Vodafone so customers can access Sky content through their !Live service.
Currently it's free, which is probably why so many people are using it, however when Vodafone charge £5 per month per Sky package (there's 3 of them), then things might change.
Digit LIVE news - Sony updates PSP, adds RSS support
Digit LIVE news - Sony updates PSP, adds RSS support
Adding RSS feeds allows the PSP to be used to subscribe to news feeds/blogs and such like. This is another step in making the PSP the portable media hub of choice.
When the Xbox 360 is launched tomorrow with PSP support they'll make a great combination.
Adding RSS feeds allows the PSP to be used to subscribe to news feeds/blogs and such like. This is another step in making the PSP the portable media hub of choice.
When the Xbox 360 is launched tomorrow with PSP support they'll make a great combination.
2005/11/29
Ofcom Website | European experts back a more flexible approach to spectrum management
Ofcom Website | European experts back a more flexible approach to spectrum management
The European Union's expert group on spectrum - the Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) - adopted an Opinion calling for a more flexible approach to spectrum management on 23 November.
This is a good decision and should speed up the way spectrum can be allocated across Europe and allow new and innovative services to be launched including mobile, broadcasting, fixed wireless and other electronic comms services.
The European Union's expert group on spectrum - the Radio Spectrum Policy Group (RSPG) - adopted an Opinion calling for a more flexible approach to spectrum management on 23 November.
This is a good decision and should speed up the way spectrum can be allocated across Europe and allow new and innovative services to be launched including mobile, broadcasting, fixed wireless and other electronic comms services.
3 no longer considered to have SMP
In 2004 Ofcom ruled that 3 the UK mobile 3G network (Hutchison 3G UK Limited) had SMP or significant market power. SMP means Ofcom can regulate the company and put conditions on it's operation and even make it offer services to 3rd parties (BT have to and have a wholesale and retail operation).
3 appealed the decision and today CAT (Competition Appeal Tribunal) ruled that this was not the case. It is the first time a UK operator has successfully appealed an SMP ruling.
This shouldn't affect things for customers, but should mean 3 can concentrate on services rather than worrying about having to appease the regulator and even opening up its network to other operators.
3 appealed the decision and today CAT (Competition Appeal Tribunal) ruled that this was not the case. It is the first time a UK operator has successfully appealed an SMP ruling.
This shouldn't affect things for customers, but should mean 3 can concentrate on services rather than worrying about having to appease the regulator and even opening up its network to other operators.
2005/11/28
Digit LIVE news - Tivo to bring TV to iPod and PSP
Digit LIVE news - Tivo to bring TV to iPod and PSP
Tivo are planning to extend their Tivo ToGo service (which already supports watching TV on your PC that's been stored on the Tivo) to the portable media players including the video iPod and PSP.
They'll watermark the content with the Tivo subscriber details so that illegally distributed content can be traced to the originating system but the studios with be watching them intently and if Tivo get things wrong, they're sure to be lawsuits.
Tivo are set to test the service in the next few weeks and make it available to all users early next year.
Tivo are planning to extend their Tivo ToGo service (which already supports watching TV on your PC that's been stored on the Tivo) to the portable media players including the video iPod and PSP.
They'll watermark the content with the Tivo subscriber details so that illegally distributed content can be traced to the originating system but the studios with be watching them intently and if Tivo get things wrong, they're sure to be lawsuits.
Tivo are set to test the service in the next few weeks and make it available to all users early next year.
Digit LIVE news - Microsoft 'losing money on Xbox 360'
Digit LIVE news - Microsoft 'losing money on Xbox 360'
The cost of an Xbox core is thought to be around $310 while it's selling for $299.99 (in the US) and the Xbox 360 Premium costs around $525 while it sells for $399.99, Microsoft have denied the losses saying they make a (small) ammount per sale.
Even if they do make a loss on the consoles themselves, games are very high margin as the actual sale consists of DVD dupplication, a manual and packaging. Even after software development costs have been taken out, the games soon pay for themselves (and make huge profits for popular games).
Though Sony have dominated the console market in recent years, the Xbox 360 is a truely powerful machine which is much easier to program than the PS3. Taking advantage of the PS3 Cell multi-core processor will be very difficult.
MS are trying to be at least somewhat open with the 360 and want it to be the media hub in the house and if they get that right they have got the chance really make a difference.
The cost of an Xbox core is thought to be around $310 while it's selling for $299.99 (in the US) and the Xbox 360 Premium costs around $525 while it sells for $399.99, Microsoft have denied the losses saying they make a (small) ammount per sale.
Even if they do make a loss on the consoles themselves, games are very high margin as the actual sale consists of DVD dupplication, a manual and packaging. Even after software development costs have been taken out, the games soon pay for themselves (and make huge profits for popular games).
Though Sony have dominated the console market in recent years, the Xbox 360 is a truely powerful machine which is much easier to program than the PS3. Taking advantage of the PS3 Cell multi-core processor will be very difficult.
MS are trying to be at least somewhat open with the 360 and want it to be the media hub in the house and if they get that right they have got the chance really make a difference.
Ofcom Website | Auction of spectrum 1781.7-1785 MHz paired with 1876.7-1880 MHz - Information memorandum
Ofcom Website | Auction of spectrum 1781.7-1785 MHz paired with 1876.7-1880 MHz - Information memorandum
Ofcom has released the final documents for the auction of what was known as the GSM guard-bands. There will be anywhere between 7 and 12 depending on how the auction goes.
Though only allowing 16 channels of GSM voice, they can actually be used for anything as long as the radio equipment meets the Ofcom output regulations, so they could be used for wireless broadband.
Ofcom have even made provision for upping the power levels for specific sites (they state areas such as tunnels, basements and airports) [with the agreement of other licensees] which might give a clue to who will bid for some of the licenses.
If a licensee rolls out a GSM service, they'll have to get some kind of roaming or issue their own phones/SIMs which might not prove cost-effective, though for areas where current GSM service is not available they could target specific niche markets.
Ofcom has released the final documents for the auction of what was known as the GSM guard-bands. There will be anywhere between 7 and 12 depending on how the auction goes.
Though only allowing 16 channels of GSM voice, they can actually be used for anything as long as the radio equipment meets the Ofcom output regulations, so they could be used for wireless broadband.
Ofcom have even made provision for upping the power levels for specific sites (they state areas such as tunnels, basements and airports) [with the agreement of other licensees] which might give a clue to who will bid for some of the licenses.
If a licensee rolls out a GSM service, they'll have to get some kind of roaming or issue their own phones/SIMs which might not prove cost-effective, though for areas where current GSM service is not available they could target specific niche markets.
AMD chips may soon power Dell PCs - IT Week
AMD chips may soon power Dell PCs - IT Week
Dell has been an Intel advocate for a long time, even in the face of cheaper processors from AMD, now that seems to be about to change.
Romours abound that Dell is looking a AMD chips for (consumer) workstations as they offer a better bang for the buck which might increase Dell's weakening profit margins. AMD also have a very good reputation especially for x64 bit chips and now with x2 dual core chips.
Dell has been an Intel advocate for a long time, even in the face of cheaper processors from AMD, now that seems to be about to change.
Romours abound that Dell is looking a AMD chips for (consumer) workstations as they offer a better bang for the buck which might increase Dell's weakening profit margins. AMD also have a very good reputation especially for x64 bit chips and now with x2 dual core chips.
2005/11/23
UK wholesale broadband prices slashed - Network IT Week
UK wholesale broadband prices slashed - Network IT Week
BT have dropped the connection charge for fully unbundled LLU lines by 40% (from £168.38 to £99.95 ex VAT), this is in-line with wholesale line rental charges BT announced a while back.
This should give a boost for operators wishing to offer full telephony products, rather than leaving BT with the telephony service and just offering Internet (and services over the Internet i.e. VoIP).
If operators do take over the line, then BT don't have to opportunity to get a "blue-bill" in the door and market to the customer. The operator can offer their own flexible tephony services.
Currently Bulldog are really the only ones offering this service.
BT have dropped the connection charge for fully unbundled LLU lines by 40% (from £168.38 to £99.95 ex VAT), this is in-line with wholesale line rental charges BT announced a while back.
This should give a boost for operators wishing to offer full telephony products, rather than leaving BT with the telephony service and just offering Internet (and services over the Internet i.e. VoIP).
If operators do take over the line, then BT don't have to opportunity to get a "blue-bill" in the door and market to the customer. The operator can offer their own flexible tephony services.
Currently Bulldog are really the only ones offering this service.
Global telcos losing billions to fraud - Network IT Week
Global telcos losing billions to fraud - Network IT Week
Revenue assurance is a big problem for telecom operators, fraud plays a big part (as does just plain non-payment by customers), but there are other reasons.
When operators exchange traffic (usually with SS7 interconnects) what one operator thinks they've sent and what the other operator think they've received (or vice versa) rarely agree. Switches may "lose" data records, or records are mispriced (telcoms switches produce what's called CDRs or call data records).
Mediation systems have to be built which analyse the CDRs and then price them accordingly. It's easy to leak revenue in the mediation process.
In order to ensure SS7 traffic is billed correctly complicated equipment needs to be installed into the links to "snoop" call traffic and then this data can be compared to what the switch thinks has gone through. This gets extremely difficult when operators are exchaning traffic with multiple other operators using different ones for different routes. If an operators switches traffic to the wrong one, the costs can rapidly mean they are losing money.
Currently most traditional operators still use SS7 and though complicated it's relatively easy to track what's going on. With new age entrants on the scene and traditional operators moving to what's known as "softswitches" the traffic is moving from legacy telco connecitons to all IP connections. This will give much greater flexibility, but in the short-term at least is likely to cause more revenue leackage until the tools are developed to track IP calls and interconnects.
Revenue assurance is a big problem for telecom operators, fraud plays a big part (as does just plain non-payment by customers), but there are other reasons.
When operators exchange traffic (usually with SS7 interconnects) what one operator thinks they've sent and what the other operator think they've received (or vice versa) rarely agree. Switches may "lose" data records, or records are mispriced (telcoms switches produce what's called CDRs or call data records).
Mediation systems have to be built which analyse the CDRs and then price them accordingly. It's easy to leak revenue in the mediation process.
In order to ensure SS7 traffic is billed correctly complicated equipment needs to be installed into the links to "snoop" call traffic and then this data can be compared to what the switch thinks has gone through. This gets extremely difficult when operators are exchaning traffic with multiple other operators using different ones for different routes. If an operators switches traffic to the wrong one, the costs can rapidly mean they are losing money.
Currently most traditional operators still use SS7 and though complicated it's relatively easy to track what's going on. With new age entrants on the scene and traditional operators moving to what's known as "softswitches" the traffic is moving from legacy telco connecitons to all IP connections. This will give much greater flexibility, but in the short-term at least is likely to cause more revenue leackage until the tools are developed to track IP calls and interconnects.
2005/11/22
Demand for mesh networks poised to rocket - Network IT Week
Demand for mesh networks poised to rocket - Network IT Week
Wireless MESH is probably the future, however it's extremely difficult to get right. If you can control the mesh then there's a chance that you can get it to work efficiently, however things tend to go horribly wrong when they get too big or allow "random" nodes to join.
In a mesh where you have n nodes (assuming a complete mesh i.e. each node connected to all others) the number of links is n(n-1)/2 i.e. for 4 nodes that's 6 links while 10 nodes is 45 links, 100 nodes is 4950 links etc. How you get data from a node to another requires routing tables to hold info on how the nodes are connected and this is where systems rapidly become unmanagable. Generally each node in the network needs to hold a complete routing table.
There are tricks to reduce the routing tables and only having certain nodes holding more info, but that's where clever design comes in.
If Cisco can crack this, the market could be huge.
Wireless MESH is probably the future, however it's extremely difficult to get right. If you can control the mesh then there's a chance that you can get it to work efficiently, however things tend to go horribly wrong when they get too big or allow "random" nodes to join.
In a mesh where you have n nodes (assuming a complete mesh i.e. each node connected to all others) the number of links is n(n-1)/2 i.e. for 4 nodes that's 6 links while 10 nodes is 45 links, 100 nodes is 4950 links etc. How you get data from a node to another requires routing tables to hold info on how the nodes are connected and this is where systems rapidly become unmanagable. Generally each node in the network needs to hold a complete routing table.
There are tricks to reduce the routing tables and only having certain nodes holding more info, but that's where clever design comes in.
If Cisco can crack this, the market could be huge.
Nokia to buy Intellisync - Network IT Week
Nokia to buy Intellisync - Network IT Week
Nokia is getting serious about "push Email". Though it already has relationships with Microsoft and RIM (makers of the Blackberry), the Intellisync purchase will give Nokia direct access to their own Email/Calendaring push tye service.
Most phones sold are Nokias and if they can embed the software in forthcoming products, they have a real chance of breaking the stranglehold that RIM/Blackberry currently have in the market.
Microsoft's Windows Mobile 5 will support similar features with the recent Exchange service pack, but they still account for a small proportion of the smartphone market.
Nokia is getting serious about "push Email". Though it already has relationships with Microsoft and RIM (makers of the Blackberry), the Intellisync purchase will give Nokia direct access to their own Email/Calendaring push tye service.
Most phones sold are Nokias and if they can embed the software in forthcoming products, they have a real chance of breaking the stranglehold that RIM/Blackberry currently have in the market.
Microsoft's Windows Mobile 5 will support similar features with the recent Exchange service pack, but they still account for a small proportion of the smartphone market.
Ofcom ponders future of analogue TV spectrum - Network IT Week
Ofcom ponders future of analogue TV spectrum - Network IT Week
The analogue spectrum could be a valuable commodity. As it's "low" frequency it wont be able to sustain huge data rates, however it can still carry multi-megabits per second which means it could be used for wireless broadband. As it's lower frequency it also has very good propogation characteristics and penetrates buildings well (which microwave i.e. >GHz fequencies don't).
A US company xG Technologies have developed a new form of radio modulation which could be ideal for these bands. They use 6KHz carriers and say they can encode 1bit/cycle which is very efficient. If the technology actually works it could be a breakthrough allowing very advanced wireless broadband which would cause little or no interference with other users of neighbouring spectrum. This technology would also work well in the GSM guardbands which Ofcom have opened bidding.
The analogue spectrum could be a valuable commodity. As it's "low" frequency it wont be able to sustain huge data rates, however it can still carry multi-megabits per second which means it could be used for wireless broadband. As it's lower frequency it also has very good propogation characteristics and penetrates buildings well (which microwave i.e. >GHz fequencies don't).
A US company xG Technologies have developed a new form of radio modulation which could be ideal for these bands. They use 6KHz carriers and say they can encode 1bit/cycle which is very efficient. If the technology actually works it could be a breakthrough allowing very advanced wireless broadband which would cause little or no interference with other users of neighbouring spectrum. This technology would also work well in the GSM guardbands which Ofcom have opened bidding.
Digit LIVE news - Microsoft turning to an all 64-bit world
Digit LIVE news - Microsoft turning to an all 64-bit world
Microsoft is going 64bit. Not really a suprise, they already have server versions that only support 64bit archtiechtures, now various applications are going that route too.
Linux has already supported 64bit archtechtures for a while, and 32bit apps should run fine on a 64bit environment, now Microsoft are following suite, but making the apps 64bit too.
64bits mean more memory support and faster loading as instead of loading 32bits at a time, 64bits are which is twice the speed for no CPU speed increase.
In a couple of years you'll not be able to buy a PC that isn't 64bit so it makes sense.
Microsoft is going 64bit. Not really a suprise, they already have server versions that only support 64bit archtiechtures, now various applications are going that route too.
Linux has already supported 64bit archtechtures for a while, and 32bit apps should run fine on a 64bit environment, now Microsoft are following suite, but making the apps 64bit too.
64bits mean more memory support and faster loading as instead of loading 32bits at a time, 64bits are which is twice the speed for no CPU speed increase.
In a couple of years you'll not be able to buy a PC that isn't 64bit so it makes sense.
2005/11/18
Digit Online news - Sony withdraws copy-protected CDs
Digit Online news - Sony withdraws copy-protected CDs
After two weeks of relentless criticism over its XCP copy protection software, Sony BMG Music Entertainment is pulling CDs that contain the software from store shelves. The company is also planning to offer customers a way to exchange CDs that contain the flawed copy-protection software.
It's also come to light that the software that Sony released to make the copy protection software visible may cause further security breaches in Windows as the ActiveX is flawed.
Microsoft has also announced that it's next version of its Malicious Software Removal Tool will remove Sony's copy protection system from Windows.
This is an example of how Digital Rights MAnagement can completely alienate users, it also shows how dumb it can be. Anyone seriously wanting to copy the CD's can just put them into an Apple Mac or Linux based system.
After two weeks of relentless criticism over its XCP copy protection software, Sony BMG Music Entertainment is pulling CDs that contain the software from store shelves. The company is also planning to offer customers a way to exchange CDs that contain the flawed copy-protection software.
It's also come to light that the software that Sony released to make the copy protection software visible may cause further security breaches in Windows as the ActiveX is flawed.
Microsoft has also announced that it's next version of its Malicious Software Removal Tool will remove Sony's copy protection system from Windows.
This is an example of how Digital Rights MAnagement can completely alienate users, it also shows how dumb it can be. Anyone seriously wanting to copy the CD's can just put them into an Apple Mac or Linux based system.
Digit Online news - LaCie updates LCD monitor line
Digit Online news - LaCie updates LCD monitor line
LaCie has announced two LCD displays for creative professionals. The 19-inch 119 LCD Monitor and the 20-inch 120 LCD Monitor will replace the popular photon19vision and photon20visionII models.
The monitors tend not to be the cheapest in the market, but have a very good reputation within graphics/print environments as they have accurate colour matches and what you see on the screen is what you'll get when printing.
LaCie has announced two LCD displays for creative professionals. The 19-inch 119 LCD Monitor and the 20-inch 120 LCD Monitor will replace the popular photon19vision and photon20visionII models.
The monitors tend not to be the cheapest in the market, but have a very good reputation within graphics/print environments as they have accurate colour matches and what you see on the screen is what you'll get when printing.
Digit Online news - Autodesk updates Cleaner for new formats
Digit Online news - Autodesk updates Cleaner for new formats
Many thought cleaner was dead, Autodesk released a new version soon after purchasing the product, but nothing new for a while.
Cleaner is well regarded in the industry for efficiently converting media between different formats i.e. AVI's to Real or WMV or many combinations. The upgrade supports many of the latest formats.
Encoding or transcoding can be extremely CPU intensive without dedicated hardware help, but Cleaner does a good job and is multi-threading under XP so can use real or virtual multiple processors.
Both Mac and PC products cost £435 or £90 for an upgrade from the last version.
Many thought cleaner was dead, Autodesk released a new version soon after purchasing the product, but nothing new for a while.
Cleaner is well regarded in the industry for efficiently converting media between different formats i.e. AVI's to Real or WMV or many combinations. The upgrade supports many of the latest formats.
Encoding or transcoding can be extremely CPU intensive without dedicated hardware help, but Cleaner does a good job and is multi-threading under XP so can use real or virtual multiple processors.
Both Mac and PC products cost £435 or £90 for an upgrade from the last version.
2005/11/14
UK Online offers 22Mb broadband - IT Week
UK Online offers 22Mb broadband - IT Week
Oddly ADSL2+ seems to be going through a reverse hype process and peopel are saying it's not going to deliver high speeds to most people. That may be partially true, but in urban areas where people are within 1.5Km of the exchange they should get 20Mb/s+ speeds which is enough for HDTV etc.
Most poeple do seem to be ignoring QoS though, as having 20Mb/s downstream and 1.3Mb/s upstream is still useless for VoIP unless some of that bandwidth can be guaranteed so the voice traffic doesn't get mixed in with everything else. Using traditional codecs and then packetising them uses more bandwidth than over traditional telephony links. VoIP bandwidth can be squeezed to much lower levels, but then the calls are not what's called toll-grade.
Broadband providers moving into VoIP are going to need to look long and hard how they actually implement services such that they are competetive (in terms of call quality) with existing analogue lines.
Oddly ADSL2+ seems to be going through a reverse hype process and peopel are saying it's not going to deliver high speeds to most people. That may be partially true, but in urban areas where people are within 1.5Km of the exchange they should get 20Mb/s+ speeds which is enough for HDTV etc.
Most poeple do seem to be ignoring QoS though, as having 20Mb/s downstream and 1.3Mb/s upstream is still useless for VoIP unless some of that bandwidth can be guaranteed so the voice traffic doesn't get mixed in with everything else. Using traditional codecs and then packetising them uses more bandwidth than over traditional telephony links. VoIP bandwidth can be squeezed to much lower levels, but then the calls are not what's called toll-grade.
Broadband providers moving into VoIP are going to need to look long and hard how they actually implement services such that they are competetive (in terms of call quality) with existing analogue lines.
Digit Online news - New Motorola Razr phone features iTunes
Digit Online news - New Motorola Razr phone features iTunes
The Motorola Razr is popular due to it's thin design and good looks. Now it's being updated. It will have a 1.23 megapixel camera with digital zoon, video and full-screen viewfinder, mini USB stereo headset, Bluetooth and MicroSD memory card. It will also have iTunes built in. Since people will want to use the music capabilities in places where you cant use a phone (airplanes) that feature has been added too.
It will be known as the Razr V3i.
Now if only Motorola could improve their menu systems to be like Nokia's, everyone would be happy.
The Motorola Razr is popular due to it's thin design and good looks. Now it's being updated. It will have a 1.23 megapixel camera with digital zoon, video and full-screen viewfinder, mini USB stereo headset, Bluetooth and MicroSD memory card. It will also have iTunes built in. Since people will want to use the music capabilities in places where you cant use a phone (airplanes) that feature has been added too.
It will be known as the Razr V3i.
Now if only Motorola could improve their menu systems to be like Nokia's, everyone would be happy.
Digit Online news - Pixar sells 125,000 movies via iTunes
Digit Online news - Pixar sells 125,000 movies via iTunes
Pixar's CEO is Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO is Steve Jobs, hmm not really a suprise Pixar's content is on iTunes. It is maybe a suprise that 125,000 Pixar movies have been sold and shows that people will watch movies on their iPods. Each video costs $1.99 (in the US) or £1.89 in the UK which (assuming US pricing) is around $250,000 revenue. Apple have said they have sold 1m movies in 20 days.
Pixar's CEO is Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO is Steve Jobs, hmm not really a suprise Pixar's content is on iTunes. It is maybe a suprise that 125,000 Pixar movies have been sold and shows that people will watch movies on their iPods. Each video costs $1.99 (in the US) or £1.89 in the UK which (assuming US pricing) is around $250,000 revenue. Apple have said they have sold 1m movies in 20 days.
Digit Online news - Disney buys European mobile game content
Digit Online news - Disney buys European mobile game content
Mobile is a huge growth area and Disney are trying to capitalise on this. They generate content and have now bought into the games arena specifically for mobile. They want the youth mobile market.
Google are also heavily moving into the mobile space, but they seem to be aiming as the entry point to the lnternet, so you'll be able to look for something, plan a route there and of course get target Google ads.
Mobile is a huge growth area and Disney are trying to capitalise on this. They generate content and have now bought into the games arena specifically for mobile. They want the youth mobile market.
Google are also heavily moving into the mobile space, but they seem to be aiming as the entry point to the lnternet, so you'll be able to look for something, plan a route there and of course get target Google ads.
Digit Online news - PSP versus iPod: What's better for video?
Digit Online news - PSP versus iPod: What's better for video?
In my view the PSP wins hands down in terms of quality and viewability with it's bigger widescreen. There are lots of utilities to convert movies to the PSP format (including Nullriver's PSPWare and now even Sony#s PSP Media Manager).
However the iPod is a much smaller device and fits in your pocket easily.
Whereas the (current) iPod is a music player that can do video the PSP is a media center that can play games (and do well both). The PSP is limited that currently converting media to PSP format it has to fit in their quirky structures and you're limited to 2GB as that's how big a Memory Stick Due PRO goes. That will hold maybe 4 movies in reasonably high quality. The iPod of course can handle complete TV series with its 30 or 60GB's of disk.
In my view the PSP wins hands down in terms of quality and viewability with it's bigger widescreen. There are lots of utilities to convert movies to the PSP format (including Nullriver's PSPWare and now even Sony#s PSP Media Manager).
However the iPod is a much smaller device and fits in your pocket easily.
Whereas the (current) iPod is a music player that can do video the PSP is a media center that can play games (and do well both). The PSP is limited that currently converting media to PSP format it has to fit in their quirky structures and you're limited to 2GB as that's how big a Memory Stick Due PRO goes. That will hold maybe 4 movies in reasonably high quality. The iPod of course can handle complete TV series with its 30 or 60GB's of disk.
2005/11/07
Ofcom Website | Ofcom tackles illegal broadcasting
Ofcom Website | Ofcom tackles illegal broadcasting: "Ofcom tackles illegal broadcasting
Ofcom announced the results of an operation to take off air illegal broadcasters operating in Greater London. The operation began on the morning of Saturday 29 October to deal with the large number of London pirate radio stations that illegally broadcast over the FM radio band without a licence under Section 1 of the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949.
The operation has led to:
* 53 illegal broadcasters' radio transmitters seized;
* 17 transmitters and aerials disabled;
* 43 mobile and land line telephone numbers linked to illegal broadcasting operations gathered for further Ofcom investigation to trace the subscribers; and
* 9 letters of warning sent to night clubs that have advertised events on illegal radio stations.
The operation which took place between 25th October and 1st November involved 18 Ofcom field operations staff and 32 Metropolitan Police officers.
Ofcom have reports that the raids have caused 44 illegal stations to go off air.
Though Ofcom is mandated to persue pirate radio stations under it's obligations of the Communications Act, the reasoning is potentially suspect saying they finance serious crime including drugs and weapons (and these were found at some locations).
Though use of weapons is not particularly nice, the pirate radio stations tend to fight other pirates for advertising revenue and they're more likely to be used in this role than any other.
Pirates can provide access to musical tastes that commercial stations don't provide, though Ofcom do have to ensure pirates don't interfere with commercial stations and other licensed users of the spectrum.
Ofcom announced the results of an operation to take off air illegal broadcasters operating in Greater London. The operation began on the morning of Saturday 29 October to deal with the large number of London pirate radio stations that illegally broadcast over the FM radio band without a licence under Section 1 of the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949.
The operation has led to:
* 53 illegal broadcasters' radio transmitters seized;
* 17 transmitters and aerials disabled;
* 43 mobile and land line telephone numbers linked to illegal broadcasting operations gathered for further Ofcom investigation to trace the subscribers; and
* 9 letters of warning sent to night clubs that have advertised events on illegal radio stations.
The operation which took place between 25th October and 1st November involved 18 Ofcom field operations staff and 32 Metropolitan Police officers.
Ofcom have reports that the raids have caused 44 illegal stations to go off air.
Though Ofcom is mandated to persue pirate radio stations under it's obligations of the Communications Act, the reasoning is potentially suspect saying they finance serious crime including drugs and weapons (and these were found at some locations).
Though use of weapons is not particularly nice, the pirate radio stations tend to fight other pirates for advertising revenue and they're more likely to be used in this role than any other.
Pirates can provide access to musical tastes that commercial stations don't provide, though Ofcom do have to ensure pirates don't interfere with commercial stations and other licensed users of the spectrum.
2005/11/02
Telecity acquires Redbus
Actually 3i who own Telecity aquired Redbus for 23p a share a 16.5% premium on the closing price valuing Redbus at £58.9m, a far cry from what Redbus was valued in the dotcom boom. This puts Redbus' share price at 23 times their EBITDA.
Telecity were running out of space and rather than building new facilities, just buy the competetion's space by buying them.
This is further evidence that the Internet/Telecoms market is still in majr consolidation mode which will continue for quite some time until there are a few big players left who can genuinely compete with each other.
Telecity were running out of space and rather than building new facilities, just buy the competetion's space by buying them.
This is further evidence that the Internet/Telecoms market is still in majr consolidation mode which will continue for quite some time until there are a few big players left who can genuinely compete with each other.
2005/10/31
Telecoms industry in a poor state still
O2 is going to Telefonica, OneTel is up for sale (it seems Centrica who have been faffing around for the last few years have made a decision to actually sell them) the asking price seems to be £350m, but Carphone Warehouse who may have been approached as a buyer rejected it as much too high. Carphone Warehouse have now decided to go into LLU (local loop unbundling), though a good move, it's further emphasises the need for a shared infrastructure to compete with BT's 21CN.
Tele2 are pulling out of the UK too.
Who's next?
Tele2 are pulling out of the UK too.
Who's next?
BBC NEWS | Business | Telefonica buys UK's O2 for �18bn
BBC NEWS | Business | Telefonica buys UK's O2 for �18bn
Telefonica has offered £17.7bn ($31.6bn) which works out at 200 pence per share, a 22% premium on Friday's closing price of 164.25p.
Since BT demerged O2 theyhave been looking for a buyer. Since Telelonica has no infrastructure or competing services in the UK this is a good match for both, but another example of consolidation which is the industry norm now.
Telefonica has offered £17.7bn ($31.6bn) which works out at 200 pence per share, a 22% premium on Friday's closing price of 164.25p.
Since BT demerged O2 theyhave been looking for a buyer. Since Telelonica has no infrastructure or competing services in the UK this is a good match for both, but another example of consolidation which is the industry norm now.
2005/10/28
Ofcom Website | Ofcom consults on Home Office proposals for a single non-emergency number
Ofcom Website | Ofcom consults on Home Office proposals for a single non-emergency number
The Home Office have asked Ofcom to allocate 101 for a UK national non Emergency number i.e. for calls relating to anti-social behaviour or minor criminal activity that isn't an emergency.
Ofcom is holding a consultation with stake-holders.
The Home Office have asked Ofcom to allocate 101 for a UK national non Emergency number i.e. for calls relating to anti-social behaviour or minor criminal activity that isn't an emergency.
Ofcom is holding a consultation with stake-holders.
2005/10/18
Ofcom Website | Award of available spectrum: 412-414 MHz paired with 422-424 MHz
Ofcom Website | Award of available spectrum: 412-414 MHz paired with 422-424 MHz
Though this is low end spectrum it has good properties for building penetration etc. Basestations can transmit at 50W per 25KHz, up to a maximum of 400W in total. Mobile transmitters are limited to 10W.
This is a single national license, though there are military users (it seems radars, especially Flyingdales) and it's up to the licensee to avoid interfering with them.
It's a single round sealed bid auction, with offers in excess of £50,000.
Though this is low end spectrum it has good properties for building penetration etc. Basestations can transmit at 50W per 25KHz, up to a maximum of 400W in total. Mobile transmitters are limited to 10W.
This is a single national license, though there are military users (it seems radars, especially Flyingdales) and it's up to the licensee to avoid interfering with them.
It's a single round sealed bid auction, with offers in excess of £50,000.
2005/10/10
Digit Online news - Apple hints at big launch next week
Digit Online news - Apple hints at big launch next week
On Wednesday (12th Oct) Apple are unveiling something new. Apple do not pre-release anything so everyone's guessing at the moment, but the rumour mill suspects a video capabable iPod.
It's known Apple has been talking to the movie studios about putting video content on the iTunes store and they already have music videos. Video on iTunes plus a player will give Apple a major headstart over its competitors.
They may also announce video capabilities to iPods with photo capability.
They might also be announing the availability of the Intel version of Macs.
On Wednesday (12th Oct) Apple are unveiling something new. Apple do not pre-release anything so everyone's guessing at the moment, but the rumour mill suspects a video capabable iPod.
It's known Apple has been talking to the movie studios about putting video content on the iTunes store and they already have music videos. Video on iTunes plus a player will give Apple a major headstart over its competitors.
They may also announce video capabilities to iPods with photo capability.
They might also be announing the availability of the Intel version of Macs.
2005/10/04
BT OpenReach - LLU Smoke and Mirrors? - Digital-Lifestyles.info
BT OpenReach - LLU Smoke and Mirrors? - Digital-Lifestyles.info
An article I wrote about BT Openreach.
An article I wrote about BT Openreach.
BBC NEWS | Business | NTL seals $6bn Telewest takeover
BBC NEWS | Business | NTL seals $6bn Telewest takeover: "NTL seals $6bn Telewest takeover
NTL and Telewest plan to take on BSkyB in the UK Britain's biggest cable company NTL is to take over rival operator Telewest for about $6bn (£3.4bn). "
This has been on the cards for a long-time and now it's happening. There are still going to be major hurdles that the combined company is going to have to overcome. Integration is not going to be easy.
One of the biggest issues may be that the combined company could be seen to have SMP (significant market power) which means they'd be regulated in the same light as BT - which they obviously don't want (it also means they'd have to provide 3rd party access to their network). Their argument will be that they are competing with BT and therefore they don't have SMP, but in terms of an access medium (i.e. cable) they will.
If Ofcom force NTeLewest to open their network, it will add costs, which they wont want and may still scupper the deal.
NTL and Telewest plan to take on BSkyB in the UK Britain's biggest cable company NTL is to take over rival operator Telewest for about $6bn (£3.4bn). "
This has been on the cards for a long-time and now it's happening. There are still going to be major hurdles that the combined company is going to have to overcome. Integration is not going to be easy.
One of the biggest issues may be that the combined company could be seen to have SMP (significant market power) which means they'd be regulated in the same light as BT - which they obviously don't want (it also means they'd have to provide 3rd party access to their network). Their argument will be that they are competing with BT and therefore they don't have SMP, but in terms of an access medium (i.e. cable) they will.
If Ofcom force NTeLewest to open their network, it will add costs, which they wont want and may still scupper the deal.
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