Digit news - Panasonic to launch Blu-ray Disc drive in June
The BluRay drive suitable for use in PC's will be launched in Japan in June for about $850. It has an ATAPI interface and supports both 25GB and 50GB disks and BD-RE (rewritable) disks.
Users will need a pretty hefty CPU to use them to watch BluRay movies a 3GHz P4 for MPEG2 movies and a Pentium D for MPEG4AV movies.
Data backup applications will run on modest systems.
2006/04/26
Digit news - Photoshop coming to Intel Macs next year
Digit news - Photoshop coming to Intel Macs next year
A Universal binary version of Photoshop will be made available in the 2nd half of next year. That's a long time to wait so there's still going to be a market for high end G5 based Power Macs for some time (which are 64bit compared to the Intel Macs which are still 32 bit).
It also means there's a market for booting Windows XP on Intel Macs so users can run Adobe applications natively without going through Apple's Rosetta translation service.
A big market for Macs is Adobe users, so maybe Apple will launch a Power Mac based on Intel 64bit CPU's prior to the Adobe ports - which will be a boost for both companies.
A Universal binary version of Photoshop will be made available in the 2nd half of next year. That's a long time to wait so there's still going to be a market for high end G5 based Power Macs for some time (which are 64bit compared to the Intel Macs which are still 32 bit).
It also means there's a market for booting Windows XP on Intel Macs so users can run Adobe applications natively without going through Apple's Rosetta translation service.
A big market for Macs is Adobe users, so maybe Apple will launch a Power Mac based on Intel 64bit CPU's prior to the Adobe ports - which will be a boost for both companies.
Digit news - NVidia upgrades 3D workstation graphics line
Digit news - NVidia upgrades 3D workstation graphics line
NVidia is upping the ante again with a new line of workstation 3D graphics chips.
The FX 5500 boasts 1GB of dedicated graphics RAM. The cards can be used for a variety of applications including 3D work and video rendering.
Cards are expected from vendors soon.
NVidia is upping the ante again with a new line of workstation 3D graphics chips.
The FX 5500 boasts 1GB of dedicated graphics RAM. The cards can be used for a variety of applications including 3D work and video rendering.
Cards are expected from vendors soon.
Digit news - Apple adds 17-inch MacBook Pro
Digit news - Apple adds 17-inch MacBook Pro
Apple has added a 17" MacBook Pro to its Intel line-up. It features a 2.16GHz Duo processor with 1GB of RAM (upgradable to 2GB), a 120GB hard disk and Superdrive (DVD +/- RW) and a n ATI Mobility Radeon which is PCI-Express based.
There's a DVI out for external displays which allow use of the Apple's 30" cinema display (using a Dual-link) as well as USB 2.0, Firewire 800, EDR Bluetoothand, Gig Ethernet and the iSight built-in camera.
Now they just need the 12" to complete the range.
Apple has added a 17" MacBook Pro to its Intel line-up. It features a 2.16GHz Duo processor with 1GB of RAM (upgradable to 2GB), a 120GB hard disk and Superdrive (DVD +/- RW) and a n ATI Mobility Radeon which is PCI-Express based.
There's a DVI out for external displays which allow use of the Apple's 30" cinema display (using a Dual-link) as well as USB 2.0, Firewire 800, EDR Bluetoothand, Gig Ethernet and the iSight built-in camera.
Now they just need the 12" to complete the range.
Ofcom Website | Notices to applicants and bidders
Ofcom Website | Notices to applicants and bidders:
Ofcom has provisionally awarded wireless telegraphy licences for use of the frequencies 1781.7-1785MHz paired with 1876.7-1880MHz to the companies listed below, subject to full licence fees being received by Ofcom by 17:30 on Friday 28 April 2006.
Bidders
1 British Telecommunications PLC
2 Cable & Wireless UK ( England )
3 COLT Mobile Telecommunications Ltd
4 Cyberpress Ltd
5 FMS Solutions Ltd
6 Mapesbury Communications Ltd
7 O2 ( UK ) Ltd
8 Opal Telecom Ltd
9 PLDT ( UK ) Ltd
10 Shyam Telecom UK Ltd
11 Spring Mobil AB
12 Teleware PLC
Though not quite definitive as licensees could still pull out (losing their deposit) or not make final payments the list is pretty much who'll get licenses now.
Various telcos (BT, C&W, Colt and more than likely Carphone Warehouse) have said they'll use the license to offer in-office GSM services to companies. BT will use it in a similar way to their Fusion service.
This is the first of several spectrum auctions that Ofcom is intending to offer.
Ofcom has provisionally awarded wireless telegraphy licences for use of the frequencies 1781.7-1785MHz paired with 1876.7-1880MHz to the companies listed below, subject to full licence fees being received by Ofcom by 17:30 on Friday 28 April 2006.
Bidders
1 British Telecommunications PLC
2 Cable & Wireless UK ( England )
3 COLT Mobile Telecommunications Ltd
4 Cyberpress Ltd
5 FMS Solutions Ltd
6 Mapesbury Communications Ltd
7 O2 ( UK ) Ltd
8 Opal Telecom Ltd
9 PLDT ( UK ) Ltd
10 Shyam Telecom UK Ltd
11 Spring Mobil AB
12 Teleware PLC
Though not quite definitive as licensees could still pull out (losing their deposit) or not make final payments the list is pretty much who'll get licenses now.
Various telcos (BT, C&W, Colt and more than likely Carphone Warehouse) have said they'll use the license to offer in-office GSM services to companies. BT will use it in a similar way to their Fusion service.
This is the first of several spectrum auctions that Ofcom is intending to offer.
2006/04/21
Microsoft drums up Sender ID support to combat spam - IT Week
Microsoft drums up Sender ID support to combat spam - IT Week
Sender ID is no doubt a good idea, unfortunately it does has drawbacks, mainly for Emails that are forwarded i.e. a user legitimately say receives mail through a domain, but uses another server to send the Email.
It is possible to set-up records for that scenario, but it rather defeats the security of Sender ID.
MarkMonitor report there are now more than two million .com and .net domains that publish their Sender Policy Framework (SPF) records for Sender ID verification, up from 750,000 in March 2005. Unfortunately most of the domains publishing Sender ID records are spammers.
Sender ID is no doubt a good idea, unfortunately it does has drawbacks, mainly for Emails that are forwarded i.e. a user legitimately say receives mail through a domain, but uses another server to send the Email.
It is possible to set-up records for that scenario, but it rather defeats the security of Sender ID.
MarkMonitor report there are now more than two million .com and .net domains that publish their Sender Policy Framework (SPF) records for Sender ID verification, up from 750,000 in March 2005. Unfortunately most of the domains publishing Sender ID records are spammers.
2006/04/20
Visit TalkTalk - Join Talk3 International Calling Plan To Get Free Broadband
Visit TalkTalk - Join Talk3 International Calling Plan To Get Free Broadband
Carphone Warehouse have announced "free" broadband to their TalkTalk customers. Of course it isn't free, it's just the costs are bundled in with other services like line rental and talk plans etc and of course an 18 month minimum contract.
That doesn't mean it's not a good deal.
However it is likely to start the next phase of a broadband price war, others will follow suit, NTL being a likely contender now they've acquired Virgin Mobile and can utilise the brand offering Voice, Internet, video and mobile packages (quadruple play). Currently at least TalkTalk is only offering a double play, though they do have mobile offerings.
Since Carphone Warehouse has only recently started unbundling exchanges (and they're spending £110m on it this year), they'll be signing-up customers on non TalkTalk converted exchanges which means they must be buying service off BT or another LLU operator. This will be a costly exercise as it will be losing them money, however as a land grab exercise it's likely to be very successful.
Currently TalkTalk have the 3rd largest number of residential customers (millions, NTL with 2.4m+ and the rest BT), but they only have around 75,000 broadband customers.
Carphone Warehouse are definately a telecoms player to watch.
Carphone Warehouse have announced "free" broadband to their TalkTalk customers. Of course it isn't free, it's just the costs are bundled in with other services like line rental and talk plans etc and of course an 18 month minimum contract.
That doesn't mean it's not a good deal.
However it is likely to start the next phase of a broadband price war, others will follow suit, NTL being a likely contender now they've acquired Virgin Mobile and can utilise the brand offering Voice, Internet, video and mobile packages (quadruple play). Currently at least TalkTalk is only offering a double play, though they do have mobile offerings.
Since Carphone Warehouse has only recently started unbundling exchanges (and they're spending £110m on it this year), they'll be signing-up customers on non TalkTalk converted exchanges which means they must be buying service off BT or another LLU operator. This will be a costly exercise as it will be losing them money, however as a land grab exercise it's likely to be very successful.
Currently TalkTalk have the 3rd largest number of residential customers (millions, NTL with 2.4m+ and the rest BT), but they only have around 75,000 broadband customers.
Carphone Warehouse are definately a telecoms player to watch.
Digit news - Seagate announces 15,000rpm hard disk
Digit news - Seagate announces 15,000rpm hard disk
15K rpm disks have been around for a while, Seagate offers them in the Cheetah range, however these are the first to support over 100MB/s.
They utilise perpendicular recording technology which has been around in 2.5" drives, but new for 3.5" drives. Each platter can hold 73GB and a drive can have up to 4 platters. They should be available in June, but no pricing is available as yet.
15K rpm disks have been around for a while, Seagate offers them in the Cheetah range, however these are the first to support over 100MB/s.
They utilise perpendicular recording technology which has been around in 2.5" drives, but new for 3.5" drives. Each platter can hold 73GB and a drive can have up to 4 platters. They should be available in June, but no pricing is available as yet.
Digit news - Apple reports $410 million profit
Digit news - Apple reports $410 million profit
Apple made a profit of $410m on revenue of $4.36bn last quarter which was the 2nd highest ever of Apple. It included the sale of just over 1.1m Macs and 8.5m iPods.
Though it will probably go to pay off their bills to Apple Corp, maybe ...
Apple made a profit of $410m on revenue of $4.36bn last quarter which was the 2nd highest ever of Apple. It included the sale of just over 1.1m Macs and 8.5m iPods.
Though it will probably go to pay off their bills to Apple Corp, maybe ...
2006/04/19
Ofcom Website | Ofcom confirms changes to 0870 calls
Ofcom Website | Ofcom confirms changes to 0870 calls
Ofcom is making changes to various number ranges in-line with proposals they set out earlier.
0870 numbers (which currently exhibit a charge of about 8p per minute during the day) will drop such that they are no more than geographic numbers (as in 01/02 numbers). They will be removed from NTS determination (number translation services). This means it's no longer going to be able to generate revenue for 0870 users form inbound ingress.
Users are able to charge more, however then a caller announcement has to be made (at no cost to the caller) before the charged call goes through.
The changes come into play in 2008.
There are no planned changes to 0844/0845 numbers.
0871 numbers will fall under ICSTIS regulations (who govern premium rate numbers) regarding pricing, but by the end of 2006 there will be NO adult services of any type on 08 numbers.
By June 2006 any NTS numbers will need to be clearly along side normal numbers.
Ofcom is making changes to various number ranges in-line with proposals they set out earlier.
0870 numbers (which currently exhibit a charge of about 8p per minute during the day) will drop such that they are no more than geographic numbers (as in 01/02 numbers). They will be removed from NTS determination (number translation services). This means it's no longer going to be able to generate revenue for 0870 users form inbound ingress.
Users are able to charge more, however then a caller announcement has to be made (at no cost to the caller) before the charged call goes through.
The changes come into play in 2008.
There are no planned changes to 0844/0845 numbers.
0871 numbers will fall under ICSTIS regulations (who govern premium rate numbers) regarding pricing, but by the end of 2006 there will be NO adult services of any type on 08 numbers.
By June 2006 any NTS numbers will need to be clearly along side normal numbers.
2006/04/13
Digit news - May launch date set for Q1 ultra mobile PC
Digit news - May launch date set for Q1 ultra mobile PC
Samsung is launching the Q1 computer worldwide in May which is the first of the Microsoft "Origami" platform. It will have a Celeron running at 900MHz and a 40GB disk.
Don't bother and get an OQO instead !!!
Samsung is launching the Q1 computer worldwide in May which is the first of the Microsoft "Origami" platform. It will have a Celeron running at 900MHz and a 40GB disk.
Don't bother and get an OQO instead !!!
Digit news - Popcorn 2 converts DVD video to iPod, PSP
Digit news - Popcorn 2 converts DVD video to iPod, PSP
Roxio the makers of Toast, have released Popcorn 2 which will copy DVD's to various formats. V2 adds the capability to directly convert to formats suitable for the PSP and iPod and 3GPP phones.
It wont copy "copy-protected" DVDs (i.e. commercial DVDs), but there are tools out there which will rip them, and then Popcorn can handle the Video_TS file which is created by them. It will also compress disks so a dual-layer disc will fit on to a single layer (obviously loosing quality).
It's available in Universal Binary format on MacOS X and costs £30 +VAT or £17 for an upgrade from a previus version.
Roxio the makers of Toast, have released Popcorn 2 which will copy DVD's to various formats. V2 adds the capability to directly convert to formats suitable for the PSP and iPod and 3GPP phones.
It wont copy "copy-protected" DVDs (i.e. commercial DVDs), but there are tools out there which will rip them, and then Popcorn can handle the Video_TS file which is created by them. It will also compress disks so a dual-layer disc will fit on to a single layer (obviously loosing quality).
It's available in Universal Binary format on MacOS X and costs £30 +VAT or £17 for an upgrade from a previus version.
Ofcom Website | Broadband – switching, migration and connection processes
Ofcom Website | Broadband – switching, migration and connection processes
Ofcom has launched an investigation into how well processes are working so customers can switch to and/or connect to other broadband providers.
Though broadband is a relatively new technology, more than 80,000 new customers per week are connecting to broadband services.
The investigation will work with internet service providers and Openreach to ensure all providers benefit from equal access to critical network infrastructure.
Ofcom has launched an investigation into how well processes are working so customers can switch to and/or connect to other broadband providers.
Though broadband is a relatively new technology, more than 80,000 new customers per week are connecting to broadband services.
The investigation will work with internet service providers and Openreach to ensure all providers benefit from equal access to critical network infrastructure.
2006/04/12
Ofcom Website | The replicability of BT's regulated retail business services and the regulation of business retail markets
Ofcom Website | The replicability of BT's regulated retail business services and the regulation of business retail markets
BT want to be able to offer various bespoke (unpublished) prices to customers for various services as they say they can now be replicated by their competitors.
Ofcom have deemed that services like CPS (carrier pre select), WLR (wholesale line rental) and PPCs (partial private circuits) are not et replicable, but BT are moving towards a point where they will be. BT can work on each one indvidually rather than have to ensure all a compliant.
Though good for the consumer as BT can drop prices and offer mixes of services with various bundles, without close attention it's BT killing off the competition again.
BT want to be able to offer various bespoke (unpublished) prices to customers for various services as they say they can now be replicated by their competitors.
Ofcom have deemed that services like CPS (carrier pre select), WLR (wholesale line rental) and PPCs (partial private circuits) are not et replicable, but BT are moving towards a point where they will be. BT can work on each one indvidually rather than have to ensure all a compliant.
Though good for the consumer as BT can drop prices and offer mixes of services with various bundles, without close attention it's BT killing off the competition again.
Ofcom Website | Spectrum Usage Rights
Ofcom Website | Spectrum Usage Rights
Ofcom are holding a consultation on the liberalisation of spectrum usage rights. This means that where licenses have stipulated the use and technolog, this will no longer be the case.
Ofcom will still ensure that interference issues are kept to a minimum, but licensees may choose what they use the spectrum for and they also choose the technology to implement that use.
There is no fixed date on this as it is a mjor change to current licensing, but Ofcom are looking for interested parties to respond.
Ofcom are holding a consultation on the liberalisation of spectrum usage rights. This means that where licenses have stipulated the use and technolog, this will no longer be the case.
Ofcom will still ensure that interference issues are kept to a minimum, but licensees may choose what they use the spectrum for and they also choose the technology to implement that use.
There is no fixed date on this as it is a mjor change to current licensing, but Ofcom are looking for interested parties to respond.
Ofcom Website | Wireless Telegraphy Act Licence Fee Proposals for encouraging internet licensing
Ofcom Website | Wireless Telegraphy Act Licence Fee Proposals for encouraging internet licensing
Ofcom is proposing to change the licensing for Amateur Radio, Ship Radio, Ship Portable Radio and Citizen's band radio such that if the license is obtained via the internet they are free for the lifetime of the license.
The Citizen's band license means that Ofcom will have to make exemptions regulations for equipment used in that band which will be covered in a seperate consultation (to be issued shortly).
Comments should be sent to Ofcom by 1th May 2006.
Ofcom is proposing to change the licensing for Amateur Radio, Ship Radio, Ship Portable Radio and Citizen's band radio such that if the license is obtained via the internet they are free for the lifetime of the license.
The Citizen's band license means that Ofcom will have to make exemptions regulations for equipment used in that band which will be covered in a seperate consultation (to be issued shortly).
Comments should be sent to Ofcom by 1th May 2006.
2006/04/11
Ofcom Website | Spectrum licence for mobile radio and public safety applications
Ofcom Website | Spectrum licence for mobile radio and public safety applications
Ofcom is going to offer spectrum in early 2007 in the paried band 872-876MHz and 917-921MHz (2x4MHz). There will be a single national license. The license is being offered for a minimum of 15 years, will cover the whole of the UK, will be technology and application neutral.
There will be a single round of sealed bids, the minimum price is £50,000.
The deadline for the consultation is 21st June 2006.
Ofcom is going to offer spectrum in early 2007 in the paried band 872-876MHz and 917-921MHz (2x4MHz). There will be a single national license. The license is being offered for a minimum of 15 years, will cover the whole of the UK, will be technology and application neutral.
There will be a single round of sealed bids, the minimum price is £50,000.
The deadline for the consultation is 21st June 2006.
Ofcom Website | 1781.7-1785 MHz paired with 1876.7-1880 MHz
Ofcom Website | 1781.7-1785 MHz paired with 1876.7-1880 MHz:
Ofcom have released details on when sealed bids can be delivered is Thursday 20 April between 10:00 and 17:30.
The final list of approved bidders is: -
British Telecommunications PLC
Cable & Wireless UK (England)
COLT Mobile Telecommunications Ltd
Cyberpress Ltd
FMS Solutions Ltd
Mapesbury Communications Ltd
02 (UK) Ltd
Opal Telecom Ltd
Orange Personal Communications Services Ltd
PLDT (UK) Ltd
Shyam Telecom UK Ltd
Spring Mobil AB
Teleware PLC
Zynetix Ltd
Which makes 14 bidders for between 7 and 12 licenses. It's very possible the bigger players will put big sums in for bids, but only say for 7 or 8 and maybe much lower bids for 12 licenses.
Ofcom have a duty to maximise the use of the spectrum, but also generate revenue for the government. If the big bidders do only put large bids in for small numbers of licenses, they're likely to kill of smaller bids for all 12.
The smaller players would likely utilise the spectrum in more innovative ways.
Ofcom have released details on when sealed bids can be delivered is Thursday 20 April between 10:00 and 17:30.
The final list of approved bidders is: -
British Telecommunications PLC
Cable & Wireless UK (England)
COLT Mobile Telecommunications Ltd
Cyberpress Ltd
FMS Solutions Ltd
Mapesbury Communications Ltd
02 (UK) Ltd
Opal Telecom Ltd
Orange Personal Communications Services Ltd
PLDT (UK) Ltd
Shyam Telecom UK Ltd
Spring Mobil AB
Teleware PLC
Zynetix Ltd
Which makes 14 bidders for between 7 and 12 licenses. It's very possible the bigger players will put big sums in for bids, but only say for 7 or 8 and maybe much lower bids for 12 licenses.
Ofcom have a duty to maximise the use of the spectrum, but also generate revenue for the government. If the big bidders do only put large bids in for small numbers of licenses, they're likely to kill of smaller bids for all 12.
The smaller players would likely utilise the spectrum in more innovative ways.
Ofcom Website | Mobile Services on Aircraft
Ofcom Website | Mobile Services on Aircraft:
Ofcom has produced a paper on the Regulatory issues raised by allowing GSM in planes (utilising an in-plane microcell).
Some of the potential issues are: -
* the territorial jurisdiction of Ofcom and other National Regulatory Agencies over airborne systems;
* the legal status of the proposed Network Control Unit under the R&TTE Directive;
* the status of airborne services under the Authorisation Directive;
* the protection of other services from interference
* the regulation of the backhaul from aircraft to ground;
* the arrangements for managing the systems in the air;
* access to numbering resources;
* the range of technologies covered by the current European work."
There are potentially several licensing issues (like options of authorising such systems and who should authorise them).
Currently utilising the 1800MHz band is favoured.
Ofcom is loking for comments from stakeholders.
Ofcom has produced a paper on the Regulatory issues raised by allowing GSM in planes (utilising an in-plane microcell).
Some of the potential issues are: -
* the territorial jurisdiction of Ofcom and other National Regulatory Agencies over airborne systems;
* the legal status of the proposed Network Control Unit under the R&TTE Directive;
* the status of airborne services under the Authorisation Directive;
* the protection of other services from interference
* the regulation of the backhaul from aircraft to ground;
* the arrangements for managing the systems in the air;
* access to numbering resources;
* the range of technologies covered by the current European work."
There are potentially several licensing issues (like options of authorising such systems and who should authorise them).
Currently utilising the 1800MHz band is favoured.
Ofcom is loking for comments from stakeholders.
2006/04/07
Digit news - Trademark rift between Apples may end soon
Digit news - Trademark rift between Apples may end soon
The battle between Apple Computer and Apple Corp continues, but maybe will end soon.
Apple Computer licensed the right to use the logo and trademark for computers, but not for music. This is the 3rd time they've been sued by the record company.
This time it's over the iTunes music store selling pre-recorded music, which is probably very much in Apple Corp's space.
The battle between Apple Computer and Apple Corp continues, but maybe will end soon.
Apple Computer licensed the right to use the logo and trademark for computers, but not for music. This is the 3rd time they've been sued by the record company.
This time it's over the iTunes music store selling pre-recorded music, which is probably very much in Apple Corp's space.
Digit news - Samsung delays Blu-ray Disc player launch
Digit news - Samsung delays Blu-ray Disc player launch
Samsung has delayed the launch of it's consumer BluRay player by a month as to ensure it works with a compliance disc due out next month
Commercial films from Lionsgate and Sony are due on May 23rd and say they are still on track.
Toshiba meanwhile has launched its HDDVD player.
Samsung has delayed the launch of it's consumer BluRay player by a month as to ensure it works with a compliance disc due out next month
Commercial films from Lionsgate and Sony are due on May 23rd and say they are still on track.
Toshiba meanwhile has launched its HDDVD player.
Digit news - Hands on: MacBook Pro heads to Boot Camp
Digit news - Hands on: MacBook Pro heads to Boot Camp
Apple has released Boot Camp for Intel based Macs, currently a free trial, though it is meant to expire after some time, at which point MacOS X 10.5 (Leopard) will be released and it comes with that.
It allows Macs to dual-boot MacOS X and WindowsXP SP2, NOTE only SP2, older versions will NOT install.
Apple have always said they don't care if Windows runs on Intel Mac hardware, they don't want MacOS running on generic PC hardware though.
Why would they want it? Until they can get all MacOS software into Universal Binary format they have problems as running apps through their Rosetta technology is slow, especially apps like Photoshop.
Creatives like Macs, a lot like them for Adobe apps, Adobe wont have Universal Binaries for a while. Now they can continue to use their nice Macs and switch into XP when they want to run Adobe apps at a sensible speed.
Apple has released Boot Camp for Intel based Macs, currently a free trial, though it is meant to expire after some time, at which point MacOS X 10.5 (Leopard) will be released and it comes with that.
It allows Macs to dual-boot MacOS X and WindowsXP SP2, NOTE only SP2, older versions will NOT install.
Apple have always said they don't care if Windows runs on Intel Mac hardware, they don't want MacOS running on generic PC hardware though.
Why would they want it? Until they can get all MacOS software into Universal Binary format they have problems as running apps through their Rosetta technology is slow, especially apps like Photoshop.
Creatives like Macs, a lot like them for Adobe apps, Adobe wont have Universal Binaries for a while. Now they can continue to use their nice Macs and switch into XP when they want to run Adobe apps at a sensible speed.
2006/04/04
Ofcom Website | Annual Plan 2006/7
Ofcom Website | Annual Plan 2006/7:"
Ofcom have released details of their annual plan for 2007, though covering the communications framework, they are concentrating on the following: -
. Spectrum release: auctions and liberalisation;
. implementation of the telecommunications strategic review;
. continued deregulation;
. next-generation network deployment in telecommunications;
. public service broadcasting: future developments;
. content delivery;
. protection of citizens and consumers;
. availability and access; and
. greater international engagement.
Ofcom also to fully pay of the loan made to fund them by 2007/8.
Ofcom have released details of their annual plan for 2007, though covering the communications framework, they are concentrating on the following: -
. Spectrum release: auctions and liberalisation;
. implementation of the telecommunications strategic review;
. continued deregulation;
. next-generation network deployment in telecommunications;
. public service broadcasting: future developments;
. content delivery;
. protection of citizens and consumers;
. availability and access; and
. greater international engagement.
Ofcom also to fully pay of the loan made to fund them by 2007/8.
2006/04/03
Ofcom Website | Spectrum licences for broadband, wireless communications and mobile multimedia services
Ofcom Website | Spectrum licences for broadband, wireless communications and mobile multimedia services
Ofcom intend to auction licenses for spectrum at frequencies 452-1492MHz (40MHz) on a technology and application-neutral basis by March 2007.
It's expected licenses with last at least 15 years and be fully tradeable and technology and application neutral (though with some restrictions as part of the spectrum is under international arrangement).
The lower 27.5 MHz of the 40MHz available could be made available as one or more packages and the lower 27.5 MHz of the 40MHz available could be made available as one or more packages.
The award will be decided by a simultaneous multiple round auction.
It's expected that the spectrum could be used for such services as mobile TV (DVB-H or DMB), broadband wireless access using techologies such as WiMAX, satellite digital radio (the upper band would support S-DAB) and programme making (such as wireless cameras at sporting events).
The consultation period finishes on the 9th of June 2006 and Ofcom intends to publish later in 2006 with an auction taking place early in 2007.
Ofcom intend to auction licenses for spectrum at frequencies 452-1492MHz (40MHz) on a technology and application-neutral basis by March 2007.
It's expected licenses with last at least 15 years and be fully tradeable and technology and application neutral (though with some restrictions as part of the spectrum is under international arrangement).
The lower 27.5 MHz of the 40MHz available could be made available as one or more packages and the lower 27.5 MHz of the 40MHz available could be made available as one or more packages.
The award will be decided by a simultaneous multiple round auction.
It's expected that the spectrum could be used for such services as mobile TV (DVB-H or DMB), broadband wireless access using techologies such as WiMAX, satellite digital radio (the upper band would support S-DAB) and programme making (such as wireless cameras at sporting events).
The consultation period finishes on the 9th of June 2006 and Ofcom intends to publish later in 2006 with an auction taking place early in 2007.
Ofcom announces companies who have been qualified to bid for GSM Guard Band licenses
The following companies have been qualified to bid for the award of spectrum in the bands 1781.7-1785MHz paired with 1876.7-1880MHz.
British Telecommunications PLC
Cable & Wireless UK (England)
Centric Telecom Ltd
COLT Mobile Telecommunications Ltd
Cyberpress Ltd
FMS Solutions Ltd
Mapesbury Communications Ltd
ntl Group Limited
02 (UK) Ltd
Opal Telecom Ltd
Orange Personal Communications Services Ltd
PLDT (UK) Ltd
Shyam Telecom UK Ltd
Spring Mobil AB
Teleware PLC
Zynetix Ltd
That gives 16 potential bidders for between 7 and 12 licenses. However there are some big players (BT, C&W, Colt, NTL, O2, Carphone Warehouse [Opal], Orange, PLDT) which potentially means that there will be at least 8 least 8 gone, maybe leaving 4 license between the 8 smaller players.
The minimum bid is £50,000, but it's expected that licenses will go for at leats 6 figures.
Oddly Coffee Telecom who have been extremely vocal about running GSM services and bidding for a license and potentially trying to land grab even before the applications closed, don't seem to be in the list.
British Telecommunications PLC
Cable & Wireless UK (England)
Centric Telecom Ltd
COLT Mobile Telecommunications Ltd
Cyberpress Ltd
FMS Solutions Ltd
Mapesbury Communications Ltd
ntl Group Limited
02 (UK) Ltd
Opal Telecom Ltd
Orange Personal Communications Services Ltd
PLDT (UK) Ltd
Shyam Telecom UK Ltd
Spring Mobil AB
Teleware PLC
Zynetix Ltd
That gives 16 potential bidders for between 7 and 12 licenses. However there are some big players (BT, C&W, Colt, NTL, O2, Carphone Warehouse [Opal], Orange, PLDT) which potentially means that there will be at least 8 least 8 gone, maybe leaving 4 license between the 8 smaller players.
The minimum bid is £50,000, but it's expected that licenses will go for at leats 6 figures.
Oddly Coffee Telecom who have been extremely vocal about running GSM services and bidding for a license and potentially trying to land grab even before the applications closed, don't seem to be in the list.
Ofcom Website | Statement: Modification to the Number Portability General Condition and the National Telephone Numbering Plan
Ofcom Website | Statement: Modification to the Number Portability General Condition and the National Telephone Numbering Plan
Ofcom are holding a consultation on number portablility and the national telephone numbering plan.
In summary number porting should be encouraged where possible, especially for new wave telcos (using technologies such as VoIP).
There needs to be some controls so the consumer knows what call they are making i.e. there can be issues when porting a fixed number to a mobile network or vice versa, but porting between mobile networks shouldn't be hindered or between fixed networks.
However where in the past numbers have been tied to geographic areas, this should no longer be the case and they can be ported to services not tied to a location.
Ofcom may also intervene where providers do not port numbers (it may not be in there interest to do so) but gnerally the system will be left to run by the market.
Ofcom are holding a consultation on number portablility and the national telephone numbering plan.
In summary number porting should be encouraged where possible, especially for new wave telcos (using technologies such as VoIP).
There needs to be some controls so the consumer knows what call they are making i.e. there can be issues when porting a fixed number to a mobile network or vice versa, but porting between mobile networks shouldn't be hindered or between fixed networks.
However where in the past numbers have been tied to geographic areas, this should no longer be the case and they can be ported to services not tied to a location.
Ofcom may also intervene where providers do not port numbers (it may not be in there interest to do so) but gnerally the system will be left to run by the market.
Ofcom Website | Mobile Call Termination - Market Review
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.
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.
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.
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