News Briefs for the Week Ending
03/19/2010
Copyright 2010, Faulkner Information Services. All Rights Reserved.
Docid:00020009
Publication Date: 1003
Publication Type: NEWS
ACQUISITIONS, MERGERS, DIVESTITURES
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CA Closes Acquisition of Nimsoft
Computer Associates (CA) announced that it has closed it acquisition of Nimsoft, a provider of IT performance and availability monitoring solutions. The deal closed for a total of $350 million in cash. Nimsoft will
continued up operate as a standalone business unit within CA’s Cloud Products & Solutions Business Line.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Report: Ericsson to Acquire Controlling Stake in LG-Nortel
A South Korean news service reported that Ericsson is planning to buy a controlling stake in LG-Nortel, a joint venture between Nortel
Networks and South Korea’s LG Electronics Worldwide.
Source: Seoul E.D., 3/18/2010
Japanese Government Mulling Spinoff of NTT Fiber Optic Business
The Japanese government is considering approving the spinoff of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT)’s fiber optic business into a separate company, the Yomiuri newspaper reported. The proposed new company will lay,
operate, and lease the broadband networks currently owned by NTT’s two regional units, to competitors. The move is part of a wider effort by the government – which owns 33.7 percent of NTT – to spread use of high speed broadband to all households in Japan,
by 2015. Currently, coverage in homes is estimated at around 30 percent, Yomiuri claims. NTT has been struggling to hit the target for its cable laying operations, amidst an economic slump and mounting competition from mobile broadband operators.
Source: Yomiuri, 3/15/2010
Yahoo Agrees to Acquire Citizen Sports
Yahoo announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Citizen Sports. The company is a provider of applications and tools which let users track sports teams and interact through social networks and
mobile devices. The acquisition will be integrated into Yahoo’s own Yahoo Sports network. The company said it will begin providing such features as sports-centric social networking profiles, and access to existing Citizen Sports applications. The company
expects to close the acquisition during the second quarter of this year. No financial terms for the deal were announced.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
ALLIANCES, JOINT VENTURES
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Agilent to Launch Wave Electronics Characterization Facility
Agilent Technologies and the University of Texas at Dallas plan to establish a millimeter and sub millimeter wave electronics characterization facility, at the school’s Texas Analog Center of Excellence. The
facility will be available to industrial and government institutions, and employ an open, collaborative framework.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Citrix Teams with Microsoft for Graphics Accelerated Virtualization
Citrix announced a new collaborative agreement with Microsoft. Citrix said it will support the upcoming RemoteFX technology platform from Microsoft. The RemoteFX will be
included in a future iteration of Windows Server 2008 R2 Service Pack 1, and will allow all virtual desktops connected to a Windows Server or Hyper-V server to share the graphics acceleration capabilities of the server. The collaboration will include the
use of Citrix’s high-definition HDX technology. The companies claim the combination of RemoteFX and HDX technology will allow all users to access their virtual desktop from any connected device.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Google, Sony, and Intel Team up for Possible Internet-Enabled TVs
The New York Times reported that Google plans to get into the Internet-enabled TV business. The project includes Google, Sony, and Intel. Sony is expected to manufacture the televisions, while Intel will be providing its Atom processor, and Google, the operating system. The Times reported the new line of
televisions will likely use a version of Google’s Anroid operating system to provide users with a richer selection of video content and applications than current Internet-enabled TVs. Details of the project are still a closely-guarded secret, according
to the Times’ report.
Source: NYTimes, 3/17/2010
Pelco Cameras Supported by Instek Digital Surveillance System
Pelco and Instek Digital have entered into a strategic partnership, as Instek Digital joined the Pelco Partner First program. The vendors have integrated the Instek Digital
MatriVideo Surveillance System with the Pelco Sarix IP network camera with built-in ObjectVideo analytics.
Source: Vendor, 3/11/2010
Raytheon Teams with Motion Reality to Create New Simulation Products
Raytheon announced that it has signed a licensing deal with Motion Reality (MRI) to offer virtual 3-D mission and training applications. The companies will be promoting these new products to military, law
enforcement and security forces. MRI will be providing its motion capture technology, VIRTSIM, to allow for the creation of a fully immersive, free-moving simulation environment. The resultant simulation systems will be able to support up to 12
simultaneous subjects, and provide multi-site networking.
Source: Vendor, 3/11/2010
APPLICATION SOFTWARE
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Accenture Launches Intelligent Network Data Enterprise for Smart Grids
Accenture announced the launch of its Accenture Intelligent Network Data Enterprise. The new software is designed to allow utility companies to aggregate data from a variety of disparate sources for the purpose
of managing a smart grid network. The company said the addition of this “software layer” between the incoming data produced by a smart grid and human operators will reduce implementation risks for utilities interested in adopting smart grid technology.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
BIOMETRICS
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US Senators Push for Biometric National ID Card
Cnet reported that two US senators met with President Obama March 18 to push for a national ID card with biometric information such as a fingerprint, hand scan, or iris scan that all employers would be required to
verify. In an opinion article published in today’s Washington Post, Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) say the new identification cards will “ensure that illegal workers cannot get jobs” and “dramatically decrease illegal immigration.” Schumer
and Graham proposed the idea to President Obama during a private meeting. Graham said afterward that Obama “welcomed” their proposal for a new ID card law; the White House said in a statement that the senators’ plan was “promising.”
Source: Cnet, 3/19/2010
US, Finland Shake Hands on Stopping Terrorism, Crime
The US and Finland have signed an agreement that allows for the exchange of biometric and biographic data to bolster counterterrorism and law enforcement efforts in both countries. Under the agreement, announced by the US Department for Homeland Security, investigators from the United States and Finland will use new procedures to identify known terrorists and criminals during investigations. The agreement also outlines processes for sharing
vital information.
Source: DHS, 3/17/2010
L-1 Receives CT Contract
L-1 Identity Solutions received a new contract to provide an automated biometric identification system product for capture and matching. The six-year contract from the Connecticut Department of Social Services is valued at
$6.5 million. The contract was awarded last year and the offering will be deployed in 2010.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
BUSINESS CONTINUITY
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AT&T Deploys Network Disaster Recovery Resources in Chile
AT&T announced that it has deployed Network Disaster Recovery (NDR) resources to Chile as a preventive measure to ensure business continuity of the AT&T node in Santiago. The action is in response to a series of natural
disasters that have affected the South American country since the devastating earthquake of February 27, which was followed by tsunamis and various aftershocks. The NDR resources include managers, engineers, and technicians of AT&T’s NDR team and a
recovery trailer equipped with high-tech equipment, cables, and connections. While the AT&T Global Network node in Chile is currently operational, AT&T has deployed the NDR resources so that communications can be restored quickly to customers in the
unlikely event of additional disaster-related disruptions to the network, the carrier said.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Progress Software Announces Responsive Process Management Suite
Progress Software announce the launch of its Progress Responsive Process Management (RPM). The RPMTM suite focuses on a human-centric model of business process modeling and automation. It can monitor millions of
individual business process events to allow a user to see patterns and track opportunities and threats among the large scale data. This level of control is accessed via the company’s Progress Control Tower software. Progress expects the RPM product to be
available some time in late April, 2010.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
CALL CENTER
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Convergys Signs Licensing Agreement with MicroAutomation
Convergys announced that it has signed an agreement with MicroAutomation, a call center solutions provider. The deal will allow the call center company to offer customers the full suite of Convergys products. This
includes their Intervoice Voice Portal (IVP), Dynamic Decisioning Solution, On-Demand Voice Authentication, and Hosted Self-Service Solutions.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
IBM Launches RAMP Call Center Matching Solution
IBM announced that it has created a call center matchmaking solution called Real-Time Analytics Matching Platform (RAMP). The new technology, developed in cooperation with Assurant Solutions, uses analytics to match an
incoming caller to the best possible agent. The system makes use of previous call data, information about the caller, and predictive algorithms to match the customer with the agent that is most able to handle his or her needs. Additionally, the system will
attempt to control wait times by estimating the length of existing calls via previously collected data and routing them accordingly. RAMP is available now from IBM’s Business Analytics and Optimization (BAO) service line.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
CARRIER SERVICES
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AT&T Develops Telecom Hazardous Materials Specialist Certification
AT&T announced that it has developed a certification program for telecom hazardous materials specialists. AT&T developed the program in conjunction with the North Carolina Occupational Safety and Health Education and
Research Center at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill (NC OSHERC). The Telecommunications Hazardous Materials Specialist Certificate Program is now being offered by NC OSHERC for those working in the telecommunications industry who are required
to work in disasters and other hazardous areas to re-establish lines of communication. Eleven members of AT&T’s Network Disaster Recovery Special Operations Team are the first to receive this certification, the company said.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Covad to Begin Offering Ethernet Services in Mid April
Covad announced that it will begin offering nationwide Ethernet services in April. The company says the new business-class Internet access service will range in speeds from 1.5 Mbps to 35 Mbps. The service will be
distributed out of more than 4,000 central office locations, and will reach approximately 10 million businesses.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
DIRECTV Regains VERSUS Carriage from Comcast
DIRECTV announced that it has reached an agreement with Comcast to resume its carriage of the sports channel VERSUS. The company said the channel will return to the same packages as it was featured on when it was
pulled at the end of Augus, 2009. The terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Qwest Reevaluates “Convenience Fees”
Qwest Communications announced that it has been evaluating the broad implementation of “convenience fees” and determined that fees for one-time online payments and payments made using only its automated phone system
are not in the best interest of customers. Effective immediately, Qwest customers making payments via the two methods will not incur a fee. Customers who make one-time payments over the phone with a live representative, however, will incur a convenience
fee of $4 for the transaction, the company said.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Telus to Spend $650 Million on Alberta Communications Infrastructure
Canada’s Telus announced that it will invest CAD $650 million in Alberta this year to extend the reach and speed of its wireline and wireless broadband services, including Telus TV. Telus president and CEO Darren
Entwistle said the investment “continues Telus’ longstanding commitment to providing Albertans with access to some of the world’s best telecommunications technology.”
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Verizon Business Introduces New SMB-tailored Services
Verizon Business announced that it is offering its wholesale customers new voice-over-IP (VoIP) and Internet packages designed for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs). The company said the offers are designed
to respond to the rapid growth of VoIP in the SMB realm and the resulting demand for high-speed Internet connections. In addition, the offers support Verizon Global Wholesale customers’ marketing efforts to SMBs. The first new package combines Verizon’s
SIP (session initiation protocol) Gateway Service with router hardware. The SIP Gateway Service transports VoIP traffic between packet-based IP networks and the traditional telephone network. In addition, Verizon’s wholesale customers can offer SMBs a new
NEC UNIVERGE SV8100 IP PBX and its associated installation and maintenance bundle at a discounted price. The second new package, Internet Dedicated T1, combines discounted service and hardware. It provides a high-capacity connection for 30 or more users
and is designed for transmitting high-volume e-mail traffic, transferring large files, or hosting Web sites from virtually anywhere. The equipment offered in the package is either a Samsung Ubigate iBG 1000 for data-only applications or a model 1003 for
data and voice services combined.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
XO Launches International Customer Referral Program
XO Communications announced the launch of an International Customer Referral Program, which XO said facilitates overseas telecommunications companies contracting with XO to provide their carrier customers with access to
the complete portfolio of XO Carrier Services products and services in the U.S. XO has already secured its first international customer referral agreement with CAST International, an international business consulting firm based in Hong Kong. CAST can now
refer international carriers looking to expand into the US to XO for network services.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
ZTE Debuts EV-DO Rev.B Phase II Service
ZTE announced that it has completed its first EV-DO Rev.B Phase II data call. This is the first call in the industry completed over a Phase II network. The call reached download speeds of 14.7 Mbps. This is a
substantial jump from the speeds of 9.3Mbps reached with the company’s Phase 1 network. ZTE claims the upgrade will be relatively simple for interested carriers and consumers. It is also touting side benefits of its Phase II technology, such as decreased
power usage, and network strain.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
CLOUD COMPUTING & SAAS
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AT&T Introduces Suite of Cloud-Based Services
AT&T announced a suite of new cloud-based data services it says will deliver smartphone-like messaging, video and photo sharing, and contacts management across a range of mass-market handsets. Introduced in conjunction
with four new Quick Messaging devices – the Samsung Strive, the Samsung Sunburst, the Pantech Link, and Pantech Pursuit – the new services include AT&T Mobile Share, which offers subscribers tools to transfer and manage their photos and videos across PCs
and social networking accounts. AT&T said in a press release that the new services also let consumers access pictures and videos stored in their personal, Web-based AT&T
Locker at any time, from any Internet connection, or from their phones. AT&T will also roll out a cloud-based Address Book that syncs contacts online, and Next Generation Messaging, which provides group messaging and “reply all” functionality for up to 10
contacts as well as a threaded conversations format, consolidated inbox, and enhanced multimedia display.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
CA Announces Support for Sun Solaris Zones Virtualization Platform
Computer Associates (CA) announced that its virtualization management solutions now support Sun’s Solaris Zones virtualization platform. This includes Spectrum Infrastructure Manager, eHealth Performance Manager,
Spectrum Service Assurance and Spectrum Automation Manager. CA claims the new support will allow customers to reduce risk by controlling all of their virtualization needs from one unified platform.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Cisco to Help Support Cloud IT Services in South Korea
Cisco Systems, GDSYS Korea, and Incheon Metropolitan City, in Korea, announced they will collaborate to build a ubiquitous service platform (USP), based on Cisco’s Unified Computing System, to support virtualized,
cloud based IT services for businesses and public agencies in the Incheon Free Economic Zone. The USP offers a green data center platform, based on the concepts of ubiquitous computing, cloud computing, and intelligent, integrated network products,
presumably providing a platform for delivering high quality, IT services. In addition to technology, Cisco will provide design, consulting, and network infrastructure operation services. Local data center service provider GDSYS will manage the project.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Cisco to Supply Nexus Products for Diveo Data Center
Cisco Systems will supply the technology to help Diveo Columbia provide services for the Andean market, enabled by cloud computing and Internet-based applications. The Cisco Nexus products will help Diveo offer a
single input/output system, to servers, using the fiber channel over Ethernet protocol. Diveo’s data center already uses Cisco’s Unified Service Delivery product, to offer consolidation, virtualization, and automation.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Citrix Releases XenDesktop 4
Citrix announced a new release of its XenDesktop 4 virtualization solution. The so called Feature Pack 1 release, adds support for the company’s high-definition HDX technology, and increases access speeds for virtual
desktops by a factor of five. The company is also touting the updates ability to run as many as 100,000 virtual desktops from one location, and the inclusion of XenApp 6 as an integrated component of the software. XenDesktop 4 Feature Pack 1 will be
available on March 24. The upgrade will be free for all XenDesktop customers with current Subscription Advantage agreements.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Google Creates Apps Migration Tool for Microsoft Exchange Users
Google announced the release of Google Apps Migration for Microsoft Exchange. The new tool is designed to ease the transition from a Microsoft Exchange server, to Google’s cloud-based service. The tool is available
for free to all users of the company’s Google Apps Premier, or Education Edition users. The migration tool transfers all, or a customized selection of email, contact, and calendar data from any installation of Microsoft Exchange 2003, or 2007. This
functionality is compatible with both on-site, and hosted versions of Exchange. Google is also touting the fact that customers may continue to use their existing Exchange system without interruption right up until the transition has been completed. Details
on making the switch have been made available on an information page.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Google Adds Extensions to Wave
Google added a new extensions page to its Wave collaboration application. The collection of extensions add features such as templates, whiteboards, and translation services, among other things, to Google Wave. The
extensions can be accessed and installed similar to the add-ons available for the company’s own Chrome Web browser.
Source: Vendor, 3/12/2010
IBM Announces Smart Business Development & Test Cloud Services
IBM announced the creation of a cloud-based design and testing service. The company’s new Smart Business Development & Test platform provides customers with access to the company’s cloud environment for the
purpose of testing and verifying new software installations. IBM claims the benefits of using the new service include reduced provisioning times, 30 percent fewer software defects, reduced quality assurance times, and rapid redeployment across IT
projects.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
McAfee Launches Security Program for the Cloud
McAfee has created its Cloud Secure program, which is designed for SaaS providers to add additional security to their cloud deployments. The program includes certification services; automated auditing, remediation,
and reporting; and security credibility.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS & EQUIPMENT
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Alcatel Unveils Capabilities for Launching Mobile Data Services
Alcatel-Lucent unveiled new capabilities for helping mobile service providers provide next generation data services, while also addressing new data requirements related to longterm evolution mobile broadband.
It announced upgrades to its mobile packet core, as well as a new approach for IP network and policy management. The developments are part of Alcatel’s High Leverage Network strategy, which includes a converged, scalable, all IP, multi-service
infrastructure.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Cisco Introduces New Ethernet Switches, Routers
Cisco introduced new Ethernet access switches and enhanced routers designed to take on more of the jobs frequently handled by separate devices, such as those dedicated to handling video traffic or ensuring network
security. Cisco’s latest offerings fit into its Borderless Networks strategy, a concept it introduced with its ISR branch routers last Fall.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Cisco Working with Canadian Utility Company on Smart Grid Project
Networking giant Cisco and utility company ENMAX (Calgary, Alberta, Canada) announced their collaboration on the development of ENMAX’s Smart Grid Project. ENMAX and Cisco will work
together on technologies to enable automated demand-response management with commercial and industrial customers. The utility company, which is owned by the city of Calgary, also plans to launch a pilot project aimed at equipping some Calgary commercial
and industrial buildings with Cisco’s Network Building Mediator.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Cisco to Provide Routers for Neutral Tandem Ethernet eXchange
Cisco Systems will provide aggregation service router technology for Neutral Tandem, to support its Ethernet eXchange service. This service provides inter-network connectivity, presumably giving Ethernet service
providers a method of interconnection, on a “many to many” basis. Neutral Tandem provides tandem, interconnection services for telephony companies.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Fujitsu Shipping LTE Base Station Systems to NTT DOCOMO
Fujitsu announced that it has begun shipping next-generation mobile base station systems to NTT DOCOMO, which plans to launch mobile communication services in Japan based on
the next-generation Long Term Evolution (LTE) standard in December 2010. Fujitsu was selected by NTT DOCOMO in October 2006 to develop and manufacture the company’s LTE wireless mobile base stations. Since then, the two companies have been jointly
developing and evaluating the systems.
Source: Vendor, 3/19/2010
Huawei, StarHub Conclude Dual Carrier HSPA+ Test
Huawei Technologies and its technology partner, StarHub, successfully concluded tests of its HSPA+ network, using Dual Carrier frequency technology to achieve a peak data downlink
speed of 42.2M bps. Dual Carrier technology is based on the principle of bonding two carrier channels, which allows the increase of the transmission to approximately double. StarHub also announced it commenced technical trials of longterm evolution
technology.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Huawei to Deploy Telstra’s First LTE Trial in Australia
Communications infrastructure provider Huawei announced that it has been selected by Telstra, Australia’ s largest telecom operator, to deploy Telstra’ s first LTE (Long Term
Evolution) mobile trial. The live trial aims to reach peak downlink speeds of up to 150Mbps. Under the agreement, Huawei will provide the entire end-to-end LTE/SAE solution for field and lab trials including macro base stations, distributed base stations,
and SAE (Service Architecture Evolution) core network. The LTE trial, which will be located in Victoria, is expected to begin in May and will run for three to six months.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Level 3 Adds Ethernet Switches to Network
Level 3 announced it will expand the number of Ethernet switches on its US network by almost 400 percent. By expanding its switching footprint, Level 3 is eliminating the need for backhaul of switched metro Ethernet
applications and providing a more efficient backhaul mechanism for higher layer services, such as Internet or voice, the company said.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Motorola, Nokia Siemens Equip Oslo Police with Radio Technology
Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions and Nokia Siemens Networks equipped more than 1,800 police officers in Oslo, Norway, with
digital radio technology for the country’s newly launched, TETRA public safety network. Motorola supplied a digital radio communications infrastructure, terminals, and mobiles, for the mission critical network, based on Motorola’s Dimetra technology, for
delivering it over an IP based network. The technology also supports the development of a future, nationwide system, according to Motorola.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Motorola Partner Contracted for Florida Broadband Deployment
Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions announced that Rapid Systems was selected by the Hardee Broadband Project, to deploy Motorola wireless
broadband solutions for Hardee County, FL, US. The wireless broadband infrastructure – based on Motorola microwave Ethernet bridges and network access products – will bring high speed Internet to businesses, county wide. Rapid is a wireless Internet
service provider, and a member of Motorola’s channel program.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Motorola to Provide Abu Dhabi Police with Connectivity Technology
Motorola Enterprise Mobility Solutions signed an agreement with the UAE’s Ministry of Interior, to provide products and managed services for the Abu Dhabi Police General
Headquarters. It will develop applications and deploy services, fixed and mobile broadband connectivity, and provide maintenance, for an end to end video security system. The agreement extends an existing deal, following the successful launch of a pilot
project, which commenced in February. The first phase of this pilot – which runs until August – will see Motorola provide the police force with integrated, mobile broadband technology, to upgrade video security, across its vehicles and personnel, and in
support of any IP applications.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Telia Upgrades LTE Base Stations
Telecompaper reported that Swedish mobile operator Telia is upgrading its mobile broadband base stations in central Stockholm to deliver speeds of 100 Mbps. The rest of
its LTE base stations will undergo the upgrade process beginning this Spring. After the upgrade, customers will be able to access the Web with practical speeds of up to 80 Mbps. At present, Telia’s LTE network covers the central parts of Stockholm, as well
as Stockholm’s districts Alvsjo, Kista and Hammarby Sjostad. Telia plans to launch LTE in 25 locations in Sweden this year.
Source: Telecompaper, 3/15/2010
Telstra Announces Beginning of LTE Tests
Telstra announced that it plans to begin testing Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology in May. The company will spend 3 to 6 months testing aspects of LTE such as radio access characteristics, coverage, performance,
and signal propagation. The telecom company will be joined in these tests by existing partner Ericsson, as well as new partners Huawei, and the Nokia Siemens Network. The press release on the matter notes that Telstra is also collecting information on LTE
deployment via its Hong Kong subsidiary, CSL, which is using ZTE branded equipment.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
CONFERENCING
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Magyar Telecom to Establish Innovation Center with Cisco
Cisco Systems announced that Magyar Telekom will establish an innovation center – using Cisco technologies – to focus on video, collaboration, and data center virtualization, in
Budapest, Hungary. The facility will test networking technologies, develop IP based services, and provide demonstrations and training. Its staff will collaborate with Magyar system engineers and business development teams. It will also be equipped with a
Cisco TelePresence virtual meeting room, WebEx, Unified Communications, Unified Computing System, and physical security and video surveillance systems.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Microsoft Creates TrueColor Technology for Web Cams
Microsoft announced the creation of a new technology designed to improve Web cam video quality. Dubbed TrueColor Technology, the new advancement will debut in three upcoming Microsoft branded Web cams. The trio of
cameras will feature 720p video, as well as the new technology, which automatically adjusts color and brightness to provide the best overall image quality to the user. The company estimates that the cameras should become available some time in March,
2010.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Novell to Release New Hosted Conferencing Solution
Novell announced the availability of a new hosted version of its Novell Conferencing solution. The new the software allows for virtual demos, meeting, and webinars to be held in a normal Web browser. The company says
the hosted version of the software will be available some time in April, with an on-site version to come later this year.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Polycom Receives Department of Defense Certification for RMX 2000
Polycom announced that its RMX 2000 teleconferencing line has received Unified Capabilities Approved Product List (UC APL) certification from the US Department of Defense. This certification allows for the adoption
of the line of Polycom products by the Department of Defense, and other government agencies.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
CONSULTING & MANAGED SERVICES
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BT Receives Contract to Support All Spanish Diplomatic Centers
BT announced that it has received a EUR 31.9 million contract from the Spanish government. Under the contract BT will provide telecommunications infrastructure and services for the nation’s 260 diplomatic installations
around the world. Services include the installation of an IP VPN, and secure internet access. The contract has a duration of 4 years.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Capgemini Launches Smart Energy Services
Capgemini announced the launch of Smart Energy Services. The new line of service products will focus on providing “smart” technologies to utilities and homes. These technologies include smart metering, smart grid,
smart home solutions and analytics to accompany the systems. The services will be handled under Capgemini’s Managed Business Services model. The company claims this will help to minimize the upfront cost of implementation.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Siemens Updates its Workstation Services Portfolio
Siemens IT Solutions & Services updated its IT services portfolio for the back office infrastructure. The updated Workstation Services portfolio offers a modular catalog of back office services, for
configuring services specifically for the end user. Siemens claims the updated services help minimize support requirements, from users of both standard, Windows based, and non standard devices. At the same time, Siemens consolidated its portfolio
structure, reducing the number of service elements from 16 to 10. Siemens Workplace Services can be provided either directly from a local system, or as a data center service.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Verizon Achieves Cisco Data Center, Security Specializations
Verizon Business announced that it has achieved the Advanced Data Center Networking Infrastructure Specialization from Cisco for Germany, the Netherlands, and the United
Kingdom. The specialization recognizes Verizon Business as having fulfilled the training requirements and program prerequisites to sell, deploy, and support Cisco data center network infrastructure solutions. In a separate announcement, Verizon Business
said it has also earned Cisco’s Master Security Specialization, recognizing that the company has fulfilled the training requirements and program prerequisites to sell, deploy, and support Cisco Internet Protocol Next-Generation Network security
solutions.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
CYBERCRIME & PUNISHMENT
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Watchdog Group: Internet Crime Soared in 2009
The Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), a partnership between the FBI and the National White Collar Crime Center (NW3C), released the 2009 annual
report detailing fraudulent activity on the Internet. Online crime complaints increased substantially in 2009, according to the report. The IC3 received a total of 336,655 complaints, a 22.3 percent
increase from 2008. The total loss linked to online fraud was $559.7 million; an increase from $265 million in 2008.
Source: FBI, 3/12/2010
DBMS
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Novell Teams with Ingres for SUSE Studio Appliance Template
Novell announced that it has teamed with the Ingres Corporation to offer the SUSE Studio Appliance Template for Ingres Database. The companies are calling the new offering an “on-ramp” for independent software
vendors (ISVs) and system integrators (SIs) to quickly build and integrate applications and appliances. The new product is being offered as part of the SUSE Appliance Program, an initiative designed to simplify the creation and deployment of software
appliances.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
DEVELOPMENT SOFTWARE
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CSC Achieves SEI Level 3 Certification
Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) announced that its Enforcement, Security & Intelligence (ESI) Group has received the Software Engineering Institute’s (SEI) Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) Level 3
rating. The rating certifies the level of a company’s best practices and business objectives. The rating was given following a Standard CMMI Appraisal Method for Process Improvement (SCAMPI) inspection. The inspection includes analyses and reviews of
engineering, development and management processes and products.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Microsoft Releases Windows Phone Developer’s Tool
Microsoft announced the availability of Visual Studio 2010 Express for Windows Phone at the MIX10 conference. The new development tool will allow application
designers to create software for the upcoming Windows Phone Series 7. The software includes an emulator which simulates the new Windows Phone operating system. The company claims this will allow developers to create software for the new mobile operating
system without ever laying hands on a piece of hardware running it. The new development software will also allow creators to design graphical interfaces for Silverlight applications, which can be installed on the new operating system.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
ENTERPRISE RESOURCE PLANNING
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BMC Software Updates CONTROL-SA Provisioning Solution
BMC Software announced that it has updated its CONTROL-SA user provisioning solution. The primary change comes in the form of a switch to the Service Provisioning Markup Language (SPML). Additionally, the software can
now be integrated with Remedy service management software. CONTROL-SA has also had a new interface added. The interface allows the program to utilize Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) connectivity.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Oracle Releases Procurement On Demand
Oracle announced the availability of its Procurement On Demand solution. The new part of the company’s On Demand lineup allows customers to use the company’s procurement application without back-end ERP upgrades. The
software includes Oracle Procurement and Spend Analytics; Oracle Sourcing and Oracle Procurement Contracts; and Oracle iProcurement. The suite of products can also be used as part of a “hybrid” infrastructure, which includes both on-premises installations
and cloud-based solutions.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Oracle Launches Enterprise Manager Ops Center
Oracle announced the launch of its new Oracle Enterprise Manager Ops Center software. The new solution is designed to serve as a control center for physical and virtual Sun environments. The features of Op Center
include lifecycle management of Oracle Solaris Containers and Oracle VM Server for SPARC; Oracle Solaris LiveUpgrade support; and a built in knowledge base which allows for faster system deployment. Enterprise Manager Ops Center is available now.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
FINANCIAL
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Nortel’s Fourth Quarter Revenue Down
Bankrupt Nortel Networks this week released its fourth quarter 2009 financial results. The company’s financial performance was effected by “continued ongoing negative economic conditions and the uncertainty created
by the company’s Creditor Protection Proceedings, which resulted in a decrease in customers’ spending levels,” according to Nortel’s press release. Results were effected, too, by the sale of the CDMA/LTE Access and Enterprise, NGS, and DiamondWare
businesses in December 2009. Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2009 was US $794 million, with declines year over year in all segments and in all regions. Segment revenues were $1.1 billion for the fourth quarter of 2009 compared to $2.07 billion for the
fourth quarter of 2008, reflecting a reduction of 49.2% percent, with declines seen across all business segments. The company reported net earnings in the fourth quarter of 2009 of $1.78 billion compared to a net loss of $2.14 billion in the fourth quarter
of 2008 and a net loss of $508 million in the third quarter of 2009. Net earnings in the fourth quarter of 2009 of $1.78 billion included a gain from discontinued operations of $689 million – primarily related to sales of assets and a currency exchange
gain of $18 million.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
SCO Secured $2 Million in Bankruptcy Financing
SCO announced that it has secured $2 million in financing. The company has received Bankruptcy Court approval for the postpetition funds via a secured super-priority credit facility from a group of private lenders.
Proceeds from this new funding are expected to contribute to the company’s operating and administrative expenses, as well as litigation-related expenses. In a broader sense, the company hopes the financing will allow it to sustain operations, and remain a
viable business.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Siemens Announces 530 Million EUR in Investments
Siemens announced it will invest approximately 500 million EUR ($681 million USD) in its Siemens IT Solutions and Services unit, by 2012, as well as an additional 30 million EUR
to provide 250 training positions, for disadvantaged youth, in Germany. The positions will be in technical and business related fields.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Software AG Raises Annual Dividend on Improved Guidance
Software AG announced that it has chosen to raise its annual dividend. The decision is the result of improved guidance for the company’s 2010 fiscal year. The company has said its board will recommend a payment
of EUR 1.15. This represents a EUR 0.05 increase over its previous year. The improvements Software AG’s predictions place its expected revenue at 25 to 30 percent higher than 2009, and its expected net income at 8 to 12 percent.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Verizon to List Its Stock on NYSE, NASDAQ
Verizon Communications announced that it will dual-list its common stock on the NASDAQ Global Select Market and the New York Stock Exchange. Verizon stock will continue to trade under the ticker symbol “VZ” on both
the New York Stock Exchange, where it is currently listed, and on NASDAQ. Verizon has approximately 2.5 million shareowners and approximately 2.8 billion shares of common stock outstanding.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS
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Boeing Receives $69.7 Million Contract for Updated Aerial Drones
Boeing announced that it has received a $69.7 million contract from the US Air Force to develop and manufacture the new QF-16 Full Scale Aerial Targets. The new combat simulation drones will be replacing the existing
QF-4 fleet. The drones will be made from decommissioned F-16 planes, and can be flown either manned or unmanned. Like their predecessors, the QF-16 will aid in the testing and training of airborne systems and personnel.
Source: Vendor, 3/10/2010
CSC Receives One of Two US Visa Contracts
Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) announced that it is one of two recipients of the Global Support Strategy (GSS) for Visa Services indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract by the Department of State
(DoS) Bureau of Consular Affairs. The contract will see the company providing a range of visa-related business process services to the US government. It will also be handling rapid response visa services for foreign embassies and consulates. The contract
has a one-year base period, and nine annual renewal options. It is expected to reach a total value of $2.8 billion for the two commissioned companies.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
General Dynamics Receives Contract for F/A-18 Computers
General Dynamics announced that it has received a $30.6 million contract for the production of 118 Type-3 advanced mission computers (AMC) for the F/A-18 Super Hornet aircraft. The computers handle all
operational functions of the plane, including audio, video, and voice processing. The systems are designed to handle the extreme environmental conditions at work in the high-performance aircraft. The company expects to fulfill the order by 2011.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
SAIC Signs $625 Million Navy C4I Software Contract
Science Applications International Corporation(SAIC) announced that it has received a contract from the US Navy’s Program Executive Office (PEO) of Command, Control, Communications,
Computers and Intelligence (C4I). The contract calls for the company to develop new Department of Defense Command and Control (C2) software, as well as maintain existing C2 software installations. The contract has a base period of 3 year, with 2
single-year extension options. It has a maximum value of $625 million.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
INTERNET
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C-Span Puts Entire Archive of Footage Online
The New York Times reports that C-Span has put its entire archive of footage up for free online viewing. The network of three channels covers most aspects of the
day-to-day workings of the federal government. The archive covers more than 160,000 hours of footage spanning 23 years. The article posits the increased accessibility of the operations of the nation’s government could lead to a more well-informed citizen,
and a gold mine of information for political analysts and journalists.
Source: NYTimes, 3/16/2010
AOL Lays Out Local News and Information Plans
AOL announced two initiatives focused on increasing its location based content. The first is the expansion of Patch, its hyperlocal news and information service. The service currently covers 40 communities. The company
plans to expand this number to include a far larger selection of towns. The first target for Patch’s expansion is Massachusetts, which will be added at the end of March. This will be followed by another 15 communities over the next quarter. The second
effort in this initiative is AOL’s revival of its City’s Best service. The company will revitalize the defunct service to again provide information on such things as best pizza, or best happy hour. The service will launch in 25 metro areas during the 3rd
quarter of 2010.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
AOL Launches KitchenDaily.com
AOL announced that it has launched a new cooking site called KitchenDaily. The company is promoting the site to busy individuals who would still like to cook for themselves, and
their families. It features a database of recipes that have been tested by various chefs and brand partners.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Google Adds Translation, Finer Privacy Controls to Stable Chrome
Google announced that it added an updated version of its Chrome Web browser to its stable release channel. The latest edition includes automatic foreign language page translations, and improved privacy controls. The
translation feature automatically detects when a Web site is not in the user’s native language, and translates it using Google Translate. The added privacy controls now give users the ability to determine the handling of browser cookies, images,
JavaScript, plug-ins, and pop-ups on a page-by-page basis. Current Chrome users will be updated automatically, while new users can download the newest version from Google’s Chrome page.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
ICANN Chooses to Forego Expression of Interest Program for gTLDs
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) announced that it has chosen to go ahead with its original plan for the creation of additional generic top-level domains (gTLD). This decision comes
after the proposal of an “Expressions of Interest” (EOI) program designed to allow groups interested in applying for one of the new domains a venue to voice their interest. The organization claims it came to the decision after determining that the delays
and increased complexity that would be created by the EOI program would outweigh any benefits it could provide. Instead, ICANN plans on using its resources to resolve several issues still plaguing full implementation of the program.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Internet2 and National LambdaRail Praise National Broadband Plan
Internet2 and the National LambdaRail (NLR) association have offered praise for the Federal Communication Commission‘s plan to
bring 1gigabit Internet access to “community anchor institutions,” as well as its proposal of a “Unified Community Anchor Network” (UCAN). The organizations estimate that current private efforts have provided only one third of the affected institutions
with Internet access on par with what the National Broadband Plan would provide.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Microsoft Outlines Plans for Internet Explorer 9
Microsoft made several announcements at its Internet Explorer 9 Platform Preview event. The company revealed that one of the most important updates to the Web browser will be the addition of full HTML5 support.
This includes support for CSS3, Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG), XHTML parsing, and video and audio tags using H.264/MPEG4 and MP3/AAC codecs. Additionally, the company announced improved support for both cloud-based technologies and the jQuery JavaScript
Library. Microsoft plans on releasing development updates on an 8-week schedule until it releases a beta version of the software.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Mozilla Sets Date for Final Firefox 3.0 Update Release
Mozilla revealed its plans to cease support for Firefox 3.0 in a recent internal document. The company will release the final update for the Web browser, version 3.0.19, on March 30. The decision to cease support
came later than originally expected, due to a delay in the release of Firefox 3.6. As Usual, the company has suggested that all users update to the latest version of Firefox 3.6, and has released a message to users still browsing with an out of date
version of the software.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
IT ASSET MANAGEMENT
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Accenture Receives IT Contract from UK’s HMRC
Accenture announced that it has received a 10 million British pound contract from Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs (HMRC). The contract calls for the company to support the HMRC’s in-house information technology
development team. The company plans to streamline the team, known as IMS Solutions Development and Delivery (SDD), into an entity capable of more rapid and efficient deployment of applications and services. Accenture will be providing both training and
software to complete its task.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
CSC Signs $27 Million Contract with DoD European Schools
Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) announced that it has received a contract from the Department of Defense Dependents Schools-Europe (DoDDS-E). The $27 million deal calls for the company to provide information
technology support for the DoD run school throughout Europe. Such schools serve to educate the children of US military, and foreign service personnel. The agreement contains provisions for system and network administration, as well as software development
support. The contract has a one-year base period, and 4 single-year extension options.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
LAPTOPS & NETBOOKS
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Acer Introduces Lightweight, Ultraportable Laptop
Acer International unveiled a new Gateway EC14D01h ultraportable laptop, in Canada. The 3.5 pound laptop has a nearly 12 inch widescreen display, and features Intel processing. It will be
available by April, at a proposed retail price of $579.99 CAD ($573 USD).
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
General Dynamics Itronics Announces New GDAssure Solution
General Dynamics Itronics announced the creation of the GDAssure Solution Validation and Installation Certification Program for its mobile rugged computer products. The new program is designed to insure that
a customer’s rugged computer, software and peripherals will function correctly upon installation. Pre-install testing can include both software and hardware simulations, which emulate the conditions and usage the company expects the product to see in the
field. The company is offering a slew of associated services and warranties, and claims that GDAssure certification takes between 60 and 90 days to complete.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
ICANN Announces Receiver for Lead Networks
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) announced that Bret Fausett, a Counsel at the firm of Adorno Yoss Alvarado & Smith, has been appointed as the receiver of ICANN-accredited registrar,
Lead Networks. The appointment was made by the the United States District Court for the Central District of California, as a judgement in the case of VERIZON CALIFORNIA INC., et al. v. LEAD NETWORKS DOMAINS PRIVATE LIMITED et al, Case No. CV-09-00613 ABC
(CWx). ICANN is directing all registrants and interested parties with question for Lead Networks to instead direct their queries to the receiver, Bret Fausett. Contact informatin is provided in the company’s release on the matter.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
LEGAL
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Dell Sues Several Vendors Over LCD Price Fixing
Dell filed a lawsuit against Sharp Electronics, Hitachi Japan, Toshiba Japan, Seiko Epson, and Taiwan’s HannStar, for alleged price fixing of LCD displays. Dell has yet to decide the level of damages it will seek. The suit was filed Friday in US District
Court, in San Francisco, CA, Dell reported. None of the defendant companies have offered a comment, although officials with Toshiba and Seiko Epson are reportedly still looking into the issue.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
HP Settles Complaint of Printing Patent Violations
Hewlett-Packard (HP) announced it reached a resolution, concerning the US International Trade Commission’s ongoing investigation into the importing and sale of patent infringing, 02 inkjet cartridges. On September 23,
2009, HP filed a complaint , alleging violations of the tariff act. In regards to the importing and sale of HP 02 compatible inkjet ink supplies, which it claims infringe on HP patents. The ITC investigation identified 11 respondents, from China and the
US. The settlement includes cease and desist orders, agreements to halt such activity, and default judgments, against these defendants.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Microsoft Loses $105.7 Million Lawsuit in VPN Patent Infringement Case
Microsoft lost its case against VirnetX, according to CNet. The jury ruled in favor of VirnetX, which alleged that Microsoft had infringed on two of its patents relating to
virtual private networking. The court awarded the plaintiff $105.75 million in damages. Microsoft has already said that it plans to appeal the verdict.
Source: CNet, 3/17/2010
Siemens Resolves Patent Case with Acacia Subsidiary
Siemens Enterprise Communications entered an agreement, resolving all pending patent litigation with the Network Gateway Solutions subsidiary of Acacia Research. Litigation was pending in US
District Court, for the District of Delaware. In all, Acacia’s subsidiaries control more than 140 patent portfolios, covering technologies for a variety of industries.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Verizon Sues Cablevision for Patent Infringement
Verizon Communications has filed a patent suit against Cablevision over technology used in Cablevision’s television set-top boxes. Verizon’s suit claims Cablevision is
violating five of its patents; it is seeking to stop Cablevision’s set-top boxes from being imported to the US. “Each of these five patents is important to Verizon’s success in the highly competitive fields of digital video and entertainment services and
communications services,” Verizon said in the complaint.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
MALWARE WATCH
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Kaspersky Lab Sees Koobface Worm Increasing
Kaspersky Lab is warning of a surge in Koobface, the worm that infects social networking sites. The malicious program targets sites such as Facebook and Twitter and uses compromised legitimate Web sites as proxies for its main command and control server.
Source: Vendor, 3/11/2010
McAfee: New Malware Spreading Via Facebook
McAfee‘s AvertLabs is warning Facebookusers about a rapidly spreading malicious email campaign that attempts to steal their passwords. The malware appears to come from Facebook,
informing users that their passwords have been reset and to click on an attachment to retrieve them. If clicked, the file actually steals all passwords off an individual’s computer. The subject line of the scam email reads: “Facebook Password Reset
Confirmation! Customer Support.” Anyone receiving the message should immediately delete it and not click on any attachments or links.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Rogue ISP Goes Down, but Coming Back for More
PC World reported that Troyak, a rogue ISP that controlled vast numbers of international computers which stole data codes and was taken offline last week, is possibly gaining power again. Troyak was taken down after
other networks that supplied its connectivity to the Internet were deluged with complaints about its traffic’s contents. Troyak is thought to be based in Europe and it is seeking other ISPs to carry its traffic without much luck. As a result, Troyak’s
administrators have been hacking into other networks in an effort to get back online.
Source: PC World, 3/17/2010
Beware Email from the “DHS” — It’s Malware
US-CERT is warning computer users about a malicious email that is circulating in the wild impersonating the Department of Homeland Security. The messages may contain attachments or
encourage users to click on a link which can then launch the Zeus Trojan.
Source: US-CERT, 3/17/2010
MOBILE SOFTWARE & PLATFORMS
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Amazon Adds Mac to Kindle App Platforms
Amazon announced it has released a Mac version of its Kindle e-reader application. The new version contains most of the same features as those found on version for other platforms, including Whispersync, which lets
users stop reading on one device, and pick up where they left off on another device. The company mentioned that the ability to perform text searches, as well as create and edit highlights and notes, would be added to the app in the near future. The
application is available for free from Amazon’s download page.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Google Updates Maps for Android with New Features, Latitude Widget
Google added several new features to the Android version of its Google Maps mobile application. The most obvious change is a redesigned search results page. The page no longer uses a system of tabs, but rather places
all of the information about a result on a single page. Users may view the standard selection of info, or choose to swipe to a new screen with other facts, such as reviews, and Google Buzz posts about the location. Other updates include a Latitude widget,
which allows users to see where their Latitude-enabled friends are without opening Google Maps, and support for multiple Google accounts in a single installation of the application. A final feature, which will only be available for users of Android 2.1 or
later, is the ability to place a constantly updating map on the user’s homescreen as a live wallpaper.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Opera Releases Consumer-Ready Versions of Mini 5, Mobile 10
Opera announced that it has released its final release versions of both Opera Mini 5 and Opera Mobile 10. The company claims the release marks the availability of its mobile Web browsing experience on almost any
modern mobile phone. Opera Mini 5 is currently available for Java-based handsets, as well as BlackBerry phones. A beta version of Mini 5 is also available for Android, and Windows Mobile. Opera Mobile 10 is currently compatible with Windows Mobile and
Symbian S60-based mobile phones. All versions of the browser are available for download from the company’s download page.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
PayPal Updates iPhone Send Money App with New Features
PayPal announced the release of version 2.0 of its iPhone Send Money app. The application has several new features, including Bump, a method of transferring funds by bumping the user’s iPhone into someone else’s;
Split Check, which allows users to calculate their portion of a dining bill, and reimburse the payer; and Collect Money, which allows for the sending of invoices to groups of people for purposes such as team dues, or joint gifts. The app also comes with
provisions for setting recurring payment reminders, and donating to charities. It is available now for the Apple iPhone, and iPod Touch via the Apple App Store.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
OPERATING SYSTEMS
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Debian Project Announces New Distribution Server
The Debian Project announced that it has installed a new system of servers. The new servers will take over production and distribution of the ISO image files of future Debian distributions. ISO files are meant to be
burnt onto optical media disks, and, in the case of Debian’s usage, provide installation of the operating system. The company claims the new servers are capable of compiling and distributing a new release of the OS in just 2 hours. The previous server took
20 hours to perform the same task.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
PERIPHERALS
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NCR Licenses Two-Sided Thermal Printer to Hengstler
NCR announced that Hengstler GmbH has signed a licensing agreement for its two-sided thermal printing technology. The deal will allow the maker of industrial components to produce, use and sell the unique printers as
part of their banking, transportation, gas dispensing and kiosk applications. The company claims the inclusion of its printer technology will allow Hengstler, and other companies, to both decrease printing times, and reduce environmental impact by
decreasing the amount of paper used.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
PERSONNEL AND ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGES
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Alcatel Appoints New Corporate HR, Transformation Head
Alcatel-Lucent announced Pierre Barabe – the former CEO and chairman of Alcatel France – as head of corporate human resources and transformation, effective May 1st. He will work out of the company’s Paris
headquarters, and will report to Ben Verwaayen. Barnabe replaces the departing Claire Pedini, and will also sit on the Alcatel management committee.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Comcast Names Senior VP for Xfinity Internet, Voice Services
Comcast announced that Cathy Avgiris has been named Senior Vice President and General Manager of Communications and Data Services for Comcast Cable. Avgiris is responsible for all aspects of Comcast’s Xfinity
Internet and Xfinity Voice services as well as the Company’s High-Speed 2go 4G/3G wireless data service.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Deutsche Telecom Announces Restructuring Plans
Deutsche Telecom announced that it intends to restructure its business. The primary goals of the project are to increase revenue and free cash flow. Among the changes planned to accomplish this is an increased TV
footprint in Europe, particularly in Germany, where it intends to become a pay-TV market leader. The company also plans an emphasis on mobile data traffic, which it believes will be an increasingly important business segment. Other areas to undergo
revision are the company’s computing and IT solutions businesses, its fiber-optic Internet access business, and its T-Mobile USA 3G expansion. As part of this announcement, Deutsche Telecom confirmed its financial
guidance for the 2010 fiscal year.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
New Kaspersky Web Site for Portuguese Users Launched
Kaspersky Lab has launched of a new version of its corporate Web site for Portuguese users. The site will contain information concerning current computer threats, news
about Kaspersky Lab’s business, product development and technologies.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Lockheed Martin Appoints Christopher Gregoire as VP and Controller
Lockheed Martin announced that Christopher Gregoire has been named to the posts of Vice President and Controller. He will be replacing Mark Bostic, who will resume his position as Vice President of Accounting
for the company. The new position will see Gregoire handling Lockheed’s financial planning & analysis, government finance and tax interests. Prior to this hiring, Christopher Gregoire served as Accounting Officer and Assistant Controller for the Sprint
Nextel Corporation.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Lockheed Martin Opens Second Security Intelligence Center
Lockheed Martin announced that it has opened its second Security Intelligence Center (SIC) in Denver, Colorado. This center – and the first, located in Gaithersburg, Maryland – serve as the headquarters of
the company’s Computer Incident Response Team (CIRT). Going forward, the two locations will handle all of the information security incidents for Lockheed. Both centers are equipped with Department of Defense approved security systems, as well as access to
classified governmental databases.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Luigi Portaluri Named March Networks’ VP, Sales for European Region
March Networks has named Luigi Portaluri to the position of Vice President, Sales for the company’s Europe, Middle East and Africa operations. Prior to joining March Networks, Portaluri served as Regional
Manager, Western European Sales with Pelco.
Source: Vendor, 3/10/2010
Microsoft Promotes Robert Youngjohns to Senior VP and President, Sales
Microsoft announced that it has promoted Robert Youngjohns to the role of Senior Vice President and President, North America Sales & Marketing. Prior to this promotion, he was serving as Corporate Vice President .
He has been with the company since 2007.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Northrop Grumman Appoints Steven L. Enewold VP of BAMS UAS
Northrop Grumman named Steven L. Enewold its new vice president of Broad Area Maritime Surveillance Unmanned Aircraft System (BAMS UAS). The new position puts Enewold in control of the operations of the BAMS UAS
division, as well the company’s portion of the current Navy maritime surveillance program. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Enewold worked as integrated product team (IPT) leader for the High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) systems.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Northrop Grumman Appoints Janis Pamiljans as New VP of N-UCAS
Northrop Grumman appointed Janis Pamiljans as vice president of its Navy Unmanned Combat Air System (N-UCAS) program. The new title will see Pamiljans handling all aspects of the N-UCAS program, including
preparations for the first test flight of the X-47B surveillance craft. Before this appointment Pamiljans was vice president and program manager of Northrop Grumman’s aerial refueling tanker pursuit. He has been with the company since 1987.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
PCCW Opens New Center with Telecom Malaysia
Pacific Century Cyber Works (PCCW) announced that it has opened a new Point-of-Presence (PoP) at Telekom Malaysia Berhad’s data center in Kuala Lumpur. The company says the new location will allow it to increase its
coverage, and diversify its options for customers in Malaysia. As part of the PoP’s services, Telekom Malaysia will be offering its services and solutions via PCCW’s network.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Raytheon Announces Three Executive Appointments
Raytheon announced a trio of executive appointments. Richard R. Yuse has been appointed President of the company’s Space and Airborne Systems (SAS) business. He will be replacing Jon C. Jones, who passed away
recently. Yuse has been with Raytheon since 1976. Subsequently, Raytheon named John D. Harris II, as its new president, Technical Services Company, the role being vacated by Yuse. Prior to this appointment, Harris served as vice president of the company’s
Contracts and Supply Chain. This role will now be filled by David Wilkins. As VP of Contracts and Supply Chain, Wilkins will join the Raytheon Leadership Team and report directly to Raytheon Chairman and CEO William H. Swanson. Prior to his promotion,
Wilkins served as vice president of contract for Raytheon’s Network Centric Systems (NCS) business.
Source: Vendor, 3/10/2010
PA’s CISO Gets Booted after Unauthorized Security Talk
Computerworld reported that Pennsylvania has fired its chief information security officer, Robert Maley, for allegedly talking publicly at RSA‘s conference earlier
this month about a security incident that occured within the Commonwealth. An unidentified source said that Maley was terminated because he did not have approval to discuss the incident publicly. The security vulnerability he referred to in his talk at the
RSA conference was an issue within Pennsylvania’s Department of Transportation online driver’s test scheduling system.
Source: Computerworld, 3/108/2010
Siemens to Cut Jobs; Revamp IT Solutions, Services
Germany-based Siemens plans to revamp Siemens IT Solutions & Services to focus more on solution areas, with an investment of more than EUR 500 million by 2012. The structure of SIS will be simplified into two units:
a solution unit focusing on systems integration services and industry-related IT solutions – services and solutions that will also benefit the Siemens’ Energy, Industry and Healthcare Sectors; and one on IT outsourcing projects. To date, the IT division
has comprised seven business units. The restructuring will result in the loss of about 4,200 of the division’s 35,000 jobs worldwide, including around 2,000 job losses in Germany. The domestic job cuts will primarily effect major locations in Munich and
Paderborn as well as the Nuremberg/Erlangen metropolitan area.
Source: Vendor, 3/19/2010
Telefonica O2 Appoints Peter Rampling Managing Director of Marketing
Telefonica O2 announced that Peter Rampling has been appointed its new Managing Director of Marketing. Before this promotion, Rampling headed up the Consumer Mobile division at Telef¢nica O2 UK. The new title
will see him reporting directly to the company’s CEO Ren‚ Schuster.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
James Schear to Named Security Director at CO Airport
James P. Schear has been named Federal Security Director (FSD) for Colorado Springs Municipal Airport by the Transportation Security Administration. Schear most recently served as FSD at Baltimore-Washington
Thurgood Marshall International Airport.
Source: TSA, 3/9/2010
Verizon Names President for Network Test Automation Forum
Verizon Communications announced that Keith Kidd, a 30-year telecommunications veteran, has been named president of the company’s newly-formed Network Test Automation Forum. The forum has been launched to promote
interoperability among test tools and to simplify and automate the processes used by service providers, network equipment manufacturers, and other enterprise organizations to test equipment in a laboratory, prior to deployment.
Source: Vendor, 3/19/2010
Verizon Wireless Names Seamus Hyland President, Great Plains Region
Verizon Wireless announced it has named Seamus Hyland as president of its Great Plains Region, a territory that encompasses Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska. The appointment is
effective immediately. Hyland will direct sales and operations, including 924 company-owned stores and authorized agent locations across the Great Plains Region. He succeeds Nancy Clark, who has been appointed to lead a new National Operations team.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
PUBLIC SAFETY
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GAO: Food Security Issues Still Exist in Fighting World Hunger
The Government Accountability Office (GAO) reviewed the types and funding of food security programs that the US government is expecting to contribute in the fight against world hunger. In addition, the GAO studied how
various government agencies are progressing in developing a strategy to address food security issues. In its report, the GAO made several recommendations. Among the suggestions include the Secretary of State creating a definition of food security that is accepted by all federal agencies and the periodic inventory of the agencies’ food security programs.
Source: GAO, 3/11/2010
UK Releases Updated Document for Planning against Terrorism
The UK Centre for the Protection of National Infrastructure has released the third edition of Protecting Against Terrorism, its document on how to create a security plan. The document discusses how security plans need to be multi-layered and have a response at the ready for disaster recovery.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
REGULATORY
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DHS: Virtual Border Fence with Mexico Halted
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is freezing funding for a “virtual” fence designed to detect people illegally crossing the Mexico-US border, after a series of problems. According to DHS Secretary Janet
Napolitano, spending is being halted until the project has been reviewed, and $50 million is being reallocated to other tested technology. The “virtual” fence was started in 2005, expected to be operational in 2011, and consisted of surveillance cameras
and radar. It currently covers an area of the Arizona-Mexico border and will not be expanded any farther. Arizona Senator John McCain has described the “virtual” fence as a “complete failure;” he welcomed the change in plans announced this week.
Source: DHS, 3/17/2010
New Initiatives Added to Enhance E-Verify System
The Department of Homeland Security and the US Citizenship and Immigration Services have announced three initiatives to strengthen the E-Verify system. These
initiatives include a new agreement with the Department of Justice designed to streamline the process in cases of E-Verify misuse; a telephone hotline for employees to improve the customer experience for workers seeking
E-Verify information; and new training videos focusing on E-Verify procedures and policies, employee rights and employer responsibilities.
Source: DHS, 3/17/2010
FCC Launches Broadband Consumer Tools
As the deadline approached for the unveiling of its National Broadband Plan, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) launched two consumer tools: an app for the Apple iPhone
and Android-based smartphones, and a Web-based reporting tool. The tools – located at the agency’s Broadband Plan Web site – are designed to help inform both consumers and the Commission itself about broadband
conditions across the US. The mobile application bundles the Ookla Speed Test and Network Diagnostic Tool together into a single package called “FCC Test.” Users can check their downlink/uplink speeds and network latency against different US-based servers,
and then export the results as a .CSV file. In a press release, the FCC said it may use data collected from the test to analyze coverage and quality on a geographic basis
across the US. The page also includes a Broadband Dead Zone Report where users can identify areas where broadband coverage is not available.
Source: FCC, 3/15/2010
FCC Presents National Broadband Plan to US Congress
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) delivered to Congress a National Broadband Plan setting an ambitious agenda for providing everyone in the US with
high-speed broadband access to the Internet. The agency said the plan is a roadmap to “spur economic growth and investment, create jobs, educate our children, protect our citizens, and engage in our democracy.” In research done as the plan was developed,
the FCC found that while broadband access and use have increased over the past decade, nearly 100 million Americans lack broadband at home today, and 14 million Americans do not have access to broadband even if they want it. Only 42 percent of people with
disabilities use broadband at home, while as few as 5 percent of people living on Tribal lands have access. Some of goals identified in the plan are to: connect 100 million US households to affordable 100 Mbps connections; offer affordable access to
ultra-high speed broadband of at least 1 Gb to anchor institutions such as schools, hospitals and military installations; and make 500 MHz of spectrum available for licensed and unlicensed use. The FCC wants to move Internet adoption rates to 90 percent
from the current 65 percent, wants to promote competition across the sector by ensuring greater transparency, removing barriers to entry, and conduct market-based analysis on broadband price, speed, and availability. Finally, the FCC seeks to provide
every first responder in the US with access to a nationwide, wireless, interoperable public safety network. In addition to independent research and data-gathering, information for the plan was gathered in 36 public workshops, 9 field hearings, and 31
public notices that produced 75,000 pages of public comments. The debate also went online with 131 blog posts that triggered thousands of comments. The plan would restructure the Universal Service Fund in support of its goals; the agency’s task force has
said it will take up to $350 billion to make broadband universally available in the United States.
Source: FCC, 3/16/2010
National Broadband Plan Calls for “Minimal” Fee on Broadband Users
The Federal Communication Commission‘s National Broadband Plan, formally presented to Congress this week, calls for a new “minimal” fee on all US broadband users to help pay for a
$16 billion nationwide emergency response wireless network. Public safety officials still do not have an interoperable network to help them respond to disasters and potential attacks despite calls for such a network since first responders could not
communicate effectively during the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, nor to victims’ needs following Hurricane Katrina.
Source: FCC, 3/18/2010
ICANN Defers Decision on .xxx Domain
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has deferred a decision until June on whether to allow the creation of a “.xxx” Internet suffix as a domain location for adult/pornographic material.
ICANN has initiated a 70-day process of consultations on the domain name proposal, which supporters say could help parents block access to porn sites, and could result in porn sites “cleaning up their acts.” Skeptics point out that use of the “.xxx” suffix
would be voluntary, and would not keep such content away from minors, and that porn sites would likely keep their existing “.com” storefronts, even as they set up shop in the new “.xxx” domain name, thereby giving people even more ways to find pornography
online. Online pornography is big business and it is likely those pushing for the .xxx domain will ultimately prevail. ICM Registry first proposed the “.xxx” domain in 2000. ICANN has rejected it three times since then. An outside panel last month
questioned the board’s latest rejection in 2007, prompting the board to reopen the bid.
Source: ICANN, 3/15/2010
SEARCH
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Bing Adds Night Sky View to Bing Maps
Bing has added support for the World Wide Telescope (WWT) project to its mapping service. The addition allows users to choose a location on the ground and be presented with a simulated view of the night sky from that
location. Additionally, the application uses the Bing Maps API to allow users to explore the star, planets, and other celestial bodies in similar fashion to their map exploration. The Web app also includes numerous databases and information sources to
educate users on all types of celestial objects. As an added feature, the WWT layer contains limited support for integrating its sky view into the street level imagery on Bing Maps. This function currently only works in some locations.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Bing Adds Reverse Image Search Engine to its Offerings
Microsoft‘s Bing announced that it has added a new reverse image search feature. Users may now take an image and use the search engine to find other versions of the same, or a
very similar image online. The company claims this is useful for finding larger or smaller versions of an image, or finding out more information about certain images, such as paintings. The search engine said that users can also add further filters to
search results, for example file format, or maximum size.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Google Creates “In Stock Nearby” Search Tool
Google launched a new feature on its Product Search page. The new tool presents users with a blue dot when searching for certain items. When users click on the dot they are presented with a list of local stores which
have partnered with Google to list stock levels for that item. The company currently has partnerships with Best Buy, Sears, Williams-Sonoma, Pottery Barn, and West Elm which allows its to access the stock levels of each store. If the item is found at a
local establishment, the user will be told whether it’s “in-stock,” or in “limited quantities” status. If users choose to purchase the item they can access the full functionality of Google’s mapping software to obtain directions to the store they have
chosen. Google is also encouraging companies with well maintained stock level databases to apply for inclusion in the new program.
Source: Vendor, 3/11/2010
Yahoo Named Exclusive Mobile Search Provider of Telefonica Spain
Yahoo and Telefonica announced that the mobile carrier’s Spanish subsidiary has chosen Yahoo’s search as its official mobile search provider. Users will be able to use Yahoo
Search’s standard functionality, as well as receive offers for wallpaper and ringtones via the search engine. The mobile search will also feature sponsored links provided by the carrier’s emocion portal.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
SECURITY FLAWS & FIXES
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Flaws Discovered in Apache HTTP Server
Some critical issues have been reported in Apache HTTP Server. An advisory provides further details.
Source: Secunia, 3/10/2010
Apple Releases Advisory, Update for Safari
Apple Safari contains multiple critical vulnerabilities. The vulnerabilities are reported in versions prior to 4.0.5. Apple issued an advisory and users should
immediately update to version 4.0.5.
Source: Secunia, 3/12/2010
HP Broadcom Issue Results in Advisory, Fix
A vulnerability has been reported in Broadcom Integrated NIC Management Firmware for HP PCs. The flaw is caused by an unspecified error in the Broadcom Integrated NIC Management firmware and can be exploited to execute
arbitrary code. The vulnerability is reported in 1.x versions prior to 1.40.0.0, and 8.x versions prior to 8.08. An advisory offers further information and users
should update to version 1.40.0.0 or 8.08 (available via softpaq SP47557).
Source: Secunia, 3/16/2010
IBM Advises on HTTP Server Flaw
IBM‘s HTTP Server contains a critical vulnerability that has required the vendor to release an advisory. A fix is available.
Source: Secunia, 3/16/2010
Two Microsoft Security Bulletins Get Updated
Microsoft updated two of its security bulletins. The vendor corrected registry keys in the workaround for the MS10-016 bulletin and
added verification registry keys for the revised packages depicted in MS10-015. Both bulletins are considered important.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
Microsoft Revises Advisory for Internet Explorer
Microsoft updated a security advisory regarding a critical flaw in Internet Explorer that could result in a remote code execution. The
vendor added an automated Fix it solution to apply or undo the workaround for disabling the peer factory class on Windows XP or Windows Server 2003.
Source: Vendor, 3/12/2010
Mozilla SeaMonkey Contains Flaws, Requires Update
Multiple issues have been found in Mozilla SeaMonkey. The vulnerabilities are reported in versions prior to 1.1.19, and users are asked to immediately update to resolve the issues. Mozilla has posted multiple
advisories on its Web site.
Source: Secunia, 3/18/2010
OpenOffice Update Available from SuSE
SuSE has updated OpenOffice with an advisory and a fix. Users should apply updated packages via YaST Online Update or the SUSE
FTP server.
Source: Secunia, 3/17/2010
SuSE Issues Updates
SuSE has released a fix for multiple packages via its YaST Online Update and the SuSE FTP server. More details are available from the vendor’s advisory.
Source: Secunia, 3/15/2010
SECURITY PRODUCTS & CONTRACTS
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New Products Detect Contraband Phones in the Pen
CellAntenna rolled out cell phone detection products that can help law enforcement detect contraband phones in the prison system. As part of its Cell Phone Threat Management portfolio, CellAntenna is offering
CJAM DT 200, CJAM DT 1000, and CJAM DT to aid in the detection of cell phones in small facilities like prisons, universities, and public venues.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
New Blog Offers Safe Surfing Tips
F-Secure is launching Safe and Savvy, a blog that provides information to keep people safe online, discusses smart social networking, and protects critical content. The new Safe and Savvy blog aims to be less
technical and more practical and conversational, offering computer users information on how to stay safe while surfing the Web.
Source: Vendor, 3/9/2010
RSA Shows Off DLP Suite 8.0
RSA has enhanced its Data Loss Prevention (DLP) Suite and added more than 70 new features for scanning, workflow, reporting, and global content processing. RSA DLP Suite version 8.0 offers offline endpoint
protection for Web and Instant Messenging traffic when users are disconnected from the corporate network.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Trend Micro Updates Hosted Email Security
Trend Micro has rolled out Hosted Email Security 2.0. It consists of anti-malware technology to halt malicious URLs embedded in email. Pricing for Trend Micro Hosted Email Security begins at $40 per user. Trend
Micro Hosted Email Security Inbound Filtering starts at $32 per user.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Verisign to Provide Code Signing Certificate for Windows Marketplace
Verisign announced that it has signed a deal with Microsoft which calls for the company to provide its code signing services for applications distributed via Windows
Marketplace for Mobile. The new application store will be the source of applications for the upcoming Windows Phone Series. Verisign describes the Code Signing Certificate as “virtual shrink wrap,” designed to insure users that no malicious content is
included with the product they are purchasing. Any tampering with the software will result in the breakage of the Certificate, and alert all involved parties of the breach in security.
Source: Vendor, 3/17/2010
VeriSign Plans Massive Expansion of its System Capacity
VeriSign plans on spending $300 million on upgrading its system’s capacity during the coming decade, according to Enterprise Security Today. The company will increase its maximum capacity for requests from its servers from its current 4 trillion per day, to the area of 4
quadrillion per day, a thousandfold increase. A spokesman from VeriSign claims the move is part of an effort to deal with an ever-growing amount of traffic, and news, or event related spikes in usage. The article also predicts the company will see growth
in traffic due to emerging Internet connected products, such as Internet-enabled televisions.
Source: Enterprise Sec, 3/17/2010
SERVERS
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Dell Announces Servers, Workstations, Management Software
Dell introduced nine new models of PowerEdge blade, rackmount, and tower servers, and three Precision tower workstations, each supporting Intel’s new Xeon 5600 “Westmere-EP” series processors. Dell also introduced new
system management features for its PowerEdge servers, via the Dell Lifecycle Controller and Dell Management Console. The applications were created to offer power management, and speed system deployment, updates, workload migration, hardware configuration,
and diagnostics, from the desktop to the data center, Dell claims.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
IBM Announces Lineup of New Two-Socket X86 Servers
IBM announced an update to its family of two-socket x86 servers. The new offerings feature 50% more cores, and 40-60% better performance, according to the company. The new servers fall under either the category of
System x M3 servers, or blade servers. All of the new systems are running on Intel Xeon 5600-series processors.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Mandriva Updates Enterprise Server
Mandriva announced the availability of an update for its Mandriva Enterprise Server 5 (MES 5). The update is available to members of the company’s subscription program. The new MES 5.1 release includes improved
virtualization scalability via Kernel-based Virtual Machine technologies. Among the update’s other benefits are the integration of the company’s Mandriva Directory Server (MDS), as well as reduced boot-up times, and modular server installations. MES 5.1 is
available now.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Teradata 12 Database Achieves ISO/IEC 15408 Certification
Teradata announced that its Teradata 12 Database has achieved a security evaluation for conformance to the Common Criteria for Information Technology Security Evaluation. The evaluation successfully tested
compliance with the requirements of the International Standard Organization and the International Electrotechnical Commission, ISO/IEC 15408. The company also announced that the next iteration of its data base server, the Teradata 13 Database, is currently
listed as “in review” for the same certification.
Source: Vendor, 3/12/2010
SMARTPHONES
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Sprint to Launch Nexus One Smartphone
Sprint announced that it will offer Google’s Android-based Nexus One, with pricing and launch date to be announced soon. Sprint said that, based on square miles, it offers twice the 3G coverage of AT&T and 10 times
the coverage of T-Mobile, whose 3G networks also support the Nexus One. Sprint already offers two Android-based devices: the Samsung Moment and HTC Hero.
Source: Vendor, 3/18/2010
Google Denied Trademark for Nexus One Smartphone
Google’s trademark application for its Nexus One smartphone has been denied, according to a US Patent and Trademark Office ruling filed last week. The ruling, which has been noted on several blogs and news sites, says Google’s application was denied
because of “a likelihood of confusion” with a related trademark held by Integra Telecom, based in Portland, Oregon. Integra’s “Nexus” trademark was registered in 2008, according to public records, and the
company offers a telecommunications service under that name, according to its Web site. In a statement reported by Dow Jones Newswires, a Google spokeswoman said: “We continue
to claim rights to the Nexus One trademark in the United States, and plan to respond to the office action from the US Patent Trademark Office.”
Source: DowJones, 3/18/2010
Google Adds AT&T, Rogers to List of Nexus One Carriers
Google announced that its Nexus One smartphone can now be purchased in a version fully compatible with the US AT&T and Canadian Rogers networks. The previous model of the Nexus One could function on these networks,
however, it was limited to using the slower 2G, or EDGE, network speeds. The new model is available as an unlocked handset directly from Google’s online store. As part of the new compatibility, Google also announced that it would now ship this model of
Nexus One to Canadian customers.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Sprint Debuts Motorola i890 on Push-to-Talk Network
Sprint announced the availability of the Motorola i890 on its Nextel National Network. Priced at $129.99 with a two-year service agreement on a new-line activation or eligible
upgrade and $50 mail-in rebate (excluding taxes), the Motorola i890 is available with Nextel Direct Connect calling plans in all Sprint sales channels, including Sprint retail stores. The company said the smartphone features a 2.0 megapixel camera and
camcorder with fixed focus and 4x digital zoom, built-in MP3 player, and stereo Bluetooth. It also offers the ability to switch from an active push-to-talk call to an interconnect voice call with one touch of a button.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
SOCIAL MEDIA
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AOL Creates Desktop, Android, iPhone Clients for Lifestream
AOL announced that its Lifestream social networking tool is now available as a standalone desktop client, as well as a mobile application for the Android, and iPhone operating systems. The tool allows users to aggregate
their social networking activities on Facebook, Twitter, Digg, YouTube, and other sites within a single application. Additionally, AOL announced that it has added support for Foursquare and MySpace to its compatible networks. The company claims that the
service already has more than 2 million users. The various Lifestream Clients are available now as beta applications from the company’s download page.
Source: Vendor, 3/11/2010
Google Adds Template Designer to Blogger
Google announced support for new templates on its Blogger service. The Blogger Template Designer is part of the blogging service’s experimental offerings know as Blogger in Draft. The update comes with 15
preconfigured templates, which the blog owner may then customize using stock photos, fonts, and multiple layouts. The new service is available on a test basis from the In Draft page now.
Source: Vendor, 3/16/2010
Google Launches Google Reader Play
Google announced a new method of accessing its Google Reader content. Google Reader Play is a media-rich, slideshow styled page which presents users with items Google believes they may find interesting. The new feed
is designed to entice users who do not wish to take the time to set up custom feeds with their preferred content. Users of Reader Play will be presented with generalized items which have received higher levels of interest from Google Reader users. However,
if the user chooses to sign in while viewing Reader Play, he or she will be presented with a rating system, which will help the feed better tailor itself to the interests of the user. Google also said that users with curated Google Reader accounts can also
review their feed content from the new site via a “View in Reader Play” option.
Source: Vendor, 3/10/2010
Salesforce.com Releases Developer Preview of Chatter
Salesforce.com has launched a developers preview of its Salesforce Chatter social networking tool. As part of the launch, the company has created the Chatter DevZone. A social forum which utilized Chatter to
allow potential developers to communicate and collaborate around the platform. The company hopes this move will entice software designers to take advantage of the ability to integrate Chatter’s social networking aspect into future Force.com apps.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
Twitter Creates @anywhere, Allows Users to Tweet from Partnered Sites
Twitter announced the imminent launch of a new set of partnerships. The new “@anywhere” program will allow Twitter users to tweet from a variety of pages, without ever having to navigate away from their current page.
The initial partners for this program include Amazon, AdAge, Bing, Citysearch, Digg, eBay, The Huffington Post, Meebo, MSNBC.com, The New York Times, Salesforce.com, Yahoo!, and YouTube. The idea behind the formation of this network of sites is preventing
users from needing to navigate away from their current page when they find something on it they wish to tweet about. No exact date for the commencement of the rollout has been announced.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
STANDARDS & PROTOCOLS
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NIST Releases Two Draft Security Publications for Public Comment
The US National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) announced that a draft report entitled Maintaining and Using Key History on Personal
Identity Verification (PIV) Cards, has been released for public comment. NIST also released for public comment a draft version of Guide for Security Configuration Management of
Information Systems.
Source: NIST, 3/18/2010
WEB COMMERCE
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Unica Announces Microsoft Silverlight Support for NetInsight
Unica announced that its NetInsights online measurement tool now supports measurement and analysis for Microsoft Silverlight applications. NetInsight is available as both an on-site solution, and an on-demand
option.
Source: Vendor, 3/15/2010
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