News Briefs for the Week Ending 10/01/2010






News Briefs for the Week Ending

10/01/2010



Copyright 2010, Faulkner Information Services. All Rights Reserved.

Docid:00020009

Publication Date: 1010

Publication Type: NEWS



ACQUISITIONS & DIVESTITURES


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AOL Acquires Thing Labs, Makers of Brizzly Web-Based Social Software

AOL continued its recent shopping spree by announcing its acquisition of Thing Labs, maker of the Brizzly family of Web-based social software. AOL says it plans to incorporate aspects of the Brizzly platform into its
Lifestream offerings, and AIM, its instant messaging platform. Former Thing Labs employees will be absorbed into AOL’s Consumer Applications group. Former CEO Jason Shellen, and former Vice President of Product and Engineering Christopher Wetherell, will
now be leading the AIM product suite, including Lifestream. No financial terms for the acquisition were disclosed.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

AOL Acquires Video Syndication Platform 5min Media

AOL announced that it has acquired 5min Media, one of the largest video syndication platforms on the Web. The company says it plans to use the acquired company’s collection of more than 200,000 categorized, tagged, and
rated videos to expand its multimedia offerings, and provide additional incentive to potential advertisers. No financial terms for the transaction were released.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

CA to Acquire Capacity Management Firm Hyperformix

Computer Associates (CA) announced that it has agreed to acquire Hyperformix, a provider of “capacity management software for dynamic physical, virtual, and cloud IT infrastructures.” CA says the acquisition will help it
expand its IT virtualization management portfolio with improvements such as methods of overcoming VM sprawl, application performance guarantees, enhanced service level agreements, and a reduction in costs. The transaction is expected to close during the
company’s third fiscal quarter, which ends December 31, 2010. No financial terms for the deal were announced.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

CSG Systems to Acquire Intec

CSG Systems announced it plans to acquire Intec for about US$372 million. The combined entity will be the second largest business systems solution provider in the world,
according to CSG. Both companies deliver billing and business support solutions to telecom service providers.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Ericsson Submits Winning Bid for Nortel’s MSS Business

Ericsson has submitted the winning bid for Nortel Networks‘ multi-service switching (MSS) business. Structured as an asset purchase, Ericsson will pay $65 million on a cash and
debt-free basis, beating out a $39 million bid made by PSP Holding. Ericsson will buy all of Nortel’s MSS assets in North America, the Caribbean, and Latin America in addition to Nortel’s Data Packet Network and Shasta product group’s patents. MSS will be
the third unit Ericsson has acquired from Canada-based Nortel, which is operating under bankruptcy protection, having already purchased Nortel’s CDMA and GSM businesses. The MSS deal is subject to court and regulatory approvals.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

HP Completes the Acquisition of 3PAR

Hewlett-Packard (HP) completed the purchase of global utility storage provider 3PAR, for $2.35 billion USD, or $33 per share. The 3PAR portfolio will help expand HP’s storage
capabilities, into enterprise class, public and private cloud computing environments. Its solutions will be added to the HP Converged Infrastructure portfolio, which includes servers, storage networking, and management technology. Further details on
product integration will be announced at a later date. The acquisition was completed by means of a tender offer – by an HP purchasing subsidiary – for all outstanding shares, followed by the merger of that subsidiary with 3PAR. As a result, 3PAR is now a
wholly owned HP subsidiary.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

IBM Signs Agreement to Acquire BLADE Network Technologies

IBM announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire BLADE Network Technologies, maker of software for routing data and transactions between servers. IBM said
more than half of Fortune 500 companies are BLADE customers, and that more than 50 percent of its System x BladeCenters currently attach to or use BLADE products. IBM plans to incorporate BLADE’s switching technology directly into its own products. The
deal is expected to close some time during the fourth quarter of 2010, subject to regulatory approval. No financial terms for the transaction were released.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

TIBCO Acquires OpenSpirit Corporation

TIBCO announced that it has acquired the OpenSpirit Corporation, a provider of application integration solutions for the oil and gas market. The privately held company maintained a customer base of over 200 clients
spread across 57 countries. OpenSpirit’s CEO, Dan Piette will continue to lead the development of the business in his new role as a TIBCO employee. No financial terms for the transaction were disclosed.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

ALLIANCES & JOINT VENTURES


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ADC Expands on Distribution Deal with Graybar

ADC extended its distribution agreement with Graybar, for it to distribute InterReach Fusion distributed antenna system products. Graybar is a distributor of electrical, communications, data networking, supply chain and
management products, and logistics services.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

blinkX Licenses Video Index to Mobile App Maker Evri

blinkX announced that it has formed a partnership with Evri, a real-time content discovery engine specializing in mobile applications. The company will now be able to incorporate blinkX’s video index into its
EvriThing Tech, EvriThing Gossip and EvriThing Baseball mobile apps. No financial terms for the deal were disclosed.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Harris Announces Formation of Harris Atlas Joint Venture

Harris Corp announced that it is teaming up with Atlas Telecom, one of the largest telecom companies in the Middle East to form a new joint venture. The new company, dubbed Harris Atlas, will offer a range of
intelligence solutions, such as enhanced video management and geospatial 3D visualization, all tailored specifically for customers in the UAE.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

McAfee Extends Security Alliance with Riverbed Technology

McAfee and Riverbed Technology, an IT performance company, have expanded their partnership to deliver Web 2.0 security capabilities on the Riverbed Services Platform. The McAfee
Web Gateway application delivers security for Web 2.0 traffic.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

NEC, EPRI Group Testing Electricity Storage System

NEC Japan is working with the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) to conduct joint field trials on an electricity storage system, using NEC lithium-ion batteries. In the first
phase, a 25 kilowatt system will be tested as an initial step toward future smart grid applications. Followup electric utility demonstrations of larger systems are also possible, as part of an EPRI – US electric utility industry research collaborative.
Initial testing will be carried out at EPRI’s Knoxville, TN, US laboratory, using the NEC battery system to examine functionality for US grid compliance. It will include power electronics and NEC’s IT network technology, which it says is necessary for
power control and energy management.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Opera Signs with ZTE for Pre-Loaded Opera Mini on Future Handsets

Opera announced that it has signed an agreement with mobile phone maker ZTE to have its Opera Mini mobile browser pre-loaded on numerous handsets. ZTE’s handsets are compatible
with more than 500 carriers across over 140 countries. No financial terms for the agreement were announced.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Qualcomm, Asiaspace to Work Together on LTE TDD Technology

Wireless technology company QUALCOMM and Asiaspace WiMAX announced they have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding to explore future deployment of Long Term
Evolution Time Division Duplex (LTE TDD) technology in Malaysia. Asiaspace currently owns a license to provide wireless technology services on the 2.3 GHz band in Malaysia.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

BUSINESS CONTINUITY


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ASIS International Rolls Out Resilience Management Software Suite

ASIS International launched the Organizational Resilience Management Software (ORMS) suite, a series of online tools to help organizations address the risks of disruptive events. ORMS helps private and public
sector entities implement the ANSI/ASIS Organizational Resilience Standard, generate necessary documentation, and identify opportunities for improvement in security, preparedness and continuity programs.

Source: Vendor, 9/24/2010

Cyber Storm Exercise Challenges US Incident Response Capabilities

This week, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) held Cyber Storm III, a three-day long, DHS-sponsored exercise for cyber incident responders to assess cyber response capabilities. The exercise simulated a
large-scale cyber attack on critical infrastructure across the nation. The goal of the exercise is to examine and strengthen collective cyber preparedness and response capabilities, involving thousands of participants across government and industry.

Source: DHS, 9/27/2010

Researchers Develop Model Determining Disaster Impact on a City

Purdue University researchers have created a computer model that predicts how a disaster’s impact on critical infrastructure would affect a city’s social and economic fabric, a potential tool to help reduce the
severity of impacts, manage the aftermath of catastrophe and fortify infrastructure against future disasters. The model simulates how a disaster affects elements such as bridges, roads, municipal water and wastewater treatment services, along with vital
economic and social components such as employers, hospitals, schools and churches.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

CALL CENTER


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Verizon Business Upgrading San Jacinto College’s Call Center

Verizon Business announced that it has been awarded a $5 million contract from San Jacinto College (Houston, Texas) to upgrade the college’s legacy network and call center operations. Under the contract,
Verizon Business will upgrade the network to an Internet-protocol-based platform that supports unified communications and collaboration solutions such as audio, Web, and video conferencing. Verizon Business will also provide a range of contact center
services to help the college manage incoming calls – which can top 66,000 in the peak enrollment month of August, Verizon said.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

CARRIER SERVICES


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Clearwire, Sprint Roll Out 4G Internet in New Markets

Clearwire announced the availability of its CLEAR 4G Internet service in Pttsburgh, PA and the twin cities – St. Paul and Minneapolis, MN. Sprint, which uses Clearwire’s
network for its 4G service, announced the availability of 4G service in the same cities. Clearwire’s CLEAR is now available in 56 metro regions; Sprint offers 4G in 55 markets, at present.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

MetroPCS Launches Second 4G LTE Network

MetroPCS, a flat-rate no contract wireless carrier, announced its second Long Term Evolution (LTE)
deployment in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. This follows its recent 4G LTE network launch in Las Vegas, which was the first commercial LTE launch in the US. MetroPCS has monthly LTE plans for $55 and $60; its only LTE-compatible handset at present is the
Samsung Craft. MetroPCS’ 4G LTE footprint in Dallas/Ft. Worth does not yet cover the entire metro area, but will be expanded to cover the majority of the carrier’s existing CDMA network footprint, MetroPCS said. LTE rollouts in the remaining MetroPCS
markets are planned for later this year and early 2011. MetroPCS said it plans to add more devices and services on the network, as well. Telecom equipment maker Ericsson provided much of the infrastructure for the
Dallas/Ft. Worth deployment, including base stations, IP-RAN, packet core, and network design and engineering.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Telstra Lays Out Current Accomplishments and Future Goals

Telstra released a statement on the company’s recent progress in accomplishing its goal of growing market share, reducing operating costs, and improving customer service. Its milestones included opening more than
125 new retail locations, introducing small business mobile plans, and launching the T-Hub fixed home phone and T-Box IPTV services. Its customer service enhancements include improving service calls, eliminating charges for calling the company, and
establishing a dedicated team to help people move their equipment into a new home. Future goals include an additional 6% improvement in customer satisfaction scores, a 10% increase in retail productivity, and a 20% increase in business revenue.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

CLOUD COMPUTING


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Cable & Wireless Selects Cisco’s UCS to Power its Enterprise Cloud

Cable & Wireless announced that it has selected Cisco‘s Unified Computing System (UCS) to power its enterprise cloud computing solution. C&W’s goals for the new service are to provide
a secure cloud computing platform, cut hardware costs, improve energy efficiency, and enhance disaster recovery capabilities. The service will be made available to pilot customers soon, with a full release to follow some time later this year.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

CSC Launches Cloud Foundation Services for Oracle

Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) announced the launch of its new CSC Cloud Foundation Services for Oracle. The new line of services are designed to help businesses transition various aspects of their computing
infrastructure to Oracle’s cloud-based products. This includes areas such as software, databases, middleware, applications, and management software. The company says the services will lead customers through every step of the transition, from selecting the
software, to creating a private cloud to run it on. More information about this new offering can be found at CSC’s cloud services page.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

Dell Updates the Virtual Integrated System Architecture

Dell added new capabilities and services for its Virtual Integrated System (VIS) architecture, including support for heterogeneous server, storage, networking, and multi-hypervisor environments. The VIS was created to
help transition to an open cloud model. It eliminates the need to create a technology silo or “rip and replace” one’s data infrastructure, according to Dell. It can provision application workloads and unify heterogeneous compute, storage, and networking
assets within a common pool of resources.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Orange, Cisco, EMC, VMware Form Cloud Business Alliance

France Telecom‘s Orange Business Services – together with Cisco, EMC, and VMware – have formed a
business alliance called Flexible 4 Business that will offer end-to-end cloud computing services for enterprises. Orange Business Services will be the service provider for the business alliance and will deliver pay-per-use managed cloud solutions based on
the technologies from the four partners. The Flexible 4 Business cloud services portfolio will initially be composed of infrastructure-as-a-service solutions, including private cloud and back-up services, and software-as-a-service solutions, including
security and unified communications services.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Gmail Adds Long-Desired Ability to Disable Conversation View

Google is finally allowing users to turn off the “Conversation View” display format of its Gmail service. The new display method follows the same format used by most email clients since their inception, with each
individual message creating its own separate entry. Users wishing to activate this oft-requested feature may do so by signing into Gmail and visiting their settings page. Within settings, users will find
a new Conversation View section with the option to deactivate the feature.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

HP Backs HubCast Cloud Print Service Trial

Hewlett-Packard (HP) is working with HubCast to test the ability of HubCast’s Cloud Print Service to manage a global network of HP Indigo digital press-equipped print service
providers. Through the service, documents are routed to the Cloud Print Service site nearest the final delivery point, and printed on demand. The HP-sponsored trial is open to North American firms, which can upload and print one document for delivery
anywhere in the HubCast coverage area.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Verizon Business Expanding Global Data Centers to Meet Cloud Demand

Verizon Business announced that it is enhancing its data centers around the globe “to meet the increasing demand for a full range of cloud services.” Within the next year, Verizon Business will expand its
flagship cloud computing services suite – Computing as a Service – into centers in San Jose, California.; London; and Canberra, Australia. In addition, CaaS data centers to serve US government customers will come online in Miami and Culpeper, Virginia
during the first quarter of 2011. As part of its infrastructure enhancement project, more than 5,500 additional server cabinets for enterprise clients will be added to Verizon Business premium Internet data centers in Paris, Dublin, London, Frankfurt,
Belgium, Canberra, Hong Kong, and throughout the US. Verizon said the expansion enhances its ability to deliver private clouds via more than 200 global data centers connected to Verizon’s MPLS network, Private IP.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

COMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS & EQUIPMENT


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Alcatel to Provide 3G HSPA+ Upgrade for Etisalat

Alcatel-Lucent signed an agreement to provide Etisalat Sri Lanka with 3G high speed packet access plus (HSPA+) wireless technology to upgrade its GSM/EDGE network capacity. Alcatel will serve as the sole
supplier for the all-IP, broadband network, and will provide converged radio access and a mobile packet core capable of supporting 2G, 3G, and longterm evolution subscriber data management, and end to end policy control. 480 GSM/EDGE sites and 515 3G HSPA
sites will be deployed in all.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

BT Announces Plans for Three New Broadband Expansions Across UK

BT announced a trio of new broadband rollouts. The first will occur in the Park exchange area of Dundee, and will bring access to high-speed broadband to about 5,700 homes. The second, and largest, of the trio will take
place in Edinburgh across the Fountainbridge, Newington, and Waverley areas. This phase of the expansion will add an additional 24,000 homes to the existing 109,000. Lastly, 3,500 more homes will be added in the area of Dunblane. BT expects to have
completed all of the aforementioned expansions by Autumn 2011. When completed, the services will be offered on an open wholesale basis to companies wishing to provide consumer broadband services.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

BT Announces Large Scale Broadband Plans for Cornwall Region

BT announced a new GBP 132 million broadband initiative for the region of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. The project is expected to bring high-speed internet access, with speeds up to 100 Mbps, to between 80 and 90
percent of homes and businesses in the area. The rollout is being partially funded by the Cornwall Council and other European contributors. The project is expected to create or protect about 6,000 jobs over its lifetime.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

Cox to Expand Ethernet Services Through CENX

Cox Business announced that it is expanding its Ethernet Services through its relationship with CENX, which operates a Carrier Ethernet
exchange. Cox Business established an initial connection to CENX’s Carrier Ethernet Exchange in Los Angeles earler this month.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

Harris Debuts PR&E Oasis Digital Audio Console

Harris Corp announced the launch of its new PR&E Oasis on-air and production console for radio broadcasters. The purpose of the new product is to provide customers with a clear upgrade path to digital broadcasting
that can be adopted on their own schedule. The Oasis comes in 8 and 12-channel models, and does not rely on PC engines and assemblies like some of its competitors, says Harris. Other features includes two assignable telco channels, swappable input cards,
and USB recording and playback.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Juniper Provides Technology to Upgrade Several Networks

Juniper Networks implemented subscriber management and security technology for Tring Communications, an Albanian Internet, phone, and digital TV services provider. According to Juniper, the infrastructure – which
supports the use of future IP applications, including video – will help Tring deliver future, bandwidth hungry, next generation applications, including Internet access, gaming, IPTV, and video on demand services, as well as subscriber wholesaling. Juniper
also deployed the complete network infrastructure for IP2 Internet’s new data center in Holland. The infrastructure will allow the ISP to add additional services as needed.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Level 3 Wins Contract from ARE-ON

Level 3 announced that it has been selected as the primary provider of colocation services and high-speed Internet Protocol service over IPv6 for the Arkansas Research and Education Optical Network (ARE-ON). ARE-ON
is a statewide consortium focused on education, research, and economic development. The two-year agreement expands on an existing agreement under which Level 3 delivered infrastructure solutions to ARE-ON.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Motorola Provides Radio System for VA First Responders

Motorola‘s Solutions business reported it completed an 11 channel ASTRO 25 digital radio system for Virginia’s Loudoun County in the US. Virginia’s Loudoun County today announced that it has formally accepted its
nine site, 11 channel ASTROr 25 digital radio system from the Motorola Solutions business of Motorola, Inc. (NYSE: MOT). The emergency response system – developed for use by fire, EMS, and law enforcement – spans 11 sites. It is the first large scale
deployment of APX 7000 multi-band portable radios, Motorola said. It provides in-building, interoperable communications and time division multiple access (TDMA) technology across all towns in Loudoun County. A second phase, in 2012, will include the
addition of Project 25 Phase 2 TDMA technology.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

ZTE Announces Ultra Wide Band 100G Carrier Network Solution

ZTE announced the launch of what it is calling "the industry’s most complete 100G end-to-end carrier network solution." The new UWB (Ultra Wide Band) 100G carrier network solution is designed
to eliminate traffic bottlenecks resulting from increased demands for network data bandwidth. The system uses ZTE’s ZXR10 T8000 technology to increase the number of simultaneous services supported, and thus increase the network’s overall capacity. The
new system is available now, and is being marketed to large telecom carriers.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

ZTE Announces Gecko CDMA Micro Cell

ZTE announced the launch of its new Gecko, a “multi-carrier super-mini CDMA base station.” The new unit measures 26cm x 18cm x 5.8cm and is designed for use by carriers in need of filling in dead zones, including
indoor locations. The Gecko has a 300 meter range, and can support 31 1x users or 64 EV-DO data users.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

CONFERENCING


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AVI-SPL Releases Cameleon Telepresence

Tampa, Florida-based audio/video solutions company AVI-SPL announced the availability of Cameleon Telepresence with embedded Cisco/TANDBERG technology. Cameleon is a multifunction telepresence solution
designed by AVI-SPL to address customer requirements that fall below T3 capabilities, but call for the Cisco/TANDBERG end-to-end experience, the company said. This latest version of Cameleon Teelepresence incorporates Cisco/TANDBERG C-series video
codecs.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

CONSULTING & MANAGED SERVICES


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Accenture Signs 5-Year Application Outsourcing Agreement with DnB NOR

Accenture signed a five-year application outsourcing agreement with DnB NOR, a Norwegian financial services group. The deal calls on Accenture to develop, implement, and manage a range of applications to be used
in the support of the company’s life and pension insurance services. No financial terms for the agreement were announced.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

CA Launches Same Day Support for IBM z/OS V1.12 Mainframes

Computer Associates (CA) introduced its new Day One support services for IBM‘s z/OS V1.12 mainframes. The services will
provide support for both IBM System z hardware and software. CA also announced that it will release a CA Mainframe Chorus for the aforementioned systems in the near future.

Source: Vendor, 9/24/2010

HP to Design and Manage New Learning Info System

HP Enterprise Services was awarded a $20 million USD contract – with the State of Florida’s Agency for Workforce Innovation – to design, launch, and maintain its new Early Learning Information System (ELIS). ELIS
is a consolidated information system that manages the early learning programs used by 300,000 families of children who attend Voluntary Pre-K Education and School Readiness programs. HP will develop a centralized child care management system, and will
deliver application development and modernization services, such as attendance tracking, provider payment processing, case management, eligibility determination and reporting, and online self-service portals. HP says the system will help foster data
sharing – between educators, parents, providers, and state agencies – assisting with identifying fraud and overpayments, and helping manage administrative processes.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

IBM Joins with ADP for Joint Offering of Tax Services

IBM announced that it has teamed up with ADP to jointly offer a new lineup of “hassle free” tax services designed to combine ADP’s online products with the client’s own payroll system. The integration of the two systems
will be accomplished through the use of IBM’s Cast Iron software. Features of the new services will include pre-configured connectors to automate a variety of payroll tasks, drag and
drop payroll mapping, and corrupt data detection.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS


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Adobe Updates Scene7 Publishing Platform

Adobe announced the launch of an update for its Scene7 cross media publishing platform. Features of the update include mobile experience optimizations, dynamic banners, end-to-end video publishing capabilities for a
range of mobile devices, and full integration with Adobe’s CS5 Creative Suite. The updated version of Scene7 will be available in early October 2010.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

CRM


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CSC Releases Update for Customer Service Accelerator

Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) released an update for its Customer Service Accelerator (CSA) software. Upgrades to the new edition include mobile insurance enhancements, Web 2.0 functionality, and service oriented
architecture (SOA) enhancements. The mobile enhancements include the ability to perform more than 140 insurance transaction from any location using a smartphones, while the Web 2.0 features include click-to-chat functionality.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

CYBERCRIME


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Iran Denies Stuxnet Affected Nuclear Plant

Reuters reported that the "Stuxnet" computer worm many security experts believe may have been created or supported by a nation-state did not affect Iran’s nuclear plant or government systems, but did
hit computers of staff at the plant, as well as Internet service providers. The Reuters report cited Iranian government officials. Some Western cyber security companies suggested the Stuxnet attack could only have been conducted "with nation-state
support," and that industrial plants in Iran were the target. Later in the week, several news services reported the worm was having a significant effect on computers in China, as well. Security vendor Symantec
has published extensive research and recommendations concerning the Stuxnet worm in its Security Response Blog.

Source: Reuters, 9/29/2010

Kaspersky Provides Stunning Info on Gaming Fraud

A new article from Kaspersky Lab describes how cybercriminals have made large profits by
selling stolen gaming accounts and in-game items. Sending phishing emails is an old technique used by cybercriminals to gain access to account data, but even security-aware recipients can be fooled by today’s phishing emails. Cybercriminals have upgraded
the quality of phishing attacks, making the appearance and content of such emails more sophisticated.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

Scotland Yard Arrests 19 in Multi-Million Dollar Online Banking Scam

The Daily Mail reported that UK police have nabbed 19 alleged cybercriminals who used the malicious Zeus Trojan to defraud computer users in both the US and the UK of their banking credentials. The criminals are
suspected of having stolen upwards of USD $30 million from online users with weak security technology on their computers.

Source: Daily Mail, 9/29/2010

DESKTOPS


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Acer Gateway Introduces New ZX Series All-in-One PCs

Acer International‘s Gateway unit released new models for its ZX One series of all-in-one desktop PCs, as well as an Aspire One Z3100 all-in-one system. The Intel-based ZX4951 and ZX6951 include
a 21.5+ inch high definition display, wireless keyboard, and touch gadgets for touchscreen capabilities. Each uses Windows 7. The ZX6951 also includes a TV tuner. They range in price from $899.99 to $999.99 USD, depending on configuration.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

DEVELOPMENT SOFTWARE


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AWS Launches SDK for PHP to Expedite Web App Creation

Amazon Web Services (AWS) launched a new SDK for PHP. The company says the new kit should allow developers to get started creating scalable PHP Web applications in minutes. The SDK includes a library, code samples, and
documentation. It also supports the development of Web apps for many of AWS’ services, including Simple Storage Service (Amazon S3), Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2), Amazon SimpleDB, and others. More information about the SDK is available from
its download page.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

ENTERPRISE APPLICATION SOFTWARE


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HP Introduces 9000 Server Migration Software

Hewlett-Packard (HP) released migration software for moving from outdated HP 9000 servers to new Integrity systems. The servers actually use incompatible versions of HP-UX. The 9000 series is based on HP’s now defunct
PA-RISC processor, while the new Integrity servers use Intel chips. HP also released a new Serviceguard module for setting up and configuring HP-UX or Linux clusters, to help manage uptime for critical applications. It is available for customers running
the Oracle E-Business Suite of applications.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Novell Launches Version 4.1 of Access Governance Suite

Novell has released an updated version of its Novell Access Governance Suite. The software is designed to provide businesses with a centralized
control point for managing corporate permissions, and assuring regulatory compliance. Version 4.1 adds Novell Access Request and Change Manager to the governance solution. The company says these new additions help the software maintain continued compliance
over the lifecycle of the solution. Novell Access Governance Suite 4.1 is available now.

Source: Vendor, 9/23/2010

Novell Launches Updates SUSE Linux Toolkit

Novell announced the launch of an updated version of its SUSE Linux Toolkit. The company says the latest edition features the ability to create Amazon EC2 images, new virtualization formats, and advanced data center
capabilities. Novell says this will allow ISVs to create optimized application images in minutes after the implementation of the Toolkit. More information about the latest updates to the SUSE Linux Toolkit is available from its product page.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

FINANCIAL


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Amerisource Bergen Approves Additional $500 Million Share Repurchase

Amerisource Bergen announced that it has authorized a $500 million share repurchasing program. The program will commence upon the completion of the current repurchasing effort, which has $98 million worth
of stock left to acquire. The company currently places its total outstanding shares at 277 million.

Source: Vendor, 9/23/2010

AT&T Board Declares Quarterly Dividend

AT&T‘s board of directors has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.42 a share on the company’s common shares. The dividend is payable on November 1, 2010, to stockholders of record at the close of business on October 8,
2010.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Raytheon Announces $0.375 Quarterly Dividend

Raytheon announced that its board of directors has approved a quarterly dividend of $0.375 per share of outstanding common stock. This amount will be payable on November 4, 2010 to all shareholders of record by the
close of business on October 5, 2010.

Source: Vendor, 9/24/2010

TIBCO Reports Strong Growth in Q3 2010 Results

TIBCO announced its financial results for the third quarter of its 2010 fiscal year ending August 29. The company’s revenue totaled $184.5 million, a 23% increase from the corresponding quarter of 2009, which produced
$150.3 million in revenue. Net income totaled $17.4 million, or $0.11 per share, again this marks a significant improvement year-over-year, with 2009’s total for the same period having come in at $14.9 million, or $0.09. The company can attribute the
majority of its growth to an increase in new contracts, with 13 deals having been made for $1 million or more.

Source: Vendor, 9/23/2010

GOVERNMENT CONTRACTS


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$1.2 Billion Slated for New NSA Data Center

The Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a $1.2 billion contract to a consortium of construction companies to build a data center for the National Security Agency located near
Salt Lake City, Utah The new facility will support the Comprehensive National Cybersecurity Initiative, a program that was created to enable the federal government to protect sensitive network data.

Source: NextGov, 9/27/2010

Cable & Wireless Wins UK Government Contract

Cable & Wireless recently announced it has won a global telecommunications framework contract with the UK government to provide a highly resilient global network and a suite of advanced IP services. The UK’s Foreign &
Commonwealth Office is the first government department to purchase services from the framework under the 82 million pound (US$129.5 million), five and a half year agreement. C&W said the deal will provide a global telecommunications framework for managed
services to more than 150 countries. The carrier also said it expects other UK government departments to contract separately for services under the
agreement.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Harris Wins $10 Million Air National Guard Broadband Upgrade Deal

Harris Corp announced that it has received a $10 million task order from the US National Guard Bureau to upgrade the IT infrastructure at 8 of its Air National Guard (ANG) facilities. The contract focuses on the
installation of an integrated, high bandwidth, structured cabling system to increase the information transmission capacity of the facilities.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

$5.5 Million Government Contract Awarded to L-1 Identity Solutions

L-1 Identity Solutions has received a $5.5 million order from an existing US government customer for its Automated Biometric Identification System license capacity. The order increases the existing operating capacity of
ABIS system software currently being utilized by the Department of Defense.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

Lockheed Martin Receives $365 Million Extension of AFSS Contract

Lockheed Martin announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted it a $365 million, three-year contract extension on its Automated Flight Service Stations (AFSS). The contract, which began
in 2005, calls for the company to continue to expand and support its infrastructure of hubs and technology enhancements which make much of modern flight planning and monitoring possible.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

Northrop Grumman Among Awardees for $2.8 Billion Social Security Deal

Northrop Grumman announced that it is among the contractors selected for a new $2.8 billion effort to improve the IT services and business processes of the US Social Security Administration. As part of the so
called Information Technology Support Services (ITSS) contract, the company will receive a total of three task orders over a seven year period. Northrop Grumman’s tasks will include supporting the areas of application and business planning; data
administration; and software engineering management.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Raytheon Receives 1-Year Contract Extension from NGA

Raytheon received a one-year contract extension from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) on its Information Assurance Services (IAS) contract. Signed in 2005, the contract calls for Raytheon to
protect the NGA from all cybersecurity attacks. Specific tasks encompassed by this goal include program management; security engineering assessments; intrusion detection; and cybersecurity incident response. The contract extension has a total value of
$88.7 million

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Raytheon Receives Pair of Replacement Contracts from NASA Worth $1.7B

Raytheon announced that it has received two contract from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center worth a total of $1.7 billion over the next 8 years. The contracts replaced a previous duo of agreements, worth $1.4
billion, and were signed on behalf of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for the Joint Polar Satellite System. The satellites are used for such tasks as civil weather reporting, and climate study.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

HEALTHCARE SYSTEMS


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Dell to Provide EMR for West Maryland Health System

Dell was selected by Western Maryland Health System (WMHS) to provide electronic medical record and eClinicalWorks technology for its hosted, subscription-based software. Dell said the deployment will help improve and
coordinate patient care while streamlining administrative tasks across the local healthcare community.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Juniper Switches, Routers Deployed for VA Healthcare Network

Juniper Networks provided switching and routing technology for Carinion Clinic’s new data network in Roanoke, VA, US, as the nonprofit healthcare group looks to support its expanding clinic and medical school. The
network connects more than 600 physicians across eight hospitals.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

INDUSTRY GROUPS


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Open Cirrus Cloud Research Test Bed Enlists Four Members

Hewlett-Packard (HP), Intel, and Yahoo announced four new organizations will join Open Cirrus, a joint,
global, multiple data center, open source test bed, focused on cloud computing research. The new members – the China Mobile Research Institute, the Supercomputing Center of Calicia, China Telecom, and Georgia Tech’s Center for Experimental Research in
Computer Systems – expands the group’s footprint to 14 locations, worldwide. OpenCirrus was launched in 2008 to promote open collaboration among industry, academic, and government organizations by removing financial and logistical barriers to research into
data intensive, Internet scale computing. To date, the test bed has more than 80 research projects underway.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

INTERNET


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US Wants Sweeping Changes to Internet-Watching Capabilities

The New York Times reported that US federal law enforcement and national security officials are preparing to seek sweeping new regulations for the Internet, arguing that their ability to wiretap criminal and
terrorism suspects is “going dark” as people increasingly communicate online instead of by telephone. According to the Times report, officials want Congress to require
all services that enable communications – from BlackBerry email to Facebook to Skype – to be technically capable of complying if served with a wiretap order. The mandate would include being able to intercept and unscramble encrypted messages. The Times
said the Obama administration plans to submit to Congress next year a bill enabling the changes. Public interest groups like the Center for Democracy and Technology told the Times the proposal had “huge implications” and
challenged “fundamental elements of the Internet revolution including its decentralized design.”

Source: NYTimes, 9/27/2010

US Government Pushing for Transition to IPv6 Addresses

GovExec reported that the Obama administration has issued a mandate for federal agencies to upgrade their public Web sites to IPv6 within two years. “It’s going to make network providers who are on the fence about
IPv6 jump off the fence because the federal government is now speaking very clearly that it is going to adopt IPv6 fully,” said Ram Mohan of Afilias, which operates Internet domains.

Source: GovExec, 9/30/2010

AOL Buys TechCrunch

AOL announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire TechCrunch Inc, the parent company of TechCrunch.com, and its network of technology-related sites. The deal will see
the collection of blogs publishing content under the AOL umbrella, while retaining their editorial independence. This is not the AOL’s first foray into the arena of technology blogs; the company also owns the well known tech news site Engadget.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

ICANN Announces Proposal by ACDR for UDRP Status

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) announced that it ahs received a proposal from the Arab Center for
Domain Name Dispute Resolution (ACDR) to be recognized under the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP). The ACDR is a combination of the Arab Intellectual Property Mediation and Arbitration Society (AIPMAS) and the Arab Society for
Intellectual Property (ASIP), and is based in Amman, Jordan. A public comment forum has been created to collect opinions on the proposal. The forum will remain open until October 28, after which
ICANN will evaluate the ACDR proposal and all submitted comments before ruling on the matter.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

Internet2 Commends FCC on E-rate Decision

Internet2 joined several other organizations in commending the Federal Communication Commission’s decision to include the expansion of broadband options under its E-rate rules. Internet2 is particularly pleased
that the decision allows for institutions to use the funds to acquire both dark fiber and "lit" services from research and education networks and local governments, as well as from commercial providers. The consortium believes the change
will allow previously restricted organizations to both expand their communication abilities, and to use their federal funding to greater effect.

Source: Vendor, 9/23/2010

Microsoft Shutting Down Windows Live Spaces, Switching to WordPress

Microsoft announced that it will be shutting down its Windows Live Spaces blogging service and migrating its users to WordPress-based blogs. The company said it chose Automattic, owner of the WordPress blogging
service, because of its scale, security, and dedication to innovation. The 30 million current Windows Live Spaces users will be offered a migration service to convert their blogs to WordPress hosting. Users who are not ready to migrate yet are being
offered the option of downloading an image of their blog, postponing migration, or deleting their space. Microsoft has set up a forum for users needing further help, or users with questions
about the transition process.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

WikiLeaks in Disarray, Says Former Number 2

A former WikiLeaks staffer told German newspaper Der Spiegel that the whistle-blower Web site is in
complete disarray
. WikiLeaks, of course, has been in the media glare since it published classified documents from the US military and since its chief, Julian Assange, has been the focus of sexual misconduct allegations. Daniel Domscheit-Berg,
former second in command at WikiLeaks, said the site is currently plagued by technical problems, losing staff, and almost completely unmanaged. He claims the staff is overwhelmed, and that Assange has not stepped in to reorganize. While the paper’s
interview did not reveal any specifics about WikiLeaks’ future, Domscheit-Berg himself did not rule out the possibility of starting a competing site of his own.

Source: Der Spiegel, 9/27/2010

LAPTOPS & TABLETS


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Acer Gateway Introduces Laptop Model with WiMAX

Acer Gateway unveiled its NV59C66u laptop, which includes integrated WiMAX hardware. The NV series is available with either Intel or AMD processors, and a potential 500-GB hard drive. A base model costs $479.99 USD
($699.99 USD with WiMAX). This is in addition to Acer’s new 18 inch Aspire AS8943G laptop – for gaming and home theater media enthusiasts – and AspireRevo AR3700 nettop model, with Intel processor.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Avaya Developing Touchscreen iPad Competitor

Avaya is preparing an A175 touchscreen tablet PC that measures 11.5 inches and runs on Android. The tablet – which will compete with Apple’s iPad – will offer support for Wi-Fi, 3G, and 4G connectivity, and costs
$1,500-$2,000 USD.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Lenovo Announces New ThinkPad 11 Notebook

Lenovo announced the ThinkPad 11, a basic laptop powered by AMD processors. It has an 11.6 inch screen. It will retail for $449 USD.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

RIM Unveils BlackBerry PlayBook Tablet Device

Canada’s Research in Motion (RIM) unveiled the newest competitor to Apple’s iPad, the BlackBerry PlayBook, which RIM describes as a
“business-centric” tablet designed to appeal to the firm’s substantial enterprise customer base. RIM unveiled PlayBook at its Devcon developer conference. The BlackBerry PlayBook will have a 7-inch screen with front- and rear-facing cameras to enable video
conferencing, and a brand new operating system – the BlackBerry Tablet OS – which is based on QNX software. RIM acquired QNX in April. The Playbook will have Bluetooth and Wi-Fi built in, but not 3G. A data connection can be enabled by tethering the
device to a RIM Blackberry smartphone, widely available from carriers worldwide. RIM expects to ship the device to corporate customers and developers in October but it will commercially available until early in 2011. Pricing has not been set.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

Toshiba Adds 3D Features to A665-3D Notebooks

Toshiba’s Digital Products Division – part of Toshiba America Information Systems – announced new features to enhance 3D playback for its Satellite A665-3D series laptops, including the ability to convert 2D
DVDs to 3D, as well as help connect to an HDTV. A665-3D series systems have a 15.6 inch widescreen, and include a pair of wireless, active shutter glasses compatible with most 3D PC games, 3D Blu-ray movies, photos, videos, and 3D Web sites.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

LEGAL


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Nortel Sues CTDI for Alleged Counterfeit Phones

Total Telecom reported that Nortel Networks is suing a Pennsylvania company for $130 million, accusing it of using its knowledge of Nortel’s equipment to produce counterfeit phones.
The lawsuit alleges that Communications Test Design Inc (CTDI) sold more than $60 million worth of unauthorized Nortel products from 2005 to 2009 and cost the bankrupt Nortel at least $44 million in profit. Nortel says that CTDI used parts and information
it obtained under a deal to repair Nortel phones to manufacture and sell counterfeit models.

Source: TotalTelecom, 9/28/2010

M2M


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Telstra Launches New M2M Service on Next G Network

Telstra announced the launch of its new Web-based machine to machine (M2M) platform, the Telstra Wireless M2M Control Centre. Along with Jasper Wireless, Telstra plans to offer a range of M2M product solutions to
run on its Next G network. As part of the launch of the service, Telstra will be providing approved partners with a developer’s kit, including software, SIM cards, and a trial data allowance to design products to run on the new M2M service. The Telstra
Wireless M2M Control Center will be available beginning September 29 via Telstra Business and Telstra Enterprise & Government account managers.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

MALWARE WATCH


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Fortinet Warns of Malware Hitting Mobile Phones

Fortinet issued a warning that the Zeus botnet is targeting mobile phone users. The malware looks to defeat the security processes that banks use to confirm transfers initiated online, enabling hackers to approve
transactions unbeknown to users. The malware stores all of the sensitive information that it steals from the phone.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

LinkedIn Users: Beware of Trojan-Laced Emails

Cybercriminals are directing LinkedIn users to click on malicious links that lead them to the Zeus Trojan, according to a story on CNET. The email attack looks like a standard
LinkedIn invite confirming a contact, but users are redirected to a Web page where the malware, which steals personal data, is hiding. The threat targets Windows users.

Source: CNET, 9/28/2010

SonicWALL Spots Malicious Resume Email Campaign

SonicWALL observed a resume email spam campaign that contains a zip archive attached with malicious executable file inside it. The spam campaign involves emails pretending to contain CV documents attached with the
email.

Source: Vendor, 9/24/2010

Trojan Disguised as Microsoft Security Warning, Says Sophos

Sophos is warning computer users about a malicious file that poses as a Microsoft Security Essentials Alert but is really a Trojan. The fake file detects a file known as
Unknown Win32/Trojan and then convinces the user to pay for security software to remove it.

Source: Vendor, 9/26/2010

MOBILE APPS


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Amazon Releases Kindle for the Web; Announces Kindle for PlayBook

Amazon announced a pair of new products in its line of Kindle e-reader software. The first is a version of its e-reader mobile app for the upcoming BlackBerry PlayBook tablet. Few details were released, given the
pre-release nature of the platform. However Amazon did confirm that the PlayBook version will include its WhisperSync technology, which allows readers to sync bookmarks between multiple apps and devices. Amazon’s second new product comes in the form of a
Kindle store for the Web. Unlike previous options, this allows customers to read sample chapters via Web browsers, without the need for any downloads or installations. As part of this new initiative, Amazon is allowing Web site to embed sample chapters of
Kindle titles on their pages, which will result in a share of the revenue, should readers decide to purchase the sampled title. More information about Kindle for the Web can be found at its product page.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

Opera Announces Specialized Opera Mini Version for TELE2 Russia

Opera announced the release of a new carrier-specific version of its Opera Mini mobile Web browser for TELE2 Russia. The customized version includes one-click access to games, movies, and music, as well as an embedded
billing system which lets users charge their purchases directly to their TELE2 monthly bill. The software is being offered to customers as part of the new 2.9 RUR (7 eurocents) a day “Unlimited Opera Mini” from the carrier.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

Sybase Launches New Mobile Sales for SAP CRM App on BlackBerry Phones

Sybase, now owned by SAP, announced the launch of its new Sybase Mobile Sales for SAP CRM application for BlackBerry handsets. The so called “super app” is designed to provide users
with real-time access to analytics data, and the ability to conduct workflow processes from the road. Other features of the application include compatibility with BlackBerry push notifications, and integration with BlackBerry calendars and inboxes. The app
is scheduled to be available some time in November 2010. More information can be found at Sybase’s home page.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

Verizon Adds FiOS TV 411 Widget for Mobile Access

Verizon announced that its FiOS TV Visual 411 Widget now lets viewers send business listings directly to text message-enabled Verizon Wireless mobile devices. In
addition, Verizon said, sending business listings to customers who subscribe to the VZ Navigator results in immediate access to turn-by-turn directions to the business from wherever the customers are.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

MOBILE PLATFORMS


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Alcatel Provides Mobile Wallet Service for Voice Commerce

Alcatel-Lucent reached an agreement with financial services group Voice Commerce to provide payment and mobile money services via its Mobile Wallet Service (MWS). Presumably, mobile service providers can use
MWS to deliver regulated, end to end financial services. Voice Commerce – which recently launched Cashflows services – operates financial services for provisioning payments and e-money services.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

PERIPHERALS


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Dell Debuts New LED and Laser Color Printers

Dell is introducing eight new LED and laser color printers for small office and consumer users, including the A4/Letter color laser class printer, which it says is the world’s smallest. The new printers cost between
$229 and $549 USD, including a model that supports Wi-Fi.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Motorola USA Announces New Bluetooth Offerings

Motorola USA announced its new Oasis Bluetooth headset, which will be available October 3rd from AT&T and S10-HD, Bluetooth stereo headphones that will be available October 24th
via retailer Best Buy. Each retails for $79.99 USD.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

PERSONNEL AND ORGANIZATION


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Three Cleawire Board Members Resign

Clearwire announced that Daniel R. Hesse, Keith O. Cowan, and Steven L. Elfman have resigned from the Clearwire board of directors. Hesse, Cowan, and Elfman are all officers of Sprint Nextel and were nominated to the Clearwire board by Sprint, which is a majority shareholder in Clearwire. Clearwire said it was informed by Sprint that the decisions to resign were made “out of an abundance of
caution to address questions raised by Clearwire regarding new developments in antitrust law.” Clearwire’s board structure allows for 13 members, seven of which Sprint has the right to appoint. The remaining four Sprint appointees to the Clearwire board
are unchanged, and Sprint has reserved the right to appoint new members to the Clearwire board at a later date.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

Comcast, GE Name Steve Burke as NBC Universal CEO

Comcast and GE announced that Stephen B. Burke will become chief executive officer of NBC Universal (NBCU) when Comcast’s acquisition of 51% of NBCU from GE closes. Burke, 52, would succeed NBC Universal President
and CEO Jeff Zucker, who will continue to serve in his position until the close of the transaction. Comcast and GE also said that there will be no additional structural or personnel announcements until the deal closing process and timing is certain. The
acquisition must still be approved by federal regulators.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Former Cisco Exec Joins Dell as VP, Networking Group

Dell announced it hired former Cisco executive Dario Zamarian to head its networking business as VP and GM. Zamarian is a former VP of systems and network management with Cisco.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Frontier Names New Division Leaders

Frontier Communications has appointed three executives to oversee its Mid-State territory, Illinois, and Ohio regions. Heading up Frontier’s Mid-State territory will be Rhonda Lutzke. Frontier’s Central
Region Mid-State Territory comprises Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and Wisconsin. Managing Frontier’s Illinois operations will be Michael C. Flynn, who will oversee the state’s ongoing broadband rollout and operations. Dave Davidson has been appointed as
Senior Vice President and General Manager for Ohio.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

IBM Opens Three New Data Centers in Europe

IBM announced the opening of three new analytics centers across Europe. The new facilities are located at Zurich, Switzerland, Budapest, Hungary and Vienna, Austria. The center in Zurich will focus on financial industry
analytics, while the Budapest location will primarily support the study of advanced mathematics, and the Vienna facility will take on such tasks as supply chain optimization, smart grids, strategy management, and planning optimization.

Source: Vendor, 9/23/2010

Lockheed Martin Taps Patrick M. Dewar for VP of Strategy and Dev.

Lockheed Martin announced that it has named Patrick M. Dewar as its new senior vice president, Corporate Strategy and Business Development. He will replace Robert H. Trice, who has announced his plans to
retire in February. Dewar was promoted from his previous position at Lockheed of vice president of International Business Development.

Source: Vendor, 9/23/2010

SAIC Opens Cyber Innovations Center in Columbia, Maryland

Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) announced the opening of its new Cyber Innovation Center (CIC) in Columbia, Maryland. The company says the CIC will serve as a collaboration space in its efforts to
innovate new cybersecurity solutions. The center includes a technical solutions lab, R&D and training spaces, and demonstration and prototyping facilities.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Toshiba Opens Dedicated SCiB Manufacturing Plant

Toshiba Japan opened a second dedicated production facility for rechargeable super-charge ion batteries (SCiB), in Kashiwazaki, Japan. Manufacturing lines will start up gradually, with mass production to begin in
February 2011. According to Toshiba, SCiB technology offers a high performance solution for use in un-interruptible power systems.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

PUBLIC SAFETY


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FCC Seeks Input on Flexible Use of Public Safety Spectrum

The FCC’s Public Safety and Homeland Security Bureau (PSHS) announced that it is seeking comments on the feasibility of allowing for flexible use of the 700 MHz public safety narrowband spectrum. Specifically, the
bureau wants to determine whether allowing public safety organizations the option of using 700 MHz narrowband spectrum for broadband services would be operationally feasible and technically compatible with existing and future public safety narrowband
operations. The PSHS is also seeking input on potential restrictions on flexible use that might be required to prevent harmful interference to narrowband operations or impairment of narrowband interoperability. According to its press release, the bureau does not propose any change to the current rules governing the 700 MHz narrowband spectrum; its purpose is to gather information in order to develop a
better understanding of options for future evolution of the 700 MHz narrowband spectrum that the FCC could make available for the public safety community.

Source: FCC, 9/29/2010

FCC Moves to Strengthen 9-1-1 Call Centers

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) last week took action to help strengthen the ability of Public Safety Answering Points
(PSAPs, or 9-1-1 call centers) to quickly locate wireless 9-1-1 callers and dispatch first responders to assist them during emergencies. 9-1-1 call centers can pinpoint the address of most calls made from landline phones but up to 40 percent of emergency
calls made from mobile devices fail to provide accurate caller location information, known as Enhanced 9-1-1 (E9-1-1) service, the FCC said. In recognition of this issue, the FCC unanimously adopted a Second Report and Order that requires wireless
carriers to meet the FCC’s wireless location accuracy requirements in more numerous and geographically smaller areas. The FCC also unanimously adopted a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that will explore how to further improve the location capability
of 9-1-1 and E9-1-1 services for existing and new voice communications technologies, including new broadband technologies associated with the deployment of Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG 9-1-1) networks.

Source: FCC, 9/29/2010

GAO: Fusion Centers Require Better Perfomance Measures

The federal government recognizes the importance of fusion centers, where homeland security, terrorism, and other intelligence information is shared. Because the fusion centers face operational challenges, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) assessed the support that they receive from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The GAO noted in its report that the DHS must
create steps to develop and implement standard performance measures for centers and commit to a timeframe for completing them.

Source: GAO, 9/29/2010

DHS Needs to Evaluate Container Security Technologies: GAO

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report after assessing the progress that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has made in defining performance standards for container security technologies to ensure that such containers are not used for illicit purposes. The GAO reported that DHS should test and evaluate the container security
technologies consistent with all the operational scenarios DHS identified for potential implementation.

Source: GAO, 9/29/2010

NIST: Standard Cigarette Available for Fire-Resistant Testing

Because cigarettes are the number one cause of house fire fatalities in the US, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is using a new standard
to push home furnishing manufacturers to continue to use a type of cigarette that burns the strongest when testing the fire resistance of their materials. NIST SRM 1196,”Standard Cigarette for Ignition Resistance Testing,” consists of 10 packs of uniform
cigarettes designed to replicate the ignition performance of the “hottest burning” brand and are intended to be placed on a mattress, a piece of upholstered furniture, or furniture components to verify if these items have been manufactured to meet
guidelines for resistance to ignition by burning cigarettes.

Source: NIST, 9/28/2010

Senate Gives Nod to Facility Security Bill

GovExec reported that the US Senate has approved the Supporting Employee Competency and Updating Readiness Enhancements for Facilities Act, which would reform Federal Protective Services (FPS) operations. The FPS,
which is supervised by the Department of Homeland Security, is in charge of security for 9,000 federal buildings, but has come under fire after investigations revealed lax security.

Source: GovExec, 9/29/2010

REGULATORY


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Alcatel Files Two Patent Applications

Alcatel-Lucent reported it filed two patent applications with the US Patent and Trademark Office, related to managed services delivery innovations. The patents address an Operational Competency Center
methodology, for delivering managed network operations services, and a “Bottoms-Up” operations cost estimation methodology.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS


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Gilat Releases SkyEdge II Upgrade

Gilat Satellite Networks announced that it has released Dynamic Channels as part of its SkyEdge II version 6.4 software release. The SkyEdge II VSAT platform is based on both DVB-S2 ACM and DVB-RCS transmission
standards. Dynamic Channels is a new channel allocation algorithm built on top of the DVB-RCS standard. Gilat said it allows VSATs (Very Small Aperture Terminals) to change their channel symbol rate on a burst-by-burst basis, providing a solution for
service providers’ need to continuously change link speeds and manage multiple Service Level Agreements.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Gilat to Provide Orange with Satellite Link for Niger

Gilat Satellite Networks announced that it has signed a corporate sourcing contract with France Telecom for the provision of satellite communications equipment. Under the
agreement, Orange Business Services, the enterprise communications arm of France Telecom, has installed a Gilat SkyEdge II hub at its Bercenay-en-Othe teleport in France. The hub will facilitate the operation of a new cellular backhaul network in Niger.
The network in Niger will be deployed in multi-star topology allowing the expansion of GSM network coverage to remote locations. Gilat said Orange will manage the network from its Bercenay teleport in France, while maintaining direct, single-hop
connectivity between the SkyEdge II terminals installed within the GSM network in Niger.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

SECURITY FLAWS & FIXES


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Microsoft Rushes Out Critical Security Fix for ASP.NET

Microsoft issued an out-of-band security bulletin to address a vulnerability in ASP.NET. This security update addresses a
vulnerability affecting all versions of the .NET Framework used on the Windows Server operating system.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

Microsoft Boosts Hotmail Security

Microsoft has added new security controls to protect Hotmail accounts. The features protect users’ passwords and ensure a secure path so that accounts can be recovered in the
event of a hack. Among the updates are two types of proof for account recovery.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Two Critical Bulletins Get Update from Microsoft

Microsoft updated two security bulletins that are considered critical. The first bulletin concerns a flaw in the Print Spooler service
and the update includes a new link to a Microsoft Knowledge Base article. The other bulletin added a “Compatibility Flags” value to the workaround for Silverlight.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Oracle Patches Sun Solaris

Oracle has released patches to fix a vulnerability in Sun Solaris. An advisory provides more information about these fixes.

Source: Secunia, 9/29/2010

SECURITY PRODUCTS & COMPANIES


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Cyber Commander Advocates Separate, Secure Network

The New York Times reported that the new commander of the US military’s cyberwarfare operations is advocating the creation of a separate, secure computer network to protect government agencies and critical
civilian infrastructure like the nation’s power grid against attacks mounted over the Internet. The officer, Gen. Keith B. Alexander, suggested that such a heavily-restricted network would allow the government to impose greater protections for the nation’s
on-line operations. General Alexander said the White House hopes to complete a policy review on cyber issues in time for Congress to debate updated or new legislation when it convenes in January.

Source: NYTimes, 9/24/2010

Check Point Debuts New Training, Software Program

Check Point Software announced the availability of its R71 training and certification programs that teach customers how to deploy, maintain, and optimize Check Point’s Software Blade Architecture. The new
programs are designed to help security professionals set up and maintain over 30 software blades available including Data Loss Prevention, Intrusion Prevention System, SmartWorkFlow, and SmartEvent.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Harris Introduces Data Extracting USB Drive for Military, Police

Harris Corp announced the introduction of a new USB flash drive designed specifically to quickly extract data from a computer in a military or law enforcement situation. The new devices, called BlackJack, begins
scanning and copying files in under 3 seconds. It can prioritize search terms, partitions, and other parameters to more quickly zone in on the desired files. Harris Corp says that BlackJack is the first device of its kind to feature LED indicators on the
unit itself which alert personnel to the status of its attempts to find the designated files.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Kaspersky Article Talks Antivirus Cloud

Kaspersky Lab released the first article in a series devoted to cloud technologies in the antivirus industry
titled “Antivirus Weather Forecast: Cloudy.” Kaspersky uses the term antivirus “cloud” to refer to the infrastructure that an antivirus company uses in order to process information obtained from the computers of those who use a specific personal product
which can identify new, as yet undetectable threats, in addition to performing other tasks.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

Security Concerns Hinder Web 2.0 App Deployment

McAfee revealed that a survey of more than 1,000 global business decision-makers in 17 countries found that half of businesses were
concerned about the security of Web 2.0 applications such as social media, micro blogging, collaborative platforms, Web mail, and content sharing tools. More than six out of 10 organizations have already suffered losses averaging USD $2 million, for a
collective loss of more than $1.1 billion in security related incidents last year. Brazil, Spain and India led in adoption of Web 2.0 technology for business, while adoption was lowest in Canada, Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

McAfee Paper Details Effectiveness of Security Reputation Systems

McAfee has released a white paper detailing how the proper information enables security
decision makers to make electronic security reputation systems effective, while ensuring near-term security policy and a long-term strategy. The document also addresses the dynamic nature of electronic threats and the need for an entity’s reputation to
reflect its current state at any given moment, and discusses the four elements that ensure high confidence in calculating reputation: data volume, data longevity, data trustworthiness and, most important, correlation across a broad set of data.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

McAfee 2011 Security Products Available at a Store Near You

McAfee has begun selling its 2011 retail editions of Total Protection, Internet Security, and AntiVirus Plus software in retail stores. In addition to availability in stores and online at its Web site, McAfee
consumer products are offered through a network of global partners.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

QinetiQ Sells Off North American Division

QinetiQ has agreed to the sale of S&IS, a non-core security operations and access control business within QinetiQ North America Mission Solutions Group, to ManTech International for a total consideration of USD $60
million. S&IS is headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia and provides integrated security management for the US government.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

QinetiQ Technology Deployed on Turkish Pipeline

QinetiQ‘s OptaSense technology has been chosen as the security system for the BTC pipeline, one of the longest crude oil pipelines in the world, on the Turkey section. The OptaSense system is designed to detect,
classify, and locate potential threats to buried pipelines.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

SafeSync Is Newest Security Offering from Trend Micro

Trend Micro announced the availability of SafeSync, a new application that features automatic online backup and data synchronization of files to a secure online file storage center across multiple computers and
Internet-connected devices. The tool is intended to organize data and eliminate the manual effort of moving files from one PC to another.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Unisys to Provide Security Software Systems for USDA

Unisys announced that it has received a contract from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to install and maintain a framework of security software tools. The goal of the contract is to create a system
by which the USDA can secure and monitor the infrastructure of its 29 component agencies. As part of the contract, Unisys will be creating a virtual Agriculture Security Operations Center (ASOC), which will serve as a real-time tracker for all security
software at the agency. The agreement has a one-year base period, 4 annual options, and a total value of $18 million if all options are exercised.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

SMARTPHONES


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Report: Microsoft, AT&T to Launch New Smartphones Soon

Dow Jones Newswires reported that Microsoft will formally unveil a lineup of smartphones using the revamped version of its mobile operating system on October 11, and AT&T
will begin offering them four weeks later. Dow Jones cited “people familiar with the launch plans” for its story.

Source: Dow Jones, 9/30/2010

Sprint-Branded, Ruggedized Motorola ES400 to Launch in October

Sprint announced what it says is the first Motorola ruggedized enterprise handheld to be branded and sold by a wireless carrier, the Motorola ES400S. The device is a
Sprint-branded version of the ES400 introduced in June. The ruggedized smartphone runs the Windows Embedded Handheld operating system, offers both CDMA/EVDO and HSPA/GSM radios, and has a 3.2 megapixel camera that doubles as a 1D/2D barcode scanner. It
also has built-in biometric finger swipe security and a customizable “enterprise user” interface. It supports GSM HSDPA/HSUPA and CDMA-EVDO Rev. A telephony, the former allowing worldwide communications and the latter allowing connectivity via the Sprint
network. In a press release, Sprint said the ES400S will be available by the end of October at $499.99 for qualifying business customers or $549.99
with a new line or eligible upgrade, and a two-year service agreement. The Motorola ES400S also requires a Sprint Business Advantage Messaging and Data plan, or an Everything plan with data.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

Limited Edition Droid Available September 30

Verizon Wireless announced that the limited edition DROID smartphone called “R2-D2 by Motorola” will be available online and in selected Verizon Wireless Communication
stores beginning September 30th. Designed to look like the Astromech Droid from the Star Wars movie saga, the DROID R2-D2 will be packaged in a custom box and come with a Star Wars media dock and wired stereo headset.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

SOCIAL MEDIA


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MITRE Creates Business Social Networking Tool

MITRE recently released a new business collaboration tool entitled Handshake. The new solution allows for numerous forms of social networking, including individual profiles, working groups, discussion boards,
messaging, and wikis. The company is touting the primary benefit of the product as its ability to quickly and efficiently make the necessary social connections to proceed with any given project or task a business may face. Interested users can find more
information at the Handshake Web site. However, membership in Handshake is currently limited to MITRE employees and its external partners.

Source: Vendor, 9/30/2010

Twitter to Launch Sponsored Followee Suggestions, Self-Serve Ad System

Twitter is refocusing its efforts to attract advertisers to the site. Twitter’s COO Dick Costolo told The New York Times that Twitter will soon be offering sponsored recommendations
to advertisers. This will ensure they are included in the suggestions of "who to follow" that is presented to all Twitter users. The system will be replacing Twitter’s @earlybird campaign, which never attained the success the company had hoped.
Costolo also revealed that a self-serve system was in the works to allow small- or medium-sized businesses to purchase advertising rights from the social networking site.

Source: NYT, 9/29/2010

STORAGE


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HP Rolled Out New StorageWorks High End Array

Hewlett-Packard (HP) rolled out a new, high end storage array – the StorageWorks P9500 – manufactured Hitachi Data Systems and rebranded by HP. It can manage up more than 300 petabytes
of external storage, and can scale up to 2,000, 800-MB SAS drives. The hardware will also sell as the Hitachi Virtual Storage Platform. HP also introduced the new Elite HPE-490t desktop, an Intel based system with 1TB of hard drive space.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

STREAMING MEDIA


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Alcatel to Provide NZ’s Orcon with Media Delivery Platform

Alcatel-Lucent will deploy its Velocix digital media delivery platform for Orcon, a New Zealand service provider looking to improve Internet video delivery to customers. Velocix will allow Orcon to offer
broadcasters, content distributors, and Web site owners a better connection to broadband users, according to Alcatel. Presumably, this will be available across multiple networks and devices, including PCs, handhelds, and TVs.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

SUPERCOMPUTERS


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Fujitsu Shipping Units for Japan’s “K” Supercomputer

Fujitsu IT Products – Fujitsu‘s high end server manufacturing company in Japan – began shipping the computing units for Japan’s next generation supercomputer: nicknamed the “K” computer. The supercomputer is part of
the High Performance Computing Infrastructure (HPCI) initiative, led by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology. It is being jointly developed by independent research group RIKEN, which is funded by the Japanese government.
It will include more than 800 computer racks, each installed with ultra-fast CPUs in a massively interconnected network. It will use Fujitsu technology for high performance. The system will begin operations in the Fall, 2012.

Source: Vendor, 9/28/2010

VOIP


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Avaya, Skype Partner for Business Communication Services

Avaya and Skype announced an agreement to offer Skype Connect to Avaya customers, enabling customers to make voice over IP calls. Avaya and Skype also plan to deliver a wider range
of communications and collaboration capabilities for large businesses, including presence technology, instant messaging, voice, and videoconferencing. The companies said these services would be an efficient way for a company call center to resolve customer
service inquiries. The enterprise services would be offered in the second phase of the agreement, beginning in the last half of 2011.

Source: Vendor, 9/29/2010

WEB COMMERCE


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AOL Announces Plans for New Project Devil Display Ad Platform

AOL announced the details of its upcoming “Project Devil” display advertisement products. The company is positioning the launch of the new interactive display ads for September 27. The goal of the new type of
advertisements is to draw customers in by providing advertisers with a larger space, and tools to create interactive and immersive display ads. AOL says it has already signed up seven of the world’s leading brands to participate in Project Devil, including
General Mills, Pillsbury, Lexus, and Unilever.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

comScore Lauches Second Generation AdEffx Campaign Essentials

comScore announced the relase of the second version of its comScore AdEffx Campaign Essentials product. Enhancements to the
service include the availability of GRP “overnights,” global campaign reporting, ad delivery verification, and detailed campaign analysis. The company says the new additions are focused on giving companies a real-time method of understanding the
performance of their Web advertising buys.

Source: Vendor, 9/27/2010

Pew Finds Increased Interest in Online Product and Service Research

In its latest study, the Pew Internet & American Life Project found that an increased number of adults are performing online
research prior to purchasing a product or service. Pew reported that 58% of surveyed adults had researched a product or service online prior to making a purchase. This number is up significantly from the 49% who said “yes” when asked the same
question in 2004. The study also found that 24% of respondents have posted an online review for a product following their purchases. The groups most likely to do online research were college graduates, and those making more than $75,000 a year.

Source: Pew Internet, 9/29/2010

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