Mixing lasers and gold for next-generation processors

Patterns of gold burnt into glass blocks could form the computer chips of the future, Nature Science Update reports. Physicists in China and Japan have found a way to draw tiny circuits inside block of glass using a laser. Unlike conventional processors, built by layering wafers of silicon but essentially two-dimensional, the new chips will go up in a third dimension, creating the potential for significantly greater speeds and memory. ...more

Works Suite 2004 geared for October launch

Microsoft's Works Suite 2004 is set for launch 3 October, with new editions of every application except Word and Works. Personal productivity app Works 7.0 and Word 2002 remain unchanged in Microsoft's suite of office software for the home, but Money, Encarta, Picture It!, and AutoRoute all come clad in 2004 attire. ...more

Red Alert over rampant Internet worm

Internet may collapse, warns security organisations and US government. A fast-moving, mutating Internet worm is threatening to render the Net useless within the next two to three days. A joint warning has been sent out by Microsoft, CERT, SANS, ISS and the National Infrastructure Protection Center (NIPC), warning that immediate action must be taken by systems administrators. ...more

Free Software makes play for online role playing games

MMORPG, or massively multiplayer online role-playing games, are big business. With businesses such as Reuters opening 'offices' in Second Life, and digital property changing hands for tens of thousands of dollars, there's money in them there virtual hills. World of Warcraft, Second Life, Lineage - MORPG, or massively multiplayer online role-playing games, are big business. ...more

Eidos WAPS it out

Sole British publishing house, Eidos, has revealed details of a deal to help bolster the burgeoning WAP gaming arena. The Wimbledon-based games company has forged a two-year partnership with Nokia to bring new and existing franchises to the mobile communication network. Under the terms of the agreement, five games in total will be provided. ...more