PlusNet shows off fuller subs figures

PlusNet has announced a 77 per cent increase in broadband subscribers, attributing it in part to its policy of traffic management. Put simply, the system prioritises certain types of Internet usage during busy periods. So people who are using the Web or sending and receiving emails take priority over heavy-use activities sush as p2p file sharing and usenet downloads. ...more

Get yourself organised

Are you waiting for the day when total technological convergence means you won't need to juggle a mobile phone, organiser and any associated accessories? For those of us who can't afford the latest hybrid devices, the ultimate case for all your gadgets is available from Pyrim. The CPTO (or Customer Personal Technology Organiser) is available in a number of custom configurations and will stop all those techno tantrums when you drop your PDA as you try to answer your phone! The CPTO is really just a leather case with custom cut slots to fit your goodies. But don't reach for your credit card just yet - these cases are really the bastion of high-powered businessmen and are priced accordingly. ...more

Oftel hints at price cuts for dial-up Internet

Changes in the way that BT charges ISPs for providing unmetered dial-up Internet connections, announced today, could result in price cuts for consumers, according to industry regulator Oftel. Under the terms of FRIACO (Flat Rate Internet Access Call Origination) ISPs pay BT for the right to provide unmetered dial-up access on BT phone lines. Until now BT has charged ISPs in advance, but Oftel has ruled that in future it must charge in arrears. ...more

IBM signs up Novell and Red Hat for Strategic Alliance

IBM has announced that it is to elevate Linux builders Novell and Red Hat to its highest-tier partner programme with them joining IBM's Strategic Alliance. The deal sees the leading Linux distros eating at the king's table alongside the likes of SAP and Cisco. It opens up a number of synergies for the companies. ...more

Compaq updates its Internet PCs

Compaq has also announced availability of 2GHz Pentium 4 systems, within its updated Presario range. The Compaq Presario 7000T Series - the desktop "Internet PCs" - will feature Intel's latest processor. The most basic configuration starts at $1,499, including a 20Gb hard drive, 128 MB of PC800 RAMBUS memory, 48x CD-ROM drive and a 17" CV735 monitor. ...more