VIA introduces new dual LAN mobos

VIA Technologies has launched a new series of mini-ITX mobos to be called the EPIA CL-Series. Aimed at the low-end networking or home markets, the boards feature onboard dual LAN, in a small 17 by 17 cm size. VIA says they also have applications in small network operations such as firewalls. ...more

BitTorrent uploader convicted for copyright infringement

The world's first conviction for copyright infringement over BitTorrent file-sharing networks was passed yesterday. Unemployed 38-year-old Chan Nai-ming of Hong Kong was convicted of copyright infringement after uploading three blockbusters to BitTorrent networks, although he denied the charge, reports the China Post. It seems an ill-boded defence to make considering his username on the service was 'Big Crook'. ...more

French court rules against fair use for DVD copies

French consumers are no longer entitled to make personal copies of DVDs after France's highest court overturned an earlier ruling. Last April, the Paris Court of Appeal ruled that copy protection on DVDs infringed consumer rights because it prevented fait usage. The court gave DVD distributors one month to remove the DRM from their discs. ...more

Sony lines up the Cyber-shot T30

Sony has unveiled the Cybershot T30, its slim, high-spec digicam. Like the Cybershot T9, the T30 also has a combination of the Super Steadyshot and High Sensitivity collectively known as Double 'Anti-blur' technology. Sony boasts that even without the use of flash you can confidently snap away and not have to worry about possible blurry results. ...more

Microsoft announces Xbox online plans

Momentum for the launch of the Xbox is increasing with the announcement of broadband online gaming features for the PlayStation-busting console. Microsoft has revealed that it has formed a strategic alliance with NTT Communications Corp to provide a high-speed broadband online gaming service in Japan. The new service, which will use NTT's ADSL service, is expected to launch in 2002 (the Xbox will launch in Japan at the end of 2001), but a specific date hasn't been given. ...more