PC Pro review: budget graphics card update

In PC Pro's review of the Sparkle GeForce 6200 TC in issue 126 (out on general sale next Thursday), we mention that a 128MB X300 card should cost around ?40 plus VAT. This comment was based on the Asus Extreme AX300/TD, which is available from UK online shops for this price. However, the majority of X300 cards cost closer to ?60 plus VAT. ...more

ASA backs Freeserve complaints about AOL and Tiscali ads

The Advertising Standards Authority has backed two complaints by Freeserve about advertisements for rival dial-up Internet services from AOL and Tiscali. Freeserve complained about an AOL promotion for a month-long free trial. In the ad, AOL compared its offer with Freeserve's introductory package of three months at a reduced price of ?9. ...more

Google to offer free application downloads

Although overshadowed by the announcement of the Video service, Larry Page also announced the 'Google Pack' in Las Vegas. As rumoured, the Google Pack is a free bundle of tools from Google and other vendors designed to provide a broad set of functions for new computer users. Naturally the pack includes a number of Google tools such as Earth, Desktop, Talk, Picasa - the toolbar for Internet Explorer - and a 'Pack Screensaver' which allows a user to view their own photographs either as a collage or in full screen. ...more

CES: Transmeta to exit chip market?

Transmeta is reportedly planning to exit the chip manufacturing business. The company's plans to produce low-powered chips that provide real competition to Intel and AMD was big news five years ago but a lack of success partnering with manufacturers has cost millions of dollars. Things took a turn for the worse when notebook OEMs pulled out of partnerships with the chip maker, and few products using its Crusoe chip were seen in the European market. ...more

Plusnet to begin ADSL2+ trials

PlusNet has announced that it is to begin two trials of ADSL2+ broadband. The trials will be based on Easynet's LLU network, which can deliver speeds more than 20Mbps for homes and businesses close to their telephone exchange. Plusnet expects to be offering ADSL2+ services from December. ...more