Dell unveils two new PowerEdge database servers

Dell has debuted two new database servers aimed at the small and medium sized company. Sticking resolutely to its Intel-only policy, the two new machines - the Dell PowerEdge 6800 and PowerEdge 6850 - are based around the Intel Xeon MP processors. Up to four Xeons can be fitted per server. ...more

BT cuts prices to drive SDSL take-up

BT is to halve the connection charge for SDSL broadband services for a limited period. Between 21 October 2004 and 24 February 2005 the activation fee will be cut from ?450 to ?225. The announcement follows the doubling of the number of exchanges that can provide synchronous services, bringing the total to 300. ...more

Sony speculation behind Apple share rise

The rumour that Sony is interested in buying Apple comes around periodically, but the latest occasion was taken more seriously than normal, at least by some Wall Street investors. Heavy trading on Thursday and Friday took Apple's share price from $23.93 to $27. ...more

The Christmas present no one wants

A federal agency in the United States has warned of increased hacking activities over the Christmas festivities. The National Infrastructure Protection Center has issued a warning of an "increase in hacker activity specifically targeting US systems associated with e-commerce". Sources of information behind the alert include the FBI. ...more

Microsoft puts EU record fine into safe storage

Microsoft has paid the €500mn fine that the EU recently imposed, pending its appeal. The money will be held in escrow, to be handed over to the EU only if the appeal fails. The company is unlikely to miss the money, which amounts to about 0. ...more