IBM targets SMBs with new services

IBM has launched a WorkPlace on demand initiative - service provision for front-end systems. Aimed at SMBs of 100 seats or more, it is intended to optimise business use of desktops, printers, scanners and all other input and output devices. In the words of Christian Klezl, Manager of Infrastructure Management Services at IBM Global Services, the new WorkPlace services will cover 'anything that is visible' in an office. ...more

BPI calls on Apple to open up iTunes

The BPI has called on Apple to open its iTunes Music Store and make it compatible with portable players beyond its own iPod range. 'We would advocate that Apple opts for interoperability,' BPI chairman Peter Jamieson told the House of Commons Select Committee for Culture, Media & Sport inquiry into New Media and the Creative Industries. Jamieson acknowledged the huge contribution that Apple has made to the development of the digital music business as well as the 'enormous appeal' of its integrated hardware and software. ...more

Broadband connections shoot up

The number of homes with broadband in the UK has risen by more than 60 per cent in the past three months, according to new figures. The latest research from industry regulator Oftel shows that 13 per cent of homes are broadband enabled, nine per cent with cable modem and four per cent with ADSL. Overall Internet usage in the UK remains steady, with 42 per cent of UK homes connected and 50 per cent of adults going online. ...more

IBM strains silicon on PowerPC's behalf

IBM has developed a new manufacturing process that will enable its latest PowerPC processors to perform at higher speeds and with lower power consumption than before. The company said that the 'industry-first' combination of silicon-on-insulator (SOI), strained silicon and copper wiring technologies should lead to even greater gains in processor efficiency once it has ramped up production of PowerPC 970FX chips using the process. The integration of strained silicon and SOI accelerates the flow of electrons through transistors to increase performance and provide an insulating layer in the silicon that isolates transistors to decrease power consumption. ...more

Police auction samurai sword

Surrey police have attempted to clear their lost property office by setting up an online auction. In theory a good idea, in practice a major faux pas was committed. The sword received 16 bids and topped ?51 before someone responded to a number of phone calls received about the ornamental blade, which was placed on the Aucland auction site with a reserve price of ?1. ...more