Aviat Networks Launches Next-Generation Carrier Ethernet Switch Module for Eclipse Packet Node

Aviat Networks, Inc., a leading wireless expert in advanced IP migration solutions, today announced the release of its DAC GE3 module and confirmed delivery of first shipments to multiple leading mobile network operators and other early access customers. The DAC GE3 provides the most advanced Carrier Ethernet switch subsystem available in a microwave backhaul platform today. Featuring higher capacity and an impressive breadth of new capabilities, this third-generation design sets a new benchmark for resilient wireless access and aggregation networks.

·          To ensure and protect the QoS of real-time traffic while guaranteeing adequate bandwidth for best effort traffic, a fully configurable Strict Priority (SP) and Deficit Weighted Round Robin (DWRR) hybrid scheduler with eight hardware transmission queues is employed. Prioritization of traffic can be enabled at the physical, data link, MPLS, or IP network layer, and a proprietary dynamic shaping algorithm instantly adapts the switch to the bandwidth variations of Adaptive Coding and Modulation (ACM) microwave links.

·          With multiple synchronization schemes for IP networks on the market, the DAC GE3 card has been tested along with equipment from other vendors at the European Advanced Testing Center and Carrier Ethernet World Congress in 2010. In these tests, the viability of Synchronous Ethernet and IP microwave technologies were determined together for their suitability in 4G/LTE backhaul applications. The DAC GE3 is designed to support synchronization through multiple input methods, Stratum 3 level holdover, and propagation of the signal via the Eclipse Distributed Sync™ feature.

·          Carrier grade packet buffers and an extended number of ports and transport channels provide the ability to act as a traffic concentrator for purposes of aggregation, and offer superior performance in handling the transport of excessively bursty traffic.

·          Support for bi-directional 1+1 protection switching provides high availability and service continuity for mission-critical applications with no single point of failure present in the system.

·          Additional Carrier Ethernet features including an integrated Service OAM MEP (Operation, Administration & Maintenance End Point), Link Aggregation (LAG), and ring protection mechanisms are scheduled to be released in early 2011 via software upgrade.

"Initial customer interest in the DAC GE3 has far exceeded our expectations," said Shaun McFall, senior vice-president and chief marketing officer of Aviat Networks. "It has been extremely well received by customers who have evaluated it, including tier-1 national carriers."

As a plug-in module to the Eclipse Packet Node modular indoor unit, the DAC GE3 builds on Aviat Networks' field-proven experience and leadership in delivering versatile and scalable Hybrid and all-Packet microwave backhaul solutions since the introduction of the Eclipse nodal wireless system in 2004. It provides a seamless upgrade for operators around the world who have already deployed Eclipse, and a high-performance solution for the eventual migration to an all-IP 4G/LTE (Long Term Evolution) network infrastructure.

HP powers SMS-enabled drugs authentication

HP has inked a deal with mPedigree, which offers a text message based service that helps users check the authenticity of their medications. The technology has been piloted in Ghana and Nigeria. With hosting and security provided by HP, mPedigree will offer the service to patients taking a range of medications manufactured by May & Baker Nigeria and KAMA Group of Ghana. 

Users can send a free text message to get an instant response as to whether the tablets or syrup bottles are genuine. Medications found to display fake codes can be reported by users, too. The pharma companies participating in the service are also funding it. The medications involved include anti-malarial (artelum), anti-amoebicide (loxagyl) and analgesic (easadol) medication. (For more on the service, check out the documentary video embedded at the bottom of this post.)

“Over the years, we have invested a huge amount of time and money in developing drugs which will protect the health of people around the world,” said Dr. Joseph Ikemefuna Odumodu, chief executive, May & Baker Nigeria, and president, West African Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association. “It’s in both our and our customers’ interest that they receive the full benefit of that investment. This system will safeguard both of us now and in the future.”

The mobile operators in Ghana and Nigeria are also partnering with mPedigree and HP to facilitate the service.

“Technology plays a critical role in solving many serious health problems around the world,” said Gabriele Zedlmayer, vice president, Office of Global Social Innovation, HP. “While Nigeria and Ghana are the starting points for this program, we are working to create a scalable infrastructure to be used by other regions where counterfeit medicine is a growing issue.”

While the HP deal brought a lot of attention to the mPedigree deployment in Ghana and Nigeria, Kenya’s government also recently announced its support for mPedigree in that country.

Penguin Announces CES Launch Of New Eagle-Eye Converter Version 2.0 For Xbox® 360

Following the tremendous success of the Eagle-Eye Converter for Sony PS3, Penguin United has announced that it will launch the Eagle-Eye Version 2.0  for Xbox 360 video games at CES. The Eagle-Eye converts any standard USB HID keyboard and mouse into a turbo charged video game controller, the preferred method for fans of first-person shooters (The Eagle-Eye is compatible with most USB, however it does not always work with non-HID USB).

The Eagle-Eye Version 2.0 will be launched and available for demonstration at CES, Las Vegas, January 6-9, Booth #5412North Hall.

The Eagle-Eye Version 2.0 provides a customized key mapping feature for all Xbox 360 controller buttons that seamlessly transfers the command data to a keyboard and mouse. Now all first-person shooter games like Call of Duty: Black Ops and Medal of Honor can be played with greater dexterity, speed and accuracy than with a standard controller.

The Eagle-Eye Version 2.0 has been updated with an Advanced Calibration Function that provides customized mouse speed, smoothness and synchronization. There are 3 components of the Advanced Calibration Function worth noting: Sensitivity Adjustment which manages the overall speed of the mouse movement; Dead Zone Neutralization that improves the smoothness of the mouse’s movements, particularly during moments requiring micro-movements such as zooming in on a target; and Synchronization that allows downloading and backup of new customized X/Y button settings which can be shared with friends or a gaming community.

“The original Eagle-Eye was such a great success with PS3 fans that we wanted to create a new version for the Xbox community,” stated Penguin President, Richard Huang. “The Advanced Calibration Function takes the Eagle Eye to a new level of control and sensitivity. Version 2.0 provides the same outstanding ability to bypass the controller by transferring the button features directly to the computer keyboard and mouse, but now the speed, smoothness and accuracy is even more impressive.”

Product Highlights:

·        Converts most standard USB HID Keyboard and Mouse into a Xbox Controller

·        Advanced Calibration Function improves speed, smoothness and synchronization

·        1 to 1 translation from the Xbox360 right analog stick to the mouse movement for an ultra accurate aim in FPS.

·        Maps out all Xbox360 buttons and left analog stick via included software to customize your control.  Right analog stick defaults to mouse movement.

·        Compatible with all Xbox360 games.

·        USB 2.0 Keyboard and Mouse inputs.

·        13 ft. USB cable connects to Xbox.

·        Turbo option for Y, B, A, RB, RT, LB, LT buttons

·        Programmable Macro Functions to turn any single key into a combination of moves.

·        Compatible with all Xbox console versions, future proof with firmware updates.

·        Quick, easy set up in less than 1 minute with included software

·        Requires wired Xbox controller

·        SRP: $59.99

·        On Display at CES Booth #5412 North Hall

Penguin Announces CES Launch Of New Eagle-Eye Converter Version 2.0 For Xbox® 360

Following the tremendous success of the Eagle-Eye Converter for Sony PS3, Penguin United has announced that it will launch the Eagle-Eye Version 2.0  for Xbox 360 video games at CES. The Eagle-Eye converts any standard USB HID keyboard and mouse into a turbo charged video game controller, the preferred method for fans of first-person shooters (The Eagle-Eye is compatible with most USB, however it does not always work with non-HID USB).

The Eagle-Eye Version 2.0 will be launched and available for demonstration at CES, Las Vegas, January 6-9, Booth #5412North Hall.

The Eagle-Eye Version 2.0 provides a customized key mapping feature for all Xbox 360 controller buttons that seamlessly transfers the command data to a keyboard and mouse. Now all first-person shooter games like Call of Duty: Black Ops and Medal of Honor can be played with greater dexterity, speed and accuracy than with a standard controller.

The Eagle-Eye Version 2.0 has been updated with an Advanced Calibration Function that provides customized mouse speed, smoothness and synchronization. There are 3 components of the Advanced Calibration Function worth noting: Sensitivity Adjustment which manages the overall speed of the mouse movement; Dead Zone Neutralization that improves the smoothness of the mouse’s movements, particularly during moments requiring micro-movements such as zooming in on a target; and Synchronization that allows downloading and backup of new customized X/Y button settings which can be shared with friends or a gaming community.

“The original Eagle-Eye was such a great success with PS3 fans that we wanted to create a new version for the Xbox community,” stated Penguin President, Richard Huang. “The Advanced Calibration Function takes the Eagle Eye to a new level of control and sensitivity. Version 2.0 provides the same outstanding ability to bypass the controller by transferring the button features directly to the computer keyboard and mouse, but now the speed, smoothness and accuracy is even more impressive.”

Product Highlights:

·        Converts most standard USB HID Keyboard and Mouse into a Xbox Controller

·        Advanced Calibration Function improves speed, smoothness and synchronization

·        1 to 1 translation from the Xbox360 right analog stick to the mouse movement for an ultra accurate aim in FPS.

·        Maps out all Xbox360 buttons and left analog stick via included software to customize your control.  Right analog stick defaults to mouse movement.

·        Compatible with all Xbox360 games.

·        USB 2.0 Keyboard and Mouse inputs.

·        13 ft. USB cable connects to Xbox.

·        Turbo option for Y, B, A, RB, RT, LB, LT buttons

·        Programmable Macro Functions to turn any single key into a combination of moves.

·        Compatible with all Xbox console versions, future proof with firmware updates.

·        Quick, easy set up in less than 1 minute with included software

·        Requires wired Xbox controller

·        SRP: $59.99

·        On Display at CES Booth #5412 North Hall

LG selects Samsung, Nokia-Siemens for LTE network…as Nokia Sacks 800

South Korean mobile carrier LG Uplus (032640.KS) has said that it has selected Samsung Electronics, LG-Ericsson and Nokia Siemens Networks as the equipment suppliers for its high-speed LTE networks to be rolled out starting July 2011. Global telecoms operators are betting on the prospects for Long-Term Evolution (LTE) technology on surging data traffic as consumers increasingly surf the Internet on smartphones.

LG Uplus, South Korea's No.3 mobile carrier and a smartphone laggard, seeks to aggressively deploy LTE networks to catch up with its bigger rivals SK Telecom (017670.KS) and KT (030200.KS) in the rapidly growing local smartphone market.

LG Uplus said it is the first local carrier to pick suppliers for LTE equipment. The carrier did not disclose the value of the deals with Samsung Electronics (005930.KS) and LG-Ericsson, a joint venture between LG Electronics (066570.KS), and Nokia Siemens Networks. The operator and top-ranked SK Telecom plan to begin LTE deployment next year, while second-placed KT eyes 2012 LTE rollout.

Also sad news out of Finland from a company statement sent to Reuters indicates that Nokia will be laying off somewhere around 800 employees at their Finnish home base. Affected employees will get the heads up sometime in the next few days, with the layoffs going into effect come January. On the upside, it looks like the severance packages will cover anywhere from 6 to 15 months at the affected employees previous salary rate; on the downside… well, they’re losing their job.

Dell to buy Compellent for $960 million...targets NetApp

Dell Inc plans to buy data storage company Compellent Technologies Inc for about $960 million, in a bid to shake its reliance on hardware, but it may need to do more to compete in new technologies like cloud computing. Dell and rivals like Hewlett-Packard Co are all trying to invest in corporate business technologies including storage and services, as PC sales are hurt by low margins and competition from new devices like Apple Inc's iPad.

The deal for Compellent comes three months after Dell lost to HP in a bidding war for another storage firm, 3PAR, and as large vendors are looking to buy small firms and become "one-stop shops" for business technology.

Dell and Compellent said last week they were negotiating a deal. Dell sweetened its cash offer to $27.75 a share from its bid last week of $27.50 per share. Net of Compellent's cash, Dell said it will pay $820 million. The offer is a 17 discount to the shares' level before the companies revealed last week that they were in talks. Previously, the shares had risen 90 percent since late October when Reuters first reported a deal was under discussion. Analysts said the price seemed moderate. Dell's offer values Compellent at around five times sales, compared with multiples of over eight that HP offered for 3PAR and EMC Corp offered for Isilon.

"It looks like Dell got a really good deal relative to some of the recent storage acquisitions, although Compellent doesn't have such a high growth rate. I like it," said Robert W. Baird analyst Jayson Noland. Dell said on Monday the deal, expected to close in early 2011, should add to its adjusted earnings in fiscal-year 2012. Compellent shares were down 3 percent, or 87 cents, at $27.84 on the New York Stock Exchange, 9 cents above Dell's bid. Dell, HP, and International Business Machines have all been looking to broaden their offerings beyond computers.

Many corporate clients are looking for simpler ways to deal with their massive volumes of data, and want fewer vendors for all of their computing, networking and storage needs. Data storage plays a crucial role in cloud computing, the accessing of remote computing power and data over the Internet. Dell entered this market in 2008 with its purchase of EqualLogic. Eden Prairie, Minnesota-based Compellent specializes in storage and recovery of data for small and medium-sized businesses.

But analysts said Dell may need to do more. Its dependence on hardware is becoming an increasing concern on Wall Street. Goldman Sachs said in a report on Sunday that Dell and HP were particularly vulnerable to the growing popularity of tablet computers. He recommended a "sell" on Dell and HP while rating Apple a "buy."

Dell shares were down 2.7 percent at $13.52 on Monday afternoon, while HP shares were down 1.25 percent at $42.01. While some analysts said Dell managed to avoid paying a super-high premium, others said Compellent is too small to enable Dell to compete effectively against an HP-3PAR combination.

Kevin Hunt, an analyst at Hapoalim Securities, recommended a "buy" on Dell but said he did not think the deal adds much for Dell.

"Not a game-changer in our view," he said. The recent spate of storage deals has left few potential acquisition targets in the sector, however, although CommVault Systems Inc as well as privately held Pillar Data Systems and DataDirect Networks are also potential targets.

Some analysts and bankers say NetApp Inc could also be a target - but at a market capitalization of nearly $20 billion, it could be too big. Analysts said the latest move was sure to disrupt Dell's sales partnership with EMC. Dell, however, said it would continue selling EMC's storage products to customers who wanted them.

HTC is the "Technology Brand of the Year"

U.K. technology magazine T3 has awarded the coveted "Technology Brand of the Year" trophy to HTC. Three quarters of a million readers voted along with a panel of judges from the country's top media names and tech magazines. The Taiwan based handset maker has grown from a contract manufacturer building cell phones for others, to one of the top cell phone producing and marketing companies.

T3 Editor Luke Peters had a number of superlatives to throw at the company such as HTC showing a "solid handset performance" and its "determined yet humble brand personality". The company has snagged the magazine's "Smartphone of the Year" award the last two years with the HTC Hero last year followed by the HTC Desire in 2010. As an interesting note, last year's winning technology brand was Google's Android OS.

HTC's chief marketing officer John Wang responded to the awards by saying, "We are honored and humbled to be recognized as Technology Brand of the Year by T3, one of the UK’s most popular consumer technology and gadget magazines. This recognition is as much for our loyal customers as it is for HTC.  HTC’s innovation and design philosophy is centered on our customers and focused on creating a relevant, personal and unique experience for each of them, this is what Quietly Brilliant is about."

LG Electronics’ Borderless TV Hits The Nigerian Market

LG Electronics, a global leader in flat panel TV display has unveiled its latest TV product in the Nigerian market. Dubbed, BORDERLESS TV. LG’s SL90 LED LCD TV is a slim, stunning and beautiful masterpiece that produces astonishing picture quality. The new TV is specially created with a glass-like screen element and extra-slim fashion without trace of a border on all four sides and positioned in a way that exemplifies the limitless possibilities of a BORDERLESS spectacle embedded in a TV.

Speaking at the launch ceremony in Lagos, Mr. Dave Shin, Manager, Home Entertainment, LG Electronics, said the new LG BORDERLESS TV is a Full HD LED LCD TV that is almost as thin as the single sheet of smoked glass. According to him, the TV delivers flawless picture quality as its smooth surface with the use of advanced LED backlight and other display technologies are developed by LG to meet the aspirations of today’s consumer who he noted are constantly in tune with contemporary technology and innovation that drives an energized brand.

 “LG SL90 BORDERLESS TV is created to enhance the life style of Premium consumers as it removes worries in terms of room space and lucid ambience of a 21st century home. LG’s latest masterpiece, the SL90, uses film lamination technology to eliminate the gap between the screen and the bezel, creating a perfect flat surface that completely aligns the screen with other elements resulting in a uniform, seamless surface from edge-to-edge, with no visible frame while also significantly reducing glare”.

“With a depth of just 2.9cm, the SL90 is a beautiful window into a new world of immense possibilities in home entertainment, the SL90 TV demonstrate exactly how LG is leading in innovative design and working tirelessly to establish a brand that is positioned as the pinnacle of advanced technology in entertainment”, Shin explained

Mr. Shin also noted that the SL90 is entirely green on the inside as the TV has five distinct energy saving modes and uses up to 80 percent less power than conventional LCD TVs, a quality that underscores LG’s commitment to sustainable environment. LG’s Intelligent Sensor, which reduces energy consumption by analyzing the light in a room and intelligently dimming the TV’s backlight, also adjusts other picture settings to improve image quality and contrast.

The SL90’s ability to connect wirelessly to an entire library of digital content, he said is as attractive as the TV itself, noting that its Bluetooth compatibility brings music, movies and photos from compatible mobile phones directly to the big screen without cables. This same technology, he further said, can be used to connect wireless headphones for private listening and it is accompanied by a USB 2.0 port hidden on the rear of the SL90 TV to allow even more digital content with JPEG, MP3, MPEG4 and DivX files compatibility to be played on the TV using external hard drives, memory cards or thumb drives.

In a remark, Managing Director Fouani Nigeria Limited, Mr. Mohammed Fouani noted that the new SL90 BORDERLESS TV is a further testimony to LG Electronics’ leadership position in 21st century consumer electronics market. He said the SL90 TV is unique in its glossy enclosure and embedded with a technology that produces a great picture and makes every program and movie even more entertaining.

Google Nexus S smartphone hits stores December 16

Google announced a curvy new smartphone on Monday -- the first gadget to run the newest version of the Android mobile operating system. Google teamed up with Samsung Electronics to make the Nexus S. It is powered by Android 2.3., which could enable it to be used as a phone and credit card.

The device sports an unusual "contour display" -- a bright 4-inch screen featuring curved glass. This helps cut down on glare from direct sunlight, and the light, thin glass reduces heft, Google says. "It's subtle, but you'll notice," the company wrote in its marketing materials.

Best Buy will begin selling the phone in its U.S. stores on December 16 for $199 with a two-year T-Mobile contract. Best Buy stores in the UK will start carrying the product on December 20, along with Carphone Warehouse. The Nexus S will also be available online with a T-Mobile subscription or unlocked, meaning it can operate on AT&T and many other carriers worldwide, Google said. No price has been set for the unlocked version, but Google's first (and now-discontinued) phone, the Nexus One, sold for $529.

Some other hardware features put the Nexus S in line with recent high-end smartphones. It has a fast processor and two cameras -- a 5-megapixel camera on the back for taking photos of other people, and another on the front for video conferencing.

The existence of the Nexus S before Monday's announcement had been well documented by gadget blogs. At an onstage appearance last month at the Web 2.0 Summit in San Francisco, Google CEO Eric Schmidt eagerly gave his own demonstration of the Nexus S, pulling what he called "an unannounced device" from his pocket.

One thing Schmidt highlighted then is the inclusion of a technology called Near Field Communication (NFC). Similar to the chips in many new credit cards, an NFC-equipped phone, like the Nexus S, lets you tap the gadget against, say, a poster to connect with the internet for more information, or against a payment terminal at check-out.

"One way to think about it is this could replace your credit card," Schmidt said.

Android 2.3, more commonly known as Gingerbread, integrates NFC into the software so that other smartphone makers besides Samsung can integrate it into new products. Gingerbread also introduces aesthetic changes to Android, as well as tweaks to the copy-paste functions and to applications like YouTube.

Finally, Gingerbread integrates with Voice-over IP to easily make calls through a data connection, rather than using your cellular plan's voice minutes. Google integrated a similar function into the Gmail website.

Those looking to upgrade their current Android handsets to Gingerbread will have to wait (save for the enterprising bunch willing to hack their devices). Google said it will distribute the source code of the software "in the coming weeks," which is when phone makers like HTC and Motorola will be able to make their necessary alterations.

As for the Nexus S, Google appears to have learned a few lessons from its previous venture into selling phones.

The Nexus One -- as part of a partnership with HTC -- was released in January, and the product launch, while a critically acclaimed phone, was widely seen as a flop.

The phone was sold exclusively through a Google online store and was promoted as an unlocked handset. Unlocked phones, as it turns out, are seen as very expensive by consumers who don't seem to mind two-year contracts if it means saving $350 up front. Google quickly shuttered its Web store.

Google, whose CEO is steadfast in saying, "We don't make devices," is no doubt hoping its marriage with Samsung fares better in the market than its previous fling with HTC.

IBM Delivers New Software to Advance Security Analysis

IBM has announced new software and analysis capabilities that provide a more efficient and accurate way to help organizations design, build and manage secure applications. The new software consolidates software vulnerability analysis and reporting into a single view across the enterprise.  Developers can now assess security threats across the entire software development lifecycle, enabling global development teams to easily identify and test security exposures, and help reduce the risks and costs associated with security and compliance concerns.

For example, organizations can use the software to automate application security audits and source code scanning to ensure that the network and Web-based applications are secure and compliant. This delivers improved accuracy of vulnerability identification and remediation.  

The new security offerings include enhancements to the IBM Rational AppScan portfolio that further simplify security vulnerability analysis and identification for software developers.  As part of the new features, IBM Research provided string analysis, a software development capability that helps simplify the security testing process by automatically detecting and verifying which Web application development input needs to be cleansed to remove security risks. This capability helps accelerate the accuracy and efficiency of security testing by the development community, regardless of their security expertise.

As cited in IBM's 2010 mid-year X-Force Trend Report, 55 percent of all vulnerabilities come from Web applications, making it the greatest source of risk for organizations. The research indicates that computer security threats rose by 36 percent in the first half of 2010, resulting in more than 4,000 new vulnerabilities being documented compared to last year.  

Simplifying Adoption of End-to-End Application Security

Web applications are often vulnerable due to a lack of built-in security. To reduce these risks, organizations need to implement security strategies that ensure applications are designed securely across the entire development lifecycle, from start to finish. Finding ways to extend security analysis across more testers in the security process and employing multiple testing techniques will result in higher-quality and more secure applications.

"As vulnerabilities become more prevalent, testing across the entire development lifecycle without having to invest in additional development resources and skills is significant for the bottom line," said Steve Robinson, General Manager, IBM Security Solutions. "Through the ongoing value brought by the acquisitions of Ounce Labs and Watchfire Corp., combined with our R&D expertise, we can now provide more comprehensive security governance, collaboration and risk management solutions that further protect organizations from malicious attacks."  

New Capabilities to Strengthen Security

The new advancements in the IBM Rational AppScan portfolio simplify and automate security scanning with new hybrid analysis capabilities, improving vulnerability identification and remediation. The hybrid analysis provides automated correlation of results from static code analysis and dynamic analysis to increase vulnerability identification in automated software.

New enhancements to the IBM Rational AppScan portfolio include:

·        Consolidated View of Vulnerabilities: Hybrid Analysis Reporting provides automated correlation of results discovered by static code analysis and dynamic analysis and improves the accuracy of the results that are provided to development for remediation. This visibility is an enhancement to Rational AppScan Enterprise Edition and enables organizations to take a strategic approach for addressing Web application security, while providing teams with visibility into the regulatory compliance risks of an organization. Automated correlation of results is initially available for Java.

·        Broader Scanning Access Identifies Blind Spots: Hybrid Analysis Scanning enables the simultaneous application of static code analysis and dynamic analysis testing to identify more vulnerabilities than were previously detectable by software. Provided as an extension to Rational AppScan Standard Edition, this supports JavaScript and provides scanning access to an area that was previously blind spots for organizations.

·        Security Assessment Process Simplified: String Analysis, a key enhancement to Rational AppScan Source Edition,enables the adoption of application security testing for the development community. String analysis simplifies the security testing process by automatically detecting what code is meant to cleanse user input in Web applications and also verify it is coded properly. This ability to simplify the security assessment process allows for expedient and accurate testing of code so development teams can continue to focus on delivering applications within tight time constraints.  

·        Multiple Frameworks Supported: Extensible Application Framework is another innovation in Rational AppScan Source Edition that provides greater visibility and data flow analysis into commercial, open source, and in-house developed Web application frameworks.  The ability to support any existing or customized framework is critical to testing coverage and accuracy of application code.

In addition, IBM announced support for federal security protocol, CAC/PKI, for the IBM Rational Software portfolio.  The CAC/PKI protocol enhances the ability of governments globally to prevent unauthorized access to physical and digital environments, which compromise the security of  military and national initiatives.  IBM provides a full range of services for the detailed design, development and implementation of smartcard/biometrics and CAC/PKI implementations as part of the efforts to deliver full software lifecycle support of CAC/PKI and other security protocols.

IBM Security Solutions include an extensive portfolio of hardware, software solutions, professional and managed services offerings covering the spectrum of IT and business security risks, including: people and identity, data and information, application and process, network, server and endpoint and physical infrastructure. IBM Security Solutions empowers clients to innovate and operate their businesses on highly secure infrastructure platforms.

Etisalat Nigeria buys local firm with 3G licence...denies interest in Multi-LinksTelkom

The Nigerian arm of UAE-based Etisalat said recently that it had bought a local telecoms firm with a 3G license to help it develop its data and broadband services and compete with other GSM operators. Nigeria is one of the world's fastest growing mobile markets, and Etisalat faces stiff competition from South Africa's MTN Group, India's Bharti Airtel and local rival Globacom, all of which already operate 3G services.

The Gulf's number two telecoms group said the acquisition of Alheri Mobile Services Ltd would enable Etisalat Nigeria to better compete with its main rivals in Africa's most populous nation, home to more than 140 million people. "We are delighted to acquire the 3G license, which is an essential element of our plans for further developing the market for mobile broadband in Nigeria," Chief Executive Steven Evans said. He did not disclose the cash value of the deal. "There is pent-up demand in Nigeria for broadband, and we intend to be the leader in satisfying it," he said.

Etisalat has more than 6 million subscribers in Nigeria and aims to hit the 12 million mark by the end of 2011, but competition is fierce in a market that already has more than 60 million mobile users. Bharti acquired the African telecoms assets of Kuwaiti group Zain in a $9 billion deal in June, giving it access to what it says is the "biggest future continent" for telecoms. A few weeks after rebranding as Airtel across Africa, it announced promotional call rates of 12 naira a minute in Nigeria, half the previous tariff and considerably undercutting its main rivals.

Alheri was owned by billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote, whose conglomerate Dangote Group has interests ranging from cement and flour to real estate and shipping and who is ranked by Forbes as Nigeria's richest man. It bought the 3G licence about 3 years ago but never made it operational. "It makes sense for us to sell Alheri Mobile to Etisalat Nigeria as we believe that the market here can only sustain four mobile operators in the medium to long term," Alheri Mobile Chief Executive Boye Olusanya said. Proceeds from the sale would be used to develop Alheri's other telecoms assets, he said. In a related development, Etisalat Nigeria has confirmed that it won’t bid for Multi- Links, the loss-making CDMA-technology mobile-phone business owned by Telkom South Africa Ltd., said Chief Executive Officer Steven Evans. “We’re not at all interested in a CDMA business, frankly we don’t see the future in that technology,” he said in a phone interview today. Etisalat Nigeria is 40 percent owned by Emirates Telecom Corp., the United Arab Emirates’ largest phone company. CDMA, or code division multiple access, is the fundamental radio technology used in data phones and networks.

Johannesburg-based Business Report newspaper said recently that Telkom is in talks to sell the mobile phone unit to Etisalat, citing a letter from a Multi-Links executive it didn’t identify. Telkom plans to exit the unit in the next six months, the company said on Nov. 22, at a cost of as much as $180 million. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. “has been appointed by Telkom to look at the different options that they have for Multi-Links,” Evans said. The bank “approached a raft of different people, including Etisalat Nigeria, to talk with us about whether we were interested,” he said.

Trouble for MTN as Airtel slashes Nigeria rates

India’s Bharti Airtel has taken the axe to its tariffs in Nigeria, repeating a recent similar move in Kenya, slashing call rates in the West African nation by half, to just N12  (R0,55) a minute. The move could spell trouble for bigger rivals MTN and Glo Mobile, though analysts have played down the financial effects on MTN.

Bharti acquired Zain — the pan-African assets of Kuwait’s Mobile Telecommunications Company in a deal worth US$9bn, making it the second-largest mobile operator in Africa after MTN. The company, which is known for offering dirt-cheap calls in India, has now rebranded the Zain operations as Airtel.

Not long after buying Zain, Airtel slashed retail rates in Kenya, sparking a price war. The Kenyan market is dominated by Safaricom, which has greater than 80% market share. MTN investors have expressed concern that similar price cuts in Nigeria could spell trouble for the JSE-listed mobile group. Nigeria is MTN’s biggest and most profitable market. It has 51% market share in the populous nation.

Analysts say MTN will either have to match or come close to matching Bharti’s prices. “A price cut will not be good news for MTN. It will have to drop its own prices to within range of Bharti’s new rate,” says Avior Research telecoms analyst David Lerche. However, he says the Nigerian market is “very elastic” and lower rates should result in an increase in subscriber numbers.

BMI-TechKnowledge MD Denis Smit says a rate cut shouldn’t affect MTN too seriously. He says the company has almost certainly prepared itself for a tougher competitive environment. “Telecoms is competitive all over the world now. The days of easy competition are long gone. Volumes should pick up as the rate gets cut,” Smit says.

2011 CES Gaming Showcase Features Latest In Gaming Technologies

The 2011 International CES®, the world’s largest consumer technology tradeshow, will feature the hottest innovations in gaming hardware and software. More than 35 exhibitors will display the latest gaming technology advancements in the 2011 CES Gaming Showcase. The International CES will return to Las Vegas from January 6-9, 2011. Exhibitors will present their products across 9,800 square feet within the Gaming Showcase.

Located in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, the Gaming Showcase will feature advancements in online gaming and gaming-related product debuts in both hardware and software – from online PC and HD gaming, plasma HDTV to surround sound and power conditioning hardware. Nintendo returns as an exhibitor to CES for the first time in 16 years.

"With the gaming market expected to generate $20.3 million in 2010, the International CES is the must-stop hub for innovative gaming products, and will allow CES attendees to experience the future of gaming from an amazing range of innovative companies," said Karen Chupka, senior vice president, events and conferences, CEA. "The Gaming Showcase at CES will feature the hottest gaming trends for the coming year."

Major gaming exhibitors include: AMD, HP, Intel, Lenovo, LevelUp, Logitech, Microsoft, Nintendo, Nokia, Sony and more. Publishers and developers will also be in attendance, including: Alcazar Entertainment, Cosmi, DC Comics/Warner and DreamWorks Animation. Furthermore, key retailers like Amazon.com, Best Buy and GameStop will also attend the 2011 CES.

For more news about the 2011 International CES before, during and after the show, including the Gaming Showcase, exhibitor information, conference sessions and TechZones, please visit CESweb.org. Journalists are encourages to arrive in Las Vegas by Tuesday, January 4, to take advantage of all the CES press events, including CES Unveiled from 4-7 p.m. on January 4.

Analyst Firm Positions NetApp as a Leader in Disk Array Magic Quadrant

NetApp has announced that it has been positioned by Gartner, Inc. in the Leaders quadrant for midrange and high-end modular disk arrays. In a recently released research note, "Magic Quadrant for Midrange and High-End Modular Disk Arrays," Gartner asserts, "Vendors in the Leaders quadrant have the highest scores for their ability to execute and completeness of vision. A midrange disk array storage vendor in the Leaders quadrant has the market share, credibility, and marketing and sales capabilities needed to drive the acceptance of new technologies. They demonstrate a clear understanding of market needs; they are innovators and thought leaders; and they have well-articulated plans that customers and prospects can use when designing their storage infrastructures and strategies. In addition, they have a presence in the five major geographical regions, consistent financial performance, and broad platform support."

"We believe our position in the Gartner Leaders quadrant is a testament to NetApp’s strengths as a provider of innovative storage and data management solutions that address our customers' current and future business requirements," said Jay Kidd, senior vice president, Storage Solutions Group at NetApp. "As customers move to shared IT infrastructures, NetApp provides the storage platform our customers require, and our unified architecture delivers the flexibility and efficiency customers demand to drive business impact."

NetApp provides the storage platform of choice to help customers make the transition to a flexible and efficient shared IT infrastructure—the foundation for cloud computing. Newly announced platform features, products, and technologies help customers move from a siloed infrastructure to a shared IT infrastructure that addresses today’s rapidly evolving business requirements.

With the NetApp® Unified Storage Architecture, customers can support many applications, diverse workloads, and changing requirements through a single platform and set of processes to reduce complexity and drive down costs. NetApp storage systems deliver one of the industry’s most cost-effective platforms for higher performance and enterprise availability, to support today’s midrange storage requirements and to adapt to future changes. NetApp’s innovative storage and data management technologies such as scale up and scale out, unified architecture, secure multi-tenancy, storage efficiency, and service automation and analytics help customers capitalize on new growth opportunities and drive greater efficiencies.

Prima Solutions Acquires Albiran to Provide Insurance Software

Prima Solutions has successfully acquired the Paris-based insurance software provider, Albiran. A Paris-based company, Albiran, with 10 years of experience providing Web-based insurance software for a large combination of business processes and lines of business, is the perfect complement to Prima Solutions’ product set and expertise.

Working together, both Prima Solutions and Albiran form the one-stop -shop for insurance software. Albiran, with its vast business experience, has provided Web-based insurance software solutions to companies like Generali, Allianz, Altima, Gras Savoye and April Group to launch new insurance products, diversify their distribution networks, increase their customers’ satisfaction and optimize their operational efficiency.

The most technologically and functionally advanced, comprehensive and integrated software solution for insurers, mutual insurance companies, reinsurers and brokers in the market today is created by the combination of Prima Solutions’ and Albiran’s products: “We are thrilled to join forces with the Albiran team. By combining both companies’ products and expertise, Prima Solutions becomes a de facto vendor of reference in the global insurance software solution market”, said Hugues Delannoy, CEO of Prima Solutions, in a press release.

“Prima Solutions and Albiran’s products and expertise are very complementary. Most importantly, both companies share the same vision, which is to provide our clients a one stop shop for any insurance software need”, said Michel Gognau, CEO of Albiran, in a press release. In related news, Wesfarmers Insurance, its underwriting subsidiary Lumley General Insurance Limited has successfully deployed Guidewire ClaimCenter as the first step in its core systems modernization project.

Airtel launches new global brand across its operations in Africa

Bharti Airtel, a leading global telecommunications company with operations in 19 countries across Asia and Africa, has officially launched the Airtel brand and unveiled the new brand identity across its operations in 16 countries in Africa.  The new Airtel brand was unveiled in the presence of His Excellency Dr Goodluck Jonathan, the President of Nigeria, along with Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman and Group CEO, Bharti Enterprises in the capital, Abuja.

With the unveiling of the new brand identity Airtel becomes the master brand for all the group’s 19 operations in Asia and Africa covering over 200 million customers.  In Africa, Airtel replaces the Zain brand and comes with the promise of delivering high quality customer benefits through the power of global Airtel brand.  Going forward all future new products and services will follow the Airtel brand structure.  The ZAP mobile money service will be re-branded Airtel Money with immediate effect.

Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman and Managing Director, Bharti, said:  "Bharti began its African journey by promising to deliver world-class and affordable mobile services to customers and delighting them with innovative products.  I believe we are taking a major step towards delivering on this by introducing the heart of our business - the Airtel brand - across our operations in Africa.  Our African customers will now be able to enjoy the same best-in-class brand experience as our customers across India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh.

He further added:  “We remain committed to taking our network deeper into Africa, ensuring our services touch the common man and bridge the digital divide in the continent.  I am confident that over the coming years Airtel will win the hearts of customers across Africa and emerge as one of most admired brands of the continent.”

The new brand identity

The new Airtel brand comes with a promise to meet the emerging needs of customers with innovative, affordable and relevant solutions to empower consumers, giving them the freedom to do what they choose and provide them with the tools to meet life’s daily challenges.

The red primary colour of the logo reflects the warmth and vibrancy of the African continent.  It is the colour of life and of the African sun at dusk.  These qualities are reflected in Airtel’s brand personality of being brave and bold, sensitive and empathetic.  The new curved addition to the logo is a symbol which will help ensure instant recognition across our diverse international markets.

As part of the celebration of unveiling the new brand, Airtel also announced the launch of a new ultra low cost handset package which effectively provides a mobile phone free of charge to all new subscribers.  The package, launched in conjunction with Nokia, will be priced at approx NGN 3,500 (USD $23) and includes a brand new Nokia 1280 mobile phone, a free SIM card and the equivalent value in free Airtel talk time and SMS text messages.

Over the next couple of months Airtel will launch a number of world leading product innovations which focus on delivering relevant information for customers to enhance their quality of life and provide tools that will help them overcome their daily challenges.

In the past four months Airtel has already made tariff interventions in 11 of its 16 markets in Africa for the benefit of its customers.  It has also signed agreements to extend its networks to the most remote areas which are still not connected with the outside world.