This week’s trio of previews include the latest security-tough laptop from Toshiba (pictured), Novell’s new business management suite and WISP broadband business package,
Toshiba Tecra M7
What is it? Tablet PC
How much? €1,971 including Vat
Aimed at mobile professionals, Toshiba has unveiled a new 14.1-inch screened notebook computer that as well as appearing sleek and stylish is a tough nugget, boasting anti-theft security and shock-absorption technologies. In terms of extra security for executives on the move who fear the consequences of company data if a laptop is stolen, the Tecra M7 tablet PC comes with an anti-theft protection timer, fingerprint reader and hard disk drive protection with a 3D accelerometer. It also has magnesium case work, Norton internet security and a Kensington lock. Key to owning a laptop today is connectivity and the M7 comes with a Gigabit Ethernet modem, integrated Bluetooth and a wireless local area network switch. It also boasts some 4GB of system memory space.
SUSE Linux Enterprise 10
What is it? Suite of software for managing a business from the server to the desktop
How much? Subscriptions start at €47 per year for the desktop product to €290 per server
Novell has unveiled its much anticipated SUSE Linux Enterprise 10, its next-generation platform for business which includes its Enterprise Server and Enterprise Desktop operating system. The SUSE Linux Enterprise Desktop includes several new features such as integrated search and a fully compatible office productivity suite through the Novell edition of OpenOffice.org 2.0. The desktop technology is aimed at companies in the process of desktop-replacement projects, retail point of service, thin client and engineering workstations. Businesses can download SUSE Linux Enterprise 10 from www.novell.com/linux.
Azotel Outside
What is it? Wireless internet service package
How much? TBC
With the advent of the Group Broadband Scheme, groups of businesses or communities in areas without broadband can band together and build their own network. E-net, the firm responsible for running a large portion of the Government’s €170m metropolitan area network plan, has joined forces with Hosting 365, telecoms equipment maker Motorola and Cork-based wireless internet service provider (WISP) technology firm Azotel Outside. Bank of Ireland has also joined the consortium, offering financing for community groups that aim to invest in the product. The companies aim to provide community schemes with a ‘WISP in a box’ product set that would enable community schemes to get up and running and achieve a return on their investment within nine months. Encompassing transit, monitoring, support, billing, hardware, training, consultancy, marketing packs, financing and backhaul, the consortium describes the new service as a complete turnkey offering to set up a “proven” broadband business.
By John Kennedy
