Blackberry or not?

It was one good evening when I decided to take a break from my usual fast-food eating habit.  After an excellent meal (I hadn’t taste “pinaksiw na isda” for years now) and so I took some time browsing some stores in San Joaquin looking for some cell phones – aha! and to my surprise I bumped into this one – a Blackberry look-a-like.

A China-made phone with a WiFi, — yup, that’s right; I was thinking that one of these days we will not be surprise when it can view your map turn-by-turn.  Though I don’t have much time to test or tried it well, here’s what you get with this P5,899 phone.

Features:

-          WiFi + TV + Bluetooth

-          Quad band

-          Dual Camera that can take 12MP resolution

-          Orbit tracking ball

-          Support gravity sensor

-          Body mass indicator (Java)

-          To-do-List, Organizer, Java

-          Dual active SIM

-          MicroSD support up to 2GB of memory, 20MB internal

-          miniUSB support, 3.5mm audio jack

-          Volume and camera control button

-          FM Radio

-          Ebook and PDF reader

-          World Clock and Currency Converter

-          Web browser

One of the staff says she tried it once at Starbucks and its WiFi feature works seamlessly. So now, you know what these guys could do – I believe you’re guess is as good as mine. Watch out for more look-a-likes.  Don’t worry it does not run on RIM.

 

The Game Hunters’ Ideal Gamepad from Genius

Introducing a gaming pad for game hunters who want to go extreme. With the most clear and simple settings which makes it incredibly easy to manipulate and gain total control in your games, 11 programmable buttons for customized and instant control and a 4-way direction button for up/down/right/left instructions, Genius ErgoMedia 500 is the gaming key pad that turns you into the best game player you can ever be.
For game addicts, the unique hand shape design helps support your palm plus a special keycap backlighting makes sure all keys are highly visible in the dark so you can stay up all night playing your games non-stop. You can even chat online with the earphone and microphone jacks.
 There are three different game settings that help you search quickly for your weapon, equipment, or any desired target. An additional switch button lets you switch between games instantly. Only Genius makes gamepads like this one.
Genius products are exclusively distributed in the Philippines by MSI-ECS. For more information, contact James Ong at 688-3740 or email jong@msi-ecs.com.ph.

 

NEO LAUNCHES NEW INTEL CENTRINO PROCESSOR TECHNOLOGY NOTEBOOKS

PHILIPPINES, Manila, May 23, 2007 – Only weeks after its official launch, NEO proudly became the country’s first reseller to offer the much anticipated Intel ® Centrino ® Duo and Intel ®  Centrino ®  Pro processor technology locally-branded notebooks.

Available in a plethora of form factors, with designs ranging from fully loaded, 17-inch wide-screen models ideal for entertainment to tiny, energy-saving notebook PCs that weigh less than two kilograms, these next-generation Intel Centrino processor technology notebooks offer faster processor and chipsets, razor sharp video and graphics, and stronger and faster wireless connectivity.

Powered by the Intel® Core™2 Duo processors, the new Intel Centrino processor technology notebooks delivers breakthrough mobile performance and responsiveness for demanding business users and consumers.

Using these enhanced mobility features, NEO will be first to drive managed services amongst partners utilizing the new Intel Centrino Pro processor technology. This technology will extend the same high-level of proactive security and enhanced manageability support for mobile users that desktop users traditionally enjoy. “As our customers become increasingly mobile, we are delighted to be able to provide more value through managed services and support for businesses that are migrating to notebook solutions,” said Wilhelm Uy, Business Unit Manager, NEO.

“Operational expense continues to be the most expensive cost that we need to help IT managers with,” Uy said. “The Intel Centrino Pro processor technology allows IT administrators to remotely manage desktops and notebooks and better deal with security threats, cost of ownership, resource allocation, and asset management issues,” he added.

NEO will also be first to market with a number of new benefits and options available through the local distributors. These include the Intel ® Turbo Memory feature which enables customers an innovative, optional feature that can decrease computer start time, speed access to frequently used applications, as well as improve battery life. Gaming customers can now have advanced graphics performances with the Mobile Intel® 965GM Express chipset which provides Intel’s fourth- generation integrated graphic engine, the Graphics Media Accelerator X3100, and enhancements for clear, vivid video playback. Furthermore, customers can choose Intel’s optional next-generation wireless network connection, Intel® Next-Gen Wireless-N for outstanding wireless performance.

“Our customers for example would be able to boot up with Microsoft Vista in seconds compared to previous generation products which takes minutes”, said Uy.

“We really believe that next generation Intel Centrino processor technology is the biggest opportunity for our locally-branded notebooks in a long time ,” Uy said. “Not only have we slashed our time-to-market with the availability of this product, we have proven our ability to get the Intel Centrino processor technology notebooks into customers’ hands at roughly the same time as the multinational OEMs, which sell many of the household brands. Furthermore, with new locally-branded notebook barebones, we are able to present a different offering – serving the individual needs of small businesses and vertical customers that multinationals cannot cater for,” Uy added.

 

MSI-ECS NOW CARRIES TARGUS

Leading distributor of information technology products in the Philippines, MSI-ECS Phils., Inc., has a new addition to its already impressive product portfolio. MSI-ECS’ new partner, Targus® Inc., is universally recognized as the world’s best-selling notebook carrying case brand, and the leading provider of accessory products for the mobile lifestyle. MSI-ECS will be the sole distributor of Targus products in the country.

Targus offers a complete range of mobile accessory products to enhance the mobile computing experience, and continues to set the standards in excellence for protection, craftsmanship, and functionality in portable carrying cases and accessories for notebooks and other portable electronics.

Targus is truly a global enterprise, having 45 offices worldwide and a direct distribution in over 145 countries. Corporate customers enjoy product delivery to any location in the world. Targus’ distribution channels and customers include major retailers, corporations, government and educational institutions, 90% of Fortune 1000 companies, and custom OEM for eight of the world’s top ten notebook computer manufacturers.

Targus houses a proprietary product design center that always abides by Targus’ tradition of quality workmanship and feature innovation with smart design, creating appropriate portable solutions for each and every customer.

For more product information and pricing on Targus, contact Vinson Chua at 688-3732, email vchua@msi-ecs.com.ph, or visit www.msi-ecs.com.ph.

 

Genius MP-2101 – A genius in your hand

Get the latest entertainment genius from Genius. MP2101 is a handheld multimedia player. It supports MP3/WMA/WMA with DRM audio, AVI (Xvid) video, and enables you to listen to FM radio broadcast, record voice/ Line-in / FM program, and is a USB 2.0 high-speed storage. It has E-book and simple game functions, making it perfect for different multimedia demands. It has up to 20 frequency preset radio channels, and a JPEG photo viewer. This genius is only 1 cm wide and includes a free neck strap.

MP-2101 lets you watch your full-motion videos on the 2.0 inch TFT LCD display. You can see enjoy the action and share this multimedia experience with your friends with its built-in speaker.

What more do you want from a multimedia genius that you can take with you anywhere? Take the Genius MP-2101. It guarantees you entertainment wherever you go.

Genius products are exclusively distributed in the Philippines by MSI-ECS. For more information and pricing, contact James Ong at 688-3740, email jong@msi-ecs.com.ph or visit www.msi-ecs.com.ph.

 

Symantec Voice of Reason in response to Microsoft’s June 2007 Security Bulletin

Today, Microsoft issued information on six new security bulletins, four of which are critical.  The following summary provides Symantec’s evaluation of two of the most critical issues.

 

Vulnerability in Microsoft Internet Explorer

 

Symantec Security Response rates the vulnerabilities in the Cumulative Security Update for Internet Explorer as the most critical since two of the five vulnerabilities listed in this security bulletin affect Internet Explorer 7.0 on Windows Vista.  A user could become infected when browsing the Web and landing on a malicious Web site.  A successful exploit could allow an attacker to install malicious code of his/her choice and potentially gain complete control of the affected system if the victim is logged in as an administrator.

 

These vulnerabilities mainly affect consumers.  However, enterprise employees that browse the Web are also susceptible to exploits if they visit a malicious Web page.  The Cumulative Security Update provides patches for both the new and past vulnerabilities affecting Internet Explorer. 

 

Vulnerabilities in Windows Schannel Security Package

 

The client-side vulnerability affecting the Windows Schannel Security Package is also critical and could be exploited through Microsoft Internet Explorer by a malicious web page that transmits the digital signature to the browser. This vulnerability occurs when the affected component handles malicious server-sent digital signatures.

 

This vulnerability affects Windows XP, Windows 2000, and Windows Server 2003.  However, the vulnerability will only cause a denial of service on 2000 and Server 2003 platforms.

 

“Consumers and enterprises should always update their computers with the latest security patches to protect their computers from potential threats and attacks,” said Vince Hwang, group product manager, Symantec Security Response.  “These vulnerabilities are similar to those vulnerabilities reported in Microsoft’s May security update in that they could be exploited through the users’ browser.”

 

Symantec recommends the following actions for IT administrators:

·         Evaluate the possible impact of these vulnerabilities to critical systems.

·         Plan for required responses including patch deployment and implementation of security best practices using the appropriate security and availability solutions.

·         Take proactive steps to protect the integrity of networks and information.

·         Verify that appropriate data backup processes and safeguards are in place and effective.

·         Remind users to exercise caution in opening all unknown or unexpected e-mail attachments and in following Web links from unknown or unverified sources.

Symantec recommends the following actions for consumers:

·         Regularly run Windows Update and install the latest security patches to keep software up to date.

·         Avoid opening unknown or unexpected e-mail attachments or following Web links from unknown or unverified sources.

• Use an Internet security solution such as Norton Internet Security 2007 to protect against today’s known threats and tomorrow’s Internet security risks.

 

Additional information will be available on Symantec’s Security Response Blog shortly at:

http://www.symantec.com/enterprise/security_response/weblog/

 

Additional information on Microsoft’s security bulletins can be found at:

http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/ms07-jun.mspx

 

Symantec’s security experts will closely monitor further information related to these vulnerabilities and will provide updates and security content as necessary.  Please let me know if you have any questions or if you are interested in speaking with a Symantec expert on any of the above vulnerabilities.

 

Music Made Wireless with Genius BT-03A Headset

Have more fun with music as Genius releases the BT-03A – the world’s smallest Bluetooth headset. With a weight of only 37.5g and a 30mm driver that delivers audiophile-quality acoustic performance with full and richly balanced bass, the BT-03A is the headset to get.
It is the latest wireless headset from Genius that uses BT-1.2 technology and has a wireless range of up to 30 feet!
It supports A2DP (Advance Audio Distribute Protocol) which can connect with your mobile phone, PDA, NB, MP3 Player and even to an LCD-TV through a BT audio transmitter. With the A2DP function, you can access MP3 music from your mobile phone wirelessly and still not miss any phone call at all. The embedded rechargeable battery can play up to 6.5 hours. Music has never been this comfortable and fun.
Genius products are exclusively distributed in the Philippines by MSI-ECS. For more information, contact James Ong at 688-3740,  email jong@msi-ecs.com.ph . or visit www.msi-ecs.com.ph.

 

Autodesk Frames Global Vision for Filipino Design Software Industry

MANILA, June 14, 2007 — Autodesk, Inc. today presented the company’s latest portfolio of design products at its annual Solutions Day event, and articulated its vision of a fundamental transformation in the design process among diverse industries, and how the company planned to help Filipino designers to fully leverage on the latest technologies in design innovation in order to remain globally competitive.

Speaking before hundreds of participants at the Autodesk Solution Day 2007, Sivadas Ramadas, regional director for Autodesk ASEAN, outlined the global challenges that were redefining the current design processes.

Autodesk also identified five major forces that exert great pressure on companies to innovate as well as address social and environmental issues. These forces – emerging economies; a boom in worldwide infrastructure, from highways to utility lines; the rise of the middle classes in developing nations; the necessity for sustainable design; and the advent of technology and “digital” lifestyles have raised the stakes for success, requiring companies to innovate in order to remain competitive and profitable.

Design Innovation Demands More than Aesthetics

Globally, Autodesk customers are rethinking the design process in order to understand the information implied by the geometry of a drawing, namely, the function and user’s likely experience of a design. Early insight into user experience can help companies gain an edge in bringing successful concepts to market.

In order to experience ideas before they are real, companies must envision not only how an idea will look, but also how it will work in the real world.

“Autodesk is equipping customers to do exactly that with advanced 3D design technologies for the creation of fully functional digital prototypes, which in turn allow companies to visualize, simulate and analyze the real-world performance of concepts,” explained Ramadas. “This integrated environment lets customers not only see but also ‘experience’ their ideas before they actually create anything, and take proactive steps to improve designs.”

By making changes early in the development process, companies reap the benefits of design innovation — namely, cost-effectiveness, efficiency, faster time to market, better quality and performance — that add up to competitive advantage in a fast-changing global economy.

Autodesk 2008 Portfolio of Products Showcased

With an audience of the country’s brightest professional and up-and-coming engineers and designers, Autodesk also took the opportunity to present its 2008 portfolio of products which include AutoCAD 2008, Autodesk Inventor 2008, AutoCAD Civil 3D 2008, AutoCAD Map 3D 2008 and AutoCAD Revit Architecture Suite 2008. The updates and features of the new products continue to respond to the customers’ needs and requests, driving product development and alignment of the company’s core applications to support continuous quality improvement.

Teddy Tiu, country manager for Autodesk Philippines, noted the importance of educating the local community in order to continue responding to the country’s key economic growth areas that include business process outsourcing (BPO) and property industries.

“Autodesk plans to empower more Filipino designers in diverse industries to experience, change and improve their ideas early in the design process, and save time and money, improve quality and increase innovation,” Tiu said. “Autodesk is well-positioned to help empower the Filipino designers to prepare themselves for the challenges of a more competitive local and global market.”

Now on its third year, Autodesk Solution Day aims to educate Filipino designers on the latest updates on design innovation. This year’s Solution Day was attended by engineers, architects, lecturers and students all over the country.

About Autodesk

Autodesk, Inc. is the world leader in 2D and 3D design software for the manufacturing, building and construction, and media and entertainment markets. Since its introduction of AutoCAD in 1982, Autodesk has developed the broadest portfolio of state-of-the-art digital prototyping solutions to help customers experience their ideas before they are real. Fortune 1000 companies rely on Autodesk for the tools to visualize, simulate and analyze real-world performance early in the design process to save time and money, enhance quality and foster innovation. For additional information about Autodesk, visit www.autodesk.com.ph.

 

Autodesk officials discussed with Philippine media the five global trends that are driving Autodesk growth around the world and in the Philippines. The company’s local revenues posted a double digit growth last year. Photo shows (from left) Sivadas Ramadas – Autodesk Asean regional director, and Teddy D. Tiu – Autodesk Philippines country manager.

 

 

Subaru Drives Optimal Security at 600 Dealerships Nationwide with Fortinet

Leading Unified Threat Management (UTM) Vendor Teams with Nuspire Networks to Customize Security for Each Subaru Location.

Pioneer and leading provider of unified threat management (UTM) solutions, Fortinet, teams up with Nuspire Networks to customize security for each Subaru Location. Fortinet deployed FortiGate™ multi-threat security systems at 600 Subaru dealerships nationwide to help secure its Subaru Service Diagnostic Systems (SDS) project. The SDS project is a laptop-based diagnostic system that delivers rapid, on-the-spot service to its customers.

Subaru developed its Subaru Service Diagnostic Systems to increase the productivity and efficiency of its service technicians. The system runs on rugged notebooks that can be used anywhere in the repair shop or vehicle to obtain service information, check vehicle diagnostics or to reprogram the vehicle’s electronic control unit. These laptops are connected to each dealership’s wireless network, making it critical that Subaru find an efficient method to help secure sensitive service information, i.e., vehicle identification numbers (VIN), owner address, and contact information, or even vehicle history.

To achieve this, Subaru worked with Nuspire, a managed network services provider specializing in large corporations with a distribute network footprint to develop network security and broadband services configured specifically to each dealer location. Nuspire chose to deploy Fortinet’s FortiGate-60 systems to protect each of the dealer’s service networks using firewall, anti-virus, anti-spam, and Web content filtering. Using Fortinet’s FortiGuard™ Web Filtering subscription service, Nuspire is further utilizing their FortiGate solutions to help ensure technicians can only access specific, Subaru-authorized Internet sites needed for diagnostics and vehicle service. URL updates are pushed directly to the FortiGate devices, thereby improving security and reducing administrative headaches.

“To meet Subaru’s requirements for accelerated and secure service, we chose Fortinet’s FortiGate systems combination of performance and security they provide,” said Saylor Frase, president at Nuspire. “Dealers want to spend time helping customers, not managing multiple single-function security devices. For a project the scope of Subaru’s, we needed a vendor to deliver the best protection while being easy to manage and cost effective.”

Fortinet’s FortiGate multi-threat security appliances provide comprehensive network and content protection through the integration of eight essential security applications and services – including anti-virus, firewall, VPN, intrusion prevention (IPS), anti-spam, anti-spyware, Web filtering and traffic shaping. The systems are kept up to date automatically by Fortinet’s FortiGuard subscription services, which provide continuous updates to help protect against the latest viruses, worms, Trojans, and other threats – around the clock, and around the world.

Fortinet  products are available in the Philippines through MSI-ECS. For more information, please call Don Adove at 688-3811 or  email dadove@msi-ecs.com.ph or visit www.msi-ecs.com.ph. You may also visit: www.fortinet.com/products.

 

The New Genius SW-Flat 2.1

Just when you think it can’t get any better, Genius gives you a new version of the subwoofer you love. This time, flat.

Designed fashionably to comply with your Panel PC, Notebook, or portable MP3/CD player, the new Genius SW-Flat 2.1 700 increases your music, game or movie experience with its total output power of 15 watts RMS.

Adopting a Slab/NXT flat panel driver technology, SW-Flat 2.1 700 is the best choice for your multi media speaker systems. There are two satellite speakers that give you better visual comfort and clearer sound compared to regular speakers. Utilizing the same technology as satellites, the Slab/NXT flat panel driver has a special structure design and a 9-watt subwoofer that delivers amazing bass performance in a slim cabinet thickness of only 44mm.

With the control panel conveniently located on the front of the subwoofer enabling you to adjust the volume, use the earphone jack to plug in your pair of favorite earphones, or use the line in input for connecting to portable audio devices like your MP3 players or your iPod, you can definitely get the best music quality with the new Genius SW-Flat 2.1 700. Chill in flat style.

Genius products are exclusively distributed in the Philippines by MSI-ECS. For more information, contact James Ong at 688-3740, email jong@msi-ecs.com.ph or visit www.msi-ecs.com.ph .