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PACT XPP Technologies AG, a developer of a reconfigurable highly parallel processor, has redesigned its technology to produce the XPP-III version of its architecture and claimed that performance, for the first time, allows high definition video decoding without additional hardware accelerators.
On the original version of the XPP architecture, released in October 2000, PACT included 128 processors and an FPGA-like array of interconnectivity. Pact (Munich, Germany) added a package of video processor configurations and multi-standard video codecs for porting to its XPP-II parallel processor in January 2005.
The XPP-III is a software programmable standalone processor platform for signal processing applications. It combines a coarse-grained reconfigurable array with a sequential architecture for the control-flow code. Although the main target application is video, the XPP-III is a general purpose processor which can be used in other application fields such as wireless baseband processing, the company said.
Pact claimed it had overcome some of the development and programming issues that have dogged other multiprocessor architectures with the provision of a complete tool chain, including an ANSI C compiler, and accompanying application libraries. This would allow software developers to concentrate on application writing while making use of flexible hardware, Pact said. The company said that the architecture is well suited to compute heavy consumer applications such as video processing for high-definition television, for HDTV set-top boxes, and Blu-ray and HD-DVD decoders as well as mobile applications.
The company plans to bring the architecture to market as licensable intellectual property for customers working on system-on-chips. In addition, Pact plans to offer chips for either high performance or mobile applications. The SMeXPP-3H for high performance and the SMeXPP-3M for mobile would become available in 2007 in volume, the company said.
In addition, Pact provides software modules for decoding MPEG4 ASP, H.264, and VC-1 and AES encryption and decryption. Software libraries also comprise software building blocks for customers who want to port their own applications to XPP-III.
The XPP-III provides greater bandwidth for streaming data and sequential performance than DSPs, the company said. And, in comparison with FPGAs, the coarse-grained XPP dataflow array is an order of magnitude more area and power efficient and provides fast on-the-fly reconfiguration. And, unlike ASSP and FPGA-based systems, all components are programmable in C and the XPP-III does not need the support of additional of-the-shelf microprocessors, the company said.
C-code is compiled with the ANSI C-compiler (FNC-CC) for those tasks which have been selected for the sequential units (Function-PAEs). Dataflow type code sections for the XPP dataflow array are integrated using APIs and library functions. If required, dataflow functions for the array can be compiled with the XPP vectorizing C compiler (XPP-VC).
Pact also supplies a profiling tool to locate potential bottlenecks in the code, which may be resolved either by restructuring the program or by function calls to optimized assembler routines. The program can be simulated and debugged with cycle accuracy.
As a measure of performance Pact claimed that the XPP-III can process any kind of video decoder up to high definition resolution. An XPP core with 40 ALUs, 16 RAM programmable elements and 8 Function-PAEs implemented in 90-nm CMOS and achieving 350-MHz clock frequency would be able to execute H.264 main profile at 1920 by 1088 resolution including digital rights management from encrypted input, de-interlacing and picture enhancement.

sa: http://www.eeproductcenter.com/showA...1000043&pgno=1

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This is a 2x1GB DDR2 kit rated for PC2-6400 (800mhz) speeds. It's also programmed with NVIDIA's new Enhanced Performance Profiles (EPP) and is marketed as "SLI-Ready". Kingston makes a twin set to this without the "SLI-Ready" branding also. The "N" at the very end of the model number denotes the NVIDIA SLI Ready moniker.
Specifications:
Description: 2GB 800MHz DDR2 Low-Latency CL4 (4-4-4-12) DIMM (NVIDIA SLI-Ready)
Detailed Specifications: Standard 128M X 64 Non-ECC 800MHz 240-pin Unbuffered DIMM (SDRAM-DDR2, 2.0V, CL4, Gold) Memory timings are 5-5-5-15.

FEATURES:
Power supply : Vdd: 1.8V ± 0.1V, Vddq: 1.8V ± 0.1V
Double-data-rate architecture; two data transfers per clock cycle
Bidirectional data strobe(DQS)
Differential clock inputs(CK and CK)
DLL aligns DQ and DQS transition with CK transition
Programmable Read latency 3, 4, 5 (clock)
Burst Length: 4, 8 (Interleave/nibble sequential)
Programmable Burst type (sequential & interleave)
Timing Reference: 800MHz 5-5-5-15-2T at +1.9V / 800MHz 4-4-4-12 at +2.0V
Edge aligned data output, center aligned data input
Auto & Self refresh, 7.8us refresh interval (8K/64ms refresh)
Serial presence detect with EEPROM
High Performance Heat Spreader
PCB : Height 1.180” (30.00mm), double sided component
PERFORMANCE:
Clock Cycle Time (tCK) CL=5 3ns (min.) / 8ns (max.)
Row Cycle Time (tRC) 54ns (min.)
Refresh to Active/Refresh Command Time (tRFC) 105ns
Row Active Time (tRAS) 39ns (min.) / 70,000ns (max.)
Single Power Supply of +1.8V (+/- .1V)
Power 1.922 W (operating per module)
UL Rating 94 V - 0
Operating Temperature 0o C to 55o C
Storage Temperature -55o C to +125o C

What is EPP?
Developed as an extension to the traditional Serial Presence Detect (SPD) found on today's high performance DIMMS, Enhanced Performance Profiles allow memory manufacturers to integrate additional module performance data in the unused portion of the JEDEC standard SPD, allowing compatible motherboards to read and take advantage of added performance capabilities. EPP brings simplified overclocking success for entry level enthusiasts, and access to more advanced memory specifications and a higher recovery point for hard-core overclockers.
To take full advantage of the Enhanced Performance Profiles, motherboards designed with a special BIOS can recognize the presence of EPP settings. Once these settings are enabled, the system boots directly into the memory's specified settings and takes immediate advantage of the increased performance.
Continued

sa: http://www.virtual-hideout.net/revie...00/index.shtml

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HDCP or High bandwidth Digital Content Protection is a hardware digital rights management tool developed by Intel to protect high definition video and audio content during transmission from the player to the screen, in whatever form those two devices may take. Essentially what this means for consumers is that we'll all need to have HDCP compatible components (player, TV, videocard, etc.) in order to view High Definition content. If one device in the chain not support HDCP, content will be downgraded to a 540p signal at best, audio to DAT quality. At the very worst, rumor has it that protected content will not play at all.... but this is mostly a baseless fear as the standard is focused on protecting HD output from being captured during transmission and copied.
With this in mind, those of you who are thinking about building an entertainment computer, media PC, or home theatre PC had better plan your purchases wisely as HDCP compatible videocards are hard to come by. Microsoft Windows Vista will natively incorporate HDCP support, so it's wise to plan ahead at this stage in the game if movies are your passion. MSI has just released its NX7900GT-VT256E-HD which is HDCP compatible - this is the first HDCP-enabled PCI Express x16 videocard from that company. That's right, this card is not just a 3D gammer's baby, it also plays nicely with High Definition hardware as well.
MSI NX7900GT-VT2D256E-HD Vidoecard

Includes:
Quick Installation Guide, Quick User's Guide, Driver CD, Multimedia CD, Serious Sam II CD, Component/VIVO Cable, S-Video Cable, 2x DVI to analog converters, Dual Molex to 6 Pin 12V Power Connector, MSI Sticker

sa: http://www.pcstats.com/articleimages...GThdcp_all.jpg

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NX7600GT-VT2D256E HD

Support Memory
256MB DDR3
Video Output Function
• TV-out (S-Video Connector)
• Dual DVI Connector
• VIVO + HDTV Connector
GPU Clock: 580MHz
Memory Clock: 1500MHz
MSI Part No: MS-V045-130
MSI Vivid Video Technology
MSI Vivid is an easy tool to enhance "image quality." It can help users to get better image quality in viewing "Digital photos, documents & games."
• Vivid brings the easiest way to optimize graphic quality.
• Colorize your vision when browsing digital photos!!!
• Sharpen characters edge!!!
• Enhance contrast when playing game!!!

GeForce 7600GT Chipset Features

Full Microsoft ® Direct ® 9.0 Shader Model 3.0 Support
The standard for today's Purchase and next-generation consoles enables stunning and complex efects for cinematic realism. NVIDIA® GPUs offer the most complete implementation of the Shader Model 3.0 feature set -- including vertex texture fetch (VTF) -- to ensure top-notch compatibility and performance for all DirectX9 applications.
Ture High Dynamic-Range (HDR) Rendering Support
The ultimate lighting effects bring environments to life for a truly immersive, ultrareailstic experience. Based on the OpenEXR technology from Industrial Light and Magic, NVIDIA's 64-bit texture implementation delivers state-of-the-art high dynamic-range (HDR) visual effects through floating point capabilities in shading, filtering, texturing, and blending.
NVIDIA ® CineFX ® 4.0 Engine
Delivers advanced visual effects at unimaginable speeds. Full support for Microsoft ® DirectX ® 9.0 Shader Model 3.0 enables stunning and complex special effects. Next-generation shader architecture with new texture unit design streamlines texture processing for faster and smoother gameplay.
NVIDIA ® SLI ™ Technology
Delivers up to 2x the performance of a single GPU speeds. Full support for Microsoft ® DirectX ® 9.0 Shader Model 3.0 enables stunning and complex special effects. Next-generation shader architecture with new texture unit design streamlines texture processing for faster and smoother gameplay.
NVIDIA ® PureVideo Technology
The combination of high-definition video processors and decoder software delivers unprecedented picture clarity, smooth video, accurate color, and precise image scaling for all video content to turn your PC into a high-end home theater.
Adaptable Programmable Video Processor
PureVideo's programmable technology adapts to new video encoding formats as they are developed to provide a future-proof video solution.
High-Definition H.264, MPEG-2 and WMV Hardware Acceleration
Smoothly playback H.264, MPEG-2, and W MV video including WMV HD with minimal CPU usage so the PC is free to do other work.
Advanced Spatial Temporal De-Interlacing
Smoothes video and DVD playback on progressive displays to deliver a crisp, clear picture that rivals high-end home theater systems.
High-Quality Scaling
High-quality scaling technology delivers a clear, clean image at any window size, including full-screen HDTV resolutions up to 1080p.
Video Color Correction
Corrects differences in color characteristics of RGB monitors and TV monitors through NVIDIA PureVideo s ProcAmp Color Controls setting, such as PureVideo s ProcAmp Color Controls setting, such as ensures videos are not too dark, overly bright, or washed out regardless of the video format or display.
Integrated HDTV Encoder
Provides analog TV-output (Component/Composite/S-Video) up to 1080i resolution.
128-Bit Memory Interface
Delivers more memory bandwidth and efficiency to power the latest games and applications at blazing speeds.
NVIDIA ® UltraShadow ™ II Technology
Enhances the performance of bleeding-edge games, like id Software's DOOM 3, that feature complex scenes with multiple light sources and objects.
Full-Speed 32-Bit Color Precision
Delivers increased image quality with no performance compromise.
NVIDIA® ForceWare® Technology
Delivers a proven record of compatibility, reliability, and stability with the widest range of games and applications. ForceWare ensures the best out-of-box experience for every user and delivers continuous performance and feature updates over the life of NVIDIA GeForce GPUs.
HDCP - High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection
HDCP is a content protection specification to protect digital entertainment content across the DVI/HDMI interface. The HDCP provides a robust, cost-effective and transparent method for transmitting and receiving digital entertainment similar to DVI/HDMI-compliant digital displays. HDCP encrypts the data transmitted between the DVI/HDMI connector on the graphics adapter and the display. To provide this support, both the graphics adapter and the display need to have an HDCP transmitter and receiver respectively.
Key Specifications
• 128-bit memory interface
• OpenGL 2.0 Optimizations and Support
• NVIDIA® nView® Multi-Display Technology
• NVIDIA® Digital Vibrance Control® 3.0 Technology
• Dual 400MHz RAMDACs
• Dual Dual-Link DVI Support
• 90nm Process Technology
• Built for Microsoft® Windows™ Vista
System Requirements
• Intel Pentium IV (and above), AMD K8 (and above) or compatible with PCI Express slot
• Minimum 128MB of system memory
• Installation software requires CD-ROM drive
• Interactive Program guide requires Internet connection for listing updates
• Power supply of 400 watt(550W is recommended for SLI mode) is highly recommended for system stability.
Bundle Software
MSI developed software
• VGA Driver
• MSI Live Update Series ( Live VGA BIOS & Live VGA Driver)
- Automatically online download & update VGA BIOS & Drivers, reduce the risk of getting the wrong files, and never have the trouble on web site searching.
• GoodMen
Automatically release the system memory space, reduce the risk of system hang-up.
• LockBox
- Instantly enter the data lock mode when you must leave your system for a while.
• WMIinfor
- Automatically list the detail system configuration, it helpful for engineering service people.
• MSI VIVID
- Vivid brings the easiest way to optimize graphic quality. Colorize your vision when browsing photos!!! Sharpen characters edge! Enhance contrast when playing game!
• MSI Live
- Including all real time life information you need, such as Live MSI Product News, Live Daily Information, Live Personal Schedule Manager, Live Search and more.
• MSI Secure DOC
• E-Color
• MediaRing
• ShowShift
• ThinSoft Be Twin
• Adobe Acrobat Reader
• Norton Internet Security 2005
• Microsoft® DirectX 9.0

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Q: What is HDMI?
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is the first and only industry-supported, uncompressed, all-digital audio/video interface. By delivering crystal-clear, all-digital audio and video via a single cable, HDMI dramatically simplifies cabling and helps provide consumers with the highest-quality home theater experience. HDMI provides an interface between any audio/video source, such as a set-top box, DVD player, or A/V receiver and an audio and/or video monitor, such as a digital television (DTV), over a single cable.
HDMI supports standard, enhanced, or high-definition video, plus multi-channel digital audio on a single cable. It transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and supports 8-channel, 192kHz, uncompressed digital audio and all currently-available compressed formats (such as Dolby Digital and DTS), HDMI 1.3 adds additional support for new lossless digital audio formats Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD with bandwidth to spare to accommodate future enhancements and requirements.
• HDMI is the de facto standard digital interface for HD and the consumer electronics market: More than 400 companies have become adopters, and more than 60 million devices featuring HDMI are expected to ship in 2006 (conservative estimate by In-Stat).
• Convergence – HDMI is the interface for convergence of PC and consumer electronics devices: HDMI enables PCs to deliver premium media content including high definition movies and multi-channel audio formats. HDMI is the only interface enabling connections to both HDTVs and digital PC monitors implementing the DVI and HDMI standards.
• Evolving standard – HDMI is continually evolving to meet the needs of the market. : Products implementing new versions of the HDMI specification will continue to be fully backward compatible with earlier HDMI products.
Q: Who supports HDMI?
The HDMI Founders include leading consumer electronics manufacturers Hitachi, Matsushita Electric Industrial (Panasonic), Philips, Sony, Thomson (RCA), Toshiba, and Silicon Image. In addition, HDMI has the support of major motion picture producers Fox, Universal, Warner Bros. and Disney, and system operators DirecTV, EchoStar (Dish Network) as well as CableLabs.
Q. What are the advantages of HDMI over existing analog interfaces such as composite, S-Video and component video?
Quality: HDMI transfers uncompressed digital audio and video for the highest, crispest image quality.
All-Digital: HDMI ensures an all-digital rendering of video without the losses associated with analog interfaces and their unnecessary digital-to-analog conversions.
Low-cost: HDMI provides the quality and functionality of a digital interface while also supporting uncompressed video formats in a simple, cost-effective manner.
Audio: HDMI supports multiple audio formats, from standard stereo to multi-channel surround-sound.
Ease-of-use: HDMI combines video and multi-channel audio into a single cable, eliminating the cost, complexity, and confusion of multiple cables currently used in A/V systems.
Intelligence: HDMI supports two-way communication between the video source (such as a DVD player) and the DTV, enabling new functionality such as automatic configuration and one-touch play.
Q. What is the life expectancy of HDMI?
HDMI is an evolving standard and changes to meet the needs of the market. HDMI has capacity to spare, and can incorporate new technology advancements and capabilities long into the foreseeable future.
Q. How can a consumer identify which HDMI products support a specific feature, such as DVD Audio or deep color?
The key for consumers to remember is that HDMI has consistently enabled a variety of the most innovative new technologies (whether they be DVD Audio, SACD, 1080p/60, etc.). However, in many cases, it is up to each manufacturer to choose which features to implement in any given product. The manufacturer can thus use its knowledge of the market to choose the mix of features that makes sense for its customers. So, customers must choose devices that have the features that they want (instead of focusing on which version of HDMI is implemented by the device.) . Consumers interested in confirming whether a particular consumer electronics product supports DVD-Audio or any other feature over HDMI are urged to review users’ manuals and product reviews and check with manufacturers directly.

Becoming an Adopter

Q. What's the difference between the Adopter Agreement and the Test Equipment Maker Agreement, and which one should I sign?
The Adopter Agreement is offered for those parties that desire to make and sell HDMI-based products such as DVD players, Set-top boxes, TVs, semiconductors, cables and connectors, etc. The Test Equipment Maker Agreement is offered for those parties that desire to make and sell test equipment such as oscilloscopes, wave form generators and other measurement tools designed to assist manufacturers in using the Compliance Test Specification to test their HDMI products for compliance with the HDMI Specification.
Q. How do I obtain a license to the HDMI Specification?
HDMI is licensed under reasonable and non-discriminatory terms. The Adopter Agreement or Test Equipment Maker Agreement detailing the licensing terms is available in Becoming An Adopter in the Manufacturer area of this site. Please follow the instructions for downloading and submitting the appropriate agreement along with your payment in order to obtain a license to the Specification.
Q. Can I review the HDMI Specification before deciding to pay for a license?
Yes. Before downloading the specification, you will need to fill out a short form. Please visit the Manufacturer area of this site to download the HDMI Specification
Q. What are the fees for HDMI?

Annual Fee

HDMI Adopters must pay an annual fee of fifteen thousand dollars (US$15,000). The annual fee is due upon the execution of the Adopter Agreement, and must be paid on the anniversary of this date each year thereafter. Note that HDMI does provide an alternative annual fee payment for small-volume manufacturers (10,000 units or less). Please see Attachment B of the Adopter Agreement for details.
Royalty
HDMI is available for a reasonable royalty rate as follows:
• For each end-user Licensed Product, fifteen cents (US$0.15) per unit sold.
• If the Adopter reasonably uses the HDMI logo on the product and promotional materials, then the rate drops to five cents (US$0.05) per unit sold.
• If the Adopter implements HDCP content protection as set forth in the HDMI Specification, then the royalty rate is further reduced by one cent (US $.01) per unit sold, for a lowest rate of four cents (.04) per unit. Adopters must license HDCP separately from Digital Content Protection, LLC, an Intel subsidiary. Please see www.digital-cp.com for details.

Products Subject to Royalty

The HDMI royalty is only payable on Licensed Products that will be sold on a stand-alone basis (i.e. that are not incorporated into another Licensed Product that is subject to an HDMI royalty). For example, if a cable or IC is sold to an Adopter who then includes it in a television subject to a royalty, then the cable or IC maker would not pay a royalty, and the Adopter television manufacturer would pay the royalty on the final product. If the cable is sold directly to consumers, then it would be subject to a royalty.
Please see Attachment B of the Adopter Agreement for royalty and annual fee details.

HDMI Specifications

Q. When was the HDMI specification released?
The initial HDMI 1.0 specification was released in December 2002.
Version 1.1 was released in May 2004.
Version 1.2 was released in August of 2005.
Version 1.2a was released in December of 2005.
Version 1.3 was released in June of 2006.
Q. What functionality was added to each specification?
The following provides an overview of major functionality added to each version of HDMI
HDMI 1.1
• Support for DVD Audio
HDMI 1.2
• Adds features and capabilities that increase HDMI's appeal for use in both the CE and PC industries. Specifically, the features and modifications for HDMI 1.2 include:
• Support for One Bit Audio format, such as SuperAudio CD's DSD (Direct Stream Digital)
o Changes to offer better support for current and future PCs with HDMI outputs, including:
• Availability of the widely-used HDMI Type A connector for PC sources and displays with full support for PC video formats
• Ability for PC sources to use their native RGB color-space while retaining the option to support the YCbCr CE color space
• Requirement for HDMI 1.2 and later displays to support future low-voltage (i.e., AC-coupled) sources, such as those based on PCI Express I/O
technology
HDMI 1.2a
• Consumer Electronic Control (CEC) features and command sets and CEC compliance tests are now fully specified.
• Creation of version 1.2a of the HDMI Compliance Test Specification (CTS), which includes a CEC Supplement. HDMI CTS 1.2a has been updated for technical consistency with HDMI Specification 1.2a as well as to the recently released HDMI Specification 1.2. o Significantly, CTS 1.2a contains additional cable and connector testing and Authorized Testing Center (ATC) submission requirements. Specifically, under CTS 1.2a, the Adopter shall submit for testing to the ATC any new HDMI cable whose length exceeds previously tested cables.
• Additionally, HDMI Licensing, LLC will maintain a list of approved connectors. For a device to pass CTS 1.2a testing at an ATC, all connectors on such device must appear on the approved connector list. To add a connector to this list, the vendor must submit to the ATC or HDMI Licensing, LLC full and passing testing results.
Q. What has been added in the HDMI 1.3 specification?
Please see the HDMI 1.3 section below for more information on version 1.3
Q. Are all of the new HDMI versions backwards compatible with previous versions?
Yes, all HDMI versions are fully backwards compatible with all previous versions.
Q. How can I get the latest HDMI Specification?
Please visit the Manufacturer area of this site to download the HDMI Specification

HDMI 1.3

Q: What’s new in the HDMI 1.3 Specification?
• Higher speed: Although all previous versions of HDMI have had more than enough bandwidth to support all current HDTV formats, HDMI 1.3 increases its single-link bandwidth to 340 MHz (10.2 Gbps) to support the demands of future HD display devices, such as higher resolutions, Deep Color and high frame rates. In addition, built into the HDMI 1.3 specification is the technical foundation that will let future versions of HDMI reach significantly higher speeds.
• Deep Color: HDMI 1.3 supports 30-bit, 36-bit and 48-bit (RGB or YCbCr) color depths, up from the 24-bit depths in previous versions of the HDMI specification, for stunning rendering of over one billion colors in unprecedented detail.
• Broader color space: HDMI 1.3 adds support for “xvYCC” color standard, which removes current color space limitations and enables the display of any color viewable by the human eye.
• New mini connector: With small portable devices such as HD camcorders and still cameras demanding seamless connectivity to HDTVs, HDMI 1.3 offers a new, smaller form factor connector option.
• Lip Sync: Because consumer electronics devices are using increasingly complex digital signal processing to enhance the clarity and detail of the content, synchronization of video and audio in user devices has become a greater challenge and could potentially require complex end-user adjustments. HDMI 1.3 incorporates automatic audio synching capabilities that allows devices to perform this synchronization automatically with total accuracy.
• New HD lossless audio formats: In addition to HDMI’s current ability to support high-bandwidth uncompressed digital audio and all currently-available compressed formats (such as Dolby® Digital and DTS®), HDMI 1.3 adds additional support for new lossless compressed digital audio formats Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio™.
Q: What products or applications will take advantage of new HDMI 1.3 capabilities?
According to announcements by manufacturers, new high-definition DVD formats (HD-DVD and Blu-ray) and game machines (including the Sony PLAYSTATION® 3) will make use of capabilities added in HDMI 1.3. Digital televisions will be able to present images that are closer to real life than previously has been possible. These will include LCD TVs, plasma displays and rear projection microdisplays. The PS3 which is scheduled to ship in November 2006, will be the first source product to provide such high quality imagery to these displays. It is expected that hi-def DVD players will follow early in 2007 with HDMI 1.3 support. A/V Receivers that can decode DTS-HD Master Audio and Dolby TrueHD will start to show up early in 2007 as well. Please check with the manufacturers for details.
Q: What is meant by the term “Deep Color” and why is it important?
Deep Color lets HDTVs and other displays go from millions of colors to billions of colors allowing consumers to enjoy unprecedented vividness and accuracy of color on their displays. Deep Color eliminates on-screen color banding, for smooth tonal transitions and subtle gradations between colors. It enables increased contrast ratio, and can represent many times more shades of gray between black and white.
Q: What is “xvYCC”?
HDMI 1.3 adopts use of the IEC 61966-2-4 color standard, commonly called xvYCC (shorthand for Extended YCC Colorimetry for Video Applications). This new standard can support 1.8 times as many colors as existing HDTV signals. xvYCC lets HDTVs display colors more accurately, enabling displays with more natural, vivid colors .
Q: What is the difference between “Deep Color” and “xvYCC?”
Deep Color increases the number of available colors within the boundaries defined by the RGB or YCbCr color space, while xvYCC expands the available range (limits) to allow the display of colors that meet and exceed what human eyes can recognize.
Q: When will products with HDMI 1.3 capabilities be available to the public?
Products using HDMI 1.3 capabilities are expected to become available this year starting with the PS3. Displays, DVDs and A/V Receivers are expected to ship early in 2007.
Q: How will consumers know which products have the latest implementation of HDMI 1.3?
Consumers should not look for a particular version of HDMI, but rather for the functionality that they want the device to support (Deep Color, specific audio formats, etc.). Alternatively, consumers can look for support for these features called out in the manufacturer’s product information.
Q: Is HDMI 1.3 backward compatible with prior releases of the HDMI spec and with DVI?
Yes, HDMI is fully backward compatible with all prior releases of the HDMI spec, as well as DVI compliant devices.
Q: Why is lip sync important?
In a DTV, typically the video processing takes more time than the audio. As a result, lip sync can become an issue where it’s noticeable to the viewer, creating an effect similar to that of a badly-dubbed movie. HDMI 1.3 provides a method whereby the audio processing times in devices can be automatically adjusted to remove lip sync.
Compliance Testing
Q. What testing is required?
Prior to mass producing or distributing any Licensed Product or component that claims compliance with the HDMI Specification (or allowing someone else to do such activities), each Adopter must test a representative sample for HDMI compliance. First, the Adopter must self test as specified in the then-current HDMI Compliance Test Specification. The HDMI Compliance Test Specification provides a suite of testing procedures, and establishes certain minimum requirements specifying how each HDMI Adopter should test Licensed Products for conformance to the HDMI Specification. Such compliance testing is limited to evaluation of a product's compliance with the HDMI Specification and is not designed to test the overall performance of any Licensed Product.
Second, each Adopter must submit the first product of each Licensed Product type (i.e. source, sink, repeater, or cable) to an HDMI Authorized Testing Center (ATC) for testing. Once an Adopter product of each type has passed testing, it is not required to submit to the ATC subsequent products of that type. For example, once an Adopter's television has passed ATC testing, it is not required to submit another television or other display for ATC testing. However, to help ensure HDMI interoperability, we encourage Adopters to use the ATCs.
Q. What is the Compliance Test Specification?
The Compliance Test Specification (CTS) was developed by the HDMI Founders to assist manufacturers in ensuring the compliance of their products with the HDMI Specification. It consists of numerous tests designed to check for compatibility of various HDMI-related aspects of a product, including audio, video, EDID, electrical signaling, protocols, etc. The HDMI Compliance Test Specification represents the minimum compliance testing required for HDMI products, and it is up to each manufacturer to fully test product functionality and interoperability.
Q. How can I get the Compliance Test Specification?
The latest version of the Compliance Test Specification is available to all parties that have licensed the HDMI Specification.
Q. What is an HDMI Authorized Testing Center and how do I contact one?
The HDMI Founders have established Authorized Testing Centers (ATC) where licensed manufacturers can submit their products for compliance testing.
You can view the current list of HDMI Authorized Test Centers by visiting www.hdmi.org.
Compatibility and Interoperability
Q. Is HDMI backward compatible with DVI (Digital Visual Interface)?
Yes, HDMI is fully backward compatible with DVI compliant devices. HDMI DTVs will display video received from existing DVI-equipped products, and DVI-equipped TVs will display video from HDMI sources. However, some older PCs with DVI are designed only to support computer monitors, not televisions. Consumers buying a PC with DVI should make sure that it specifically includes support for television formats and not just computer monitors.
Also, consumers may want to confirm that the DVI interface supports High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP), as content that requires HDCP copy protection will require that both the HDMI and DVI devices support HDCP to properly view the video content.
Q. What types of video does HDMI support?
HDMI has the capacity to support existing high-definition video formats (720p, 1080i, and 1080p/60). It also has the flexibility to support enhanced definition formats such as 480p, as well as standard definition formats such as NTSC or PAL.
Q. What version of HDMI does a consumer need to view 1080p content?
HDMI has always supported 1080p resolution, starting from version 1.0 in 2002. However, as with many functions that HDMI enables (such as DVD-Audio and SACD), it is up to the manufacturer to choose whether to implement 1080p in the device. Some TV and device manufacturers have chosen not to implement 1080p in their products because 1080p content has not been widely available, and because changing the internal electronics of the device to support 1080p would increase cost.
Viewing 1080p resolution requires at minimum that the HDTV have a display supporting the 1080p pixel resolution. Today, many HDTVs use display technologies (such as PDP, LCD, and microdisplay screens) designed for 720p pixel resolution.
In addition, many of today’s 1080p HDTVs support only 720p or 1080i on the HDMI input, then perform video processing to up-convert the 720p/1080i signal to 1080p. This is now changing, as 1080p content is becoming increasingly available, and HDTVs fully supporting 1080p in the display and HDMI electronics have begun to reach the market in early 2006.
All versions of HDMI are backward compatible. Consumers should not look for a particular version of HDMI, but rather for the functionality that they want the device to support (SACD, 1080p, etc.).
Q. Do you need a new version of HDMI to play Blu-ray and HD-DVD content in high definition?
All versions of the HDMI specification support the ability to watch HD-DVD / Blu-Ray content in high definition up to 1080p resolution. However, there may be non-HDMI reasons that prevent some devices from accessing content in high definition, including lack of HDCP support.
Q. Are HDMI 1.0, 1.1 and 1.2 compatible with the next generation videogame consoles implementing 1080p and HDMI’s new deep color capability?
HDMI has been able to support 1080p content since version 1.0, and each new revision of the HDMI specification is fully backward compatible with previous revisions.
The HDMI Founders issued a press release during CES 2006 announcing that a future HDMI specification would expand the performance capabilities to support deeper color (up to 48-bit color RGB color) and higher resolution audio formats (such as Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD). PCs and videogame consoles in particular are expected to be capable of delivering content that takes advantage of HDMI's latest capabilities. When such sources are interfaced to older HDMI HDTVs, the source should automatically select the highest quality video and audio performance supported by the HDTV.
Q. What is HDMI’s new deep color capability?
The new deep color capability lets manufacturers build devices allowing consumers to enjoy billions of colors with incredible visual clarity and detail. HDMI 1.3 supports 30-bit, 36-bit and 48-bit red/green/blue color depths and color space, an upgrade from the 24-bit maximum resolution in previous versions of the HDMI Specification.
Q. Does HDMI support Dolby 5.1 audio and high-resolution audio formats?
Yes. From the start, HDMI was defined to carry 8-channels, of 192kHz, 24-bit uncompressed audio, which exceeds all current consumer media formats. In addition, HDMI can carry any flavor of compressed audio format such as Dolby or DTS. (Such compressed formats are the only multi-channel or high-resolution audio formats that can be carried across the older S/PDIF or AES/EBU interfaces.) Additionally, most existing HDMI sources can output any compressed stream, and the newer sources can output uncompressed 6-channel, 96kHz audio from a DVD-Audio disk. There are A/V receivers on the market that can accept and process the 6- or 8-channel audio from HDMI.
Q. Does HDMI support Dolby Digital, DTS, and high-resolution audio formats?
Yes. From the start, HDMI was defined to carry 8-channels of 192kHz, 24-bit uncompressed audio, which exceeds all current consumer media formats. In addition, HDMI can carry any currently available flavor of compressed audio format such as Dolby (including Dolby Digital EX 7.1, Dolby Digital Plus 7.1, Dolby TrueHD) or DTS (including DTS-ES 6.1 and DTS-HD Master Audio). (Such compressed formats are the only multi-channel or high-resolution audio formats that can be carried across the older S/PDIF or AES/EBU interfaces). HDMI 1.3 adds additional support for new lossless digital surround audio formats Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD Master Audio. Additionally, most existing HDMI sources can output any compressed stream, and the newer sources can output uncompressed 6-channel, 96kHz audio from a DVD-Audio disk. There are A/V receivers on the market that can accept and process the 6- or 8-channel audio from HDMI.
Q. Does HDMI support SACD?
HDMI has supported One Bit Audio format, such as SuperAudio CD's DSD (Direct Stream Digital), since version 1.2 (released in August, 2005). Customers interested in this feature should make sure that their device supports SACD.
Q. What is the most common compatibility problem among devices with HDMI connections?
The most common compatibility problems have to do with HDCP. Probably the most common failure is the lack of an HDCP repeater function or failure to perform the authentication reliably in all types of usage scenarios.
Q. Some cable TV set-top boxes with HDMI outputs don’t deliver a picture to displays with HDMI inputs. What is the problem, and is there a solution?
In some cases, the set top box software does not activate or support the HDMI port. In other cases, cable TV set-top boxes don’t work correctly when used in conjunction with an A/V receiver (but will typically function correctly when connected directly to a TV or monitor). Investigation of some of these devices reveals that this is caused by an error in the way these set top box devices implement HDCP. Specifically, some of those boxes do not support "HDCP repeaters" (devices that pass along the signal to another device) such as an A/V Receiver or switch. We believe that this may be a problem in the initial versions of these products, and in some cases there is new firmware available that fixes this issue in HDMI (newer versions may already have this fix). We have been actively working with manufacturers to resolve these problems. We suggest that users contact their cable operator and request the new software to address these issues.
Connectors and Cables
Q. Does HDMI accommodate long cable lengths?
Yes. HDMI technology has been designed to use standard copper cable construction at long lengths. In order to allow cable manufacturers to improve their products through the use of new technologies, HDMI specifies the required performance of a cable but does not specify a maximum cable length. Cable manufacturers are expected to sell reasonably priced copper cables at lengths of up to 15 meters. As semiconductor technology improves, even longer stretches can be reached with fiber optic cables, and with active cable technologies such as amplifiers or repeaters.
Q. I need to connect two devices with 20 feet of cable, but the cable I bought doesn’t seem to work at that length, what can I do?
One solution is to buy a higher-quality cable. Another is to use an HDMI repeater.
Q. My HDMI cable sometimes falls out of the HDMI connector. Is anything being done to address this problem?
The combination of vertically-oriented connectors and heavy, thick-gauge cables appears have the potential of causing the connector to fall out. In some cases, it is due to the usage of a cable with a non-compliant, large connector over-molding that prevents proper connector engagement. The HDMI Founders are actively investigating a locking connector option that would be backward compatible with existing Type A connectors.
We have seen a few connectors that are out of spec (e.g., not the right size, too much over-molding, etc.), which led to compatibility issues and, in some cases, connector damage. However, we have started a connector certification program to help ensure that all Adopters use compliant connectors.
Content Protection Questions
Q. Does HDMI provide a secure interface?
While no security system is one hundred percent secure, HDMI, when used in combination with HDCP, provides an audio/video interface that meets the security requirements of content providers and systems operators.
Q. What is HDCP?
High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP) is a technology developed by Digital Content Protection, LLC (a subsidiary of Intel) to protect digital entertainment content. HDCP has been implemented across both DVI and HDMI interfaces. The HDCP specification provides a cost-effective and transparent method for transmitting and receiving the highest quality digital entertainment content to DVI/HDMI-compliant digital displays.
The HDMI standard does not require HDCP. However, it is required by industry groups and governmental regulation (details below).
Q. If my digital monitor doesn’t have an HDCP-compatible connection (such as an HDMI connection with HDCP), will I be able to view HD DVD and Blu-ray content in high definition?
Content owners (i.e., a movie studio releasing a DVD) decide which technologies they will use to protect their content against unauthorized copying. Movie studios, which fear that high-definition versions of their movies will be pirated, are expected to use HDCP when releasing high-definition versions of their movies, though some may choose to release some titles without HDCP. To be safe, consumers who want to be able to play high-definition content should ensure that their HDTVs and other HD devices are able to decode HDCP-encrypted content.
There are also specific requirements on HDCP usage mandated by the U.S. Federal Communications Commission and by industry bodies in Europe and Asia. See below for more information.
With certain exceptions, nearly all HDMI devices on the market include HDCP support. DVI devices, in particular earlier versions of DVI, are more likely to lack HDCP support.
Q. I’ve read that the Hollywood studios are using Advanced Access Content System (AACS) to protect their high-definition content. Is AACS an alternative to HDCP?
No, the two are complementary. AACS is the content protection for the video on the DVDs and HDCP is the content protection on the HDMI link between the DVD player and the TV. AACS is a stronger replacement for the current content protection on today's standard-definition DVDs (which has been broken). The DVD player will decrypt the AACS-encrypted content coming off the HD-DVD or Blu-ray disc and then send the content over the protected HDMI link (using HDCP) to the HDTV.
Questions on HDMI Government Mandates
Q. What has the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandated for HDMI usage in HDTVs?
In the United States, the FCC has mandated that beginning July 1, 2005, all HDTVs 36 inches and larger labeled “Digital Cable Ready” must include either a DVI/HDCP or HDMI/HDCP interface. In addition, either a DVI/HDCP or HDMI/HDCP interface is required for:
• Models with screen sizes 25 to 35 inches: 50% of a manufacturer's or importer's models manufactured or imported after July 1, 2005; 100% of such models manufactured or imported after July 1, 2006.
• Models with screen sizes 13 to 24 inches: 100% of a manufacturer's or importer's models manufactured or imported after July 1, 2007. [Source: Code of Federal Regulations, Section 15.123]
Q. What has the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandated for HDMI usage in cable set-top boxes?
As of July 1, 2005, all cable operators must “include both a DVI or HDMI interface and an IEEE 1394 interface on all high definition set-top boxes acquired by a cable operator for distribution to customers.”
Q. What has the FCC mandated for HDCP adoption?
The FCC approved HDCP as a "Digital Output Protection Technology" on August 4, 2004. Analog outputs from digital receivers do not require output protections, but the analog output must be limited to a resolution of 480p, which effectively limits sets with analog input to non-HD resolutions.
Q. What have European and Asian regulatory and standards bodies mandated for HDMI and HDCP adoption?
In Europe, the European Information & Communications Technology Industry Association (EICTA) in 2005 mandated that all HDTVs displaying the “HD Ready” logo must include HDMI or DVI inputs and support for HDCP. In August 2005, the Cable and Satellite Broadcast Association of Asia (CASBAA) recommended that HDMI (or DVI) and HDCP “be included on every set-top box capable of outputting uncompressed high definition content.”

sa: http://www.hdmi.org/consumer/faq.asp

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... a newly-created robot, sits on display at the Institute of Automation of Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing.

She can dance, bow and greet people in the Sichuan dialect as she is destined for the Sichuan Science Museum to serve as a receptionist. The robot costs about 300,000 yuan (US$37,500) to make, according to Xinhua News. [Reuters]

SA:http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/photo/2...ent_659088.htm

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EEye Digital Security on Thursday unveiled free software that sniffs out PCs vulnerable to a dangerous Windows vulnerability disclosed earlier this week.
"We have released a free vulnerability assessment tool for the critical, and potentially wormable, MS06-040 vulnerability," wrote Marc Maiffret, EEye's chief hacking officer, in an email. "[It] does not require administrator access to machines, so it will give IT administrators a real-world perspective on where their network stands against this attack regardless of what they think they have or have not patched," Maiffret added.
The Retina MS06-040 NetApi32 Scanner is available in two versions: one that scans up to 16 systems simultaneously, another that handles up to 256 PCs. Both downloads require an email address.
Microsoft has urged Windows users to patch the vulnerability detailed in security bulletin MS06-040 first, before addressing others in the Tuesday batch; meanwhile, most security analysts have pegged the Windows Server service bug as the worst of the 23 disclosed this week.
"The sooner that vulnerable machines are identified and patched, the smaller the possibility will be of a successful Internet worm attack," said Maiffret.
Retina MS06-040 NetApi32 Scanner can be downloaded from the EEye site.
The Windows 2000, XP, and Server 2003 patches for the Server flaw can be obtained via Microsoft and Windows Update services, or directly from this Microsoft site.

sa:http://www.itnews.com.au/newsstory.a...ID=35772&r=rss

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Performance to rival that of Direct3D
The problem with OpenGL was that it was never officially supported or evangelized by Microsoft. Of course, Microsoft has always advocated its own Direct3D driver model over OpenGL, but GPU manufacturers have long supported OpenGL in drivers. Many games and productivity applications still use OpenGL even today. With Windows Vista, Microsoft made it clear that OpenGL support would only work as a layer sitting on top of Direct3D. There was going to be translation involved and thus, a performance hit.
This week the Khronos group, which is responsible for developing and maintaining OpenGL, has released a report indicating that OpenGL support will now be natively supported in Vista without layering over Direct3D. Using standard Windows ICD, OpenGL will be fully accelerated and be fully compatible with Windows Vista's Aeroglass UI. In fact, Khronos says that by the time Windows Vista ships, Aeroglass performance on OpenGL will be superior to that of Direct3D. According to Khronos and NVIDIA:
Hardware overlays are not supported
Hardware OpenGL overlays are an obsolete feature on Vista
ATI and NVIDIA strongly recommend using compositing desktop/FBOs for same functionality
However, the OpenGL ICD drivers must still be downloaded and will not ship on the Windows Vista installation disc. Khronos said that NVIDIA already has a beta 2 ICD OpenGL driver available and ATI will release its own soon. If no ICD is present, Windows Vista will rely on the layered OpenGL mode by default and only offer basic functionality.

sa: http://www.dailytech.com/article.aspx?newsid=3760

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Way back in 1998, in the early days of 3D acceleration, 3DFX released a feature for their new Voodoo 2 card called Scan-Line Interleave, or SLI, that allowed the user to plug in two of the PCI-based graphics cards for extra gaming performance. Each video card handled the rendering of half of the scan lines on the screen (one for the odds, another for the evens) and while performance was not exactly doubled, it was the fastest gaming solution available at the time.
Fast forward to today, and NVIDIA, who purchased 3DFX's assets in 2000, are continuing the SLI tradition with the release of Quad SLI cards and drivers, allowing any system builder or PC enthusiast to construct their own turbocharged graphics system. Previously, Quad SLI systems had only been available from select OEMs such as Alienware or Voodoo PC.

So how much will all of this set youback? First, you need an SLI-compatible motherboard with four free PCI Express slots, such as the nForce 590 SLI for AMD processors, or the nForce4 SLI X16 for Intel CPUs. Then you need to get the graphics cards—but you don't need to buy four, as NVIDIA has thoughtfully released the GeForce 7950 GX2 series which are themselves two cards tied together in a single bundle (this still requires four free slots, however, as the cards are double-wide). You'll need a hefty power supply to run all this: NVIDIA has a list of certified power supplies from 700 to 1,100 Watts, which is getting into hairdryer territory.
Quad SLI motherboard with cards installed. Image courtesy NVIDIA.
The graphics cards alone will run from $1,000 to $1,200. Add the motherboard and power supply and the total is up to $1,650, and that's before adding a CPU, RAM, and other components. What will all this money get you? Well, sadly it won't bring exactly four times the frame rates in games, but it will allow the well-heeled gaming enthusiast to run existing games at extremely high resolutions with all kinds of special effects and antialiasing cranked up to the hilt. NVIDIA tested DOOM 3 running at 2560 by 1600 resolution with 4x antialiasing and 8x anisotropic filtering, and benchmarked it at 108.9 frames per second. Some games benefit from SLI more than others, but most will exhibit a significant frame rate increase at these high resolutions. Whether or not this increase is worth the extra cost is a different question.

sa: http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20060811-7481.html

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Symantec opened the preview of its new online transaction security software to the public this week, but warned users that they must uninstall the company's flagship security products to try out the beta.
Norton Confidential, which was announced in June, includes anti-phishing blacklists and heuristic-based detectors, keylogger and screen grabber sniffers, site authentication cues, and a password manager.
Symantec has pitched the product as an after-market add-on for users of its disk-based consumer money makers, Norton Internet Security and Norton AntiVirus; many of Confidential's features are slated for Norton 360, the all-in-one security service the company plans to debut later this year or early in 2007.
During a June teleconference call with Wall Street analysts, Enrique Salem, the head of Symantec's consumer group, said "Norton Confidential is a stop-gap [aimed at] our installed base." But if Symantec is targeting its base, many users may be unwilling to try out the beta. According to notes displayed before the download begins, the beta is incompatible with Norton AntiVirus, Norton Internet Security, Norton Personal Firewall, and Norton SystemWorks versions 2006 and earlier.
"If you have one or more of these products installed on your computer, you will be prompted to uninstall any and all of them in order to download and test the Norton Confidential Beta," the notes read.
Although a Mac OS X version of Confidential has been announced by Symantec, the beta works only on systems powered by Windows XP.

sa: http://www.techweb.com/showArticle.j...SSfeed_TechWeb

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This week the motherboard industry and probably the entire computer industry got a little shock – just another one in the past 12 months, as now seems to be the time for companies to join forces. After a meeting with the directors of GIGABYTE and ASUS, a decision was agreed on regarding a joint venture between the two Taiwan motherboard heavyweight giants.
Naturally we are very curious about the venture and all the specific details – there is information floating around on various other websites but we want to get all the important first hand details. We got in contact with Tim Handley, Marketing Manager at GIGABYTE, and asked him some questions about the arrangement between the two companies and exactly what it will mean for both companies and consumers in the future.
The following interview answers from GIGABYTE should provide you with all the juicy bits of information from the arrangement and what it means for both companies and the industry as a whole.
Q: What were the main reasons for the joint venture between GIGABYTE and ASUS? Were there any other underlying reasons for the venture besides the obvious?
A: The PC hardware market is becoming increasingly competitive and every vendor faces diminishing profit margins. This joint venture will allow GIGABYTE to focus more resources on designing innovative high-quality motherboards and VGA cards by outsourcing production to other companies and, in so doing, to become more efficient and competitive.
Q: Already there is some misconception in the industry that GIGABYTE and ASUS have merged as a single company. We know this is not true; can you give us a better idea of the exact business deal and business model between the two companies and what each company receives from the arrangement and exactly how the businesses will operate?
A: GIGABYTE still owns the GIGABYTE brand and its various business assets, as does ASUS its own business assets. This is simply a new joint venture (company) between the two companies where GIGABYTE owns the controlling share (51%) while ASUS owns the remainder (49%). This new joint venture will license the GIGABYTE brand from GIGABYTE to produce (through outsourced manufacturing) GIGABYTE branded motherboards and VGA cards – so all the other GIGABYTE products are not affected by this venture. Most of this production will be outsourced to the GIGABYTE factories that have traditionally produced GIGABYTE motherboards and VGA cards.
In essence, GIGABYTE benefits through a more efficient, design orientated business model while ASUS enjoys profits from both of the world’s top two PC component brands.
Q: So, initially or in the long term, does this mean that we will no longer see GIGABYTE branded products in the retail channel? Will ASUS take over the GIGABYTE brand name or will it continue on?
A: GIGABYTE branded motherboards and VGA cards will continue to be designed and produced by the new joint venture. Both GIGABYTE and ASUS will invest heavily in the new joint venture and will naturally like to see it thrive. GIGABYTE and ASUS brands will continue to jostle for the top position in markets around the world. After all, competition is healthy and encourages innovation.
Q: In the months to come once the joint venture arrangement is in affect, will engineers from GIGABYTE and ASUS work together to produce new motherboards or VGA cards or so on utilizing the engineering experience from both companies?
A: The two companies will continue to innovate and design new products independently. i.e. they will continue to compete against each other for market leadership as they have in the past. Healthy competition is essential for the success of the joint venture.
Q: Clearly the venture between GIGABYTE and ASUS is a positive one for both companies with product shipments expected to increase as well as putting pressure on other motherboard companies. As a result, do you expect FOXCONN or any of your other closest competitors to make announcements to merge or buy other Taiwan motherboard companies, as a response?
A: It is hard to say how our competitors will react. However, in this kind of market everyone experiences the same pressures (e.g. price competition), so joint ventures, mergers, and other creative alliances are likely from competing companies.
Q: Has there been any word on a name for the new company? Maybe “Terabyte”?
A: I’ll make sure that the top management gets that as a suggested name. No, there is no word regarding the name of the new joint venture yet, although it is a top priority, so it won’t be long before we announce the new joint venture’s company name.
Q: GIGABYTE in the past year or two has been concentrating hard on filling the gap left by certain motherboard companies who market their products towards gamers and overclockers. Will GIGABYTE continue their push into this section of the retail market with products for these types of users or will this arrangement distract GIGABYTE from continuing on creating enthusiast style products?
A: The focus for GIGABYTE is to produce the highest quality high-performance motherboards and VGA cards. This will also be the focus of the new joint venture. Nothing changes in this regard, including the competition with ASUS branded high-performance products.
Q: When exactly does GIGABYTE and ASUS expect the joint venture arrangements to come into affect and does this mean that both companies will now no longer need to rely on other OEM / ODM companies in Taiwan or China to produce product for you when GIGABYTE or ASUS is already at factory capacity limits?
A: The new joint venture will come into affect on January 1st, 2007 and will outsource most of the manufacture of GIGABYTE branded motherboards and VGA cards to the same GIGABYTE factories that have traditionally produced those products.
Q: Will GIGABYTE and ASUS continue business as usual, will there be any combining of resources besides manufacturing or will each company continue its sales and marketing and all other departments individually?
A: It’s business as usual. GIGABYTE and ASUS will continue to battle it out as the top two PC hardware brands. Each company will operate independently of each other and see the other as competition in achieving market leadership.
Q: We would like to thank you for taking up some of your valuable time to answer our questions regarding the joint venture. In closing, is there anything further you would like to add?

A: Thanks for making time for this interview

sa: http://www.tweaktown.com/articles/934/

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SA: http://www.vr-zone.com/?i=3885

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The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued the rare advisory after Microsoft announced a dozen patches for vulnerablities in the Windows software as part of the company's monthly security bulletin. What apparently grabbed the department's attention is that one of the flaws opens a back door to a computer without any action by the user.
In urging home users and businesses to apply the MS06-040 patch, the DHS said that attempts to exploit the flaw were imminent, and that attacks on Windows could impact government systems, businesses, and critical I.T. infrastructure. In fact, such attacks have already been reported.
According to Microsoft,
the flaw allows remote code execution and impacts
Windows 2000 Service Pack 4
Windows XP Service Pack 1 and
Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2,
as well as versions of Windows Server 2003.

A Truly Critical Flaw
"This bears all of the hallmarks of a potentially serious problem," Forrester Research security analyst Paul Stamp said. "It is installed by default, it may be enabled by default, and it is already being exploited."
Given those characteristics, Stamp suggested, the DHS felt it had to take action and prompt users to apply the appropriate patch as soon as possible. "We have already seen the widespread problems associated with the Zotob and Blaster worms, which exploited a similar vulnerability in Windows," he said.
Stamp added that the "critical" classification may cause problems for businesses in particular because Microsoft uses the term to define any issue that allows remote execution of code. "Some of these problems, as with a media player, can be easily fixed by disabling an application. But all users need to know if a worm or virus can be installed and enabled by default."
Users can apply the Microsoft MS06-040 security patch at http://www.microsoft.com/technet/sec.../ms06-040.mspx. Home users may also visit Windows Update at http://update.microsoft.com and select "express" to install critical security updates, including the MS06-040 fix.
The U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team (US-CERT), and arm of the DHS, is collaborating with Microsoft to minimize the adverse impacts from this vulnerability. US-CERT has issued an alert through the National Cyber Alert System and conducted briefings with federal CIOs and chief information security officers.

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IBM on Thursday said it agreed to buy software maker FileNet Corp. for $1.6 billion, a move that would help it overtake EMC Corp. as the largest maker of programs that manage mountains of corporate data.
The all-cash deal would be International Business Machines Corp.'s biggest in three years and fourth-largest to date. It is the latest in a string of acquisitions to boost software sales, the most profitable of IBM's three main product lines.
Analysts said the deal was a logical choice for IBM, which plans to sell consulting and integration services to companies that buy FileNet's content management software used to store, sort and manage information such as text, graphics, video and audio files across vast corporate networks.
IBM, the world's largest information technology company, agreed to pay $35 per share for FileNet, a 1 percent premium over its Wednesday closing price of $34.65 on Nasdaq.
But the narrow premium, coming after FileNet's shares have risen 25 percent in the past month on rumors it could be bought, leaves room for a rival bid, analysts said.
Brian Freed, an analyst with Morgan Keegan, said FileNet could be a good match for Oracle Corp. or Hewlett-Packard Co. , which both have the financial resources to enter a bid.
He said a bid from EMC was unlikely because it was busy with a $2.1 billion acquisition of RSA Security Inc.
"There's still room for a couple bucks," Freed said, adding that he thought there was a 30 percent to 50 percent chance that another offer will emerge.
FileNet shares rose 3 percent in afternoon trade to $35.68, while IBM shares rose 0.7 percent to $75.91. EMC rose 2 percent, Oracle rose 1.3 percent and HP fell 0.3 percent.
IBM said it expected the deal to close in the fourth quarter, subject to shareholder and regulatory approval.
LEAPING OVER EMC
Last year, FileNet had a 9.2 percent share of the global content management software market valued at $3.2 billion, placing it second, behind EMC's Documentum division, which had 11.3 percent. IBM had a 9.1 percent share, according to a study by research firm IDC released in July.
IBM's strength in content management has traditionally been behind the scenes, in areas such as archiving documents, e-mail retention and handling other storage-related tasks.
FileNet's software helps companies integrate electronic documents with other software programs that manage complex processes, such as compiling documents required to assemble and approve a mortgage application.
"Content management is coming from the back burner to the front of the line," said Ambuj Goyal, general manager of IBM's information management software business, in an interview.
IBM has made about 40 acquisitions in the past three years, including about $2 billion worth last year, and has said it plans further deals in software and services.
Its software group had a gross margin of 84 percent in the second quarter, compared with 26 percent in services and 34 percent in hardware, according to its financial reports.
Last week, IBM said it agreed to buy MRO Software Inc. for $740 million in cash and privately held Webify Solutions for an undisclosed sum to expand in the fast-growing market for integrating corporate software systems.
The FileNet deal would be IBM's largest since its February 2003 purchase of software maker Rational for $2.1 billion.
The announcement comes a week after Canadian rival Open Text Corp. said it had agreed to buy rival Hummingbird Ltd. for $489 million.

sa: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20060810/bs_nm/filenet_dc

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Researchers at the University of Washington have demonstrated a material, a mixture of zinc oxide and cobalt first formulated in 1780 as a pigment called cobalt green, could be used to form a magnetic thin film in a future nonvolatile memory.
"The big challenge is to develop materials that can perform these kinds of functions not just at cryogenic temperatures but at practical temperatures," said Daniel Gamelin, a University of Washington assistant professor of chemistry, in a statement. "The breakthrough with the materials we tested is that they exhibit their magnetic properties at room temperature."
To test cobalt green, researchers at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Wash., processed zinc oxide, a semiconductor with a simple chemical structure, so a small number of zinc ions were replaced with cobalt ions, which are magnetic. Then, in Gamelin's UW lab, the cobalt ions were aligned — making the material magnetic — by exposure to zinc metal vapor, which introduces extra electrons to the zinc oxide. The magnetic properties remained strong at room temperature even when the vapor exposure ended. When the cobalt-doped zinc oxide was heated in air, the researchers observed the extra electrons dissipate and the magnetic properties disappear, in a way that demonstrated the two are interdependent.
"This work shows there is a real effect here, and there is promise for these materials," Gamelin said. "The next step is to try to get these materials to interface with silicon semiconductors."
The bluish-green mixture of zinc oxide and cobalt, called cobalt green or Rinman's green, was first devised as a painter's pigment by Swedish chemist Sven Rinman.

sa: http://www.pldesignline.com/showArti...leID=191900771