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Telstra Overhauls Business Mobile Broadband

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After slashing its mobile broadband plans for consumers, Telstra has announced its new business mobile broadband prices and new Acer notebook bundles.

According to the company, the new mobile broadband plans for business will offer: double the data allowance on some subscription plans with the $39 Standard plan offering seven times more data than previously; $0 upfront Telstra Mobile Broadband “elite” devices for the first time on some 24 month contracts; casual plan options starting at $5 a month for businesses wanting flexibility and no lock-in contracts; price reductions of up to $20 per month compared to Casual plans when customers connect their existing device on a 24-month contract; and a higher usage plan of 120GB to cater for growing demand for high bandwidth applications.

Telstra Business will also be launching three new ‘all-in-one’ business laptops, in partnership with Acer Computing, with built-in mobile broadband capability, low upfront costs and affordable repayment options.

Telstra Business Group Managing Director Deena Shiff said, “These landmark plans are designed to not only give small business owners and managers mobile working capabilities with Telstra’s superior network coverage, but make it affordable to equip more staff with high-speed productivity tools.”

“The surge in mobile broadband take-up shows it’s no longer just a tool for senior executives. Mobile broadband subscribers now account for 22 per cent of all Internet subscribers and usage is up 162 per cent across all networks up to June last year. Remotely monitoring worksites and infrastructure and sending and receiving multimedia files from home or in the field are just some of the ways small and medium sized companies are rapidly becoming digital businesses,” added Shiff.

In addition, Telstra Business will also offer access to the Aspire One A0531 10-inch Netbook with a $19 data pack, plus monthly laptop repayments starting from $28.29 per month for 24 months.

The Acer 8371 13.3-inch Notebook and the 8571 15-inch Notebook are available with data packs starting from $59 per month for 6GB of data, with a upfront payment of $149 and $249 respectively plus monthly repayments of $62.46.

World First 12x Blu-ray Writer

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Pioneer unveiled the first 12x Blu-ray Disc Writer for single- and dual-layer Blu-ray Disc (BD) media.


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According to Pioneer, the BDR-205 is ideal for video authoring providers and system builders, with the drive providing accurate, rapid performance for demanding applications.

When used with a suitably configured PC, the drive’s Low Vibration Mechanism Design improves overall writing accuracy, especially for those preserving copious amounts of critical data.

Rob Thompson, General Manager of Optical Disc Sales for Pioneer Australia, said, “With a potential of 50Gbytes of storage space on a dual-layer Blu-ray Disc, professional users can utilise the BDR-205 to rapidly test high definition video during the authoring process, as well as to back up large volumes of data with ease.”

In addition to offering up to 12x write speeds for Blu-ray Disc media, Pioneer’s BDR-205 also provides read and write speed performance up to 16x for DVD and 40x for CD media

“The BDR-205 drive further confirms Pioneer’s commitment to Blu-ray, and this next generation Blu-ray Disc writer is a great example of our no-compromise approach to optical disc product development. We are bringing to market the fastest Blu-ray Disc writer to date, and it is just one of the many ‘firsts’ that have come to define Pioneer’s 30-year heritage in optical disc innovation and leadership,” added Thompson.
 
The new BDR-205 Blu-ray Disc writer will be available this month for $349.

$799 Medion Notebook Perfect For The Home Office

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Aldi and Medion have started 2010 with a bang as they launch a 17.3-inch notebook that is perfect for home offices. It can handle office applications without slowing down and can even entertain you with its large screen and loud speakers.The E7212 does not look like its predecessors, with the unit sporting a brushed grey lid and piano black interior (the older models sport a piano black lid with matte silver interior). While the interior looks great, it is very prone to fingerprint marks and smudges, putting off users who want a clean computer.

Various ports are located on the side of the computer including three USB ports, a microphone, headphone, and audio-in jack, an E-SATA, Ethernet, and Display Port, as well as a 4-in-1 card reader. The unit also has a 1.3-megapixel webcam, microphone, and Wi-Fi built-in. In terms of hardware, the E7212 has an Intel Pentium processor (T4500 @ 2.3Ghz), 4GB of RAM, 320GB of storage, and a DVD/CD drive with burning capabilities.

Medion has also pre-installed Windows 7 Home Premium (32-bit), Microsoft Works 9.0, Windows Live Essentials, a trial version of Microsoft Office Home and Student 2007, PowerDirector 8, PowerProducer 5, PowerDVD9, Media Show 4, Cyberlink Power2Go 6, CyberLink YouCam, CorelDraw Essentials 3 + MediaOne, and Bullguard Internet Security.

 


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The 17.3-inch LED backlit display has a native resolution of 1600 x 900, giving users a wider view of documents. Movies were displayed in 16:9 widescreen and looked sharp and rich. Audio quality was good too, thanks to its speakers and subwoofer that are Dolby Home Theatre v3 certified.

Despite the good specifications, users must remember that it is not built for 3D extensive applications and high-end gaming. The E7212 does not have a dedicated graphics card and only uses an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator for mobile. The notebook scored 2494 on 3DMark 03 and received a rating of 3.4 on Windows Experience Index (it got a 3.4 on gaming graphics).

The E7212 lasted 145 minutes on our battery drain test (playing a movie with brightness and audio set to maximum), thanks to its 8-cell battery. This means that you can watch a movie and work on your documents for a couple of hours before charging the notebook.

For $799, this computer is worth every dollar. It will definitely not suit those who want to play games or run graphic-intensive applications, but can satisfy the needs of a home office worker. This notebook will be available starting next Thursday, 28 January 2010.

Develop Printer Secures Your Data

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Imagetec has launched two colour multifunction printers from Develop that can print via Bluetooth and comes with security features to prevent unauthorised document tampering.


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Develop’s new ineo+ range (280 and 360) offer mobile printing via Bluetooth, a searchable PDF function that turns any scanned document into a searchable PDF, biometric authentication that prevents unauthorised access to the printer, copy security, and improved print quality.

The ineo+ range has also been designed to run quietly on very little power with lower fusing temperatures, ensuring the system consumes approximately 50% less energy than similar models whilst also having more than 90% recyclable components. The printers have received the Blue Angel Mark, Energy Star and meets WEEE and RoHS standards for low noise and emissions.

Imagetec’s General Manager for Sales and Marketing, Greg Heard said, “Businesses are looking for printing solutions that are high-quality, secure and sustainable. DEVELOP’s ineo+ range with its High Definition polymer toner technology, advanced data security functionality and energy efficient features meets all these needs. In addition to offering a sleek design, it comes with a competitive price tag which is sure to attract some attention in the market.”

“Imagetec has a substantial installed base of devices throughout Australia and these products, combined with our commitment to outstanding customer service, will enable us to expand our direct and dealership customer base even further”, added Heard.

The ineo+ 280 and ineo+ 360 deliver a scan speed of up to 70 originals per minute and an integrated 250 GB hard disk allowing users to store scans ready for future print and copy output. The printers can easily be integrated into any corporate network providing fast access, automatic status updates, remote maintenance and individually programmable authentication and account data for each user.

Canon Rolls Out Wireless Printers

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In addition to its new DSLR and compact camera range, Canon Australia has unveiled three new wireless multifunction printers as well as a single function printer for document and photo printing.

The Canon Pixma MX870, MX350 and MX340 allows a user to print, copy, scan and fax from the device. These new printers offer wireless connectivity, which means users can scan and print from multiple PCs. In addition, its Easy-PhotoPrint EX application for the iPhone allows a user to print photos straight from their phone to the printer.

Other features include Automatic Document Feeder (ADF), Easy-WebPrint EX software which makes printing documents from the web more effective, and Auto Clip feature.  Users will also enjoy the intuitive design, simple menu navigation and new enhanced security features that enable the effortless creation of password-protected PDFs.

 

Also launched was the Pixma iP2700 – an entry- level single function printer offers a wide array of advanced features including Auto Photo Fix II and Easy-WebPrint EX to enhance the quality of print output. It offers borderless printing up to A4 size and ChromaLife100+ ink system which provides more vibrant and longer-lasting photos.

Canon Australia’s Brand Manager – Pixma, Beryl Thomas said, “These stylish new PIXMA inkjet printers help save precious space in home office environments while improving productivity. Easy to use, the new PIXMA models enable users to improve overall workflow by completing all their output tasks in a quick and straightforward manner while maintaining the required professional standard.”

According to Canon, the PIXMA MX870, MX350, MX340 and iP2700 come with an Auto Photo Fix II software that resolves many common photo printing errors, such as underexposed images, through Multi-Zone Exposure Correction and improvements in overall face detection, scene analysis, and brightness and saturation correction.

The Canon PIXMA MX870 (RRP $TBC), MX350 (RRP $TBC), MX340 (RRP $TBC), and iP2700 (RRP $TBC), will be available from March 2010.

HTC HD2 Smartphone Hits Telstra

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Unveiled at the Sydney Opera House, the HTC HD2 has a large 4.3-inch capacitive touch screen, is 11mm thin, and is the first Windows Mobile phone with a capacitive screen. The capacitive touchscreen, coupled with its 1Ghz Snapdragon processor and Windows Mobile 6.5 Professional with HTC Sense Operating System, made it easy for us to browse through the menus and use the different features.

During our hands-on with the device, we found the touch screen to be responsive even when pressing small icons. The 1Ghz processor made the unit faster and was able to switch between applications quicker than older HTC devices. The HD2 is also able to synchronise emails from Outlook as well as Gmail, stream Mobile Foxtel, and push Twitter and Facebook updates. We were also able to view, zoom and resize websites and pictures easier by pinching our fingers.

In addition, the company also said that the HD2 can also be converted into a Wi-Fi router, allowing multiple users to connect to the Internet via the phone’s 3G connection.

Also included on the phone is the new Windows Marketplace for Mobile, Microsoft’s free My Phone service, Twitter and Facebook apps, 5MP autofocus camera with dual LED light, up-to-date share information, localised animated weather experience and exclusive BigPond content and Mobile Foxtel from Telstra

 

HTC’s Sales and Marketing Director ANZ, Anthony Petts said, “Last year, we have released eight new products in Australia. This year’s HTC HD2 is one of the most advanced and intuitive phones the company has ever created.”

“The phone provides users with the winning combination of Windows Phone functionality and one of the largest, most visually stunning capacitive touch displays available on the market. It is simply a joy to use,” added Petts.


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Telstra’s Executive Director for Wireless, Data, Applications and Services, Ross Fielding said, “We’re onto a winner here. The HD2 combines major advances in smartphone screen quality and processing power. With a processor that makes the HD2 almost twice as powerful as smartphones released just last year, customers can run popular apps like email, games and Windows applications faster and, importantly, simultaneously. Our fast, always 3G Next G network adds to the experience by making web applications like Facebook more responsive and web browsing effortless.”

The HTC HD2 will be available exclusively to Telstra customers initially through Telstra T[life] stores, Telstra Shops and dealers from today (exclusive to Telstra until 30 March 2010). The HTC HD2 has an RRP of $829, and is also available for $0 upfront on a $80 plan over 24 months. It is also available on a range of Telstra Enterprise & Government and Telstra Business plans including for $0 upfront on a new $85 Mobile PLUS plan.

See page over for the HD2 specification.

 

Touch HD2 Specification:
Processor: Snapdragon processor, 1GHz
Platform: Windows Mobile 6.5 Professional with HTC Sense
Memory: 16GB microSD memory card (Australia only) ROM: 512 MB, RAM: 448 MB
Dimensions: 120.5 x 67 x 11mm
Weight: 157 grams with battery
Display: Capacitive touch screen with 480 X 800 WVGA resolution
Battery: Rechargeable Lithium-ion battery
Capacity: 1230 mAh
Audio Supported Formats: AAC, AMR, M4A, MID, MP3, MP4, QCP, WAV, WMA
Camera: 5.0 megapixel colour camera with auto focus and dual LED flashlight
GPS: Internal GPS antenna
Connectivity: Bluetooth 2.1 with Enhanced Data Rate Wi-Fi: IEEE 802.11 b/g, Standard Micro-USB (5-pin micro-USB 2.0), 3.5 mm audio jack, Internet Sharing through USB or Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Router
Video Supported Formats: WMV, ASF, MP4, 3GP, 3G2, M4V, AVI
Expansion Slot: microSD memory card (SD 2.0 compatible)
Special Features: G-sensor, Proximity sensor, Ambient light sensor, Digital Compass

Samsung Hits Record Profits

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Samsung has reported a net income of 9.64 trillion won (AU$9.34 billion) for 2009, with the company attributing this increase to strong flat screen TV and mobile phone sales, as well as higher prices for memory chips.Vice President and Head of Samsung Electronics’ Investor Relations Team, Robert Yi, said, “Despite the uncertain business environment in 2009, Samsung was able to achieve record revenues and strong profitability based on our technological and marketplace leadership. We see this positive growth and performance flowing on into 2010 as the global economy continues to stabilise.”

According to the report, Samsung has recorded revenues of 39.24 trillion Korean won (AU$38.15 billion) on a consolidated basis for the fourth quarter ending 31 December 2009, which is an 18.9 per cent increase year-on-year.

This fourth quarter result brought Samsung’s full year 2009 revenue to a record 136.29 trillion won (AU$132.15 billion). Its full year 2009 operating profit was 10.92 trillion won (AU$10.59 billion), while its net income on a parent company basis was 9.64 trillion won (AU$9.34 billion).

Samsung has reported that its strong performance in the fourth quarter was supported by improved pricing for memory semiconductors and the seasonal increase in sales of consumer electronics products.

 

The company said that its strong semiconductor business performance was driven by a rise in market prices for memory chips and solid demand. In DRAM, spot prices increased by 25-30 per cent from the beginning of the quarter, supported by strong PC sales.

“Despite traditionally weak seasonality, sales were boosted by demand for high-density chips for smart phones. During the fourth quarter, Samsung also began production of 30-nm-class, 3-bit Multi-Level-Cell NAND chips for the first time in the industry, providing a further technological edge for 2010,” added the company.

Samsung has also recorded flat panel TV unit sales of 10.88 million, exceeding the 10 million mark for the first time in the industry. The sales record represented a 41 per cent increase year-on-year and quarter-on-quarter. With its new line of LED TVs selling strongly, Samsung was also able to meet its sales target of 2.5 million units for the year.

Finally, Samsung’s sales of mobile handsets for the quarter reached 69 million, up 16 per cent year-on-year. This enabled the company to comfortably exceed its 2009 sales target of 200 million units in reaching 227 million units for the full year.

Samsung forecast positive growth across its businesses in 2010, with the continued economic recovery expected to stimulate demand for flat panel TVs, mobile handsets and notebook PCs. The company aims to continue to enhance its cost competitiveness and bolster market leadership across its core businesses.

Telstra Unveils Fastest Broadband Card

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Telstra has unveiled its fastest mobile broadband card that claims to deliver download speeds of up to 8Mbps.

The Telstra Elite Mobile Broadband Card offers download speeds of up to 8Mbps in capital cities and selected regional areas, which is up to twice as fast as Telstra’s previous generation express card. This broadband card is also Telstra’s first mobile broadband product to connect to four different 3G network bands worldwide.

When connected to the Telstra network, customers can download a 1MB email attachment in less than 4 seconds. The card also has a typical upload speed of 300kbps to 3Mbps in capital cities and selected regional areas to make sending large files and connecting to virtual private networks easier and faster.

The Elite Mobile Broadband Card can connect to the world’s most common 3G network bands: 850, 900, 1900 and 2100MHz. Plus it can connect to 2G and 2G EDGE networks operating on the 850, 900, 1800 and 1900MHz bands meaning users will be able to access international roaming in more places around the world.

 

Telstra’s Executive Director Mobility Products, Ross Fielding, said, “Business and government customers appreciate the productivity benefits you can achieve when you equip people with fast mobile broadband. We think the new Telstra Elite Mobile Broadband Card will really appeal to business people who prefer the convenience of the express card format which helps keep scarce USB slots free and allows users to keep their modem stowed in their laptops at all times.”

“Adding to this flexibility is the fact that the Telstra Elite Mobile Broadband Card provides quad band 3G network compatibility – a first for Telstra. This means customers can use the card to connect with the four most common 3G network bands in the world and enjoy superior international roaming options,” added Fielding.

The Telstra Elite Mobile Broadband Card can be purchased in conjunction with one of  Telstra Business’  new data pack plansincluding for $0 upfront in conjunction with $69 monthly data pack (or higher) on a 24 month contract. It can also be purchased outright for a recommended retail price of $399.