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New Lexmark Printers With Touchscreen

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Lexmark has launched eight multi-function printers (MFPs) which include web-connected printers that come with a capacitive touch-screen.

According to the company, businesses can use or create simple, one-touch applications using SmartSolutions. This will enable them to save time normally wasted on repetitive, multi-step tasks such as group faxing, scan to email templates and more.

Lexmark’s Executive Vice President, Paul Rooke said, “We’ve developed a product range with innovative solutions and functionality as unique as the small businesses we serve. From the real estate agent faced with making a difficult sale, to the construction company crunching every cent, we know that now more than ever, small businesses have limited resources, and these MFPs are business partners that help them save both time and money.”

Other features of the new multi-function printer line include – Vizix print technology that provides top speed and quality across the entire range of new inkjets, Wireless-N, Eco Mode which automates two-sided printing, faxing, and copying, as well as a business card scan function.

The Professional Series: Platinum ($599), Prestige ($499), Prevail ($399), and Prospect ($299) and the Home Office Series: Interact ($399), Intution ($249), Interpret ($199), and Impact ($179) are available in the next coming weeks.

AOC Rolls Out First 27-inch Monitor

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AOC announced that it is launching its biggest LCD monitor to date.


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The AOC V27m is a 27-inch monitor aimed at users who like to view multiple windows at once and those who use their PC as an entertainment centre. It has HDMI, D-Sub, Component, and Composite ports, an integrated 3W stereo speakers, and 1920 x 1080 resolution.

Like all current AOC monitors, the specifications for Brightness, Dynamic Contrast and Response Time are consistent with the latest multimedia applications. The slim line cabinet tapers to a mere 28mm and has a transparent decorative outer frame.

The AOC V27m is available now for $499.

Qantas Flies To The Slopes

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Qantas announced that it will offer flights to Mt Hotham, one of Australia’s most popular Alpine regions, this ski season.

QantasLink’s new seasonal schedule will operate from 25 June – 12 September and will allow passengers to fly direct to Mt Hotham and be on the slopes within 45 minutes of landing.

In line with this announcement, QantasLink will offer a sale fare of $179 one-way, including taxes and charges, for sale from 10-19 February 2010, which is valid for travel throughout the 2010 season.

QantasLink’s Executive Manager, Narendra Kumar said that the two-and-a-half-month schedule would operate an average of three return flights each week, increasing services in the peak period to maximise tourism opportunities for the local region throughout the season.

“The flights will operate on selected Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays and Mondays during the season to enable people to make a weekend or longer holiday break of skiing at Mt Hotham and nearby destinations such as Dinner Plain and Falls Creek,” says Kumar.

Please visit qantas.com for bookings.

Telstra Supports ISP Filtering

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Telstra has responded to the government’s announcement of new online safety measures, with the company saying that blocking URLs on a blacklist is feasible and practical to implement, without noticeable impact on network performance.

Telstra’s Group Managing Director, Public Policy and Communications, David Quilty, said that the Government has taken on board input from a number of leading Internet Service Providers (ISPs) including Telstra, in developing its policy response to this important but complex issue.

“Telstra is supportive of a Refused Classification (RC) content blacklist of URLs compiled from the combination of a complaints-based system and known child abuse websites passed on by expert agencies in other jurisdictions,” Mr Quilty said.

Based on the results of its own technical evaluation, Telstra believes that blocking of URLs on such a blacklist is feasible and practical to implement, without noticeably impacting on network performance provided it is limited to a defined number of URLs.

“It is important to recognise, as the Government has, that there is no silver bullet which will make the internet 100 per cent safe. The blocking of a blacklist of RC sites is one element of the multi faceted approach that is required to create a safer online environment,” added Quilty.

 

“Other factors critical to internet safety include user-based PC filtering, the creation of safer learning and social networking environments, appropriate supervision and involvement by parents and teachers, education, law enforcement and international cooperation.”

Mr Quilty continued, “We support the fact that the Government intends to legislate its approach, thereby ensuring that it applies across the industry, is clearly spelt out and is enforceable by law. We also welcome Senator Conroy’s commitment to consult further with ISPs on the details of the Government’s plans. Continued industry collaboration will promote online safety through practical and efficient implementation of the Government’s strategy.”

“Telstra is committed to continuing its strong leadership across all elements of cyber-safety so that families can be confident that they have the tools and the knowledge to protect their children online,” concluded Quilty.

Ferrari Phone Zooms To Optus

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Motorola and Optus have launched the Motorazr2 V9 Ferrari phone. This new phone is currently exclusive for Optus customers and will have an RRP of $629.


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According to Motorola, the Ferrari phone will put design, high-performance, and speed into consumers’ hands. It will also give Optus customers access to various Ferrari websites whenever he/she is in 3G/HSDPA areas.

The Ferrari Special Edition features large colour internal and external screens and innovative audio-enhancing CrystalTalk technology. Consumers can also experience performance and high-speed with the power of 3G HSPA technology for fast data transfer, including music downloads, Internet access, as well as USB 2.0, music and stereo Bluetooth wireless technology.

The special edition RAZR2 also contains exclusive content including screen savers, wallpapers, and unique ringtones that immerse consumers in the Ferrari experience. Motorola has also included an exclusive Ferrari-branded leather carry case and an exclusive Ferrari-branded rapid rate car charger for the ‘ultimate Ferrari experience.’

 

Motorola South Pacific’s Managing Director for Mobile Devices, Andrew Volard said, “Consumers expect elegance, speed and high-performance from the Ferrari brand, and RAZR2 Ferrari Special Edition delivers on these attributes. This 3G mobile device offers downloads, sharp call quality and a sleek look for the mobile phone user who wants a stylish phone that get things done quickly.” 

This iconic device is more than just a beauty with its rich multimedia features including an integrated 2.0 megapixel camera with 8x digital zoom and boasts the largest external screen in its class, enabling its owners to play music via touch-sensitive music keys, without ever opening the phone.

As part of this special edition and to enhance the Ferrari experience, Optus 3G customers can access ‘DRIVE’ on the go and visit all their favourite pre-set Ferrari websites for just $4.95 per month which delivers a massive 10MB of internet browsing. Complementing the RAZR2 Ferrari Special Edition’s internet connectivity is Screen3, a powerful new service that delivers in real-time local and international news, sports, business, and lifestyle content directly to the home screen – with no buttons to push, no browsers to launch.

Availability
The Motorazr2 V9 Ferrari Special Edition is exclusively available at Optus World and Optus Yes stores from July 2008 for $0 upfront on a $49 capped monthly plan over 24 months, RRP $629.

See: www.motorola.com/au

Fastest Wireless Broadband Gateway Revealed

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Telstra has announced its fastest wireless broadband gateway that claims to deliver download speeds of up to 8Mbps. It has four Ethernet ports, Wi-Fi, and two USB ports used for printer or hard drive sharing.


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In a press briefing conducted by the company this morning, Jenny Young, Executive Director of Telstra Consumer said that the BigPond Elite Network Gateway is ideal for users who are constantly on the move and do not have access to ADSL/Cable.

“Australian families are looking to access content and interactive services on-demand and on multiple devices and screens around their home. The new BigPond Elite Network Gateway satisfies this need. It enables users to enjoy the freedom of secure wireless high-speed internet connectivity, without messy wires or access to fast fixed line broadband,” says Young.

The BigPond Elite Network Gateway turns a single Next G network wireless broadband service into a Wi-Fi and Ethernet hotspot providing internet connectivity to users throughout the home. During our hands-on test, we were able to achieve a maximum download speed of 10.43Mbps and an upload speed of 1.22Mbps (via speedtest.net).

David Stewart, Managing Director of NetComm, said the Elite Gateway was the first combination 3G modem-router in Australia to use embedded HSPA+ wireless broadband technology.

 


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“After Telstra pioneered HSPA+ technology with its mobile broadband modems, we’re pleased to bring the same technology to a home gateway. Using the BigPond Elite Network Gateway on Telstra’s Next G network, customers can share typical download speeds of between 550Kbps to 8Mbps in selected CBD, metro and regional areas. This means customers can surf the net at mobile broadband speeds up to twice as fast as the next fastest 3G gateway in Australia,” said Stewart.

“The Elite Gateway also features the latest 802.11n Wi-Fi technology, which delivers superior wireless throughput speeds and coverage around the home. This makes it ideal for sharing content with other people on a home network. For example, by plugging an external hard drive into the device’s USB port, households can share a central music or video collection with multiple users wirelessly,” added Stewart.

The BigPond Elite Wireless Broadband Network Gateway has a recommended retail price of $399 and is available on all current in-market BigPond wireless broadband plans. It is available today from Telstra shops and dealers, by calling 13POND and online at www.bigpond.com.

Eligible Telstra customers can also take advantage of the BigPond Wireless Broadband Offer which provides a device rebate for the Elite Gateway of $200 and a discount on access fees for the first 12 months of a 24 month plan (more info: http://www.beeneverywhere.com.au/html/latest_offer.htm).

Monster Optus Cap Launched

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Optus will be giving its users up to $680 worth of total included value plus unlimited standard national SMS and MMS on its Yes $59 Cap plan.

The ‘yes’ $59 Cap plan, available on a 12 or 24 month contract, provides customers with two lots of value – ‘Optus2AnyOne’ Value and ‘Optus2Optus’ Value.

Customers will use the Optus2AnyOne Value first which includes $330 worth of standard calls and text to any GSM mobile and fixed lines within Australia.If the Optus2AnyOne Value is used up, customers can then access the additional Optus2Optus Value to continue calling Optus family and friends and business partners, which provides $350 worth of standard calls and text to any Optus GSM mobile and selected Optus fixed lines within Australia.

Consumer customers can also enjoy free 5 minute calls to Optus GSM mobiles on the same account within Australia, 24/7.

“The ‘yes’ $59 Cap plan is a hot new offer in the mobile market, we have greatly increased the value for customers as well as adding a market first for cap plans of unlimited standard national SMS and MMS,” says Anthony Hearne, Acting Marketing Director, Optus Consumer.

“These new plans reflect the value we are committed to offering customers when choosing a mobile provider. These plans are great news, perfect options for people and businesses on a budget,” added Hearne.

 

Small business customers signing up for ‘yes’ Business $49, $59 and $79 Cap Plans receive unlimited voicemail and a choice of Smart Fleet – free standard calls, SMS and MMS within Australia to other GSM mobiles on their business account 24/7 or Business Time – free five minute calls to three nominated Optus GSM mobiles or standard fixed line numbers within Australia.

Additionally small business customers can get the Blackberry Bold for $0 upfront on a ‘yes’ Business $49 Cap Plan over 24 months with up to $680 included value and for an extra $9.99 a month, customers can get a ‘yes’ Business Blackberry Lite plan with unlimited web based e-mails.

“94 per cent of small businesses are online and now with our ‘yes’ Business Caps and Blackberry offers, our customers are able to keep in contact and respond to their customers requests in a timely and more efficient manner,” Phil Offer, Marketing Director, Optus Small and Medium Business said.

“Having met our target of reaching 96 per cent of the population in December 2008, more Australians than ever now have access to competitively priced wireless broadband and 3G mobile services delivered over our high quality, high speed mobile network,” Mr Hearne said.

Bright Sony Projector For Large Venues

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Sony has launched its medium to large venue projector that claims to deliver 5200 ANSI lumens light output.


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The VPL-FX41 projector incorporates inorganic pre-polarizers which greatly reduce light leakage between the optical assembly and the lens, creating a strong 5200 ANSI lumens light output. According to Sony, the combination its patented BrightEra 3LCD panel technology with the new inorganic pre-polarizers further improves the reliability of the entire optical unit, making this projector one of the most durable on the market.
 
Sony Australia’s Product Manager for the Professional Display Group, Les Boros said, “We constantly review our range of projectors to ensure they offer the greatest flexibility, durability and performance – three key aspects that every business looks for when reviewing installation projectors. The VPL-FX41 is an extension of what has proved a very successful series of installation projectors, with the latest addition offering even higher brightness and contrast – ideal for bright venues and lecture theatres.”

Other features of the new VPL-FX41 projector include:

  • Power zoom / focus / Horizontal & Vertical lens shift
  • Up to 3x RBG in, monitor out, S-video/Composite in, HDMI, variable audio out plus a RS232 & RJ-45 network port
  • Data transmission and projector control via LAN. 
  • Easy lamp and filter maintenance
  • Direct power On/Off 
  • Password authentication, control panel key lock, Kensington security lock and security bar 
  • Power saving mode
 


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The new projector is also available without a standard lens fitted (Model: VPL-FX41L), with four optional lenses available to provide complete installation flexibility. These include a short fixed lens (VPL-L1008), a middle focus zoom lens (VPL-LZ1024) and a long focus zoom lens (VPL-LZ1032).

In addition, Sony today is launching a new short focus zoom lens, the VPL-LZ1014, bridging the gap in the current range between the short fixed lens and the standard zoom lens.

Pricing and Availability

The VPL-FX41 projector (with a standard zoom lens) is available now with an RRP of $8,495 while the VPL-FX41L (without a lens) has an RRP of $7,995.

The VPL-LZ1014 short focus lens is available now with an RRP of $3,995.

See: www.sony.com.au

MSI Notebook Blows Away The Competition

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The MSI Wind is a great mini-notebook that can be brought anywhere, thanks to its small and lightweight profile. It sports the latest Intel Atom processor, 1GB of RAM, a 120GB hard drive, and can last for a couple of hours between charges.


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Out of the box, you get the notebook (comes in white, black, and pink), a 6-cell battery, an AC adaptor, a DVD containing the drivers, utilities, and manual, and a recovery DVD in case something goes wrong.

The notebook looks clean and simple, with all the connection ports found along the sides of the unit. It comes with three USB ports, an Ethernet port, a headphone and microphone jack, a 4-in-1 card reader, as well as a VGA-out that can be used to display videos or presentations in a secondary monitor or TV screen.

 


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Opening the lid reveals a 10.2-inch screen with a maximum resolution of 1024×600, a built-in microphone and webcam for video conferences or chats, and a fairly ‘large’ keyboard that can accommodate even the biggest of fingers. The unit also comes with a trackpad, although we did not like the fact that the tracking area and buttons were small. MSI also placed a couple of indicators on the lower part of the notebook which allow users to see whether the Bluetooth, wireless, sleep, caps lock, or num lock functions are on/off.

As previously mentioned, the Wind is powered by an Intel Atom processor N270 running at 1.6Ghz, has a gigabyte of RAM, and has a 120GB drive (divided into two partitions). It runs on Windows XP Home with SP3, saving you the trouble of updating the device.

The unit comes pre-installed with Adobe Reader 8, Microsoft Office Professional 2007 (with 60-day trial), an MSI BurnRecovery program, a Cyberlink DVD Suite, a Corel Ulead Burn Now, Norton Internet Security, as well as WinRAR. We like the fact that MSI included DVD burning software programs to the Wind so that users can instantly burn files as soon as an external DVD drive is hooked up via USB.

 


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The screen is bright, reproduces colours well, and is not reflective, preventing eye strain to a certain extent. It is also ‘big’ enough to fit almost any image or website without having to scroll to the left or right. And to save on battery life, the Wind’s screen uses LED backlighting.

The unit lasted almost five hours in our battery test, which is good for a notebook this size. Just remember to lower the brightness, turn off the wireless and Bluetooth functions, and don’t connect any external DVD drives to maximise battery life.

Overall, the Wind is a good notebook: it comes with the latest Atom processor, has a fairly big hard drive that can store your photos, videos, and music files, and has excellent battery life to boot. The MSI Wind is now available with an RRP of $699.

See page over for product specifications and pricing.

 

MSI Wind U100 (U100-247AU) Product Specifications:

Processor and Cache: Intel Atom N270 1.6GHz Processor
Operating System: Windows XP Home
Chipsets: Intel 945GSE+ICH7M
System Memory: 1GB
LCD Display: 10″ 1024×600  LCD Panel
Graphics and Video Module: UMA
Audio: HD Audio, Stereo speakers
HDD: 120GB SATA
Webcam: 1.3-megapixel
Card Reader: 4-in-1 Card Reader, SD/MMC/MS/MSpro

Communication Port:
– Built-in 10/100 LAN
– Built-in 802.11b/g/n WLAN Card
– Bluetooth

I/O Port:
– Graphics Card Output (15-pin, D-Sub) X 1
– USB 2.0 x 3
– Mic-in
– Headphone-out
– Ethernet port

Battery Pack: 6-cell
Dimensions: 260x180x19-31.5mm
Weight: 1kg with 3-cell battery

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MSI Wind U100 (U100-247AU) | $699 |  | www.msicomputer.com.au

For: Small form factor; Noteworthy specifications; Well-spaced keyboard; Bright screen; Bluetooth and Wi-Fi included; Good battery life
Against: Small trackpad with hard to press keys
Conclusion: Ride like the wind with MSI mini-notebook

Motorola Wall Plate Comes With Wireless Capability

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Motorola has launched a new WallPlate access point (AP) designed to quickly extend 802.11n wireless LAN (WLAN) services to multi-room facilities, such as hotels or hospitals.


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Motorola said that the AP 6511 can easily be installed in a guest room without the time and costs associated with deploying traditional APs. The AP 6511 is roughly the size of a deck of cards and provides a user with high-speed mobile access.

The AP 6511 uses in-wall CAT5/6 cabling, so Wi-Fi coverage can be extended without the need to pull cables or drill holes. A field installable snap-on Ethernet module adds three switched fast Ethernet ports for converged guestroom IP services, such as IPTV or secure wired access.

Each AP can service up to 10 rooms with Motorola’s Smart RF technology automatically tuning power and channels to ensure guest obtain maximum performance and highest quality of service.

The AP 6511 also has multiple management and service options. In smaller facilities, up to 25 WallPlates can be deployed without an external controller by using the Controller AP feature resident on the AP 6511.

For larger facilities, the AP 6511 can be locally or remotely managed by Motorola’s family of RFS wireless controllers, allowing immense scalability. The solution also enables IT operations to create a single seamless WLAN by leveraging Motorola’s broad portfolio of wireless network solutions.  

The AP 6511 will be available in Australia and New Zealand through Motorola channel partners and Motorola sales in the fourth quarter of 2010.